USPS Pros and Cons of being a Mail Carrier (CCA)

[@eugenedavis6792]

29 years & 11 months in and just retired on 28 Feb '24. I'm glad i've done all of the above, also I also have 8 years in the U.S. Army & 11 1/2 in the U.S. Army National Guard. All I can say is be Professional at all time, show Common Courtesy, interact with your Customers and just do your job. When you bid on a Route it will pay off during Christmas. Good Luck & Don't Quit.

[@m.dsanders7086]

its just to much for the little pay

[@amoomoo2455]

sir, how much do you earn from pension?

[@chandlerchabot2926]

I’m currently in the army and thinking about usps or something similar. If you could do anything different would you? I’ll appreciate all the information you provide

[@nikkip8824]

Thank you for your service

[@fortyandlifetogo4156]

Went to orientation this week as well as completed DDC/LLV training. Had yesterday off. Have my shadow day today, off tomorrow...then fly out to Florida on Sunday for a week vacation. Then come back for 4 days of academy. Gave up a 75k Operations Manager position for a $19.33/hr CCA position because I. Never. Want. To. Manage (babysit). People. Again. EVER!

[@rockon8174]

You could've just gotten a job with WalMart as a driver.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

That’s cool, congratulations. Hopefully you are in a good office. I wasn’t in a good office and management was terrible. We had a narcissistic post master too. Gave us nothing but headaches.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

I wanted to be self employed, so I’m doing my own thing now.

[@ericj8136]

How's it going now?

[@HesTooOpinionated]

@@ericj8136 I don’t know, I resigned from USPS.

[@joshobrien5317]

A couple things 1. You don't get as many breaks as you want. It's a 30min lunch and 2 10mins or 2 15min. 2. There is no tracking device on the truck....it's the scanner itself. At least on the llvs the newer vehicles may have tracking on them. 2. Depending on were you live and weather you will not be sent back out because of weather. I have been called back in by management because of weather, I also live in a place that gets -40 plus a wind chill. If anyone becomes a carrier, rca, CCA or even clerk know your union contract . That's what it's there for.

[@i.d.6492]

I'm cca in Texas doing city walking routes only. No driving up to mailbox and puting mail and driving to next mailbox. Yall got it easy over there. We walk park truck and walk everywhere, heat is crazy and we will also be sent out back. And weather don't matter. If it's lightning we just wait in the truck

[@Unrealenting]

Wrong, you’re allowed as many comfort breaks as necessary to ensure you’re you do not have a health complication

[@m.dsanders7086]

right its the scanner

[@Unrealenting]

@@m.dsanders7086 read the elm dipshit

[@RSDavis-fb1go]

You did a great job with your commentary! I was am RCA for 14 months back in 2019 and resigned because I just couldnt handle the perpetual on- call lifestyle. I found everything you said to be spot on. Thanks!

[@Tyrosine0910]

Bummer. If you had held on long enough to convert, you would've eventually had it good. Regular rural carrier is a sweet gig.

[@davidvbobb7785]

Hardest part of the job is casing. As you learn the route, casing becomes a lot easier.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

That’s true. I always hated casing, it’s very boring, and when you are a CCA you have to do different routes every day, so it’s hard in the beginning.

[@gmar7836]

@@HesTooOpinionatedwhat is casing?

[@kjfhs2944]

@@gmar7836casing is when you have to put every flats or letter into an slot than pull it down into a tray, Im a usps cca and I enjoy every moment of it.

[@CrownTroller]

Just put it in the wrong cells just to make the office time. And put a whole swing in the first deliveries box. Management don’t care!

[@shuaybsharif1641]

And marking packages

[@TCTALKSTCFITNESS]

I just got offered the job today, I’m watching so many videos to see what to expect 🤞🏾💯💎

[@marcyvasquez1457]

Do you enjoy the job

[@kapacitybrooklyn9235]

Working for the post office changed my life for the better - you definitely have to be mentally strong for this position though - this job isn’t for the weak and this is coming from a C.C.A in Brooklyn 💯 - most spend their time and life on low end jobs barely surviving - might as well put that same pain in on a job that’s worth it - like this comment if you agree 👍

[@Tyrosine0910]

Agree, except how TF do you survive in New York on $19.33/hr - even with (presumably) a lot of OT?

[@Ra-reid]

I just got converted into a regular. I’ve only been working for the post office for 3 months

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Sounds like you are in a good office. It’s possible if you have more openings. My office was fully staffed, so it took us longer to make regular (2 years) because we had to wait for the older mail carriers to retire, and a lot of those guys were dragging their feet.

[@Ra-reid]

@@HesTooOpinionated After a my first 2 months two carriers retired and I think a couple more are retiring later this year

[@HesTooOpinionated]

@@Ra-reid That’s awesome. Congrats. The ones in my office, didn’t want to retire. I just didn’t want to spend years waiting for people to retire so I could get a route. Not to mention, my postmaster was a jerk to everyone, and I didn’t want to be under his thumb either, so I transferred to another office. What’s messed up is the fact that, you will lose seniority when you transfer and my old post master knew that. He actually said that to me and another guy on our way out the door.

[@floradavis95]

@@Ra-reidGood for you! In what City/State? I just applied for that position in Arkansas.

[@BG-fh5me]

How are your hours?

[@birdog6668]

Retired with 41 years. City carriers get two 10 minute breaks 30 minute lunch and usually two comfort stops ( bathroom breaks). Your scanner tracks you and not the truck. If you go over 30 minutes for lunch you get what they call pinged. Someone in a regional office notifies your supervisor that you took too long for lunch. Last day on the job I was pinged for five minutes too long but who cares.

[@Tyrosine0910]

We get unlimited "comfort stops" so long as they don't extend longer than a few mins. Otherwise, it'll count as one of the paid 10-min breaks.

[@Mekaneckpain]

Great video... good to know. I hear the first 2-3 years is the hardest but after all that it gets WAY better.

[@jesslocd]

Big facts!! im still on month 8 and i debate quitting EVERY other day!

[@Mekaneckpain]

@@jesslocd I know the feeling. I just finished OJT and had my first day out Saturday and my first Amazon Sunday today... totally considering resigning soon. Either that or I'll try to finish out my 90 days and see where I stand with my office.

[@Tyrosine0910]

​@@Mekaneckpain Still there, or did you resign?

[@Mekaneckpain]

@@Tyrosine0910 I ended up resigning, then getting rehired in a different office that was all driving routes. It was perfect... Then they started sending me to other offices and cutting my hours. Had to say goodbye after that.

[@Tyrosine0910]

@@Mekaneckpain Aw man, I'm sorry to hear that, brother. Yeah, I'm a new PTF (one month in), & from prior experience as a CCA many years ago, I knew when I decided to return that I'd basically have to choose between one of two options: 1. Going to a large, poorly run office where I was virtually guaranteed a lot of hours & quick conversion (1-1.5 years) but would have to put up with a lot of BS due to understaffing & poor management 2. Going to a small or medium-sized office without chronic staffing issues where I wouldn't have to put up with as much crap but would possibly wind up with way less than 40 hours per week outside of the holidays & a long path to conversion Ultimately, given my need for $, I chose the first option. It's been difficult: I started as a PTF right away but an away a lot & deal with constant disorganization from management. I wish you well in your endeavors!

[@christinalopez5606]

Biggest Con for me living in Texas..NO AC in the LLV'S, like this is ridiculous on how many postal workers havevhad heat related health issues just on that alone yet no new trucks yet.. got to do better for us out here in this heat 🔥

[@Tyrosine0910]

Y'all need some Promasters down there! Good AC & more space to organize. If you're mounted, you'll need a Metris van instead, although those sort of suck for their own several reasons lol. At least they also have proper heat & AC, though. The fact is that forcing us to work in LLV's in all weather conditions is just sick.

[@christinalopez5606]

@Tyrosine0910 We have those but it's assigned for certain routes, and the Metris are for rural, so us City Regulars are stuck in the LLV's, my ice melts mid morning in my Yeti so have to stop several times to get ice for a drink.. it sucks.. but I'm about to step away from that place, for it being a Federal job, the conditions are terrible.. yet we see this Government can round up $$$ to foreign countries yet leave its workers in 30 + yr old trucks.. doesn't make sense and my health is way too important for this heat

[@monolith94]

I got super lucky, when I went regular I got put on a t6 with only two tough routes, the other three were great

[@MarcelTrawick]

What can make a route tough?

[@JacksonCandy47]

I believe that the extrem weather is the charm of this job.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Facts. Lol 😂 I don’t miss that at all. Extremely hot 🥵 here in Georgia, the humidity is terrible. No AC in those old ass LLVs. Winters can get really cold too.

[@jakestarr4718]

Right, I got to follow a tornado once!

[@josephparziale2299]

My office had aux routes with evaluations over 40 hrs and no vehicles so you had to use your pov and make multiple trips then where your done with the route and back at the office they send you out to help others finish there route so your usually working 8 am to 7-8 pm 7 days a week Sundays were Amazon until 4 pm usually

[@HesTooOpinionated]

That’s right.

[@vitalityfox]

@@HesTooOpinionatedare you allowed to carry a gun when you’re delivering mail

[@douglasrho5619]

Man wtf

[@Lancet711]

Pretty good summary of our job thank you. 30 years 12/10/23

[@fasttruckman]

Wish me luck. I start 9/30/23 on a Saturday go figure. I applied for the CCA position hoping too get my foot in the door and move into a TTO or MVO when a position opens up.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

That’s a good idea. Congratulations. Yeah, the CCA position is a good way to get your foot in the door. You can always apply and transfer to something else later.

[@davidba7418]

What is TTO and MVO? Better pay?

[@Mekaneckpain]

@@davidba7418 I know an MVO is a Motor Vehicle Operator, basically you need a CDL and it's for driving the larger Commercial trucks. TTO I have no idea. lol

[@billhershkowitz5759]

Here in Brooklyn NY we have the worst post office in the country. Long lines, surly employees who can't find packages, and carriers delivering mail to the wrong addresses...

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Yeah, it’s hard to find good help at most post offices. Some employees change after they get hired.

[@Tyrosine0910]

Inner city post offices are generally the most brutal. In Chicago, CCA's work 12 hour days basically every day. For months & years on end.

[@sonicmilk]

Job is tough. I wake up at 6AM. get to the office around 7:30 and work non stop sometimes past 4. Casing is hard, organizing packages is hard, delivering accurately and not missing a scan is hard. The trucks break down a lot (mine broke down three times last week). The full timers I cover for worked six days a week until I showed up and couldn't use their vacation time. It's one of those jobs that will demand a lot of your time. Not a good place for work life balance...at least not in my office.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Facts. No work/ life balance at all until you turn regular and in my old office that could take 2-3 years. The money was good, but I could never plan anything or see my kids that much. They have other positions, so it’s different in every office.

[@krl828]

@@HesTooOpinionatedEven when you make regular there’s no work/life balance. I’m still forced to work 10-12 hrs daily as a regular.

[@ivelisesantiago7936]

Do assistants work after 5? What would there the cca hours be or between what hours? if anyone knows the answer I would appreciate it. I have a part time start after 6pm and I just have these query before applying for the city carrer assistant position.

[@sonicmilk]

@@ivelisesantiago7936 I'm an RCA and I've worked past 5 on a snow day. Usually the other carrier comes out and helps me finish my route if I'm behind. I've seen city carriers in my area out past dark, especially during the holidays. Also, it depends on if your town has Amazon. There's an office near mine that is collapsing with some old time carriers that have the job down and are out working late every night delivering packages. I'm only posting this for new people so they understand it is a tough job. I signed up for it thinking it would be a walk in the park and I was wrong.

[@markbryant-669]

That’s easy work

[@nostaljah19]

Couple of things...2 Supreme Court cases sided with the carrier against the PO for not making accommodations for Sunday religious service. My PO works with me and they allow me to attend services. If I don't finish before leaving, i come back and finish after the service......As far as dogs are concerned, I am more worried about getting shot by the owner for kicking the dog if it attacks. I have zero tolerance for them, and I have an unorthodox way of scarin 0:03 g them away (its a secret 😅).

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Yeah, I feel you. It’s a slippery slope at the office. You have to protect yourself too.

[@hummer3000]

A 30 minute break is what you get. The 2 10 minute breaks is a state law not federal. US Postal Service is federal, so just the 30 minute break

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Right, I know that. But when mail carriers are on the streets doing their routes, they all take breaks when necessary. Like for food and restroom breaks. Trust me, if you have to do a #2 and you have to drive around the city to find a public bathroom, you are not going to put a time limit on that. And regular mail carriers basically do whatever they want. I saw a group of carriers have a lunch at a Zaxby’s restaurant one day and they were in there way past 30 minutes. I know what I’m talking about.

[@MarcelTrawick]

It sound like y'all take y'all time to get paid OT

[@ashleysmith3776]

"You already here now so you can do this route" that's some bs 😂lol its just funny how you explained it

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Lol 😂 Yeah, but that’s something that management would do in my old office. One of my coworkers said they got his ass a few times too, so when it happened to him, he would just call out the following day to get his time off. Lol 😆

[@semiblvck]

“And they sent me out on the street” 😂😂

[@jasonrandom372]

Benefits questions. Question 1. Are your health Benefits free as in are they payed for by the agency? Question 2. Are your health benefits lifelong through retirement? Question 3. Are your retirement benefits a traditional pension, a thrift savings plan, or both? Question 4. Do you have PTO, abbreviated for Payed Time Off?

[@enlighten2seven605]

That’s to many questions, go work for them and find out

[@dabears371]

Great video but two things wrong. Did you not get unlimited breaks. Two 10 min and 30 min lunch if take . And the tracking device is not in the vehicle the scanner has GPS

[@mlm5752]

Actually he is correct! They have started to put tracking devices in the vehicle where I’m at.

[@toyajudge6817]

​@@mlm5752where you at

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Yeah, I know it’s the scanners they track, but with the newer vehicles I know they track them in case they are stolen. And with breaks, once you’re on the street, you can break when necessary to get food and use the restroom. As long as you complete the route, you’re free to do whatever. It’s not like mail carriers report every little thing they do on the street, because they don’t.

[@markhall7325]

Carbondale Il. We get 2, 15 min. breaks and a 30 min. lunch if you take it. We are to limit bathroom breaks to 2 a shift @ 5 min. each. Buy if you gotta go, you gotta go. And just like carrying mail, it takes as long as it takes. The 15 min breaks are in our local.

[@douglasrho5619]

Free to do whatever, really!? I start next week. I’m about chill at the homie house for a minute while im on route if they dont mind 😏

[@tommyt9838]

I believe when u transfer to a different office you only lose your seniority and start back at the bottom, but you do not lose your time of service.

[@ES-je3em]

Yes it’s called relative standing in the post office .

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Correct. You don’t lose time in service, just seniority. That means it will take you longer to make regular.

[@ryanscarbrough9689]

for my area, which is cleveland, aslong as your first 3 numbers of the zip code match you wont lose senority. for example i work at the 44143 zip code, but if i want to go to 44139 or 44106 or any 441xx zip i can go and keep my time. but if i want to transfer to maybe 44040 ill lose my senority

[@Terra-t3b]

You can never lose your time with the USPS by going to another craft. You only start a new seniority date..

[@dumamay283]

Actually you do start over...for example if you did 120 ays, you have to do 120 days again

[@rockon8174]

2:57 Apartments tend to have centralized mailrooms and mailboxes so you don't have to run up and down stairs.

[@goldberg202002gman]

Yes they do

[@HesTooOpinionated]

What city and state are you referring to? I’m in Atlanta Georgia and most of the apartment complexes here do not have those centralized mailrooms. Only the ones in the city do or the neighborhoods that are more expensive, have those mail rooms, plus those computerized lockers for packages. Not in the hood or low income areas, you have to run all packages and you can’t leave them at the leasing offices either.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

I have pictures, I’m not talking about those mailboxes/mail centers that are outside in apartment complexes. I was talking about the ones that are inside the building. They have a mailbox room, plus a room for packages. My neighborhood does not have that, and we have no lockers for packages.

[@meghanmisaliar]

​@@HesTooOpinionatedyou're right. Not all apartments have centralized mailboxes.

[@christinalopez5606]

Not all apartments have a package room or take packages, mb are very small so yes you will have to run pckgs to the door

[@javonjames4573]

I'm definitely applying as soon as possible

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Yeah, USPS is a good organization to work for. I just think work / life balance is important. Some positions there make that hard.

[@ElViperr408]

I applied but I want 2 jobs and I’m want to continue school. I’m trying to pay off my credit card and pay of my car faster. Apparently there’s no flexibility with the USPS.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

That’s true, because I tried to do the same when I was there. Depending on the position, they will not give you a set schedule to work around, especially if you are a mail carrier. What position did you apply for?

[@alz397]

I just applied as an ARC. This would be my first job for anything other than working on cars.

[@Terra-t3b]

When you apply for relocation your attendance comes into play.. And you can't have an accident on your record for 5 years

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Right.

[@adriande1]

I don't mind just running packages. It's actually a lot more chill than having to deliver DPS.

[@MarcelTrawick]

How do you load your truck? Do you put packages in order by street or hundred block?

[@KentvanKuller]

Thanks. Great video. I should have an orientation coming up soon. They took my fingerprints this week. I wonder if taking class at night will be an issue.

[@UniqueJ]

Maintenance is the way to go 👌👌

[@HesTooOpinionated]

That sounds about right. Less stress

[@yungtori7745]

Do you need experience?

[@HesTooOpinionated]

@@yungtori7745 Not really, they will train you. Just depends on the position you are interested in.

[@UniqueJ]

@@yungtori7745 Just get into a level for maintenance custodian. Then move up from there. It helps if you are handy. Even if you're not learn as you go. 😁 Trust me I carried for 13 years. Wish I would have made the switch sooner. Or better yet started in maintenance.

[@dougradtke]

I just changed from carrier to BEM building equipment maintenance after passing 955 exam and 973 interviews it’s Heaven so far compared to carrying. I loved the job as a carrier but management and supervisors are crazy. The maintenance side is a lot better. Still some nonsensical USPS stuff but leaps and bounds better. I love my job now. My dad retired from maintenance after 25 years himself, and he had a great career, great retirement

[@mfrederick12]

This is all true. It's a great career and worth it. :)

[@larryrogers9081]

Yea I start next week as cca. Just nervous about my age. I’m 53. I am in reasonable good condition. I usually walk 7-8 miles a day. What you think

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Well, since you will not have a permanent mail route in the beginning, you will be working 6 days a week. You only get one week day off, and 2 holidays off. (4th of July/Christmas Day) It’s going to be very rough your first 2 years with USPS, because you will be covering all of the city mail routes, and you won’t have a set work schedule.

[@6mallards]

Keep us posted I got the CJO today

[@WAM4EVER]

How's it going so far??

[@meghanmisaliar]

​@@HesTooOpinionatedso are you saying that a new CCA doesn't get a permanent route? Even in a small town?

[@HesTooOpinionated]

No, I was saying in the beginning CCAs will not have a permanent route. You will be working 6 days a week to cover all routes. It usually takes 1-2 years before you become regular, but I know that every office is different, so you could possibly make it faster when veteran mail carriers retire.

[@sketchitboy]

Talked to a mail carrier yesterday, really got interested

[@decorianhill7228]

Question- 1.Do you guys have rate. 2. Do you have job security. Level 1-10 . 3.how did the boss and employees treat you . 4. What’s the turnover rate for the job .

[@HesTooOpinionated]

You mean the pay rate? I started around $19-20 an hour, but that was back in 2020. Most of my coworkers were cool, we got along well. The only people I had issues with was some members of management. A few supervisors and my post master was just a asshole. He’s the reason I transferred to another office before I resigned in 2022. The turnover rate has always been high and that’s the reason they hire some many people at a time for the CCA, RCA, ARC positions. New Mail carriers come and go every week, but mail clerks and processors usually stay a lot longer.

[@employee0]

@@HesTooOpinionated How long does it usually take (estimated) to make "regular". Nevermind. I saw some of the other comments now. Thanks for all the info

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Depends on the office, it varies. 1-2 years

[@decorianhill7228]

@@HesTooOpinionated thank you sir

[@aaishatillman7991]

Thank you 🎉

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Your welcome

[@espinoza-adventure]

Good video, thanks 🙏

[@manie3232]

Thanks for the good honest info. What is an RCA and CCA?

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Rural carrier assistant and city carrier assistant.

[@Acts_Aplogetics_]

Do they really force you to work Sundays? I’m thinking of applying but I’m a Christian so if I’m forced to skip Church it’s a deal breaker…

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Oh yeah absolutely. Once you’re hired, and you make it to the office you could always speak to management about it and see what they say. My postmaster was just a dick to everyone, so in my old office you would basically have to call out sick to get Sunday off.

[@enlighten2seven605]

Omg…is the lord going to pay your bills? Just take a Bible with you to work on Sunday boy

[@lukebailey9635]

Been a cca for 8 months and just had my LLV window shattered on me the other day trying to crank it up scary af and in the midst of a 17 day stretch if I didn’t say something to get it brought down to 14. Can definitely get rough even after Christmas

[@ninjakid8659]

Hello, my friend what is the latest you clocked out on a saturday?

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Mail carriers do not work a set schedule, but generally speaking when I was still at the office we (CCAs) would get off late like after 8 pm - 9 pm. And during the holidays when the volume was higher, 9- 10 pm. I remember my first year we stayed out until after 11 pm at night, but that was before Christmas.

[@jakestarr4718]

I run a regular route in a office with 2 routes. I average 7:30am-1:00pm everyday, all 6 days. Some days 2pm at the latest if I have crazy amounts of parcels.

[@veronicaBolanos-mc4fc]

You absolutely cannot take as many breaks as you want. Carriers are being tracked liked the FBI.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

I’m aware. Guess you missed the other comments huh? What I meant to say was you can break when necessary, like to use the bathroom or get food, etc.

[@cooltkll]

@@HesTooOpinionated if mail is not delivered that day, it will be done the next day

[@cooltkll]

@@HesTooOpinionated what work phone...more like your personal phone

[@MelloGello-fk5of]

When applying. Noone told me or did i see any information that being a cca was going to be more of a parttime/on call/ random work days. I want to work fulltime. But can barely pay for anything with the little money i get. I have already asked for more hours or to be sent to another office that can actually use my help. I expected delivering mail to be much better. I have been trying to see if any other positions might be better for me but they all have something odd to work with.

[@pineapplekyle4067]

Thank you for bringing this up, along with the video up top. Hearing the management complaint and struggle before becoming a veteran is kind a putting me off.

[@jakestarr4718]

I struggled too and finally got into decent hours! Another 9 months and I'll be a regular as well. I'll miss my crazy random work schedule then because I had so much time to enjoy life.

[@jesslocd]

It says part time but youll defintely be working full time.

[@Mello_Gello3]

@@jesslocd They state in orientation that you can choose. I thought I selected fulltime to work fulltime hours. but then got to be on a fulltime list to be on-call. This list showed me working 7 days a week. I would get ready in the morning and then get a text saying "OFF TODAY" I kept getting that every day for weeks and only working 2-3 days a week. I definitely enjoyed meeting clients and speaking with them. They were always happy to see me. All of them told me they wished I was their mailman because I was friendly, talked to them and spoke English.

[@011CJ]

I'm just curious how bathroom breaks work 🤔

[@HesTooOpinionated]

When you are out doing your mail routes, you are supposed to get a 30 minute lunch break, but in the video I meant to say, you can take breaks when necessary.

[@joestewart7487]

i was on vacation & brought my 1-yr old son with me to pick-up my paycheck. as i was walking out, i heard my supervisor call me back. she said she needed me to work that day. i said im on vacation & have my baby with me. she seriously said 'i'll take care of him, get clocked on' i knew she was serious so i just turned & walked out she followed me out loudly threatening my job.

[@Drums_strength_mobility]

Holy shit

[@hery461]

Wow

[@comment5398]

Yea right

[@meghanmisaliar]

For walking up to 15 miles a day some of them seem very unhealthy. 🤷‍♀️

[@HesTooOpinionated]

They are, because they don’t take care of themselves.

[@thebfam6191]

Why is it called bidding since it will alsways go to the individual who has been there longer?

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Because that’s the system they use. Most organizations use the bidding system and people with seniority will have an advantage over new employees. That’s how it’s goes

[@MetalMusicManiac]

All the mail has to be delivered by 8pm

[@Zelmullins9675]

Whoever did Amazon delivery do you think this is easier than that cuz Amazon fuckin me up

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Not sure, I’ve never worked for Amazon. I spoke to a few people who have, and they told me about the volume of packages. I’m assuming it’s worst than working for USPS. I think being a mail carrier is easier since you have to deliver letters and other stuff too. Sunday when the office is closed, they only deliver packages 📦 on that day. I was there when Covid first hit in 2020-2022. Things might be different now.

[@christiancunningham8899]

Amazon is easier.

[@MetalMusicManiac]

The good part is they're phasing out the long run trucks after 20 odd years to using vans with air conditioning during them hot days

[@gmar7836]

What does CCA and RCA stand for?

[@HesTooOpinionated]

City carrier assistant and rural carrier assistant. Both mail carriers, except one does city routes and the other does rural routes.

[@Benjamin.S.S.]

Are drivers payed more than office workers. When you start, how many hours a week do you work? How long does the CCA or probationary period last?

[@jakestarr4718]

Some RCA and CCA routes can rival post master pay. It depends on if you are driving your own vehicle. Town under 1000 population is the best as a driver

[@cardsharkgolfhustlerpimpfr3226]

Ballpark how many mailboxes get mail and how many streets you drive down?

[@HesTooOpinionated]

You mean when I was working there? Hard to say, because CCAs do not have set mail routes. Management gave us one full mail route, plus half of another mail route. (Swing) so the swing could be 1 apartment complex, so that’s over 100 mailboxes, plus packages 📦 you might have to run to their front door. The full route could be mixed. So if you’re lucky you could have mostly houses in a suburb, so that’s just riding the whole time. That could be 200 + But from my experience it was always mixed, some subdivisions, apartment complexes, town houses and businesses, so yeah way over 300 mailboxes.

[@MarcelTrawick]

Hey what did you were on your feet. Or does that not matter you'll feet will hurt after a certain amount of miles walked.

[@FluxNomad678]

Wow. I'm trying to get out of Truck Driving which has it's own long days and crazy schedule. I'm hoping the length of shift is more manageable in comparison; trucking can often be 12hr days. I wonder if I could keep my CDL active and hope to bid or transfer to Yard Jockey at some kind of distribution center. It's the long hours highway driving I'm sick it's so boring.

[@jesslocd]

Keep that CDL handy! The hours youll work really depends on the amount of mail that comes in that day and how many people call out. Mondays and saturdays are typically long and have the most volume of mail. Tuesday-friday tend to be decent. I usually leave around 2-2:30 pm, but have left as early as 1pm. But sometimes you come back and they ask you to help another carrier so you may be our till 4:30-5, sometimes even 6pm (making your shift 11 hrs). Yesterday i worked 7 am to 7pm, so you just never know.

[@soccerrookiecards1389]

Great video man

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Thanks a lot

[@jakestarr4718]

You're not required to deliver all letters! If you have to make a illegal dismount to deliver, then no big deal. Parcels however must all be delivered!!!!!

[@HesTooOpinionated]

I understand that, but at my office in Atlanta, I’ve had managed tell me not to bring anything back to the office and a few times I had half a tray of letters and they sent me back out.

[@jakestarr4718]

@@HesTooOpinionated That's some total bs!!! I would of handed them the tray and said here you go make unauthorized dismounts then, see you in the morning and walked out 🤣. They cannot force you to make those dismounts!!!!

[@LydiaDDomenicus]

Applied for the cca position and sent my driving record. Do you know what offer phase EXT means on my application status? Haven’t heard anything since it changed to that a few days ago

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Oh you mean they sent you an email saying offer extended? That means they are offering you the position and you have to respond back to them by email. On the email it should explain the amount of time you have to respond back. If you don’t make that deadline, they will assume you are no longer interested and you will have to reapply again.

[@LydiaDDomenicus]

@@HesTooOpinionated no I’m sorry, I meant on my E career candidate profile… my application status for one of my application says “offer phase ext” but haven’t received an official offer email yet…. My other applications still say “pre hire list”

[@LydiaDDomenicus]

@@HesTooOpinionated wandering if it’s normal to not get the email right away

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Yeah, it might take a few days but you can always reach out to them too.

[@onixtheone]

Run packages upstairs? USPS never brings my packages up to the second floor, they always leave a slip. But FedEx,ups, and Amazon always bring packages up.

[@jakestarr4718]

Congrats, you got a lazy carrier 🤣

[@cycleguy1943]

PROS…You’re lucky to have a job with benefits and retirements(PO&TSP)and job security.CONS…Just gotta put up with the B.S.!

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Correct. I’ve considered going back to USPS, I just wouldn’t be a carrier (CCA/RCA) ever again. I was looking at other positions.

[@cycleguy1943]

@@HesTooOpinionated Mailhandler for 25 years/now retired..probably the best job in PO..a lot of ex-carriers came over to our craft.Good Luck to you 👍

[@HesTooOpinionated]

I agree it’s probably better on that side. I know you guys didn’t have to constantly cover other mail routes or help on the street whenever someone would call out or just not come to work. The veteran mail carriers would abuse sick time all the time, just to take extra days off.

[@sophiaf.]

“Nicely said”.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Thanks a lot, I appreciate it. Do you work for USPS?

[@sophiaf.]

@@HesTooOpinionated Yes

[@HesTooOpinionated]

How has your experience been so far? Are you a CCA?

[@sophiaf.]

@@HesTooOpinionated Hi , It’s been as expected. A lot of “WORK HOURS” as a CCA.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Yeah, it’s very rough the first 2 years. I hope you do well and don’t let the job stress you out.

[@Thevikingdoomslayer]

I am starting my next shadow day tomorrow and going to the academy next day after. I use to be on SSI and was a truck driver. I am worried I got into a position that isnt for me with the physical labor cuz of my dissabilities. Luckily the site president in our area is there Tuesday. My union rep said to talk to him to get me transferred to clerk asap so it doesnt hurt my knees. How soon do you think theyd be able to do that for me? Im just worried about my physical health. Im a big guy too lol.

[@CraigDraws]

How long did it take you to get off the Pre-Hire List?

[@HesTooOpinionated]

I think it was like a week. The process went by really fast for me.

[@SpookyKid_SpaceAce]

Do you like your job? Like, to a certain extent?

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Well, I don’t work for USPS anymore. I’ve considered going back, but I would rather be self employed. Are you considering working for them?

[@SpookyKid_SpaceAce]

@@HesTooOpinionated yes, I am planning to apply in two weeks

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Oh okay, that’s cool. Have you decided on the position you want to apply for?

[@SpookyKid_SpaceAce]

@@HesTooOpinionated no, how many different positions are there?

[@HesTooOpinionated]

A lot. If you check the website they have positions at the office and at the mail plant. Just depends on what you want to do? Clerk, mail carrier, maintenance worker, mail processor, supervisor.

[@shaileshmistry6910]

what about salary pay for rca if they work more than 40 hrs

[@HesTooOpinionated]

They should get time and a half.

[@dumamay283]

Bro i accepted a CCA position in manhattan and went to orientatjon there. but there is a position in queens, NYC that i applied for after accepting the manhattan CCA position, because the queens office is closer to my house. Now the queens position just sent me a job offer too, can i accept it? Whag happens if i accept it? Will it automatically transfer me to the queens position? I heard people say i can accept the queens position, but i have to resign from the manhattan position, even thought i really didn't work there yet, only just finished orientation

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Yeah, you can only accept one position at a time, so you have to pick one. Oh okay you did orientation already for the Manhattan office? You should contact HR. If you received the email for the queens position you can still accept the job, so you don’t lose that spot. I actually transferred from an office here in Georgia and once the post master from my new office contacted my current post master I was able to leave.

[@ignaciosalgado3538]

Was it hard to get accustom too like organizing the mail and finding the address

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Nah, it wasn’t too hard. They actually deliver the trays to the office with the letters in order, but that additional mail we have to case. Casing is boring as hell. I learned that it’s easy to learn the addresses if you are from the city you work in or at least from the state. I moved to Georgia from Maryland, so it was hard in the beginning, so I would carry a notepad and take notes.

[@tifneyc7989]

@@HesTooOpinionatedwhat part of Maryland? I’m going thru the hiring process. I live in the outskirts of Baltimore; the rural side so I shouldn’t be in the city at all.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

I’m originally from Easton, MD. Are you familiar with the area? I have family in Baltimore too. Yeah, you shouldn’t be doing city routes, if you are a RCA. Did you start working yet?

[@Mio248]

What’s all these abbreviations you’re talking about?

[@HesTooOpinionated]

CCA: City Carrier Assistant RCA: Rural Carrier Assistant

[@Mio248]

@@HesTooOpinionated Got it. Thanks

[@lisal2275]

They hired me as a PSE processing clerk 2 weeks ago. I haven't went to my orientation yet. Then today I got another email that they want me to be an RCA and do I accept the job? Can tjey offer you two positions at the same time?

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Yes, actually you can. The only problem is you can only choose one position. Before I was hired, I applied for multiple positions because I thought maybe it would speed up the hiring process and get my interview faster. After a week or so, I received multiple emails (job offers) but they told me I could only choose one position. So I would say make sure it’s something you really want to do. Worst case scenario, you start one position and you hate it, you can always reapply for something else while you are working your current position and it will go faster since you are already in the system.

[@lisal2275]

@@HesTooOpinionated thank you so much for responding. How long before you can reapply to another position once you start your new position?

[@HesTooOpinionated]

No problem. You can start applying for other positions anytime you want and don’t let the people at your current office lie to you and tell you otherwise. You can start applying now and if you receive another job offer and accept it, you just have to wait for things to go through with HR and stuff. You can also speak to your union representative about it too.

[@lisal2275]

@@HesTooOpinionated good to know! Hopefully I will have honest coworkers and not haters lol

[@HesTooOpinionated]

I hope so too. Good luck 🍀

[@lamontscott5055]

Sorry, but now you can not take as many breaks as you would like. They are currently watching your every move and if you have too much stationary time you will be called into the office.

[@unknownorigin9517]

I really appreciate my mail carrier Is it ok to give him something for Christmas? I’ve heard contradicting answers about this. Any suggestions?

[@TheReman5000]

yes you can gift carriers

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Yes, you can give gifts to carriers. Most of the people on the routes do it all the time, and even after the holidays are over they will still leave stuff on the porch for mail carriers like drinks and snacks during the summer. When covid first hit I would see signs and stuff on porches all the time.

[@MarcelTrawick]

I think my city to big or everybody work for the post office. Cause they haven't had one open position in a years time

[@calebhenderson6507]

Im in the air force. And i plan on going to the guard. Will they let me work for them

[@72devorah]

How long does being a CCA last? I was just hired here in Seattle. I'm considering.....

[@lucaseq77]

Not many knows, but first 4 weeks you CAN'T work more than 40 hours , and next 4 weeks CAN'T work more than 56....That's union deal....Nobody talks about that

[@HesTooOpinionated]

You got that right, because we did not know that. Once we got to the office we got slammed with hours. Covid was bad the first 2 years (2020-2021) Things seem to be a lot calmer now.

[@c.a.menendez3911]

False: You cannot take as many breaks as you want. Thats just an invitation for explaining your stationary events.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Yeah bro I know. I meant to say you can break when necessary. Like, to use the bathroom if you can find a place with a public restroom. When Covid first hit in Atlanta, every business would not let you use their bathrooms. This should be obvious.

[@richardarsenault1471]

Take has many breaks has you want??? I have been in the Post Office 40 years ,I don't think so, bad information sir,

[@HesTooOpinionated]

The drivers in my office did it all the time. The regulars did whatever they wanted to do, plus they would abuse sick time on a regular basis. When I said take as many breaks as you want, I’m referring to your lunch break and bathroom breaks. Can’t control when you have to use the restroom, you just have to find one open to the public. Management will track your movements from your scanners, so you know how that goes.

[@richardarsenault1471]

@CoreySampson Yes sir comfort stops. You can take what you need however taking as many breaks as you want is not the same. I appreciate the fact that you have a page there that you're giving out information to hire ins. I think it's great but it's very important to give them accurate information. New hire ins don't understand what the scanners do and what forms are in this that and the other thing

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Right. I was just speaking from what I could remember in that moment. We have the comment section to exchange information, but I shouldn’t be their only source. I don’t know everything about every position at USPS.

[@richardarsenault1471]

@CoreySampson Working there for 40 years. I don't know everything about the Post Office either., I do however thank you for the service you Provide to new People joining in the Post Office. If there's anything I might do to help ,please feel free to reach out. Best regards Corey., Richard

[@veronicaBolanos-mc4fc]

​@@HesTooOpinionated not what you implied.

[@romcallis]

I worked for usps as a letter carrier. It is inhumane to work in those white trucks. They give you a tiny fan which has minimal effect and virtually no effect when it is really hot. You start out as cca or rca with NO benefits. It takes 2-3 years to become a regular with benefits. I worked in an area with average $3 million homes. Rich people get tons of mail and tons of packages that means looonnng hours. One year on the day after thanksgiving I worked from 7 am to midnight. I worked in a few offices and all the managers are a-holes. The wages used to be ok but changes in minimum wage laws mean you are on par with McDoands workers. If you are in a relationship it will put a strain on it. I would advise against working for usps

[@goldberg202002gman]

You forgot once you become career employee. You can e-reasigne through the company system to anywhere in the U.S.A. Not re-apply to a different state. I also work for USPS. You might want to do more research

[@HesTooOpinionated]

That’s cool. I have friends who still work there. I resigned. Wanted to be self employed, so I’m good.

[@yoonmeonme9842]

I’m pretty sure it’s illegal to force someone to work over 8 hours after 8 it’s up to u

[@HesTooOpinionated]

I agree, but they made everyone work overtime especially during the holidays. I think things are different now, that the pandemic is over.

[@meghanmisaliar]

It's not illegal.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Nope not here.

[@gmar7836]

Awww I love dogs. Carry dog biscuits. You’ll be ok

[@meghanmisaliar]

A woman carrier I know was attacked by a rottweiler. She didn't have time to even reach for a biscuit.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Yeah, I know some carriers who carry dog treats in a Fanny Pack just in case. I saw this news story about this female carrier in Florida who got attacked by 3 pit bulls. It’s a sad story, she didn’t survive.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

In most cases that’s a good idea, but you should still have your guards up.

[@Kirbhe]

Are you allowed to carry pepper/ bear spray? Or even a stick?

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Yes. They usually keep pepper spray in the mail trucks and I knew mail carriers that would also carry dog treats just in case.

[@javierescudero6502]

I know some carriers dont take breaks.

[@TierreFrench]

What is the starting pay? is it worth it?

[@brendanritchie674]

Bro spit the realest shit

[@DionBall]

So RCA get weekends off?

[@HesTooOpinionated]

No, they don’t. From what I remember they get a weekday off and Sunday off, but some are required to work some Sundays too.

[@targa1659]

I had a conditional job offer as an RCA, I went to my my interview on July 23rd and the lady said she wanted to be candid and upfront with me and explained that the job had very little work/home life balance and that the needs of the post office came first. She went on to explain that my schedule would be 6 days working with one rotating weekday off. She explained that once I was considered a full carrier in approximately 8 months my one day off a week would be Sundays. I thanked her for her transparency with me and that I regretfully decline the job. I never had a lack of respect for postal employees but I now have a whole new respect for what they do, that is hard way to make a living in my opinion.

[@jackryan1809]

It seems like a cool job, if you dont want to deal with ppl all day. But, I feel for the postman for ghetto areas.

[@BG-fh5me]

Once you become a regular mail carrier does the work life balance become better?

[@MH-ro1lg]

It did for me. I was a CCA for a year (9 years ago) and was given about one day off a month for an entire year. Since I've been a regular, I've been working pretty much 40 hours a week, 5 days a week (off Sundays and the scheduled drop day).

[@Dannysoutherner]

Hella good money.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

That’s true.

[@MikeG82]

How much?

[@CreativeV3]

Great information and tips

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Hey thanks a lot.

[@mr.retrohale6673]

Thanks for the video! How long does it take to become a regular?

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Depending on your location, it could take 1-2 years. Every office is different though. At my old office it was 2 years, because we were still waiting in line for people to retire, so we could bid on their routes.

[@hellzzyeah]

1 day off a week?! No fkn way

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Yeah, that’s how it goes when you don’t have a route. Those first 2 years will be rough. You will have 1 weekday off. And 2 holidays off. 4th of July and Christmas Day. That’s it.

[@Matt-lp8de]

Being sent back out for bringing mail back is so not true. Obviously your going to be bringing mail back for vacant homes, no mailbox, deceased, missorts, insufficient addresses, and forwards. Shoot, most days im bringing back a half a tub of mail at least

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Facts. Being a mail carrier is just rough. It gets easier after you reach regular status, because then you only have to do 1 mail route, 5 days a week.

[@SableTwoSeven]

I bring a fair amount of mail back almost every day. Certified letters that no one was home to sign for, mis-throws and mark-ups. UBBM as well. Depends upon the route. I work in a beach town, and a lot of beach houses either don't have mailboxes and get marked NMR, or they're rentals. I also usually wind up with a lot of Insufficient Address, because I do a lot of apartments.

[@FPS_Bang]

Do you get paid overtime?

[@jakestarr4718]

Only if you get the hours to do so

[@CurtisDJunior]

Anyone trying to get mail while boxes are open without their key is ANNOYING AF. I close the boxes and make them use the key. No, i won't hand you mail if I dont know you.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

I agree and I hated when people did that to me. I would just stand there and watch them open an empty box with their key. Lol 😂 Yeah, you did the right thing. That’s how they trained me too.

[@trumanway3763]

Paid leave + health sounds pretty good, espionage for only 60 days

[@WildwoodFern]

You lost me at 6 days per week….

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Yeah, if you take a CCA position you will be working 6 days a week, because you don’t have a permanent mail route, so you will be covering them all until you reach regular status. Now that usually takes a few years for you to make regular, but every office is different.

[@rodb66]

They started Mail Handlers Assistance off with mandatory 6 days a week and 10 hours a day.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Yeah that sounds about right. That was my schedule.

[@ELLABandz4o4]

How many checks daily do you receive to deliver

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Mail Carriers get paid bi-weekly, so every 2 weeks. Not sure what city you live in, but here in Atlanta starting pay is in the $18.00 - 20.00 per hour range.

[@Orvias]

6 days a week

[@HesTooOpinionated]

Yup, CCAs work 6 days a week, until you reach regular status and that could take 2-3 years, but it depends on your office staff. If you have more job openings, then you could make it faster.

[@allenevangelista1275]

I like to work 7days a week😆

[@allenevangelista1275]

So i don’t have to work 2job .. 😁

[@HesTooOpinionated]

I understand that. I guess it depends on the position, but I feel the same way.

[@HesTooOpinionated]

That’s cool.