Introduction

The practice of sending cash or valuable items through the postal service can pose significant security risks. While many believe that creative sealing techniques, such as using sellotape, can prevent postal workers from opening envelopes to see what's inside, the reality is quite different. This article explores the legal and practical considerations surrounding the security of sending money and valuables via mail.

Legal and Safety Concerns

Opening Mail to Examine Contents

According to federal law, it is a serious offense to open other people's mail to see what's inside. The penalties include a maximum fine of $250,000 and up to 10 years in prison. This stringent legal framework underscores the importance of adhering to legal guidelines when handling mail. Engaging in such activity is not only a violation of privacy but also a significant legal risk that is not worth taking.

Postal Worker Time and Security

Postal workers have limited time to sort and deliver mail, and there are no guarantees that they will inspect every envelope more closely. Additionally, postal inspectors, who are responsible for monitoring the integrity of the mail service, occasionally put loose cash or items in the mail to see if they are tampered with or stolen. Workers, aware of these practices, routinely announce and display such finds to attract attention from supervisory staff.

For individuals who find loose cash, the suggestion is to loudly announce and show the contents to a supervisor. This ensures that loose items are accounted for and not left unattended, reducing the likelihood of theft.

Practical Recommendations

No Cash Allowed

There is a strict prohibition on sending cash in envelopes. By doing so, one is taking a significant risk. Instead, always opt for sending checks or other non-cash payment methods whenever possible. This not only reduces the risk of theft but also complies with postal service regulations.

Vested Protection for Valuables

When sending items of high value, such as gold bars, ensuring their safety requires additional measures. Using certified mail and insuring the contents can provide peace of mind. While insurance may incur a cost, it offers critical protection should any items be lost or damaged during transit.

Automated Sorting and Manual Delivery

Mail is sorted automatically but delivered by human workers to the final destination. This means that there is always a risk of human error or dishonesty. For valuable items, trusting that an envelope with sellotape is secure is a significant risk. In many cases, thieves who intend to steal will not be dissuaded by simple sealing techniques.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the idea of using sellotape to seal envelopes and the belief that postal workers have ample time to inspect them might seem appealing, these are not effective security measures. The key to ensuring the safe delivery of money and valuables via mail lies in adhering to official guidelines, securing items through certified mail services, and insuring them. By doing so, one can significantly reduce the risks associated with mail delivery.