Street Delivery Basics

🚚 Street Delivery Basics for CCAs

Once you've cased the mail and packed your satchel or vehicle, it's time to begin street delivery. As a City Carrier Assistant (CCA), your goal is to deliver mail accurately, safely, and efficiently — while following USPS policies and respecting the community you serve.

📍 Starting the Route

Before leaving the office, you'll hit the "Leave to Street" scanner function. Confirm you have:

• Your fully charged scanner (MDD)
• All DPS, SPRs, flats, and parcels organized
• LLV keys or satchel with necessary supplies (dog spray, pen, PS Form 3849)

🧭 Following the Line of Travel

Stick to the established delivery order shown on the route case and your scanner. Deliver mail exactly in the sequence intended — even if it feels faster to skip around.

• Deliver to each stop in order
• Use relay bags if assigned (on walking routes)
• Park safely and legally — never block driveways or hydrants

📦 Handling Parcels and SPRs

Special Purpose Routes (SPRs) and parcels must be scanned and delivered properly. Your scanner will prompt you at the appropriate time. If a delivery cannot be made:

• Attempt delivery once
• Leave a PS Form 3849 (We ReDeliver for You!)
• Mark "No Access" or "Attempted" in the scanner, with reason

📱 Proper Use of the Scanner (MDD)

Use your scanner throughout the day for:

• Delivery point scans (parcels and tracking)
• MSP scans (Management Service Points)
• Clock events — "Begin/End Lunch", "Return to Office"

Keep the scanner screen clean and protected from weather. Notify your supervisor if it malfunctions.

⚠️ Safety on the Street

• Be aware of dogs — carry spray and avoid entering fenced yards uninvited
• Watch for traffic when crossing streets or exiting LLVs
• Use handrails and walkways; never run
• Secure mail and packages in high-crime areas

⏱️ Managing Time and Pace

Don't feel pressured to rush. Focus on consistency and safety. Time on the street is recorded through your scanner and reflected in route evaluations. If you believe you'll need more time:

• Submit PS Form 3996 before leaving the office
• Notify your supervisor of delays as early as possible

📚 Related USPS Materials

• M-41 Handbook: Duties and delivery instructions for city carriers
• Scanner User Guide: Refer to your station's SOP or training materials
• National Agreement: Rules on safety, discipline, and assistance