Street Duties and Route Management

🚶 3.1 Departure from Office

• Leave the office at the scheduled time or promptly after casing is complete.
• Ensure all necessary items are with you: mail, scanner, accountables, keys, satchel.
• If delayed, inform management and document the reason.
• Check vehicle condition again briefly if using a postal vehicle.
• Begin MSP scans and PS Form 3999 time entries (if applicable) upon leaving.

Reference: M-41 §231, Route Protection Program Ch. 1

🛣️ 3.2 Safe and Efficient Street Delivery

• Follow the approved line of travel and avoid shortcuts.
• Deliver mail in proper sequence—do not rearrange mail while walking or driving.
• Be aware of surroundings; watch for hazards such as loose dogs, blocked access, or poor weather.
• Use crosswalks and sidewalks whenever possible to avoid injury or liability.
• Drive responsibly, adhere to all traffic laws, and never use a cell phone while operating a vehicle.

Reference: M-41 §242, §252; ELM §824; POM §631

📦 3.3 Handling Accountables and Parcels

• Obtain signatures for accountables (certified, registered, insured) when required.
• Leave PS Form 3849 if customer is not available, and follow redelivery procedures.
• Place parcels securely and discreetly to avoid damage or theft.
• Use dog warning cards or edit book notations when appropriate.
• Note and report any undeliverable parcels with reasons for non-delivery.

Reference: M-41 §261, POM §641–643

🏢 3.4 Delivery to Business and Residential Addresses

• Know the delivery schedule and methods for businesses (e.g., dock, mailroom, slot).
• Observe security procedures for gated communities or apartment buildings.
• Avoid unnecessary conversations or distractions that delay delivery.
• Leave mail only in approved receptacles or per authorized customer instructions.
• Skip no addresses unless authorized via curtailed mail procedures.

Reference: M-41 §242.21–242.23, POM §632.1

📲 3.5 Scanning and Timekeeping Requirements

• Complete MSP scans at designated locations and times.
• Ensure barcode scans are accurate and timely to validate delivery.
• Record accurate times for major points during the street portion of the route.
• Notify management if scan points are inaccessible or missing.
• Do not falsify or stage scans—this can lead to serious disciplinary action.

Reference: M-41 §131.4, M-39 §134, IOCS Handbook F-45

⚠️ 3.6 Dealing with Hazards and Emergencies

• Immediately report aggressive animals, blocked deliveries, unsafe structures, or weather-related hazards.
• Carry dog spray and whistle in areas with known threats.
• If mail delivery is not possible, document and inform supervision per policy.
• Know emergency procedures and contact points if injured or in danger.
• Use PS Form 1767 to report hazardous conditions formally.

Reference: M-41 §131.4, ELM §824, POM §126.5

🔀 3.7 Route Adjustments and Deviations

• Stick to the official line of travel unless instructed otherwise by management.
• Document detours due to construction, closed roads, or safety concerns.
• Use PS Form 3996 to report time needed for deviations or added duties.
• Inform management if mail volume or conditions justify extending your route time.
• Be prepared to explain route performance during future inspections or reviews.

Reference: M-41 §131.4, Route Inspection Guide; M-01766 COR Guide

🏁 3.8 Returning to the Office and End-of-Tour Duties

• Return to the office promptly upon route completion unless redirected by management.
• Empty vehicle or satchel and return all accountables, keys, and scanner.
• Report any undelivered mail and reasons for non-delivery.
• Complete any required end-of-day forms (e.g., 3971, 3996 updates, daily log).
• Clock out using the appropriate operation code and review for any discrepancies.

Reference: M-41 §132.2–132.3, Letter Carrier's Daily Log, ELM §432

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