Postal Service Mail Sorters, Processors, and Processing Machine Operators

However, humans are still needed for heavy or odd jobs. Workers load/unload big mail containers, and forklifts still place the largest boxes onto trucks ^{[2] [2]}. In other words, machines take care of routine sorting and carrying, but people handle the heaviest lifting and fix any jams ^{[2] [1]}.

Postal workers still check that very large parcels or fragile items get special handling. In short, much of the “direct items by routing” work is already done by OCR and automation ^{[1] [2]}, and robots carry most mail inside plants ^{[2] [2]}. But loading or unloading trucks and irregular items often require human hands ^{[2] [2]}.

On the other hand, cost and labor factors can slow adoption. USPS must meet strict return-on-investment rules – new equipment needs to prove it will save at least 20% in costs ^[5]. Robots and AI often require expensive setup, staff training, and plant changes ^{[5] [2]}.

The Postal Service is a unionized public agency, so new technology is watched closely. Union groups note that past automation cut some jobs ^[6], so any change is debated. Many workers are older and used to existing methods, so change can be slow.

Still, experiments like edge AI and AMRs are moving forward ^{[3] [2]}. Socially and legally, there are few barriers to machines (it's safe and allowed), and many employees see robots as helpers, not threats ^{[2] [2]}.

Overall, the trend is toward more automation of routine mail sorting (since it boosts efficiency ^{[4] [3]}) while leaving humans in roles that require judgement, oversight, and strength. In other words, AI can take over the repetitive work, and people bring the eyes, patience, and care that machines lack ^{[2] [2]}.