How to Return Mail to Sender?

Most of us have received a letter that is not addressed to us. When this happens, there are several ways to send the mail back to the sender without having to keep it or dispose of it. So, I decided to guide you through the steps of How to Return Mail to Sender, including how to handle different types of mail and what to do if the sender is known. 

Let’s find out more…

Re-Depositing The Letter In Your Mailbox

One of the simplest ways to return mail to sender is to re-deposit the letter in your mailbox. This method is best for mail that has been delivered to your address by mistake and is still unopened. To do this, you should follow these steps:

Step 1: Write “Return to Sender” or “Not at this address” on the envelope

It is important to clearly indicate that the mail is not intended for you. Writing “Return to Sender” or “Not at this address” on the envelope is the best way to communicate this message to the post office.

Step 2: Place the envelope back in your mailbox

Once you have done this, place it back in your mailbox with the postage side facing up. This will notify the post office that the mail is not intended for you.

Returning The Letter Directly To The Mailman

Another way to return mail to the sender is to give it directly to the mailman. This method is best for mail that has been delivered to your address by mistake, and the mailman is still around. To do this, you should follow these steps:

Step 1: Call the mailman

Clearly indicate to him that the mail is not intended for you. Showing him the address on the envelope is different from yours is the easiest way to do this.

Step 2: Hand the mail to the mailman

Give it to the mailman, and be sure to thank him for his help. If possible, ask for a tracking number or confirmation of delivery to ensure that the mail has been returned.

Using Blue Collection Boxes

You can use blue collection boxes to return mail to the sender. These boxes are located all across town and are used to collect mail for delivery to the post office. To use this method, you should follow these steps:

Step 1: Write “Not at this address” on the envelope

Before returning the mail with this method, it is important to clearly indicate that the mail is not intended for you. Writing “Not at this address” on the envelope is the best way to communicate this message to the post office.

Step 2: Find a blue collection box

Blue collection boxes are located in various areas. To find one near you, check the United States Postal Service (USPS) website, or you can use the “Maps” feature on your phone.

Step 3: Place the envelope in the blue collection box

Place it in the box; the mail will then be collected and returned to the sender.

Alternate Methods

In addition to the methods mentioned, there are a few other ways to return mail. These include:

Contacting the Sender

If the mail is from a specific person or organization, you can contact them directly to inform them that the mail is not intended for you. They may be able to update their records and prevent future mail from being sent to your address.

Returning the Mail in Person to the Post Office

You can also return the mail yourself to the post office. This is particularly useful if you are dealing with recurring mail. 

Using a Redelivery Service

If you prefer not to handle the mail yourself, you can use a redelivery service. This paid service is typically offered by private companies and can be more convenient as they will pick up the mail from your location and return it to the sender for you.

Returning the Mail via Certified Mail

You can also return the mail via certified mail. You have to pay for this service, but this way, you will receive a confirmation that the mail has been delivered. Additionally, the sender will have to sign for the mail, ensuring that they receive it.

What if It is For an Old Tenant Who Has No Forwarding Address?

If mail from old tenants arrives at your property without a forwarding address, you can handle it in a few ways:

It is important to check with local and state laws regarding the disposal and forwarding of mail, as some may have strict regulations on how it is handled.

How To Handle Junk Mail?

Junk mail, also known as unsolicited mail, is mail that is sent to you without your request or consent. This type of mail can be frustrating, but there are ways to reduce the amount of junk mail you receive. Here are a few tips:

Opt-out of Mailing Lists 

Many junk mailers acquire mailing lists from third-party sources. You can opt out of these lists by visiting the websites and unsubscribing from their mailing services.

Filing a Complaint

If you are receiving mail that is not intended for you regularly, you can file a complaint with the USPS. They will investigate the issue and take appropriate action.

You can also report the issue to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) via their website or a phone call.

USPS Is A Great Postal Service To Use!

Being one of the most efficient postal services in the United States. So, it’s no surprise how many people choose to use it!

So, let’s find out more about the shipping process, starting with Can I Use Poly Mailers For USPS, Where Can I Drop off USPS Packages, and if you’re sending official documents, Does USPS Notarize Documents, and Does USPS Forward IRS And Other Government Mail if you’ve moved recently.

You might also be wondering What Is USPS Liteblue, How Much Is A PO Box At USPS, or perhaps How Fast IS USPS First Class, and what is the difference between USPS Priority Mail vs First Class?

Once you’ve sent your parcel out, it helps to understand the various notifications you receive, such as What Does Insufficient AddressMean At USPS, What Does Missent Mean USPS The Ultimate, and What Does Available For Pickup Mean USPS, as well as What Is USPS Informed Delivery, and what to do when your USPS Out For Delivery Never Came, in 2023?

Final Thoughts

The simplest and most common methods of returning mail include re-depositing the letter in your mailbox, returning it directly to the mailman, or using blue collection boxes. Alternate methods include contacting the sender directly, using a redelivery service, or returning the mail in person to the post office. 

Regardless of the method chosen, it is important to clearly indicate that the mail is not intended for you by writing “Return to Sender” or “Not at this address” on the envelope. With these options, you can easily and effectively return mail and prevent further unwanted mail from being delivered to your address.

All the very best in sorting out your mailing problem!