Once the mail has been processed and sorted, letter carriers deliver it all across the country. These men and women travel established routes in big cities, small towns, and out-of-the-way rural routes. Some travel by foot, and others drive mail trucks. They mostly deliver mail, but they also pick it up from individual mailboxes as well as post boxes. They also collect money for postage due and COD (cash on delivery) items and take signatures for certified mail. The duties are more substantial for letter carriers on rural routes than for those who trek through major metropolises. Rural carriers sell stamps and money orders and other things that are usually sold by window clerks at post offices.

Letter carriers are often early risers — some shifts begin as early as 4 a.m. Overtime is often required. On the plus side, they are not confined in the office with a supervisor breathing down their necks. Unfortunately, they have to traverse the sidewalks and roads in all kinds of weather, and hazards come in the form of icy roads and the occasional angry dog. Letter carriers often carry a little can of dog repellent to squirt at an aggressive pooch, but be warned: In most states it is a crime to use the same spray on a human being, no matter how aggressive or hostile.