| Aspect | Postal Service | Mail Carrier |
|---|
| Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent; postal exams | High school diploma or equivalent; sometimes postal exams |
| Work Environment | Post offices, sorting facilities, delivery routes | On the road, delivering mail and packages |
| Employer & Industry | United States Postal Service (USPS) or similar national postal agencies | USPS or private delivery companies |
The Postal Service is the overarching organization responsible for mail processing and delivery, including managing postal facilities and operations. Mail Carriers are employees within the Postal Service who specifically deliver mail and packages to homes and businesses. While the Postal Service oversees the entire system, Mail Carriers focus on the delivery aspect, often working outdoors on designated routes.