Master the USPS SSA Window Exam 2026 – Slide into Success with Confidence!

Special handling is a service offered by the USPS specifically designed for certain types of mail that require additional care during transit. One category that qualifies for special handling is packages containing live animals, such as bees or chicks. This is because these items are sensitive to environmental conditions and need to be transported under special conditions to ensure their safety and well-being.

Packages with live animals are a unique case requiring heightened awareness and specific handling procedures. The USPS recognizes the importance of delivering these items in a timely and safe manner, which is why special handling is necessary.

In contrast, standard letters, flat rate envelopes, and even packages containing antique items do not typically require the same level of specialized care or handling. Standard letters and flat rate envelopes are handled through standard procedures without the need for additional special handling provisions. While packages containing antiques might require care in handling, they do not necessitate special treatment comparable to the needs of live animal shipments. This distinction highlights the specific criteria that dictate what qualifies for special handling within the USPS framework.