Postal Service
Official definition
This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing mail services under a universal service obligation. Mail services include the carriage of letters, printed matter, or mailable packages, including acceptance, collection, processing, and delivery. Due to the infrastructure requirements of providing mail service under a universal service obligation, postal service establishments often provide parcel and express delivery services in addition to the mail service. Establishments primarily engaged in performing one or more parts of the basic mail service, such as sorting, routing and/or delivery (except bulk transportation of mail) are included in this industry.
Source: US Census Bureau, 2017 NAICS Definitions. Public domain. Census publishes this definition under NAICS 491110, the only detailed industry in this group.
Which code does this activity belong in?
The postal service code covers establishments providing mail services under a universal service obligation, including acceptance, collection, processing, and delivery of letters, printed matter, and mailable packages. This obligation to serve all geographic areas universally distinguishes postal service from couriers and messengers, which deliver parcels and documents without such obligation and typically handle only small items that can be managed by one person. Postal establishments may also provide parcel and express delivery services alongside their core mail operations, and they include those performing specific mail functions such as sorting, routing, or delivery, except for bulk mail transportation.
Written for NAICS 491110, the only detailed industry in this group.