Tips for using the U.S. Postal Service wisely:

Never send cash through the mail. Send checks or money orders only.

Every year, the U.S. Postal Service receives thousands of complaints nationwide about cash missing from mailed envelopes. Columbia University cannot be held responsible for claims concerning missing cash.

Never send validated credit cards through the mail.

Validated credit cards can be used immediately without having to place a secure call to the issuer. Please ensure that all credit cards sent are not validated until received by the card user.

Have all parcels containing perishable items clearly marked as such.

When a package is marked "perishable," a phone call is made to the recipient alerting him or her about the package. It is also a good idea to have the room and/or cell phone number listed on the package.

Use signature tracking and insurance options for sensitive and valuable items.

The U.S. Postal Service and most private carriers (e.g., FedEx, UPS) offer various package tracking services. They can also provide services that require a delivery signature. In the event that an item is lost, it can be tracked back to the point of disappearance. If the item is insured, the sender will be reimbursed according to the carrier's terms and conditions. However, even with these methods, you should never send cash through the mail.

It is strongly recommended that you have valuable or other important items sent by a private carrier or with special services available through the U.S. Postal Service.

The U.S. Postal Service does not guarantee delivery, nor does it track packages with its regular service. When an item is lost, it is nearly impossible to locate it.

Please understand that the U.S. Postal Service's Delivery Confirmation feature only provides confirmation on packages delivered to a particular Zip Code. It does not confirm receipt at Lerner Hall.