A mail carrier, also commonly called a mail woman, mailman, courier, or postman, can be a specialized individual, often serving as the carrier or carriers in a business's rush delivery services. A mail carrier may deliver letters and packages to homes and businesses, as well as perform other tasks necessary to carry mail and packages for customers or other businesses. Some mail carriers have their own vehicles and operating expenses are paid for by the company whose letters and packages they carry; others operate on a single vehicle, for a set fee. Certain professional organizations also contract with some carriers to provide services such as driver supervision and safety training to their members. These professional organizations are the largest and most organized of the various types of mail carriers.

The majority of mail carriers are women, although men sometimes work as mail carriers as well. Usually, though, a female mail carrier works out of a house or garage and has a van or trailer to transport mail and packages. Male mail carriers usually work out of a home, apartment or carrier-related trailer or van. Most male mail carriers have at least a small selection of high-quality leather shoes. In some cases, however, male male carriers may also receive regular medical care and wear a dental plan.

Today, a large number of companies throughout the United States provide mail carriers. Many of these companies have their own buses that they use to bring their employees to their various destinations. In some cases, companies use large vans that are equipped with loading docks and enclosed loading bays for transporting goods and materials. Most companies require their mail carriers to be 18 years old and have a valid drivers' license. To become a professional mail carrier in the United States, one must pass a training course given by the National Postal Authority and then take a test administered by the National Postal Authority to ensure one is knowledgeable about proper loading, unloading and maintenance of the vehicle. After receiving their certificate, mail carriers are required to take continuing education courses to keep their licenses current.

As mail carriers are in contact with people on a daily basis, they are required to be friendly, courteous, and responsible. Most carriers are required to practice safety techniques while handling any type of mail. They often follow precautionary measures such as keeping doors and windows closed, making sure food and mail are not left out in the open, and never leaving packages with customers. Furthermore, carriers are expected to follow the law and do it safely.

Most carriers have two types of work: heavy equipment carrier machine operator. Carrier machines are used to handle heavier loads. Heavy equipment carriers are generally rented from outside providers and used for large jobs. Some mail carriers can also operate automatic machines. In either case, carriers make sure they are familiar with the type of work they are doing.

Many mail carriers work in conjunction with local post offices. The role of a carrier is very important. Without it, the delivery of mail would not occur. Delivery of mail could take days, weeks or even months. With the advent of email, most consumers do their shopping online these days and mail delivery have become non-existent. Carrier services can provide the missing link that will bring the world to online shopping.