Why do vendors use the USPS (in the US of course)?

Vendors always use the US postal service. Seems odd, although satisfying, to use a government agency. Is it because it's cheaper than a private shipping company like FedEx or is there another reason? Wouldn't the authorities be more likely to inspect packages sent through the regular mail?


Comments


[10 Points] iLoveDNM:

UPS

  1. Right of Inspection UPS reserves the right in its sole and unlimited discretion to open and inspect any shipment tendered to it for transportation, but is not required to do so.

Page 15, Official UPS Terms of Service

FedEx

  1. Right to inspect. FedEx may inspect the shipment at any time and may permit government authorities to carry out such inspections as they may consider appropriate. FedEx, in addition, may reject or suspend the carriage of any prohibited tems or one that contains materials that damage or may damage other shipments or that may constitute a risk to FedEx equipment or employees or to those of its service providers.

Official FedEx Terms of Service

USPS

  1. Can Postal Inspectors open mail if they feel it may contain something illegal? First-Class letters and parcels are protected against search and seizure under the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution, and, as such, cannot be opened without a search warrant. If there is probable cause to believe the contents of a First-Class letter or parcel violate federal law, Postal Inspectors can obtain a search warrant to open the mailpiece. Other classes of mail do not contain private correspondence, and therefore may be opened without a warrant.

US Postal Inspection Service

So, only USPS provides protection against inspection en route from law enforcement, and of this only First class and up qualify for this enhanced protection provided by the 4th amendment. So only these special packages need a warrant or probable cause (drug dogs). That's why vendors use USPS. :D


[4 Points] 1ugly:

For one I know that private companies don't need permission or a warrant to open the package.