Processing operations for USPS involve a wide range of activities, from receiving and sorting incoming mail to delivering it. Incoming letters and packages are sorted by postal employees according to their destinations, with heavier items being given priority over lighter ones. The Postal Service then utilizes automated processes such as optical character recognition (OCR) to read the addresses on each piece of mail and determine its destination. Once sorted, the pieces are loaded onto delivery trucks for local delivery or sent via airmail for longer distances. Furthermore, USPS provides tracking information so that customers can monitor their shipments from start to finish. Processing operations also include preparing outgoing mail for shipment through the postal system and providing customer service in terms of inquiries about shipments or other questions regarding services provided by USPS.