(a) Explain four ways by which a registered mail differs from ordinary mail. (b) Explain two advantages and two disadvantages of transporting goods by rail

Answer Details

(a) Four ways registered mail differs from ordinary mail

1. Record of posting: Registered mail is recorded and a receipt issued at the post office, whereas ordinary mail is posted without any record.
2. Compensation: The sender of registered mail is entitled to compensation if it is lost or damaged, while ordinary mail carries no such guarantee.
3. Cost: Registered mail attracts an extra fee in addition to normal postage, whereas ordinary mail requires only the ordinary stamp.
4. Signature on delivery: Registered mail must be signed for by the receiver as proof of delivery, while ordinary mail is simply dropped in the box or handed over without a signature.

(b) Transporting goods by rail

Two advantages

1. It is suitable for carrying heavy and bulky goods over long distances at relatively low cost.
2. It is fast and runs to a fixed timetable, and is less affected by traffic congestion.

Two disadvantages

1. It offers no door-to-door service, so goods must be moved to and from the station by other means.
2. It follows a fixed route and cannot reach places not served by a railway line, and it is unsuitable for small or urgent consignments.