What action is defined as removing merchandise, money, or coupons from undeliverable bulk mail?

The action of removing merchandise, money, or coupons from undeliverable bulk mail is considered theft. This classification arises from the fact that the items in question are not rightfully owned by the individual removing them; rather, they belong to the intended recipients or the postal service until they can be delivered or properly disposed of.

Theft involves the unlawful taking of someone else's property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. In this context, taking items from undeliverable mail constitutes an illegal act, as it infringes upon the rights of the rightful owners and breaches postal regulations designed to protect mail integrity.

It's essential to understand the gravity of this action within the operating procedures of the USPS. Handling undeliverable mail requires adherence to strict guidelines to ensure items are either returned to the sender or otherwise managed legally and ethically. Thus, the classification of theft accurately reflects the intent and actions involved in removing items unlawfully from bulk mail.