An apparatus for the automated
processing of bulk mail in a continuous and automatic procedure includes an operative combination of
processing stations including an input
station for receiving incoming mail in bulk fashion and for separating the pieces of mail for individual delivery to the remainder of the apparatus; a
station for detecting irregularities in the contents of the envelopes, such as
metal items, folded contents, or oversized items; a
station for out-sorting envelopes rejected in accordance with determinations made at the detection station; a station for opening the envelopes, preferably along
multiple edges; a station for removing the contents from the opened envelopes, for subsequent
processing of the contents; and a series of stations for handling, imaging and orienting the contents for subsequent delivery to a plurality of output stackers.