USPS Announces Mail Delivery Changes: What It Means for You

The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is planning changes that might slow down mail delivery for some customers. This new plan could save up to $3 billion a year, according to officials.

The changes, first mentioned in the Washington Post, suggest that some mail and packages going to rural or distant areas might stay in distribution centers for an extra day. This would allow USPS to focus on faster service for places closer to a processing center. For those near these hubs, mail that used to take four days might now arrive in three.

However, most mail will still be delivered within five days.

Postmaster General Louis DeJoy explained to the news, “Some mail might arrive 12 hours later, but this change was necessary. We’re trying to save the Postal Service. In other countries, delivery is often slower and more expensive. We’re working to keep the Postal Service alive.”

These adjustments could help reduce transportation costs, allow earlier mail processing, and lower carbon emissions by cutting down on truck trips through neighborhoods.

USPS hasn’t yet shared which areas might experience delays.

Before these changes take effect, the plan will be reviewed by the Postal Regulatory Commission for advice, and adjustments will be made based on their recommendations. DeJoy assured that no changes will happen before the November election or the busy holiday mail season.

According to news, USPS is expected to lose over $7 billion this year, compared to a $6.5 billion loss in 2023.