Teamsters Sound Alarm Over UPS SurePost Volume Departure From USPS

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) has expressed alarm over United Parcel Service’s (UPS) decision to shift a significant volume of its SurePost packages from the United States Postal Service (USPS) to other carriers. The Teamsters argue that this move will have severe consequences for USPS, its employees, and the communities it serves.

The Loss of SurePost Volume

SurePost is a hybrid shipping service that UPS offers in partnership with USPS. UPS collects packages from shippers and transports them to USPS facilities, where they are then delivered to final destinations by USPS mail carriers. This service has been a major source of revenue for USPS, which has been struggling financially in recent years.

UPS has announced that it will be shifting a significant portion of its SurePost volume to other carriers, such as FedEx and Amazon Logistics. This move will result in a substantial loss of revenue for USPS, which is estimated to be in the billions of dollars per year.

The Impact on USPS

The loss of SurePost volume will have a devastating impact on USPS. The revenue from SurePost has been used to fund essential services, such as retiree health benefits, post office operations, and new vehicle purchases. Without this revenue, USPS will be forced to cut back on these services, which will lead to reduced delivery frequency, longer wait times, and higher costs for customers.

The loss of SurePost volume will also result in job losses at USPS. The Postal Service has already announced plans to lay off thousands of workers in anticipation of the revenue loss. These job losses will disproportionately affect rural areas, where USPS is often the only employer in town.

The Impact on Communities

The loss of USPS services will have a significant impact on communities across the country. USPS provides essential services, such as mail delivery, package delivery, and banking services, to many rural and underserved communities. Without these services, these communities will be left without access to essential goods and services.

The loss of USPS services will also have a negative impact on the economy. USPS is a major employer in many communities, and its spending helps to support local businesses. The loss of USPS jobs and spending will lead to a decline in economic activity in these communities.

The Teamsters’ Response

The Teamsters are calling on UPS to reconsider its decision to shift SurePost volume away from USPS. The Teamsters argue that this move will have devastating consequences for USPS, its employees, and the communities it serves.

The Teamsters have also filed a complaint with the Surface Transportation Board (STB), which regulates the freight industry. The Teamsters are asking the STB to investigate UPS’s decision and to take action to protect USPS.

Conclusion

The decision by UPS to shift SurePost volume away from USPS is a major threat to the Postal Service, its employees, and the communities it serves. The Teamsters are calling on UPS to reconsider its decision and to work with the Postal Service to find a solution that protects essential services and jobs.

The loss of USPS services would have a devastating impact on many Americans, particularly those in rural and underserved communities. It is essential that the Postal Service be preserved and that its essential services be protected.