USPS Plans Cost-Cutting Mail Delivery Changes

The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) announced plans to reduce operational costs by potentially slowing mail delivery for certain customers as part of a broader strategy to improve financial stability and shave $3 billion from expenses. While some urban areas may see improved delivery times, rural customers could experience delays of 12 to 24 hours, although overall service standards will remain within a two to five-day window. This proposal comes after previous service changes that reduced delivery guarantees from three days to five, amid rising stamp prices, prompting concerns about worsening service quality. Critics argue that these changes may lead to further declines in customer trust and mail volume, which has already dropped significantly in recent years. The USPS plans to file these changes with its regulatory commission, with implementation expected after the upcoming holiday season. The overall impact on first-class mail is projected to be minimal, as 75% of it is expected to remain unaffected.