The Postal Service has launched USPS Connect, a set of four delivery solutions that leverages ongoing network improvements, new equipment, new pricing and enhanced operational precision to meet evolving business needs.
“USPS Connect provides businesses of all sizes what they have been asking for — an affordable way to meet consumer demand for fast delivery,” said Postmaster General Louis DeJoy.
“A pivotal point in our Delivering for America plan, it positions us to more fully leverage our network capacity to increase volume and revenue so we can continue to serve the American people with affordable, reliable mail and package delivery.”
The USPS Connect solutions to help businesses meet growing consumer demand for affordable, fast local, regional and national deliveries and returns are:
• USPS Connect Local, a new way for local businesses to affordably and quickly reach local customers. It is rolling out in select locations starting Feb. 22.
USPS Connect Local offers affordable next-day service in all locations, with same-day delivery, Sunday delivery and pickup options in select locations. This offering also includes USPS Connect Local Mail, an affordable First-Class Mail option for documents up to 13 ounces.
Businesses can enter USPS Connect Local packages and mail at the receiving dock of the designated postal facility or take advantage of free en-route pickup when their carrier delivers their mail.
Free flat-rate bags, boxes and envelopes are available via Click-N-Ship.
• USPS Connect Regional, which provides regional entry and next-day delivery of Parcel Select packages and Parcel Select Lightweight packages.
Businesses can reach a majority of the population next-day with regional hub and plant destination entry, or next-day and two-day with regional destination Network Distribution Center entry.
Businesses should consult with USPS representatives to identify the entry points and options that work best for them.
Stated delivery times are expected but not guaranteed and require entry at designated postal facilities nearest the final destination of the mail and packages. Businesses should speak with a USPS representative about requirements.
• USPS Connect National, which provides delivery solutions for businesses of all sizes.
Businesses can benefit from the Postal Service’s new mail processing equipment and reconfigured network to receive reliable delivery of packages through Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Package Service, Parcel Select Ground and Retail Ground.
• USPS Connect Returns, which includes services for businesses to offer their customers convenient returns, with free en-route pickup by their carrier or drop-off at a nearby Post Office location. Businesses can access returns information on usps.com.
“We’ve listened carefully to our business customers to develop this program,” said Jakki Krage Strako, chief commerce and business solutions officer. “We’re increasing next-day deliveries. We’ve adjusted our pricing. We’re also giving smaller businesses big-business rates and all businesses more user-friendly ways to interact with us.”
The USPS Connect LiteBlue page has more information for employees, who’ll need their employee identification number and password to access the page.
Businesses interested in learning more can go to the USPS Connect website, call 855-MYUSPSCONNECT (855-698-7772), email uspsconnect@usps.gov or go to the usps.com Shipping for Business section.
