USPS 'Load-Leveling' Would Alter Delivery Schedules

Marketers face changes in their mail delivery schedules this spring if the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) implements a proposed plan to “level the load” handled by its carriers during the week, DM News reports. Currently, mailers that qualify for a Destination Sectional Center Facility (DSCF) discounted rate can expect Monday delivery of mail accepted by facilities on Thursday or Friday. Under the load-leveling plan, set to take effect on March 27, Standard Mail accepted on Friday would not be delivered until Tuesday, and mail accepted on Saturday would have a promised delivery day of Wednesday. DSCF Standard Mail is comprised mostly of direct mail letters, catalogs, flyers, and other advertising mail. The USPS has sought an advisory opinion from the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) on the plan, which the USPS tested in its South Jersey District last September. It's possible the PRC will send the Postal Service back to the drawing board, but mailers should be prepared for altered delivery schedules. See the news story at http://www.dmnews.com/usps-aims-to-institute-load-leveling-in-march/article/328622/