CONTRIBUTED BY USPS
ALABAMA —
The U.S. Postal Service recently launched USPS Connect — a set of four delivery solutions that leverage ongoing network improvements, new equipment, new pricing and enhanced operational precision to meet evolving business package delivery 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 Louis DeJoy, postmaster general and CEO. “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 program offers several solutions to help business of all sizes meet growing consumer demand for affordable, fast local, regional and national deliveries and returns.
Alabama is one of several states in the nationwide rollout to make one of the four solutions — USPS Connect Local — available in select locations. The rollout schedule is available on uspsconnect.com.
The four USPS Connect business solutions are:
• USPS Connect Local – a new way for local businesses to affordably and quickly reach local customers. 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 – it provides next-day regional entry and delivery of Parcel Select packages and Parcel Select Lightweight packages. Businesses should consult with USPS representatives to identify the entry points and options that work best for them. Most packages will be delivered the next day within a specified region.
• USPS Connect National – it provides delivery solutions for businesses of all sizes. They can benefit from the Postal Service’s new mail processing equipment and reconfigured network to receive reliable delivery of packages through First-Class Package Service, Parcel Select Ground and Retail Ground.
• USPS Connect Returns – a service 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.
“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’re also giving smaller businesses big-business rates and all businesses more user-friendly ways to interact with us.”
Businesses interested in learning more may visit www.uspsconnect.com, call 855-MYUSPSCONNECT 855-698-7772, email uspsconconnect@usps.gov or visit usps.com/business/business-shipping.htm.
Delivery times stated for USPS Connect offerings are expected, but not guaranteed, and require entry of packages at the designated facility nearest package destinations or authorized pickup. Businesses should speak with a USPS representative about requirements.
The following local offices are participating.
• Auburn Post Office 300 Opelika Road
Auburn, AL 36830
• Opelika Post Office
500 S. 7th St.
Opelika, AL 36801
• Smiths Station Post Office
2720 Panther Parkway
Smiths Station, AL 36877.
