UPS SurePost: The expiration of the USPS-UPS SurePost contract has led to significant changes in how certain packages will be delivered across the U.S. While millions of packages are affected, the transition could mean faster delivery times and a shift in how deliveries are handled. Here’s everything you need to know about this change.
What is UPS SurePost?
UPS SurePost is an economical shipping service designed for less urgent, lower-value shipments. Ideal for small packages weighing less than 10 pounds, SurePost is widely used for e-commerce deliveries. Previously, SurePost packages were delivered by a combination of UPS and the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) for certain addresses, including PO Boxes and military destinations. However, with the expiration of the USPS-UPS partnership, there are changes to how these packages are handled.
Key Changes After the Contract Expiration
- Delivery Process Changes:
- End of USPS Involvement: After the contract expiration, USPS will no longer handle SurePost deliveries. Instead, UPS will now deliver these packages door-to-door within its network.
- Faster Delivery Times: While transit times for SurePost deliveries were previously estimated at 2 to 7 days, they are now expected to take between 2 to 6 days, meaning customers might receive their packages a day earlier.
- Geographic Limitations: SurePost will no longer be available for deliveries to U.S. Territories (like Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands), Alaska, Hawaii, or Puerto Rico. Additionally, the service will no longer cover PO Box or Military APO/FPO deliveries.
- UPS Delivery Expansion:
- Increased Volume for UPS Drivers: With millions of SurePost packages now going through UPS directly, there’s an increase in delivery volume. This shift means more deliveries will be handled by UPS Teamsters, creating new job opportunities for drivers.
- Potential Overtime: As a result of the contract’s expiration, UPS drivers may have access to more overtime hours and delivery opportunities, a benefit for those seeking extra work.
- UPS Services Remain Unchanged:
- While SurePost will be affected, other UPS services like UPS Ground, UPS Second Day Air, and UPS Next Day Air will continue to be available, including for destinations like U.S. Territories and Puerto Rico.
- Customers who are waiting for SurePost packages that are being delivered to a PO Box can redirect those packages to a street address by signing up for UPS MyChoice.
Detailed Breakdown of UPS SurePost Changes
| Aspect | Before Contract Expiration | After Contract Expiration |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery Service | UPS and USPS combined for SurePost deliveries | UPS now handles all SurePost deliveries |
| Delivery Timeline | 2-7 days within the U.S. | 2-6 days within the U.S. |
| Service Availability | Available to U.S. Territories, Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, PO Boxes, Military APO/FPO | No longer available for U.S. Territories, Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, PO Boxes, Military APO/FPO |
| Package Weight Limit | Less than 10 pounds | Less than 10 pounds |
| Geographical Coverage | 48 U.S. states, Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, U.S. Territories | 48 U.S. states only |
| Handling by USPS | USPS handled the final leg of deliveries | UPS now handles everything |
The Impact on UPS Drivers
The expiration of the USPS-UPS SurePost contract has made significant changes to UPS operations. The return of millions of SurePost packages to UPS delivery trucks is providing drivers with more work. This also creates new jobs as more package car drivers are needed to handle the increased volume. Additionally, UPS Teamsters now have more control over the final delivery stages of packages, which could result in better job security and opportunities for overtime.
The contract changes are also seen as a win for UPS employees, especially those involved in the handling and delivery of SurePost packages, as this brings more work within the UPS network, contributing to a more streamlined and efficient delivery process.
USPS’s Response to the Expiration
The USPS has acknowledged the expiration of the SurePost agreement, with a spokesperson noting that some businesses may have negotiated new agreements, while others have not. USPS also pointed out that previous agreements had failed to align with operational and financial realities, making the expiration a necessary change.
While USPS previously had a contract with FedEx for domestic air transportation, this relationship ended in September 2024, and UPS was selected as USPS’s new air cargo partner.
Conclusion
The end of the USPS-UPS SurePost contract marks a significant change in the delivery landscape for both consumers and businesses. While it might lead to faster delivery times for some customers, it also brings a greater workload to UPS, which will now manage the entire delivery process. Consumers and businesses that rely on SurePost should be prepared for the adjustments in service coverage, delivery timelines, and package handling. Additionally, the changes create new opportunities for UPS drivers as millions of packages shift back into the UPS network.
