Starting this month, some New Yorkers may experience slower mail delivery as the United States Postal Service (USPS) undergoes changes. In March, former U.S. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, who stepped down on March 24, announced that a deal was made with Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency to help USPS address ongoing issues, according to Reuters. The changes aim to save USPS at least $36 billion over the next decade.
The updates will roll out in two phases, with the first taking effect on April 1. As a result, service standards for certain mail types will either remain the same, speed up, or slow down.
Here’s what you need to know about how these changes may affect mail delivery in New York:
How many post offices are in New York?
The USPS has nearly 2,000 post offices in New York, though more than 500 of them are no longer in operation.
How will the changes affect mail in New York?
The first round of changes began on April 1. According to USPS, “most mail will retain the same service standard, some will have a faster standard, and some will have a slightly slower standard.” However, specific areas affected have not yet been announced.
Some areas could see a “2-3 day turnaround service” within regions, while others may experience delays due to adjustments in regional transportation schedules. The changes will impact the following services:
- First-Class Mail
- Periodicals
- Marketing Mail
- Package Services (Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, Library Mail)
- USPS Ground Advantage
- Priority Mail
- Priority Express Mail
While First-Class Mail’s delivery window of 1-5 days will remain unchanged, the day ranges for end-to-end Marketing Mail, Periodicals, and Package Services will be shortened, with some shipping products now experiencing slower delivery times.
Additionally, USPS will streamline sorting and delivery by using five-digit zip codes instead of three-digit ones. USPS has a map available online to help customers see delivery times between different zip codes. Customers also can look up service standards at usps.com.
What’s coming next?
A second round of changes will take effect on July 1, and more information will be released closer to that date.
USPS workforce reduction
In other news, DeJoy announced a reduction of 10,000 USPS workers through a voluntary early retirement program, offering retiring workers a $15,000 incentive. According to a news release from the American Postal Workers Union, workers who opt to retire early can get a one-time $15,000 incentive paid in two parts.
Will USPS be privatized?
While no immediate changes are planned, there has been speculation about privatizing USPS. However, any attempt to privatize would require Congressional approval. The Postal Reorganization Act of 1970 made USPS an independent agency under the executive branch, and the president cannot directly oversee it.
Contributing: USA Today Network
Emily Barnes reports on consumer-related issues for the USA TODAY Network’s New York Connect Team, focusing on scam and recall-related topics. Follow her on X and Instagram @byemilybarnes. Get in touch at [email protected].
