CUPW strike update: Navigating the shipping disruption
1/6/25 Update
Effective Monday, January 6, 2025, GlobalPost has resumed full service to Canada, including P.O. Boxes and previously restricted postal codes, and is now accepting mail and packages again for these destinations.
Please note that due to the service interruption and the accumulated backlog from the CUPW strike, shipments to previously restricted postal codes may face delays.
1/3/25 Update
Effective Monday, January 6, 2025, USPS will resume full service to Canada and begin accepting mail and packages again. Starting Monday, January 6, 2025, you can create and print USPS labels destined for Canada using your ShipWorks account. Please note that due to the recent CUPW strike and accumulated backlog, shipments may experience delays.
12-17-24 Update
Effective December 17, 2024, Canada Post resumed operations and will be accepting new mail and parcels on December 19, 2024. At this time, there are no updates from USPS, or other disrupted carriers regarding Canada shipments. We’re closely monitoring and will share updates as available.
12-13-24 Update
“It is my view, and the view of the FMCS, that the parties are at an impasse,” said Canadian federal Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon in a statement earlier today. The Labour Minister is now sending the labor dispute between CUPW and Canada Post to the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) in an effort to resume Canada Post operations and get striking CUPW workers back to work. The resolution of the strike now requires CIRB to agree with MacKinnon’s assertion that the negotiations are at a standstill.
What does this mean for shippers?
Despite recent movements, this situation is still ongoing. Canada Post customers still cannot ship or print labels at this time, and will not be able to do so until an official announcement has been made.
What are the next steps?
If the CIRB agrees, MacKinnon says the Labour Relations Board will order Canada Post, and all employees represented by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers, to resume operations and extend the terms of existing collective agreements until May 2025.
Canada Post announced that they are reviewing the Minister’s announcement to prepare to participate as the situation progresses and comply with the directive.
To stay updated on this developing story, check this blog or read the latest CUPW negotiation updates.
Update 12/11/24
Effective December 6, 2024, GlobalPost will temporarily pause delivery to Canadian P.O. Boxes and certain postal codes for U.S.to Canada due the the ongoing CUPW strike.
Since GlobalPost’s network relies on Canada Post for final-mile delivery, service to these regions will be impacted until further notice. Please be aware that Global Post is not sending an error message when a customer prints a label to these postal codes. Customers should refrain from shipping to these areas through Global Post.
For the list of postal codes that are affected, please reach out to our support team.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) strike, which began on November 15, 2024, has brought Canada Post operations to a standstill. This disruption has significant implications for businesses and individuals relying on postal services, especially during the holiday season. No mail or parcels will be processed or delivered during the strike. Shipments already in transit to Canada will be delayed.
In response to the strike, other carriers are adjusting operations. On November 27, 2024, USPS announced a temporary suspension of all Canada-bound shipments, across all mail classes, effective November 29, 2024, in response to the ongoing CUPW strike. As shipping volumes increase and other carriers take on more shipments, potential delays are possible and demand surcharges may be implemented. We recognize the impact these disruptions may have on your shipments.
The situation is ongoing, and ShipWorks is monitoring the situation closely. On December 1, 2024, Canada Post presented CUPW with a comprehensive framework in the hope of reaching negotiated agreements. At ShipWorks, we are committed to sharing the latest information and helping you navigate disruption.
What does the strike mean for you?
- Delivery delays: All mail and parcel deliveries are suspended through Canada Post until the strike concludes.
- Post-strike backlog: Even after the strike ends, delays are expected as Canada Post works to clear the backlog of undelivered items.
- Holiday shipping: The strike poses a significant threat to holiday shipping plans.
What happens if I’ve already shipped a package to a P.O. Box or one of these postal codes?
During the CUPW strike, GlobalPost’s network will securely hold your package or mail and deliver it to its destination once the strike concludes.
How do I mitigate shipping disruptions?
If you prepare ahead of time, you can make sure upcoming shipments arrive at the correct destination in a timely manner.
- Explore alternative carriers: Utilize ShipWorks platform to access a range of carriers and secure competitive rates.
- Stay informed: Monitor updates from Canada Post and ShipWorks for the latest information.
By taking proactive measures and exploring alternative shipping options, you can minimize the impact of the strike on your business and make timely deliveries. Stay informed by bookmarking this blog for quick and convenient access.