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Sending Christmas cards to Canada? Think again

By Austin Williams
Published  December 5, 2024 4:52pm PST
Holidays
FOX TV Digital Team

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The National Retail Federation predicts that winter holiday sales will reach almost $1 trillion in November and December, but how will that impact the economy? The rate of spending growth is expected to be about 2.5 to 3.5%, that's the slowest jump since 2018. LiveNOW's Christina Evans discussed holiday spending and the economy.

The Brief

    • The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has suspended international mail to Canada due to an ongoing Canada Post strike.
    • The strike, now in its third week, has disrupted holiday shipping and cost Canadian businesses over $1 billion.
    • Alternatives like private couriers and e-gift cards are gaining traction amid the disruptions.

What to know about the Canada Post strike

LOS ANGELES - The ongoing strike by Canada Post workers has led to significant disruptions in mail delivery, both domestically and internationally, especially during the crucial holiday season. The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has temporarily stopped accepting international mail for Canada, citing the inability of Canada Post to process or deliver items.

Here’s everything you need to know about the strike and its implications for mail and holiday shipping.

Why are Canada Post workers on strike?

The Canadian Union of Postal Workers, representing Canada Post employees, began striking on Nov. 15 after contract negotiations with Canada Post broke down. Key sticking points include:

  • Wage increases to match inflation.
  • Improved safety measures for workers.
  • Concerns over automation replacing postal jobs.

How long will the strike last?

The strike is now in its third week, with no official end date announced. The union recently received new proposals from Canada Post leadership, but as of Monday, joint mediation talks had not resumed.

How does the strike affect the Canadian economy?

The strike has dealt a heavy blow to small and medium-sized businesses in Canada, particularly during the holiday season. According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), the strike is costing this sector an estimated $76.6 million per day. If unresolved, the total loss could exceed $1 billion.

Postal workers participate in a strike outside Canada Post's Gateway Postal Facility in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, on Nov. 15, 2024. 

Businesses report challenges such as:

  • Lost orders and delayed payments.
  • Increased costs for alternative delivery options.
  • Reduced ability to market and sell products during a peak sales period.

How does the Canada Post strike affect US mail?

The USPS announced on Nov. 29 that it is suspending all international mail services to Canada due to the strike. This disruption impacts the following services:

  • Priority Mail Express International.
  • Priority Mail International.
  • First-Class Mail International.
  • International Priority Airmail and others.

The USPS advises customers to hold off on sending mail or parcels to Canada until further notice and continues to monitor the situation closely.

What are the alternatives for shipping to Canada?

For those still looking to send holiday packages or letters to Canada, there are a few alternatives:

  1. E-gift cards: Many are turning to digital solutions like e-gift cards, which can deliver holiday cheer without relying on physical mail.
  2. Private couriers: Companies like FedEx, UPS, DHL, and Purolator—a Canadian courier not affiliated with Canada Post—offer international and domestic shipping options.
  3. Local pickup or drop-off: If possible, coordinate with friends or family in Canada to pick up items locally.

What to expect moving forward

As the Canada Post strike continues, further disruptions to mail services are likely, especially as holiday deadlines loom. Customers should explore alternative shipping options and stay informed about updates from the USPS and Canada Post.

The Source: This story is based on information from USPS and previous reporting from the Associated Press