Canada Post Rotating Strikes Impact Holiday Deliveries
Amid ongoing labor disruptions, businesses relying on Canada Post are advised to enhance customer communication and arrange alternative delivery methods, experts recommend. The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) has initiated rotating strikes as the holiday season approaches, which may cause significant delivery delays for unprepared shippers.
Background of the Labour Dispute
Last year's holiday season saw a nationwide strike by Canada Post employees due to stalled labor contract negotiations, resulting in widespread delays. This contract dispute has persisted into 2025, leading to repeated actions including employee overtime bans, a halt on unaddressed direct mail deliveries, and additional strikes.
Current Strike Activity
- In October, CUPW shifted from a full strike to rotating work stoppages.
- These strikes prevent the pickup and delivery of mail and parcels in targeted areas.
- As of Tuesday, strikes are active in London and Cobourg, Ontario.
- Rotating strikes have affected 18 more locations since October began.
"Once the strike is over in a given location, the delivery of mail and parcels will restart as quickly as possible once operations resume," said Canada Post.
Additional Restrictions on Unaddressed Mail
CUPW National President Jan Simpson confirmed employees are not delivering or processing unaddressed advertising mail in most parts of Ontario and Quebec, with some exceptions.
Recommendations for Shippers
- Keep customers informed about potential delays.
- Secure multiple delivery options to mitigate disruptions.
- Plan shipments early to avoid peak strike periods.
Author's Summary
The rotating strikes at Canada Post pose ongoing delivery challenges this holiday season, urging shippers to communicate proactively and diversify their logistics plans.