OIG: How Can USPS Help Contract Postal Units in Their Daily Operations?

usps-oig-logo-9Project Title:
Contract Postal Unit (CPU) Oversight
Start Date:
Tuesday, May 10, 2016
Estimated Report Release Date:
September 2016

oig-audit-cpusA contract postal unit (CPU) is a supplier-owned or supplier-leased facility under contract to the U.S. Postal Service to provide products and services to the public. CPUs are typically located in retail establishments and staffed by the retailer’s employees. CPUs offer the public additional and often more convenient locations to purchase Postal Service products and services. CPUs have been an alternative postal resource for the public for over 100 years.

The objective of the CPU program is to reduce customer wait time in post offices, retain and increase Postal Service market share, reduce operational costs, and improve customer satisfaction and retail revenue growth. The Postal Service considers CPUs to be one of the lowest cost-to-serve programs. Normally, the postmaster at a Post Office near the CPU provides oversight, including contract administration, monitoring, compliance, and training.

  • How can the Postal Service help CPUs be more successful?
  • Have you used a CPU to buy money orders, buy stamps, or mail a package? If so, how was your experience?
  • Are there additional services you would like to see a CPU offer?
  • What are the main advantages of using a CPU?

Source: USPS Office of Inspector General

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