Low Mail Volume Leads to Route Changes

By Jacqueline Sit, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The U.S. Postal Service is reviewing all of its routes in cities across the country and that means your mail delivery could be in store for some changes.

The U.S. Postal Service reported a five percent drop in mail volume last year. That's just one reason why the USPS is looking over routes in Oklahoma City and across the country. Many of them will change in order to cut costs.

"We reflect the economy at large so I'm sure most folks will understand that mail volume is down and we have to maintain an efficient operation," USPS Spokesperson Dave Lewin said.

Several post offices around the metro have already seen changes, from Hefner, southwest to the west side stations. You can expect a difference in delivery times and you could also see a new face in your neighborhood.

"Some folks may not see any changes at all, others may see a different face on their mail delivery route, but it's minor route adjustments," Lewin said.

Route changes are common, but this time it reflects the reality of a recession. A sign of the times for struggling businesses, forced to cut down on expenses by cutting down on mail.

The postal service's prime customers are banking and mortgage lending industries.

"The mail volume for those two industries has dropped significantly for the past 6 to 12 months," Lewin said.

Other areas in Oklahoma City could be facing minor route changes in the near future. The route reviews began last month and should be completed by the end of February.