International Mail Distribution September

Alerts for international mail distribution increased dramatically in September. International delivery interruptions affected mail services around the world. Most noteworthy, Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Maria devastated the Caribbean suspending mail service completely in some regions. Also, the earthquake that struck Mexico on Sept. 19th suspended inbound and outbound postal operations at Mexico City International Airport. Furthermore, recent volcanic eruptions have caused thousands to evacuate and will likely have a large impact on the mail service. Finally, postal strikes are impacting mail service in Brazil and South Africa, and another potential postal strike at The Royal Mail may disrupt service in Great Britain. Atlas will continue to follow the updates throughout our worldwide mailing network.

Brazil Postal Strike – International Mail Distribution

The Brazilian Post Office, Empresa Brasileira de Correios e Telégrafos, informed the Universal Postal Union that, in some regions of the country, a strike has been affecting delivery operations since Wednesday, 20 September 2017. A business continuity plan is in place to ensure normality of mail services and minimize possible impacts. However, the partial work stoppage may affect international delivery.

South Africa Postal Strike

The Communications Workers Union served the South African Post Office with a 48-hour notice to strike last week. The South African Post Office advised they have plans in place to minimize the effects of the strike. Some union employees will be demonstrating, but the South African Post Office doesn’t expect any service disruptions.

Potential Royal Mail Postal Strike October 3rd

Postal workers in Great Britain are considering a strike. Royal Mail union members are voting October 3rd on whether to strike over disagreements that include pay increases, benefits, and pensions. The grievances began four years ago when the royal Mail was privatized. A similar call to action threatened service last December and could potentially interrupt services during the busy holiday season. All votes will be submitted October 3rd, and results are released the same day.

Mexico – Earthquake

Postal operations have resumed for inbound and outbound mail at Mexico City International Airport.

Hurricane Maria’s Impacts International Mail Distribution

Dominica – International Delivery

Postal services are suspended in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria.

Puerto Rico & The U.S. Virgin Islands

The Postal Service has begun providing access to PO Box mail and package pickup services at some of its offices in Puerto Rico. Also, the USPS is providing limited mail handout service in St. John and St. Thomas. In addition, limited handout mail service could begin in St. Croix tomorrow.

Dominican Republic Mail Service

Hurricane Maria damaged much of the country’s infrastructure. As a result, all postal service have been suspended in the aftermath.

Saint Barthélemy

As a result of the hurricane, all addresses with postcode 97133: no postal services available until further notice.

Saint Martin

The hurricane has resulted in many flight cancellations, delays and road closures. As a result, there are problems with mail transportation,international delivery, and inbound and outbound processing operations at Princess Juliana International Airport. Due to the hurricane, all addresses with postcode 97150: no postal services available until further notice.

Guadeloupe

All other postcodes starting with 971: operations heavily impacted. Expect delays in international delivery services in most areas.

Martinique

There has been an impact to Flights reaching Martinique, but postal services are available. Expect delays and disruptions to all postcodes starting with 972.