The US Postal Service (USPS) has launched a new bid solicitation platform that allows companies of all sizes to submit proposals for access to its last-mile delivery network, offering same-day or next-day delivery to consumers.
The platform provides access to more than 18,000 USPS destination delivery units (DDUs) and local processing centers (LPCs) nationwide. While USPS has previously offered delivery services directly from DDUs, access has largely been limited to a small number of major customers. The new system is intended to broaden participation by opening the network to a wider range of shippers.
According to USPS, customers using the platform can propose combinations of parcel volume, pricing and tender times at specific DDU locations for either same-day or next-day delivery.
“We recognize trends in the shipping marketplace – as well as changing market conditions, supply chain disruptions and the effects of a post-pandemic world – have driven our customers to prioritize convenience,” said postmaster general and CEO David Steiner. “To best accommodate the evolving needs of American commerce, and consumers, we are evolving our business strategies to better reflect the value in our last-mile delivery network.”
USPS said it received strong interest from a range of companies ahead of a December announcement about the initiative, with interest increasing further since then. The organization also engaged with shippers prior to the platform’s launch to assess demand and refine the bidding process.
Accepted bids are expected to be formalized through negotiated service agreements (NSAs) under the Parcel Select product. USPS said these agreements can be tailored to customer requirements, including contract length, entry times and other terms and conditions.
The postal service expects to notify winning bidders in the second quarter of 2026, with services under the new agreements scheduled to begin in the third quarter of the year.
“There is no doubt that many companies have flourished as a result of their relationship with USPS and their access to our last-mile network,” Steiner said. “We want to continue these successful associations and continue to help those customers grow their business.”
USPS said opening access to its last-mile network could generate significant additional revenue while expanding same-day and next-day delivery options for retailers and other shippers across the United States.
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