Canada Post Rotating Strikes: How Shippers Can Limit Holiday Hurdles
As labor disruptions continue, businesses relying on Canada Post are advised to keep customers informed and secure multiple delivery options to avoid seasonal setbacks. Experts emphasize proactive communication as key to maintaining service quality during these interruptions.
Rotating Strikes Affect Deliveries
Canada Post workers, represented by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW), have initiated rotating strikes as the busy holiday season nears. This strategy could trigger new challenges for unprepared shippers facing delivery slowdowns.
Last year's full-scale national strike halted Canada Post services amid stalled labor negotiations, delaying holiday deliveries. The ongoing contract dispute in 2025 continues to create disruptions, including overtime restrictions, pauses in unaddressed mail distribution, and another temporary nationwide strike.
Current Impact and Affected Areas
In October, CUPW replaced the full strike with rolling work stoppages. These actions have limited mail and parcel collection and delivery in specific regions. As of Tuesday, strikes remain active in the Ontario communities of London and Cobourg, while eighteen other locations have seen similar interruptions since the start of the campaign.
“Once the strike is over in a given location, the delivery of mail and parcels will restart as quickly as possible once operations resume,” Canada Post stated.
According to CUPW National President Jan Simpson, workers in Ontario and Quebec are also suspending the processing and delivery of unaddressed advertising mail, with some regional exceptions.
Recommendations for Businesses
- Establish transparent communication with customers about potential delays.
- Use multiple carriers to diversify shipping options.
- Monitor updates from Canada Post and CUPW for current strike zones.
Author’s Summary: Ongoing rotating strikes by Canada Post employees are disrupting deliveries during peak season, pressuring businesses to enhance communication and diversify shipping logistics.