National Postal Forum Highlights Few, but Vital, Options for Smaller Mailers

Despite USPS top management claiming to have excellent working relationships with the myriad Postal Unions, the facts reveal that the unions have come out of every single binding arbitration with increased benefits, higher compensation and more rigid work rules than ever before.

The Federal law stipulates, “Arbitrators may not consider USPS’ financial condition when making binding arbitration decisions.” Losses create an urgency to find cost savings. Most every single significant cost saving option considered by USPS management will reduce jobs and its onerous labor cost burden, which are unbelievably 80% of total expenses. Congress members do not want to be identified with a vote that will put more of their constituencies out of work. Hence, their willingness to change this arbitration clause is doubtful. The unions seem to have every reason to feel bullish.