USPS Opens Last-Mile Delivery Network to More Shippers

Summary

The U.S. Postal Service plans to open access to its last-mile delivery network via a new bidding process beginning in early 2026. More than 18,000 delivery destination units (DDUs) will be available for shippers to bid on, allowing winners to inject parcels directly into local USPS delivery units for same‑day or next‑day final delivery. Bids will be evaluated on volume, pricing and tender times, and winning arrangements will be formalised through negotiated service agreements tied to the Parcel Select product. USPS expects to notify successful bidders in Q2 2026 with service launching in Q3 2026. The Postal Service positions the move as both a service enhancement for shippers and a new revenue stream.

Key Points

USPS will accept bids in late January or early February 2026 for access to over 18,000 DDUs across the US.
Winning shippers can hand off packages at local delivery units so USPS completes the last mile same day or next day.
Bids judged on a combination of volume, price and tender times at each location.
Agreements will be negotiated under the Parcel Select framework; notifications expected in Q2 2026 and service in Q3 2026.
The programme targets a wide range of shippers — from large retailers and 3PLs to regional carriers seeking faster delivery without building last‑mile networks.
USPS sees this as both a way to leverage its universal reach (170+ million addresses) and to generate additional revenue.

Context and relevance

Last‑mile delivery is the costliest leg of parcel logistics; opening USPS local delivery units to external shippers could materially change cost and speed dynamics for retailers and logistics providers. The move may relieve pressure on shippers debating investments in their own local fleets, and it adds competitive pressure to private carriers and technologies focused on same‑day/next‑day fulfilment. It also factors into wider industry conversations about carrier contracts and network strategies (for example, ongoing USPS negotiations with large partners).

Author note

Punchy and to the point: this isn’t a minor tweak. Letting others inject into USPS local delivery units is a structural shift in how last‑mile capacity can be sourced. If your business ships parcels at scale, the bidding rules, pricing and tender windows will matter — and they aren’t far off.

Why should I read this?

Short version: if you send parcels, this could make them cheaper and faster without you hiring drivers or building hubs. Want a practical lever to cut delivery cost or speed up fulfilment? Keep an eye on the bid details early next year — they could save you time and money.