Canada Post Rotating Strikes: How Shippers Can Limit Holiday Hurdles
Amid ongoing labor disruptions, businesses relying on Canada Post should focus on clear customer communication and secure alternative delivery options, experts advise. The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW), representing Canada Post employees, is implementing rotating strikes as the busy holiday delivery season nears, risking significant delays for unprepared shippers.
Background of Labor Disputes
Last year, Canada Post experienced a nationwide strike during the holiday season after labor contract negotiations stalled, halting operations and causing delivery delays. The dispute has persisted in 2025, resulting in an employee overtime ban, halted delivery of unaddressed direct mail, and another national strike.
Current Strike Actions
- In response to continued conflict, CUPW shifted from a full strike to rotating work stoppages last month.
- These rotating strikes disrupt mail and parcel pickup and delivery in affected areas.
- As of Tuesday, strikes are active in London and Cobourg, Ontario.
- Since October, rotating strikes have impacted 18 other communities.
"Once the strike is over in a given location, the delivery of mail and parcels will restart as quickly as possible once operations resume," said Canada Post.
Additional Service Interruptions
CUPW National President Jan Simpson reported that employees are also not processing or delivering unaddressed advertising mail in Ontario and Quebec, excluding certain areas.
Recommendations for Shippers
- Maintain proactive communication with customers regarding potential delays.
- Seek alternative shipping and delivery options to mitigate risks.
- Monitor strike updates to adjust logistics plans promptly.
Author’s summary: The rotating strikes by Canada Post employees threaten holiday delivery schedules, urging businesses to prioritize communication and diversify delivery methods to avoid disruptions.