OTTAWA — Canada Post has announced changes in post office operating hours and procedures as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The following changes were disclosed in a statement issued late Monday afternoon:
Hours of Service
Hours of service will be reduced in many locations operated by Canada Post.
These sites will open one hour later and close one hour earlier to allow for cleaning and restocking.
In addition, for the first hour of each day, priority service will be offered to customers at higher risk, including the elderly and people with compromised immune systems.
Post offices operated by franchisees will follow measures implemented by the operators.
Canada Post noted that some locations may close due to building closures or personnel reasons.
In these cases, customers will be directed to the nearest operating post office.
Social and Physical Distancing
Customers waiting in line are asked to space themselves two metres (six feet) apart.
Canada Post is working on signage and floor decals for larger post offices.
In smaller locations, there may be a limit on the number of customers allowed inside at one time.
Clear barriers may be installed at the counter to enhance safety.
Transactions
Canada Post will continue to accept cash for payment, but is encouraging customers to pay by using the "tap" function on their debit or credit cards wherever possible.
Parcel Pickup
Parcels left at the post office for pickup will not be returned to the sender until further notice. The normal 15-day hold period has been suspended.
Changes to Delivery Procedures
To eliminate customer interactions at the door, reduce post office customer traffic and support social and physical distancing, a Knock, Drop and Go approach has been implemented.
Delivery personnel will knock or ring, choose the safest location available to leave a package, then depart for the next address.
Canada Post said this eliminates the need for signatures at the door and greatly reduces the number of parcels sent to post offices for pickup.
Items requiring Proof of Age, ID or Customers payments will be sent directly from depots to a retail post office for pickup with no restrictions on when customers can pick them up.
Customers will receive a Delivery Notice card in their mail letting them know where their item is held for pickup.
Service Guarantees
On-time Delivery Guarantees are suspended until further notice.
Help With Social Distancing
During delivery, Canada Post is asking customers to give its employees space, and avoid opening the door or greeting them personally, or when filling a community mailbox.
In post offices, customers are asked to practise social distancing and the other safety measures that have been implemented.
In its announcement, Canada Post expressed gratitude to Canadians for their patience and support "during this period of significant change."
