Canada Post Workers Are on Strike. Here’s What You Need to Know About Your Mail

TORONTO — Workers at Canada Post went on strike Friday in a move that is expected to create delays and other disruptions to mail and parcel delivery — just as the Crown corporation prepares for what’s typically its busiest period.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers says it came to the decision after “a year of bargaining with little progress.” Meanwhile, Canada Post says it’s “disappointed” with the decision, which will “have a significant and immediate impact on millions of Canadians, small businesses and charities who count on Canada Post during the busy holiday season.”
“Mail and parcels will not be processed or delivered for the duration of the national strike, and some post offices will be closed. Service guarantees will be impacted for items already in the postal network,” Canada Post spokesperson Lisa Liu said in a statement Friday morning.
Bookbinder said retailers who are mailing parcels will likely pay 30 to 40 per cent more on shipping if they consider alternatives such as FedEx or UPS.
Customers might be holding back from shopping online with small businesses, fearing it won’t arrive on time for the holidays, Corinne Pohlmann, executive vice-president of advocacy at the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, said in a statement leading up to the strike. But, she said not to let the Canada Post strike sway you.
“Most small businesses are very resilient and pretty innovative and they will find ways to get you any products that you need, whether it be delivering it themselves,” she said.
All cheques for November are set to be delivered on Nov. 20.
For example, CIBC said customers are required to make regular payments and meet financial obligations on credit cards, loans and mortgages even if the postal disruption happens. Other banks, including Bank of Montreal and Scotiabank have issued similar statements.