arrow_back_ios Back

Amazon’s “Impact” on Post Offices

AmazonImpact

As e-commerce continues to grow and dominate the retail industry, Amazon has become one of the most significant players in the market. With its vast network of fulfillment centers and delivery vehicles, Amazon has revolutionized the way we shop online. However, this has also brought about new challenges for postal facilities and their lessors. Amazon relies on the Postal Service for a significant portion of its last-mile deliveries. With many facilities receiving daily pallets from Amazon, one of the primary concerns for lessors of postal facilities is the increasing number of Amazon vehicles driving into their post offices. 

This can cause several issues, including congestion, safety concerns, and potential damage to the building or surrounding property. As a result, lessors might consider steps to mitigate these challenges and ensure the smooth operation of their postal facilities. The following are some strategies that lessors of postal facilities can use to address the challenges posed by Amazon vehicles:

  1. Set clear guidelines for Amazon delivery drivers. Lessors should work with Postmasters to establish clear guidelines for delivery drivers when accessing postal facilities. This may include designated parking areas, specific entrance and exit routes, and restrictions on the types of vehicles allowed on the property. Clear communication and signage can also help ensure that drivers follow these guidelines and avoid any potential safety hazards.
  2. Consider physical barriers; in some cases, lessors may need to consider installing physical barriers, such as bollards, to prevent vehicles from driving into areas where they should not be. These barriers can also protect the postal facility and surrounding property from potential damage caused by accidents or collisions. 
  3. Obtaining insurance information. In the event of an incident involving Amazon or any other 3rd party accessing a postal facility, communicate with the site to ensure they complete an incident report and obtain insurance information from the driver. In the case of after-hours deliveries, the Amazon pallet contains information which can identify the driver. Lessors can then file a claim with Amazon, the driver’s insurance or provide the information to their own insurance company for subrogation. 
  4.  Request security footage. Many postal facilities have interior and exterior security cameras. Speak with your Postmaster or the Postal Service’s Inspection Service to find out if footage of the incident might be available. Some lessors may also have the ability to install security cameras of their own; as with all facilities related issues, it’s a good idea to speak with your USPS Real Estate Specialist to determine if this is allowed under the terms of your lease and where camera may be allowed, to ensure the privacy and security of the mail. 
  5. Facility optimizations. Sometimes the issue is not with Amazon vehicles, but with the width of the door docks not being able to accommodate the larger Amazon pallets. Landlords might consider reaching out to the Postal Service to discuss cooperating on an improvement agreement to allow the dock to accommodate these needs. Ensuring your facility meets the Postal Service’s operational needs can help when discussing your next lease renewal.

In conclusion, lessors of postal facilities must address the challenges posed by Amazon vehicles driving into their post offices. By establishing clear guidelines, installing physical barriers and increasing communication with your facility, lessors can mitigate these challenges to ensure the safe and efficient operation of their postal facilities.Has your facility been impacted by Amazon or any other third-party delivery services? Our experienced property managers have the resources to assist with insurance questions, repairs and much more.