Recently, the U.S. Postal Service has been quietly closing Contract Postal Units (CPUs) across the country—leaving communities and businesses without convenient access to mailing services they’ve relied on for years.
If you’ve ever used a CPU located on the local corner or tucked inside a hardware store, pharmacy, or university bookstore, you know how valuable they can be. They offer local, accessible mailing options without the long lines or travel time to a main post office.
Now? Many of them are disappearing.
And while the news might feel like one more reason to worry about your business-critical mail, we’re not here to sound alarms.
We’re here to offer solutions.
Wait—What’s a CPU, and Why Are They Closing?
CPUs are retail locations contracted by the USPS to offer mailing services like First-Class, Certified Mail, postage, and P.O. boxes—especially in underserved areas or high-demand zones.
They’ve long played a key role in helping the USPS meet local demand without opening full-service post offices. But due to rising costs, contract changes, and internal restructuring, the Postal Service has ended many of these contracts—sometimes without community input or clear alternatives.
This leaves businesses and residences without local access to Certified Mail, postage, or package drop-off.
In fact, a USPS Inspector General audit found that some areas need more CPUs, not fewer.
So, where does that leave businesses?
If Your CPU Closes, Your Options Shrink Fast
When a CPU shuts down, it’s not just an inconvenience. It affects how businesses send important communications—especially in industries that rely on physical mail for legal or compliance reasons.
- HOAs need to send out ballots, violation notices, and annual meeting packets
- Law firms rely on Certified Mail online for time-sensitive filings
- Medical offices must send HIPAA-compliant documentation on a tight schedule
- Property managers need to notify residents of lease changes, fee updates, and more
Losing your closest postal location can mean longer drive times, longer lines, lost productivity, and mailing delays—none of which are great for business.
Here’s the Good News: You Don’t Need a CPU to Send Mail
At LetterStream, we’ve been helping businesses send mail online for over 20 years—no trips to the Post Office required.
Whether you were relying on a CPU or a main postal branch, the challenge is the same: how do you keep your mailing processes fast, accurate, and reliable without relying on physical access to USPS? (Here’s a hint: LetterStream.com.) Ok, so maybe a hint wasn’t the right word.
Just so you know, that’s exactly what our platform is built for.
- Upload your documents and addresses
- Choose your mail class: First-Class, Certified Mail, or even FedEx 2Day
- Track every job with real-time updates
- Let us print, prep, and send your documents—without stepping foot in a Post Office
CPUs May Be Disappearing, But Your Mail Doesn’t Have to Slow Down
This shift in USPS infrastructure is a wake-up call for businesses still dependent on physical mailing locations. It’s time to bring your mailing strategy into the digital age—without giving up the benefits of real, tangible mail.
And we’re not just saying that. Here’s what your business gains when you send mail online through a trusted print and mail service:
- Speed: Get documents uploaded in minutes and out the door fast, even during peak seasons
- Tracking: Maintain full visibility with digital proof of mailing and delivery when sending Certified Mail online
- Scalability: Whether you send 10 letters or 10,000, the process stays consistent
- Location freedom: Your mailing doesn’t rely on a single Post Office or CPU
So even if USPS closes more CPUs—and they likely will—you’re ready.
Think of It as an Opportunity, Not a Roadblock
Yes, losing local mailing centers is frustrating. But it’s also a powerful reminder that your business needs a mail strategy that can adapt.
Sending documents shouldn’t depend on someone driving across town, waiting in line, or hoping a retail CPU is still in business. With online mailing, it’s all handled from your desk—fast, secure, and trackable.
When USPS infrastructure shifts, your operations don’t have to.
LetterStream makes printing and mailing a breeze!
LetterStream offers bulk printing and mailing services, allowing companies to send physical mail online. Whether it’s online Certified Mail, First-Class Mail, FedEx 2Day, or postcards, we give both small businesses and large corporations that time and freedom back to work on tasks that better serve the company. If you’re interested in creating a free account, you can do so here.
