Canada Post strike: what it means for Canadians

The Canadian Union of Postal Workers has launched a strike after the federal government approved Canada Post’s plans to cut back on door-to-door delivery and hire part-time staff for weekends.

During the strike, mail and parcel processing and delivery are suspended, and some post offices are closed. Canada Post will not accept new items, and service guarantees have been lifted.

Passports. The government advises applicants to use alternative couriers or visit Service Canada and passport offices. Applications already submitted will be delivered by another carrier, but delays may occur.

Benefits. Pension and other government cheques will continue to be delivered under an agreement between the union and Canada Post.

Financial documents. Banks remind customers that bills and statements are available online, and new debit or credit cards can be obtained at branches.

Live animals. Shipments already in transit will be completed, but no new ones will be accepted.

Purolator. A subsidiary of Canada Post, it remains fully operational and will prioritize express and healthcare deliveries.

Amazon. The company relies on multiple carriers, with Canada Post handling only a fraction of orders. Customers are being offered alternatives such as home delivery by other providers or pickup points.

Residents in rural and remote regions served exclusively by Canada Post are expected to face the greatest difficulties.