As the deadline approaches for Canada Post’s contract renewal with the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW), thousands of businesses across Canada are watching closely. The current contract is set to expire on May 22, 2025, and with talks now paused, there’s a real chance that a Canada Post strike could happen again, just months after the last disruption.
So, what does this mean for small businesses, e-commerce brands, healthcare providers, and everyday services that rely on shipping?
Let’s break it down simply.
What’s Going On With Canada Post?
Canada Post and CUPW have been negotiating for weeks over wages, job security, and working conditions. CUPW is asking for a 24% wage increase over four years, while Canada Post has offered 11.5%. The talks hit a wall, and Canada Post has paused negotiations while preparing a new proposal.
This means that as early as May 22, postal workers could legally go on strike. If no agreement is reached before then, Canadians could see serious disruptions in mail and package delivery across the country.
How a Strike Could Affect Canadian Businesses?
If your business relies on Canada Post to send packages, bills, documents, or inventory, a strike could slow things down or even stop them completely. Here’s how it could impact different areas:
1. Shipping Delays
Packages may sit in warehouses for days or even weeks. This is especially bad for e-commerce businesses trying to keep up with orders.
2. Missed Payments
Invoices and payments sent by mail might not arrive on time. That can lead to cash flow problems for small businesses.
3. Unhappy Customers
Customers waiting on online orders or subscription boxes might cancel or complain. Delivery delays can damage your reputation and reviews.
4. Government Services Affected
Tax documents, licenses, court notices, and fines could all be delayed. Some municipalities are already warning residents to use digital services or alternative delivery options.
Who Is Most at Risk?
A Canada Post strike will hit some industries harder than others. These include:
- E-commerce & DTC brands
Orders and returns may pile up, leading to refund requests and customer churn.
- Retailers & small shops
Deliveries to suppliers or customers could slow down, affecting inventory and sales.
- Healthcare providers & pharmacies
Medical items, prescriptions, or lab results might not arrive on time.
- Law firms & accountants
Legal filings, contracts, and sensitive paperwork could be delayed, creating compliance issues.
- Freelancers & service providers
Sending or receiving cheques or physical contracts may become tricky.
What Businesses Can Do to Prepare ?
Instead of waiting for mail delays to hit, businesses can act now. Here are five things you can do this week:
1. Tell Your Customers Early
Add a banner or note on your website explaining possible delays. Being honest helps manage expectations.
2. Use Digital Tools Wherever Possible
Switch to e-invoicing, online contracts, and cloud-based tools to reduce your dependency on physical mail.
3. Switch to Local Courier Services
Couriers like Get It Picked offer same-day, rush, and scheduled deliveries across Nova Scotia—even during strikes. They’re reliable, fast, and built for business needs.
4. Adjust Your Shipping Policies
Temporarily change your shipping deadlines or offer store credit instead of strict return windows.
5. Bulk Ship Early
If you can, ship key orders or inventory early this week to avoid bottlenecks after May 22.
Get It Picked - Best Courier Company in HalifaxWhy Local Courier Services Are the Best Backup ?
During past strikes, many companies learned the hard way that national mail services aren’t built for flexibility. That’s where regional couriers like Get It Picked come in:
- Same-Day Delivery for urgent business needs
- Rush (1-3 Hour) service in case of emergencies
- Real-Time Tracking so you always know where your item is
- Proof of Delivery (POD) to keep your documentation clear
- Custom Scheduling—you choose when it’s picked up
- Bulk and Business Pricing available
With no union disruptions, Get It Picked continues to serve even during postal strikes, helping small businesses stay on track.
Real Business Scenarios: How Companies Survived the Last Strike ?
Case 1: A Small Cosmetics Brand in Bedford
During the last disruption, this Shopify store couldn’t get orders to their customers. After switching to Get It Picked for same-day deliveries across Halifax and Bedford, they saw fewer support tickets and happier reviews, without hiring in-house staff.
Case 2: A Legal Consultant in Truro
With time-sensitive contracts to deliver to clients, this firm couldn’t rely on Canada Post. Get It Picked’s 3-hour rush service allowed them to maintain deadlines and meet court filing requirements.
How to Switch to a Courier in Minutes
Getting started with a local courier is easier than you think:
- Visit the Get It Picked website
- Book a delivery (same-day, rush, or scheduled)
- Upload your pickup and drop-off details
- Track your delivery live
- Receive proof of delivery automatically
For businesses, custom quotes and bulk rates are available.
Conclusion: Don’t Let a Strike Stop You
No one knows if Canada Post and CUPW will reach a deal before May 22. But even if they do, delays have already started. Smart businesses plan ahead.
If your operations rely on shipping, don’t wait for your logistics to fail. Switch to a local courier like Get It Picked now and keep your business moving, no matter what happens.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.When is the Canada Post strike expected to begin?
If no agreement is reached, the strike could begin as early as May 22, 2025.
2.Will regular mail and package deliveries stop?
Yes. Many deliveries could be delayed or paused entirely, especially non-essential ones.
3.How long could the strike last?
There’s no set time. Previous strikes have lasted from days to several weeks.
4.Can I still send packages with a courier during the strike?
Yes. Services like Get It Picked are not affected and will continue to operate normally.
5.Can I get same-day delivery during the strike?
Absolutely. Get It Picked offers same-day and rush delivery in Nova Scotia—even during strikes.
6.Is switching to a local courier hard?
Not at all. You can book a delivery online or by phone within minutes.
