Be advised of a possible UPS labor strike on August 1, 2023, when the company’s current labor union contract with employees expires.
While the strike may be averted by a new labor contract, we have a set of recommendations to minimize potential disruptions to outbound shipping operations in the event there is a strike.
These steps include:
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Departments with existing Federal Express (FedEx) parcel accounts should leverage this service provider as the primary conduit for urgent mail shipments during a strike—contact Procurement Services for parcel account lookup and user administration. See below for how to request a FedEx account should one be needed. FedEx provides priority domestic and international air and ground delivery services, including a competitive discount, in-office pickup, and authorized drop-off locations on or nearby campus.
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FedEx parcel accounts can be used at FedEx Office locations, namely the LaFortune Student Center location. FedEx Office associates will create shipment labels on demand at the counter and accept a FOAPAL as payment. Store locations will also accept pre-labeled FedEx Express and FedEx Ground packages in lieu of using in-office pickup or a FedEx Drop Box.
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A secondary means of sending priority mail and small package shipments include using the United States Postal Service (USPS). Procards are accepted as payment at the on-campus Hammes Mowbray location. FOAPALs are accepted as payment through an arrangement with Mail Distribution.
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For outbound shipments weighing more than 150 lbs. (i.e., Freight), contact Central Receiving for assistance at 574-631-4188.
In addition to these measures, there are steps you can take at the unit level to prepare for a potential UPS strike, including:
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Begin to transition outbound shipments to alternate carriers to avoid packages being held up within the UPS transit system if a strike occurs.
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Plan ahead and prepare for longer lead times for both inbound and outbound shipments.
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Expect delays.
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Drop off pre-labeled packages, as in-office pickup services may be limited while a strike is active.
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Review projects, work, and needs through August and inform colleagues who may be dependent upon shipping for their work of the implications of a potential UPS strike.
Moving forward, Procurement Services will continue to monitor the UPS situation and offer updates on this webpage. In the meantime, please contact our office if you have any questions.
How to request a FedEx parcel account:
To set up a new FedEx parcel account and parcel user profile, please email the following information to jsokol2@nd.edu:
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Department Name, Street Address, City, State, and Zip Code
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Shipper’s Name, Phone Number, and Email Address
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FOAPAL (this will be used as a default for outbound shipping charges, this value is required and can be changed at the time of label creation)
Additional FedEx information can be found HERE.
Respectfully,
Procurement Services
574-631-4289