A Contract Postal Unit (CPU) is a supplier-owned or supplier-leased site operated by the supplier, under contract to the Postal Service™ to provide postal services to the public at Postal prices.

Services provided at a CPU are listed below:

• Stamps
• Stamped Envelopes
• Stamped Postal Cards
• Express Mail® Service
• First Class Mail® Service
• Parcel Post®
• Express Mail International®
• Priority Mail International
• Insured Mail
• Certified Mail™
• Return Receipt
• Delivery Confirmation™
• Signature Confirmation™
• Registered Mail

Other services that may be provided are: Global Express Guaranteed Service® (GXG).

Mail deposited at a CPU after the last collection of the day will be processed on the following postal business day.

The CPU Supplier must meet the following criteria set forth by the United States Postal Service:

• Supplier’s space cannot be owned or leased by the U.S. Postal Service
• A surety bond may be required
• No surcharges can be added to Postal products or services
• Cannot be staffed by postal employees
• Cannot sell competitive services
• Cannot provide commercial mail receiving (private mailbox) services
• Cannot provide third-party delivery services
• Cannot provide any products or services that the Contracting Officer determines are similar to, or competitive with, delivery and parcel services offered by the Postal Service
• Cannot be located in, or directly connected to, a room where intoxicating beverages are sold for consumption on the premises
• Contracts are competitive
• Contracts cannot be awarded to Postal Service employees or members of their immediate families
• Contracts are set up with an indefinite end date

How do I become a Contract Postal Unit Supplier?
These units provide full service retail products and services to postal customers at U.S. Postal Service prices. They are housed within a partner facility and are operated and managed by partner employees.

Retailers that participate in the Contract Postal Unit program are provided USPS branding rights and signage. A build-out that meets postal regulations is required. Partners are limited to selling only USPS products and services. Contract Postal Unit partners are compensated based on performance. Operating a Contract Postal Unit increases foot traffic and provides additional customer convenience. Consider becoming a USPS Contract Postal Unit partner today! Email us at AlternateAccess@usps.gov for more information.