HATTIESBURG, MS — The U.S. Postal Service today highlighted upgrades and new technology at the Hattiesburg, MS Sorting and Delivery Center (SDC). The upgrades come as part of the organization’s transformation and modernization strategies intended to increase operational precision and improve service performance across the country. The Postal Service’s sweeping operational overhaul is modernizing and optimizing its unrivaled integrated mail and package network

At the event, the Postal Service also revealed new delivery vehicles, including its Next Generation Delivery Vehicles (NGDVs) and zero-emission electric models that are already in operation.  

As it expands its role as the nation’s end-to-end carrier of choice, the ongoing transformation of the Postal Service’s network, infrastructure and technology is a core component of its journey to success. To date, USPS has invested more than $18.9 billion to revitalize the Postal Service's processing, transportation, and delivery networks.

"These new, state-of-the-art facilities and vehicles will help make the Postal Service more efficient, more capable, and more competitive for the future,” said Acting Postmaster General and CEO Doug Tulino. "The introduction of new facilities and vehicles in Mississippi is a clear demonstration of our progress in advancing our transformation and modernization strategies. Our local investments represent more than just an upgrade; they represent a commitment to our employees, our customers, and the future of the Postal Service."

The Postal Service has more than 5,000 employees in Mississippi. USPS also serves more than 1.5 million addresses across the state, six and often seven days a week.

Investments in Mississippi

Through its transformation and modernization strategies, the Postal Service is taking action to address decades of deferred maintenance at facilities across the country. Investments in its facilities continue to have a positive impact in local communities across the nation. So far, they have resulted in significant improvements to regional service performance and reliability.

In addition to streamlining operations, SDCs provide improved facility conditions such as better lighting, more space, and more efficient workflow process. These upgrades support better working conditions for long-term improvements to employee morale, turnover and productivity.

SDCs also feature state-of-the-art package sorting machines that can process up to 4,400 pieces per hour.

Over the last several years, the Postal Service has opened 111 Sorting and Delivery Centers nationwide, with approximately 300 more planned to be opened throughout the country over the next few years.

Investments in new vehicles

The event also showcased the Postal Service's acquisition of several new vehicles, notably featuring the Next Generation Delivery Vehicles (NGDVs). These vehicles are purpose-built, specifically designed to meet the unique needs of the Postal Service.   

Designed with employee safety and comfort in mind, these new vehicles provide an improved working environment for dedicated letter carriers. Key features, such as improved visibility, ergonomic seating, and user-friendly interfaces, are intended to enhance safety and the employee experience.  

These vehicles not only enhance delivery speed and accuracy but also elevate the customer experience. With increased cargo capacity, these vehicles can transport more packages per trip, reducing the number of trips required and improving efficiency. Their improved reliability also minimizes downtime for maintenance and repairs, ensuring consistent and timely delivery service.  

The event also highlighted Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) currently in operation. These zero-emission vehicles, along with the new gas-powered vehicles engineered for higher fuel efficiency, underscore the Postal Service's commitment to reduce its carbon footprint and operational costs.  

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