USPS® has launched an online reporting system to help larger Post Offices® submit their Mail Transport Equipment (MTE) inventory reports. These offices are required to submit weekly MTE reports. The new system is part of a continuing effort by the Postal Service® to reduce the misuse of MTE, and redistribute MTE inventory so that tubs and pallets are sent where they are needed.
Postmasters must ensure that all MTE is used for the purpose for which it was designed. For example, flat tubs are custom made, automation-compatible containers for flat sorting equipment and must be returned for circulation within the network.
New tubs also have the MTE hotline number and email address on the equipment to report misuse. The change was made to encourage the return of flat tubs to Post Offices and to advise customers that MTE is not available for private use.
Replacing missing or misused MTE hurts the Postal Service’s bottom line. USPS will spend more than $120 million this fiscal year to replace missing and damaged MTE.
USPS encourages employees to report MTE that’s being misused, stored unnecessarily, or located outside the postal network. Send leads and tips to HQMTE@usps.gov or call the MTE hotline at 866-330-3404.
— Mail Transport Equipment,
Network Operations, 3-7-13
