By Tiffany Goodwein

Mail changes

Canada Post reduces hours, enacts ‘knock, drop and go’ procedure

Mar 24, 2020 | 5:19 PM

OTTAWA, ONT – Canada Post is making some changes to how they do mail as the country continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Announced earlier this week, Canada Post is reducing hours one hour later and one hour earlier, with the first hour of the day dedicated for priority service for seniors and those considered at risk of contracting the virus.

To better ensure social distancing, the service is asking customers to stay the recommended 6 feet apart, and pay using the tap function to reduce contact with surfaces.

The 15-day hold period for parcels ready to be picked up at Canada Post has been suspended and they will not be returned to the sender.

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“We ask that customers who are feeling ill or self-isolating, to please delay their visit to the post office and to pick up their parcel when it’s safe to do so,” Canada Post said.

Delivery Changes

In terms of parcel delivery, Canada Post has implemented a ‘knock drop and go’ system. Signatures on picked up parcels are no longer required for the being, according to Canada Post as “Delivery employees will knock or ring, choose the safest location available to leave the item and then depart for the next address.”

Canada Post advises people receiving packages to remember the importance of social distancing and physical distancing.

They advise package receivers not to open the door or greet them personally when they are at the door, but they do recommend social interaction from a distance.

“A simple smile and wave through the window to your delivery agent, a supportive thumbs-up to the driver of the Canada Post truck as they go by or patience and a thank you to the person working at the post office all go a very long way these days.”