The United States Postal Service eCommerce Stratagem

Abstract
With Centuries of History to reflect on, the United States Postal Service has continuously strived to be the leader in the delivery and production of U.S. Consumer postal needs. Over time, delivery modes have significantly changed; consumer supply and demand has wavered; and new challenges and opportunities emerge as the cyber world evolves. The U. S. Postal Service will look to strategize though eCommerce and embrace technological invents to remain the pacesetter despite any encroaching competition.

Table of Contents Getting to Where They Are Now 4 Postal Services Humble Start 4 Thinking of it by Zones 5 The Postage Stamp 6 The Shift from Manual Labor to Automation 6 The First Machines 6 Cancelling Machine. 6 The Culling Machine. 7 Edger-Stacker. 7 Facer-Canceller. 8 Mail-Flo. 9 Automation Machines 9 Optical Character Recognition 9 Projects Turnkey and Gateway (“Automatic” Post Offices). 10 Vending Machines. 10 Proof of the U.S. Postal Service’s Commitment to Technology 11 Competition facing the U.S. Postal Services 14 DHL International GmbH 14 United Parcel Service, Inc. 14 The U.S.P.S Outlook 15

The United States Postal Service eCommerce Stratagem
Getting to Where They Are Now
Postal Services Humble Start
Even before the start of the 17th century, North American colonies realized some structure was needed to efficiently transport messages, news, and products from one area to another.
The hands-of-change began in 1691, when the British Crown initiated a grant with an U.S. Nobleman for a delivery patent allowing him the exclusive right to establish and collect a formal postage tax on official documents. “A grant of letters patent from the joint sovereigns, William and Mary, empowered him to: erect, settle, and establish within the chief parts of