KALAMAZOO, Mich. — The United States Postal Service (USPS) is ramping up its efficiency in Kalamazoo with the installation of a new sorting machine capable of processing up to 5,000 packages per hour.
This upgrade is a part of the USPS’s ongoing “Delivering for America” plan, designed to modernize operations and meet growing demand, particularly during peak seasons like the holidays.
Speaking from the Kalamazoo sorting center, Mark Inglett, a Strategic Communications Specialist for USPS, highlighted the dramatic improvements the new machine brings to the facility.
"Before, packages were manually sorted, and we could process about 300 to 500 packages per hour. Now, with this new machine, we're able to handle 5,000 packages per hour—ten times faster," Inglett said.
The new technology uses advanced barcode scanning to ensure accurate sorting, eliminating human error that often occurs with manual handling. The machine scans each package and automatically sorts it into the correct container for delivery, with an impressive accuracy rate of over 99%.
This upgrade is particularly timely as the holiday season approaches, a time when the Postal Service typically sees a significant increase in package volume. "Our carriers are already out on the streets early today, delivering mail, and we’re ready for a strong holiday season," said Inglett.
The Kalamazoo facility, which services 98 routes, is also responsible for handling mail for 95 other cities in the region. According to USPS officials, the new sorting technology not only speeds up the process but also reduces transportation costs and enhances overall efficiency.
In response to growing demand, USPS has also made significant improvements to its vehicle fleet. The agency has rolled out new, fuel-efficient delivery trucks equipped with features such as air conditioning, better lighting and more storage space for packages.
As part of its push to enhance services, USPS has also made strides in package tracking. The new system provides customers with detailed, real-time updates about the status of their packages.
Every step of the delivery process is tracked, from the initial scan when a package is mailed to its arrival at the delivery unit, and finally, when it reaches the recipient. Customers will receive alerts at each scan point, ensuring full visibility of their packages' journey.
With faster sorting, better tracking and a more efficient workforce, the Postal Service is gearing up to ensure that the millions of packages shipped this season arrive on time and in good condition.
There are 83 machines already out and more are expected to come across the nation.