Parcel, express and mail operators in the USA still had to cope today with significant deliverydelays or service stoppages caused by Hurricane Irene although operations were gradually returning
to normal in most East Coast areas hit by the devastating tropical storm.FedEx, UPS, DHL, USPS, and other companies had been forced to suspend operations over the lastfew days in various coastal regions, close numerous facilities and move planes away from airportsthat shut down. They started to re-open facilities on Monday as the storm moved northwards.
FedEx spokesman Scott Fiedler told CEP-Research that widespread power outages, significant roadflooding and downed trees will result in some service delays after operation resumption. “However,we want our customers to know that we are prepared to provide service to the best of our ability,”he added.
FedEx has resumed operations in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast United States, followingHurricane Irene. “We are providing service in all locations with the exception of some areas thatare still inaccessible because of road closures, downed power lines and storm debris. Customers inthese areas may experience delays. Customers can pick up or drop off shipments at the FedExlocation closest to them,” the company said.
The company stressed that it is committed to providing the best possible service in areas thatcan be safely accessed and where conditions have improved. “We will continue to monitor thesituation to minimise the impact on service.” To help avoid delays, the company encouragedcustomers to contact their recipients to verify if they are available to accept deliveries.
At UPS, Hurricane Irene has caused some unavoidable service delays along parts of the EastCoast. As of Tuesday morning, no pickups or deliveries were being made in areas of New York, NewYork, North Carolina and Vermont. “UPS is committed to making every effort to provide service toall areas where conditions permit safe access. We are closely monitoring local areas to ensureservice resumes as soon as conditions permit,” the company said in a service update.
DHL Global Mail USA said the impact of Hurricane Irene has resulted in various airport and roaddisruptions throughout the north-east of the country. The company has activated contingency planswhere necessary to minimise service delays, and ensure the safety of its employees. “We willcontinue to monitor the events surrounding Hurricane Irene and provide updates as necessary.”
Operations at many USPS facilities in the affected coastal regions have been impacted by thestorm. In New Jersey, numerous power outages remain in selected ZIP codes. Due to flooding and hightime cresting, many roads are impassable and major transportation outlets remain closed. InVirginia, the Richmond Processing and Distribution Centre continues to operate without power ortelephone but using a generator with limited capabilities. Mailers can continue dropping mail atthe facility but processing delays are expected.
Also in Maryland, a number of facilities are still operating without power. “As a result, anumber of offices are not offering retail services, but a postal presence is available at allimpacted facilities for customers with PO Boxes wishing to collect their mail. All deliveries arebeing attempted today where it is safe to do so,” the US postal operator explained.
Meanwhile, airports in the East Coast have re-opened this week after the storm impact when morethan 9,000 flights had to be cancelled. In New York, John F. Kennedy International, Newark LibertyInternational and LaGuardia Airport have reopened.
