Are mail sorting machines being deactivated
Yes, many mail sorting machines, also known as Automated Processing Machines (APMs), are being deactivated or retired by postal services around the world. This is due to a combination of factors, including:
- Decline in mail volume: With the rise of digital communication, the volume of physical mail has decreased significantly, making it less economical to maintain and operate these machines.
- Cost savings: Deactivating or retiring APMs can help postal services reduce operating costs, as they no longer need to maintain and repair these machines.
- Technological advancements: Newer, more efficient, and more flexible sorting technologies have been developed, which can handle a wider range of mail types and volumes more effectively.
- Changes in mail processing strategies: Postal services are shifting their focus towards more efficient and cost-effective processing methods, such as using robots and artificial intelligence to sort mail.
Some examples of postal services that have deactivated or retired APMs include:
- United States Postal Service (USPS): In 2019, USPS announced plans to deactivate over 100 APMs, citing declining mail volumes and the need to reduce costs.
- Royal Mail (UK): In 2020, Royal Mail announced plans to retire its APMs, citing declining mail volumes and the need to focus on more efficient processing methods.
- Canada Post: In 2019, Canada Post announced plans to deactivate some of its APMs, citing declining mail volumes and the need to reduce costs.
- Australia Post: In 2020, Australia Post announced plans to retire some of its APMs, citing declining mail volumes and the need to focus on more efficient processing methods.
It's worth noting that while APMs are being deactivated, postal services are still investing in new technologies and processes to improve their efficiency and effectiveness. For example, USPS has been investing in robotic sorting systems and other automation technologies to improve its mail processing capabilities.