USPS is not accomplishing their job in The Villages

[Ray Roberts]

I returned yesterday from a two weeks vacation, I entered a HOLD MAIL with a return date of yesterday. While I was away I sent three USPS Priority Mail boxes to my villages address for delivery yesterday. Sounds simple, but that's where it gets stinky. I spent hours yesterday on the phone trying to fiind out why my mail box center was not opened at 10:30 yesterday so that I could receive my time sensitive parcels. Many phone calls, no luck finding out anything from USPS. Most of the operators or agents were foreign speaking so I had a very hard time making out the excuses or replies. I was given a Case Number, which is absolutely nothing and today still nothing, and the mail center was not open at 10:30 yet this morning.
Have I missed something, has the USPS given up the responsibility of seeing that mail is delivered? Apparently, and the contract operators are elusive or not fulfilling their job requirements. I am reminded of the snow, rain, nor ..... comment from years ago, but apparently has been outdated as well.

In summary, and based on my experience new villagers should be advised, up front, not to expect the USPS to be responsive ti delivering mail and replying to inquiries. I doubt the Villages Management cares two hoots, sad sad era we find ourselves in.

Maybe the USPS Priority parcels, which I urgently needed yesterday, and paid accordingly will arrive eventually, just perhaps. Then I'll start the quagmire of attempting to get my postage refunded, for non-delivery. Followed up by going to the UPS Store in Piedmont to RENT a box so I can have reliable delivery.

Anyone else ever experienced a similar problem? :spoken:

[Ray Roberts]

UPS in title should read USPS>>>>>

[Kirsten Lee]

Yes, My dad sent a 2 day package to my daughter for Christmas. She received it in February. This was two years ago. If you want something to arrive on time, use Fed Ex or UPS. Those are not guaranteed either but I find their tracking website better. The weather can delay their deliveries, too.

[Bogie Shooter]

I would have gone to the PO in Lady Lake and talked to the Post Master. Real people real results.
village management had nothing to do with the postal service.

[Challenger]

I returned yesterday from a two weeks vacation, I entered a HOLD MAIL with a return date of yesterday. While I was away I sent three USPS Priority Mail boxes to my villages address for delivery yesterday. Sounds simple, but that's where it gets stinky. I spent hours yesterday on the phone trying to fiind out why my mail box center was not opened at 10:30 yesterday so that I could receive my time sensitive parcels. Many phone calls, no luck finding out anything from USPS. Most of the operators or agents were foreign speaking so I had a very hard time making out the excuses or replies. I was given a Case Number, which is absolutely nothing and today still nothing, and the mail center was not open at 10:30 yet this morning.
Have I missed something, has the USPS given up the responsibility of seeing that mail is delivered? Apparently, and the contract operators are elusive or not fulfilling their job requirements. I am reminded of the snow, rain, nor ..... comment from years ago, but apparently has been outdated as well.

In summary, and based on my experience new villagers should be advised, up front, not to expect the USPS to be responsive ti delivering mail and replying to inquiries. I doubt the Villages Management cares two hoots, sad sad era we find ourselves in.

Maybe the USPS Priority parcels, which I urgently needed yesterday, and paid accordingly will arrive eventually, just perhaps. Then I'll start the quagmire of attempting to get my postage refunded, for non-delivery. Followed up by going to the UPS Store in Piedmont to RENT a box so I can have reliable delivery.

Anyone else ever experienced a similar problem? :spoken:

Fix the title. And , Why the ad hominem attack on The Villages Management?

[jblum315]

Villages management has nothing to do with USPS. The post office is in Lady Lake.

[villagetinker]

OP, sorry you had a bad experience with the mail (USPS) in general after 3 years we have observed maybe a 1 day delay in getting packages and mail. I believe this due o the mail first going to Lady Lake and being sorted for the specific villages. Also for packages that must remain cold, or do not fit in the secondary mail boxes, the mail person deliver these to the house.

However, I do agree with above to use UPS or FEDEX if delivery time is a concern.

[perrjojo]

Actually many UPS package are off loaded to USPS for final delivery. We get UPS packages at our neighborhood postal station often.

[jblum315]

Almost all my packages from Amazon start out with UPS and get shifted to USPS. Don't know why but it is what it is

[Flatlander]

I recently had to retrieve an oversize package from the personnel at my USPS mail box station. I didn't know how to contact them so I went to the Lady Lake post office and asked. I was informed that the personnel are at the mail box sites from 11 to 1 and to go to the back door and knock during that time. I did that and retrieved the package without any problems. The personnel at the mail box station were very helpful and pleasant. There are two doors on the stations. One is a maintenance room and the other is to the sorting room. There weren't any signs so if you knock on one and don't get a response, try the other. Hope this helps and good luck getting your package.

[vorage]

I can imagine your frustration yesterday and sympathize. I hope everything works out ok for you.
That said, we have learned a few things over the years that may be helpful for you. When we are ready to leave, we stop to see our local mail delivery clerk in person, fill out the yellow card and leave it in our mailbox. To do that, you need to know approximately when they hit your mail station, and it may take a couple trips to connect. Communication via USPS.com is unreliable - do it in person. Be patient.
We always stop delivery the business day before we leave (so we can check to be sure it has really happened) and restart it the business day before we actually return. That way, the accumulated mail is ready and waiting for us. If there is a delay, they have a day to work it out before we know about it. That seldom fails.
I don't know why USPS can't operate efficiently, but they don't. There are, of course, unexpected mechanical and weather delays, but who knows what else affects the fragile system they have in place. This is not to say that the contracted delivery people are to blame. Ours seem to do a good job and, in our experience, are the only reliable link in the USPS system.
I hope by now that your packages have been delivered and all is well.

[villagerjack]

In almost 10 years here I never had a problem with the Poat Office. I

[redwitch]

I'd say the biggest problem is you were at your mail box too early. As was said, the contractors are usually at the mail stations after 11:00, sometimes much later than that. Before then, they are at the Lady Lake Post Office sorting their mail, loading their cars, etc.

I've found that if I can't be there when they are that a note left at the door or dropped in the "wrong delivery" slot frequently takes care of the problem. They've even called me at my request.

Do remember these people are subcontractors, rarely make even minimum wage and work hard to do the best they can for us. Please treat them with kindness and respect. Most of them deserve at least that. (BTW, I've found that a tip when they go out of their way works wonders for asking for special favors.)

[ColdNoMore]

I'd say the biggest problem is you were at your mail box too early. As was said, the contractors are usually at the mail stations after 11:00, sometimes much later than that. Before then, they are at the Lady Lake Post Office sorting their mail, loading their cars, etc.

I've found that if I can't be there when they are that a note left at the door or dropped in the "wrong delivery" slot frequently takes care of the problem. They've even called me at my request.

:agree:

Good advice and I've done the same thing with great results.

It's simple enough to know if anyone is there, just look through your mailbox and look to see if the lights are on or even speak through your box and say 'hello.'

On second thought, I suppose some boxes are too high/low for this to be easy to do, but I'm fortunate that mine is about head height.



Do remember these people are subcontractors, rarely make even minimum wage and work hard to do the best they can for us. Please treat them with kindness and respect. Most of them deserve at least that. (BTW, I've found that a tip when they go out of their way works wonders for asking for special favors.)

Exactly.

Ours went above and beyond during an issue along the lines of the OP's and that was before the X-Mas card with Ben Franklin in it.

A bargain at 10 times the amount. :coolsmiley:

[Radioman41]

We always fill out the yellow card and talk with our mail contractor before going away. So far we have had no problems. The carrier will deliver packages that don't fit in the box. Mail service here is far superior to what we had in Maryland (DC area).

[Jima64]

Almost all my packages from Amazon start out with UPS and get shifted to USPS. Don't know why but it is what it is

my normal mail carrier told me that UPS bought out most of the parcel post business with usps and that is why usps is focusing on the faster, and somewhat smaller white boxes. ups passes most ground local deliver to usps for residential deliveries since usps goes by most residences in the normal day. that is also why you will sometimes get a sunday delivery fro usps passed from amazon and ups.

[billethkid]

Just another small percentage incident that is made to sound as thought it was a general condition.

Maybe not intentionally.

But an isolated incident when taking into account the totality of satisfactory performance by USPS for those of us in the over whelming majority.

[twoplanekid]

Our mail lady at the Lake Deaton postal box site is very friendly and has helped us out on many occasions with mail deliveries. She even makes sure all checks are delivered to my box and all bills are placed in my brother’s box. He lives seven houses up the street from me in The Villages. As we are both in Ohio most of the time living in different cities, this service doesn’t work up North.:D

Try to get to know the person behind the box for the best mail service and help.

[outlaw]

The usps never fails to fill my post box with junk mail, rain or shine. They have outlived their usefulness. The only reason they survive is because it is against the law to compete with them on 1st class mail delivery. They should have been shut down years ago.

[Sandtrap328]

The usps never fails to fill my post box with junk mail, rain or shine. They have outlived their usefulness. The only reason they survive is because it is against the law to compete with them on 1st class mail delivery. They should have been shut down years ago.

No, no - how would I get my $10 coupons for Harry's Seafood if they didn't come in the mail? :wave:

[asianthree]

Send boxes fedex, it comes to your door, not switched over to the post

[John_W]

...While I was away I sent three USPS Priority Mail boxes to my villages address for delivery yesterday. Sounds simple, but that's where it gets stinky. I spent hours yesterday on the phone trying to fiind out why my mail box center was not opened at 10:30 yesterday so that I could receive my time sensitive parcels...

Priority Mail has no guaranteed delivery time, or for that matter, delivery date. It's simply mail delivered within 2 to 3 days at most locations in the USA, but as someone who once owned and operated a mail order business it may take 4 to 5 days. Priority Mail is simply glorified First Class mail. In my village alone, 1200 homes I would estimate that Priority Mail is delivered to at 30 or more addresses everyday. I had a Priority Mail delivery yesterday from an eBay purchase. It simply comes in your normal mail.

What you wanted, or thought you were getting is Express Mail. That starts at $22.95 and is guaranteed at most locations in the USA by 10:30am the next day. It comes with $100 insurance and for an additional fee you can have Sunday or Holiday delivery. Had you purchased Express Mail, a tracking number would of been issued and tracking via the USPS website would of been available. Also a separate mailman would of delivered the package to your home frontdoor by 10:30 the next day or you have a money back guarantee for up to one year. Had you sent 3 boxes via Express Mail it would of cost $68.85, is this what you paid? If you paid that amount take your 3 receipts to the Lady Lake Post Office and collect your refund.

Here's a link that explains these services.

Priority Mail Express | USPS (https://www.usps.com/ship/priority-mail-express.htm)

[graciegirl]

Priority Mail has no guaranteed delivery time, or for that matter, delivery date. It's simply mail delivered within 2 to 3 days at most locations in the USA, but as someone who once owned and operated a mail order business it may take 4 to 5 days. You can get delivery confirmation and insurance for an additional fee, but otherwise there is no tracking number, so once it's mailed it's not scanned again until it is delivered if you purchased 'Delivery Confirmation'. In my village alone, 1200 homes I would estimate that Priority Mail is delivered to at 30 or more addresses everyday. I had a Priority Mail delivery yesterday from an eBay purchase. It simply comes in your normal mail.

What you wanted, or thought you were getting is Express Mail. That starts at $22.95 and is guaranteed at most locations in the USA by 10:30am the next day. It comes with $100 insurance and for an additional fee you can have Sunday or Holiday delivery. Had you purchased Express Mail, a tracking number would of been issued and tracking via the USPS website would of been available. Also a separate mailman would of delivered the package to your home frontdoor by 10:30 the next day or you have a money back guarantee for up to one year. Had you sent 3 boxes via Express Mail it would of cost $68.85, is this what you paid?

Here's a link that explains these services.

Priority Mail Express | USPS (https://www.usps.com/ship/priority-mail-express.htm)

All First Class packages have tracking, no extra charge, from USPS these days.

[Topspinmo]

I have had absolutely no problem with mail service. Little slower due to coming from Lady Lake, but saves me trip all the way over there. Besides who's In hurry to get bills:swear::Screen_of_Death:

[golf2140]

In almost 10 years here I never had a problem with the Poat Office. I

Sixteen years without an issue

[blueeagle65]

In over 12 years receiving USPS here in TV we have had NO reason to complain. Stuff arrives as scheduled and they've even delivered to our door when a parcel was too large for the lockers.

[Nucky]

We had our NJ mail forwarded to a UPS store one town from where we lived they we're going to e-mail me the important mail to me. That was three weeks ago this past Friday. I received a confirmation from the USPS quickly but the mail is MIA and I'm UPSET. Six call's and no luck so Monday I have to go to the superiors of the people who treated us so well for so long. I feel terrible but its necessary. The day I changed to the UPS P.O. box I mailed a letter to myself and never received it. Sad, no wonder they are in trouble. If you are Cliff Clavin I didn't mean to hurt your feelings.

[jchase]

We have it made and we still complain! I guess we have to much time on are hands!��

[John_W]

All First Class packages have tracking, no extra charge, from USPS these days.

You're correct, it is an extra service but no longer an extra charge. However, the OP was under the impression he was to receive his package on a specified date and by 10:30, Priority or First Class carries neither guarantees. Only Express Mail is guarantee next day by 10:30 and the price is much different. Priority is about $6.80 and Express starts at $22.85.

I actually felt bad for the post office after reading the thread title and having read the OP's rant, when he was himself wrong about what the post office had sold him. As far as first class and Priority, these are extra services, and you are correct that tracking is no longer an extra charge but is still an extra service that has to be requested.

Extra Services offered

Certificate of MailingMore info about Certificate of Mailing
$1.30 Not available
Protection in Transit
InsuranceMore info about Insurance
From $2.65 From $2.65

Insurance Restricted DeliveryMore info about Insurance Restricted Delivery
From $14.00 From $14.00

Registered Mail™More info about Registered Mail™
From $11.70 Not available

Registered Mail™ Restricted DeliveryMore info about Registered Mail™ Restricted Delivery
From $16.65 Not available
Confirmation of Delivery
Adult Signature RequiredMore info about Adult Signature Required
Not available $5.70

Adult Signature Restricted DeliveryMore info about Adult Signature Restricted Delivery
Not available $5.95

Certified Mail®More info about Certified Mail®
$3.30 Not available

Certified Mail® Restricted DeliveryMore info about Certified Mail® Restricted Delivery
$8.25 Not available

Return Receipt for MerchandiseMore info about Return Receipt for Merchandise
$4.20 Not available

Signature Confirmation™More info about Signature Confirmation™
$2.90 $2.35

Signature Confirmation™ Restricted DeliveryMore info about Signature Confirmation™ Restricted Delivery
$7.85 $7.30

USPS Tracking™More info about USPS Tracking™
No charge No charge
Other Extra Services
Collect on DeliveryMore info about Collect on Delivery
From $6.95 Not available

Collect on Delivery Restricted DeliveryMore info about Collect on Delivery Restricted Delivery
From $11.90 Not available

[rubicon]

A problem for us occurred twice since we moved to TV. the local contractor confused addresses and stopped our mail. We had to go to Lady Lake and get it worked out when we picked up the delayed mail

[The Buckeyes]

Almost all my packages from Amazon start out with UPS and get shifted to USPS. Don't know why but it is what it is

Ups has a service called Surepost and is only available to shippers by which UPS will pick up the packages from the shipper and take them to the post office that takes care of that address and then the post office delivers the package. It is a cost benefit to the shipper.

[The Buckeyes]

my normal mail carrier told me that UPS bought out most of the parcel post business with usps and that is why usps is focusing on the faster, and somewhat smaller white boxes. ups passes most ground local deliver to usps for residential deliveries since usps goes by most residences in the normal day. that is also why you will sometimes get a sunday delivery fro usps passed from amazon and ups.
First of all your normal mail carrier does not know what he or she is talking about and told you a big fat lie. Ups did not buy anything regarding the post office.
Secondly, UPS offers complete delivery coverage to every address in the U.S. on a daily basis.

[The Buckeyes]

Send boxes fedex, it comes to your door, not switched over to the post

FedEx does switch packages to the post office for delivery. It is called Smartpost and available to their shippers just as Surepost is available to UPS shippers.

[RickeyD]

I cringe every time USPS ships. Tracking is awful and delivered rarely on time. This problem is not limited to The Villages.

[Allegiance]

I have had many problems with usps. I.e...Tracking shows i received an important envelope when in fact it was not yet put in my box! Both the main post office and the villages substation could not give me an answer. Two days later I find it in my box, after it caused me incredible headaches.

I also feel it's a violation of my rights that I have to empty my mailbox of junkmail. Why can't we put ourselves on a "No Junk Mail List." Because of lobbies? Because the usps does not want to lose more money? Realistically usps needs to stop junk mail on request, cut back regular mail delivery to mon, wed, friday. AND greatly reduce its workforce through attrition. Usps is a dinosaur.

I have met my carrier and I would love to know competitive civil service exam was passed by this person. I have often also received other people's mail in my box which was clearly marked with another person's address.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920AZ using Tapatalk

[John_W]

I have met my carrier and I would love to know competitive civil service exam was passed by this person. I have often also received other people's mail in my box which was clearly marked with another person's address.


I believe all of the mail postal stops within TV are operated on a contract, they probably never have to take the civil service exam as independent contractors.

[Steve & Deanna]

The USPS is a mess anywhere. Seems like this parcel of union workers could care less......you can't get them fired, they want to be paid and not do their job. That said, we have one lady up north that is punctual and gets our mail to us. She is a real sweetheart and we DO NOT forget her at Christmas time with a little gift She earns her keep. Her substitute goes literally speeding by house and we have received mail as late as 740PM...I did say PM. What a nightmare we had to hold mail and forward mail from north down here in the past but enough of my rants. I would fire the lot of them, disband them and have them apply all over again to a privatized outfit

[Bogie Shooter]

I have had many problems with usps. I.e...Tracking shows i received an important envelope when in fact it was not yet put in my box! Both the main post office and the villages substation could not give me an answer. Two days later I find it in my box, after it caused me incredible headaches.

I also feel it's a violation of my rights that I have to empty my mailbox of junkmail. Why can't we put ourselves on a "No Junk Mail List." Because of lobbies? Because the usps does not want to lose more money? Realistically usps needs to stop junk mail on request, cut back regular mail delivery to mon, wed, friday. AND greatly reduce its workforce through attrition. Usps is a dinosaur.

I have met my carrier and I would love to know competitive civil service exam was passed by this person. I have often also received other people's mail in my box which was clearly marked with another person's address.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920AZ using Tapatalk

What rights are being violated?

[photo1902]

I've not had any problems with mail delivery whatsoever. Including the convenience of printing postage at home, along with having Priority mail picked up at my front door for delivery. The few times I've had mail held I made the request online, without a hitch.

[Allegiance]

What rights are being violated?
My rights to not have my mailbox full of junk mail because of some lobbies! !! I don't need car dealer, or cable / satellite companies bombarding my little mailbox. Donotcall.gov should add donotjunkmailme!

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920AZ using Tapatalk

[RickeyD]

My rights to not have my mailbox full of junk mail because of some lobbies! !! I don't need car dealer, or cable / satellite companies bombarding my little mailbox. Donotcall.gov should add donotjunkmailme!

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920AZ using Tapatalk



United States Bill of Rights - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Bill_of_Rights)

[dbussone]

All in all I have been very satisfied with the independent contractors who deliver our mail. It's a family - husband, wife & occasionally their niece. Whenever I get a text or email from the USPS and UPS that a delivery has been made, it is there in a box at the postal station, or at my front door. Nice people and great service.

I'm interested in the comment about a civil service exam. What does that have to do with proper mail delivery?


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[Allegiance]

....

[photo1902]

My rights to not have my mailbox full of junk mail because of some lobbies! !! I don't need car dealer, or cable / satellite companies bombarding my little mailbox. Donotcall.gov should add donotjunkmailme!

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920AZ using Tapatalk

If only they could invent trash cans. Oh wait...

[dbussone]

If only they could invent trash cans. Oh wait...



And recycle bins!


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[Cedwards38]

First class postal rate to anywhere in the country is 46 cents. What other organization could or would do it for that? "Junk Mail" and other marketing mailings, including political mailings, helps cover the cost.

Shut down the USPS? Seriously? Check out what they do:
One Day in the Life of USPS... By the Numbers - Postal Facts (https://about.usps.com/who-we-are/postal-facts/one-day-by-the-numbers.htm)
Is the service perfect all over America? No, but it's pretty good when you consider the volume

I have never had a significant problem with the postal workers or service in The Villages (Sanibel), including mail holds or delivery. Knocked on the back door many times to pick up a package and they always help. In fact, the workers at our postal station often bring packages directly to my door.

[Marathon Man]

United States Bill of Rights - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Bill_of_Rights)

If only they could invent trash cans. Oh wait...

A tie for best laugh of the day.

[Jdmiata]

Nine years here......no complaints. Keep up the good work , USPS.

[Katelivingston]

USPS
I have always "hated" the idea of dealing with the post office. However, since arriving at The Villages i can report a completely positive experience with the gals who work Winifred Mail Boxes. I have also received deliveries to our home by the same gals. I hope your future experiences improve for you.
By the way - for everyday postal needs- certified mail, large packages, try going to the Oxford P O- a "stones throw from 466&301 . these folks are professional, friendly and helpful. Try them out
Good luck in the future

[dallas666]

I live in Pennecamp , our mail stall are great.

[Iceman1941]

I have only lived here in Collier for two years, but I've had nothing but excellent service, especially on packages. Amazon UPS packages come the to their USPS office in the destination area and and address delivery by USPS because it saves UPS money. I receive an average of three packages a week and those too large to fit in the Villages substation mail boxes are delivered to the house. I think it's great service given the volume of mail.

[stan the man]

I have been here for five years now, and have absolutely no problems with usps

[outlaw]

No, no - how would I get my $10 coupons for Harry's Seafood if they didn't come in the mail? :wave:

Uh, online?

[dolphin]

Try fed X instead

[Challenger]

I have been here for five years now, and have absolutely no problems with usps

my experience also. Found our local mail box tenders to be quite helpful.

[justjim]

The biggest problem with USPS is The U.S. Congress. As a general rule the 10 years we have been in TV we have found most Contractors competent and cordial. The USPS lost 5.1 billion dollars last federal fiscal year. Still, because Congress's inaction the cost of a first class stamp went down. Thats really makes sense or is it "cents". The postmaster general has tried to close inefficient rural post offices but Congress won't let Him because they want to be reelected and it might hurt their "career". For years, The Villages has tried to get a Post Office but to no avail. It's a mess but the Contractors who put mail in our boxes are not the ones at fault.

[wyealbert]

We have excellent service at the Fernandina postal center. The staff is very efficient and friendly. Oversize packages are always delivered to our residence.

[HMLRHT1]

Unfortunately the USPS does not control what they deliver. The businesses that send there mail to the USPS in most aspects request that all addresses be delivered. Although the USPS does court these businesses to do the job they are told where and to whom it will be delivered to. They have no choice. The USPS has two customers, the senders and the receivers. So unless you contact the sender to stop sending you junk mail it will continue. You can find this info on the Internet. Regarding about firing letter carriers, it does happen. There are carriers who don't make the standards during probation and those that are caught stealing or doing drugs or not delivering the mail. But the majority of the carriers are conscientious and appreciate their jobs and do not take them for granted. The USPS didn't sell the parcel post business to UPS. They just stopped doing it during the 80's because first class letter mail was a better option at the time. Instead of expanding to handle both they cut service to handle just paper mail. Then as first class mail dwindled they changed direction and decided to start package delivery again. USPS is not a dinasour, it is still trying to catch up with the rest of the private services because they deal with the federal govt and we all know how dealing with the federal govt is. But it is a universal service that sends a letter for the same price to anywhere else in USA and it delivers 6 days a week and yes there is the mail volume to justify that. There are some locations that are delivering packages 7 days a week when needed. Things are changing for the USPS slowly but surely.

[bbbbbb]

Well, get used to it. The USPS is not a responsible agency, do you know they are the Gov.???
I found that express overnite has some small print, not applicable to certain areas, where are those areas>
As usual, note the stuff going on with our non leaders, no one gets fired for goofing off, that is the trend for sure.

[OhioBuckeye]

Not sure if I'm doing what you're doing or not. We'll be gone from the Villages for 2 months & we're having our mail forwarded to another address in Ohio & we're not having any problems, but then again we're not expecting any packages.

[OhioBuckeye]

ROBERT, had to laugh about what you said about foreign agents answering your questions. It seems like no matter what we're calling about we always get foreign agents that most of us retirees don't understand. We have a hard enough time understanding our friends that are talking to us standing right in front of us. Is it because the postal service are really that bad off that they have to hire $.50 an hr. help. Don't want to get off the subject but is this what our president means by unemployment being down, for who foreigners or full blooded Americans? Anyway ROBERT I agree you should be talking to someone that understands American issues.

[Marathon Man]

Just another small percentage incident that is made to sound as thought it was a general condition.

Maybe not intentionally.

But an isolated incident when taking into account the totality of satisfactory performance by USPS for those of us in the over whelming majority.

:agree:

[CWGUY]

Well, get used to it. The USPS is not a responsible agency, do you know they are the Gov.???
I found that express overnite has some small print, not applicable to certain areas, where are those areas>
As usual, note the stuff going on with our non leaders, no one gets fired for goofing off, that is the trend for sure.

:popcorn: Still waiting for you to explain - https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/golf-cart-paths-197158/ :undecided:

[themarinos]

I returned yesterday from a two weeks vacation, I entered a HOLD MAIL with a return date of yesterday. While I was away I sent three USPS Priority Mail boxes to my villages address for delivery yesterday. Sounds simple, but that's where it gets stinky. I spent hours yesterday on the phone trying to fiind out why my mail box center was not opened at 10:30 yesterday so that I could receive my time sensitive parcels. Many phone calls, no luck finding out anything from USPS. Most of the operators or agents were foreign speaking so I had a very hard time making out the excuses or replies. I was given a Case Number, which is absolutely nothing and today still nothing, and the mail center was not open at 10:30 yet this morning.
Have I missed something, has the USPS given up the responsibility of seeing that mail is delivered? Apparently, and the contract operators are elusive or not fulfilling their job requirements. I am reminded of the snow, rain, nor ..... comment from years ago, but apparently has been outdated as well.

In summary, and based on my experience new villagers should be advised, up front, not to expect the USPS to be responsive ti delivering mail and replying to inquiries. I doubt the Villages Management cares two hoots, sad sad era we find ourselves in.

Maybe the USPS Priority parcels, which I urgently needed yesterday, and paid accordingly will arrive eventually, just perhaps. Then I'll start the quagmire of attempting to get my postage refunded, for non-delivery. Followed up by going to the UPS Store in Piedmont to RENT a box so I can have reliable delivery.

Anyone else ever experienced a similar problem? :spoken:

I have been at the Villages for 3 years now our contract Postal Carriers are Great we have their Cell #s and Email address if we plan on going away or return (early sometimes) or have anything special like a package (Prescriptions) I notify and the take care of it
One time I was waiting for a Prescription and went up north they not only forwarded it but they called me to notify me as well my advice to meet with you Carrier and
get their contact info so you can have peace of mind in the future

[Santa2]

Yes. Many bank statements and bills never arrive. Utilities, electric and trash cut off necause of non delivery of bills to my Paradise Ctr mail box.
Complained at local post office with out success.
Good luck

[yabbadu]

I returned yesterday from a two weeks vacation, I entered a HOLD MAIL with a return date of yesterday. While I was away I sent three USPS Priority Mail boxes to my villages address for delivery yesterday. Sounds simple, but that's where it gets stinky. I spent hours yesterday on the phone trying to fiind out why my mail box center was not opened at 10:30 yesterday so that I could receive my time sensitive parcels. Many phone calls, no luck finding out anything from USPS. Most of the operators or agents were foreign speaking so I had a very hard time making out the excuses or replies. I was given a Case Number, which is absolutely nothing and today still nothing, and the mail center was not open at 10:30 yet this morning.
Have I missed something, has the USPS given up the responsibility of seeing that mail is delivered? Apparently, and the contract operators are elusive or not fulfilling their job requirements. I am reminded of the snow, rain, nor ..... comment from years ago, but apparently has been outdated as well.

In summary, and based on my experience new villagers should be advised, up front, not to expect the USPS to be responsive ti delivering mail and replying to inquiries. I doubt the Villages Management cares two hoots, sad sad era we find ourselves in.

Maybe the USPS Priority parcels, which I urgently needed yesterday, and paid accordingly will arrive eventually, just perhaps. Then I'll start the quagmire of attempting to get my postage refunded, for non-delivery. Followed up by going to the UPS Store in Piedmont to RENT a box so I can have reliable delivery.

Anyone else ever experienced a similar problem? :spoken:

Village management has nothing to due with your problem. You problem is indeed unfortunate and you need to go to the proper mail authority to discuss your issue. :spoken:

[Kisusn]

I would have gone to the PO in Lady Lake and talked to the Post Master. Real people real results.
village management had nothing to do with the postal service.
A few years ago I had a problem with the mail mixed up. I phoned the Lady Lake Postmaster and the problem went away. Problems with USPS cannot be blamed on the developer.

[Challenger]

Yes. Many bank statements and bills never arrive. Utilities, electric and trash cut off necause of non delivery of bills to my Paradise Ctr mail box.
Complained at local post office with out success.
Good luck

Never in the last 50 years , in 10 different locations, now in Tamarind Grove, have I had USPS experiences like this. Do you think that they have targeted you for some reason??

[CWGUY]

Yes. Many bank statements and bills never arrive. Utilities, electric and trash cut off necause of non delivery of bills to my Paradise Ctr mail box.
Complained at local post office with out success.
Good luck

:what:

[bunnyhop]

A 2-day delivery for Priority Mail is not guaranteed by the USPS. Mail delivery here in Florida can take much longer than up north. The pay structure is not always the same for contract services. Our mail delivery people are not USPS employees. They are hired by contractors who have contracts with the USPS. I've been here six years and our mail delivery people have ALL been terrific, helpful, and friendly that entire time and they still are. Please do not blame them. They're working as hard as they can for low wages and no benefits. If you need something immediately, use an overnight service that guarantees overnight delivery; not Priority Mail.

[2BNTV]

Here's my understanding.
1. All carriers in TV are independent contractors, who bid for the job.
2. My carrier is very pleasant and always willing to help, if I have a problem. One problem in three years, (no big deal) and the problem emanated, form the main P.O.
3. Carriers are not thrilled to carry circulars and junk mail, as it heavies their burden.
4. They pick-up the mail after they have sorted it and sometimes, it is not available to them, first thing in the morning.
5. They have no affiliation to the developer.

Let's give these contractors a break and treat them with respect. IMHO

[photo1902]

Here's my understanding.
1. All carriers in TV are independent contractors, who bid for the job.
2. My carrier is very pleasant and always willing to help, if I have a problem. One problem in three years, (no big deal) and the problem emanated, form the main P.O.
3. Carriers are not thrilled to carry circulars and junk mail, as it heavies their burden.
4. They pick-up the mail after they have sorted it and sometimes, it is not available to them, first thing in the morning.
5. They have no affiliation to the developer.

Let's give these contractors a break and treat them with respect. IMHO

Excellent post, 2BNTV!

[arickis]

I am a snowbird and have my mail forwarded starting in June. For one solid week, all my mail to Florida was returned to sender with a "Moved and left no forwarding address", rather than forwarding it to me. My insurance sent me a cancellation letter etc....It created a number of problems. The post office said, yes, we had a problem for a week.....sorry. That was it. They do not care.

[Bogie Shooter]

It sure would be nice to live in a world where everything worked correct all the time!
By now you should know it doesn't.

[sallybowron]

I am very pleased with my mail carrier. She is pleasant, knows me by name, will accept a pack we are sending back, mail it paying for it herself, and leaving us a receipt for the cost which:pepper2: we then pay. Can't ask for more

[Barefoot]

All carriers in TV are independent contractors, who bid for the job.
Let's give these contractors a break and treat them with respect. IMHO

:agree: We've had stellar service from our mail carriers since 2007. Both when we're in TV and when we're having our mail forwarded to Canada. Never a problem.

[HMLRHT1]

Share if you like this one... Most people do not know that the FEDEX and UPS are clients of the #USPS

"The Postal Service can and does compete with the private sector and it collaborates with it, too. UPS and FedEx pay the Postal Service to deliver hundreds of millions of their ground packages to residences, taking advantage of the Postal Service’s expansive delivery network."

[Muddykatchen]

No, haven't had this problem at all. Our station delivers timely and our post workers are very friendly and approachable. When we were away a week, they held our mail and delivered it the day we said we would return.

[Doodle]

I even called a manager named Rob Twist who was so rude and hept saying these issues are non negotiable!!!!!! Wish I could afford a private po box but why should we be forced to do that...tax dollars at work. The worst part is the deliverers do bust their humps but not getting a Christmas present from me after being treated so poorly!!

[Bogie Shooter]

I even called a manager named Rob Twist who was so rude and hept saying these issues are non negotiable!!!!!! Wish I could afford a private po box but why should we be forced to do that...tax dollars at work. The worst part is the deliverers do bust their humps but not getting a Christmas present from me after being treated so poorly!!

They are the worst.
Who is they?

[debow]

They are the worst.
Who is they?
Not a real fan of USPS but I have to admit they have did a good job in TV. I order a lot from Amazon and always deliver on time. Even on the weekend.

[grayesun]

Overall, we give our USPS contractors a passing grade; 2 prime issues are "holding" mail and continued delivery of mail addressed to previous homeowners (they moved back to Minnesota & are now both deceased). Hold mail used to be reliable, last 2 tries have been failures with our box stuffed completely solid, I'm certain compacting tools were used and the Marx Brothers were involved. I don't think we'll ever stop getting mail addressed to former homeowners; we've asked 3 different contractors and each time gotten absolute assurances of better service...think I've talked myself into a afternoon de-stressing beer!

[2BNTV]

:popcorn: :popcorn: :popcorn:

[Bogie Shooter]

Overall, we give our USPS contractors a passing grade; 2 prime issues are "holding" mail and continued delivery of mail addressed to previous homeowners (they moved back to Minnesota & are now both deceased). Hold mail used to be reliable, last 2 tries have been failures with our box stuffed completely solid, I'm certain compacting tools were used and the Marx Brothers were involved. I don't think we'll ever stop getting mail addressed to former homeowners; we've asked 3 different contractors and each time gotten absolute assurances of better service...think I've talked myself into a afternoon de-stressing beer!

How do contractors stop mail for previous owners? Mail is sent to an address. You will have to contact the sender if you want it stopped.
Was the mail stuffed in your box from your regular mail person? Maybe they to were on vacation to. If not, did you talk to them about the issue?

[phairmason]

... continued delivery of mail addressed to previous homeowners (they moved back to Minnesota & are now both deceased). ... I don't think we'll ever stop getting mail addressed to former homeowners...

The USPS mail forwarding service lasts one year for First-Class Mail and 60 days for periodicals. I have moved several times and each time I received mail addressed to previous owners. I wrote "Return to Sender / No Longer at this Address" on each first-class mail item and put it in the outgoing mail. Items with first class postage are returned to the sender and they eventually figure it out.

[villagetinker]

A few observations:
Just got a package today USPS, with tracking that worked very well. It was shipped from Texas, priority mail, and arrived here is 2 days.

As for forwarded mail, the USPS notification to the sender that someone has moved does not seem to be reliable. Note sure if the problem is with USPS or with the original sender. I have personally contacted multiple companies about our address change when we moved here, and one insurance company was still (after over 2.5 years) using our old address. It took 3 phone calls to fix this.

The other thing that happens is the use of mailing lists, my son did something (no idea what), but I am now getting his junk mail (mostly dish and AT&T).
Then there is the mail for my mother, who passed away several months ago, god knows when that will stop. By the way she lived out of state, was buried out of state, but now somehow resides here!!!!

As several people have previously stated, I have had no problems with mail delivery in The Villages, and have had excellent service from the contractor that works in our postal facility.

[alancusa]

I returned yesterday from a two weeks vacation, I entered a HOLD MAIL with a return date of yesterday. While I was away I sent three USPS Priority Mail boxes to my villages address for delivery yesterday. Sounds simple, but that's where it gets stinky. I spent hours yesterday on the phone trying to fiind out why my mail box center was not opened at 10:30 yesterday so that I could receive my time sensitive parcels. Many phone calls, no luck finding out anything from USPS. Most of the operators or agents were foreign speaking so I had a very hard time making out the excuses or replies. I was given a Case Number, which is absolutely nothing and today still nothing, and the mail center was not open at 10:30 yet this morning.
Have I missed something, has the USPS given up the responsibility of seeing that mail is delivered? Apparently, and the contract operators are elusive or not fulfilling their job requirements. I am reminded of the snow, rain, nor ..... comment from years ago, but apparently has been outdated as well.

In summary, and based on my experience new villagers should be advised, up front, not to expect the USPS to be responsive ti delivering mail and replying to inquiries. I doubt the Villages Management cares two hoots, sad sad era we find ourselves in.

Maybe the USPS Priority parcels, which I urgently needed yesterday, and paid accordingly will arrive eventually, just perhaps. Then I'll start the quagmire of attempting to get my postage refunded, for non-delivery. Followed up by going to the UPS Store in Piedmont to RENT a box so I can have reliable delivery.

Anyone else ever experienced a similar problem? :spoken:

Yep, you missed the fact that most if not all mail station attendants don't arrive until after 10:30 AM as they have to sort the days mail at the Post Office before going to the remote stations. Perfectly happy with the service I've received here for the last 22 years.

[John_W]

Yep, you missed the fact that most if not all mail station attendants don't arrive until after 10:30 AM as they have to sort the days mail at the Post Office before going to the remote stations. Perfectly happy with the service I've received here for the last 22 years.

Actually what he missed was that Priority Mail does not have a guaranteed delivery date or time, it's simply glorified First Class Mail to get the customer to spend more money, which starts at $6.45. They do provide free boxes and you write directly on the boxes or you can use your own preprinted labels.

https://postcalc.usps.com/PopUps/PriorityMailRegionalRateBoxes.jpg

Instead he should of used Priority Express Mail, which is priced from $22.95 and he would of filled out a bill of landing and it is guranteed delivery by 10:30 the next day or your money back.

https://www.usps.com/stamp-collecting/assets/images/LABEL11HFPU-01-main-278x219.jpg

http://about.usps.com/publications/pub139/images/pub139_v01_007_1.jpg

Had he sent the packages Priority Express Mail, they would not have delivered them with the regular mail at his mail stop, but a separate truck would of delivered to his home and requested a signature, unless he had waived the signature. Since he was at his mail stop waiting at 10:30, the delivery to his home would of gone undelivered and he would of lost his guaranteed refund.

[autumnspring]

Misc stuff-some might be helpful
RE: stopping mail delivery. It rarely worked back home either. Where we used to live, we had delivery to our door. Frankly, I had not thought about it but, I miss the fact that we had two post offices we could walk to.and as I said the mail came right to our door. I used to get business stuff, sometimes worth several thousands of dollars. UPS would, if there was no signature request, would just leave it on the porch-rain snow etc till my neighbor got around to picking it up often days later.

Solution to stopping your mail is to do it two days before-that way you will know that it is stopped.
I do wonder-we do it for our neighbors and they do it for us. What is the big deal about picking up your neighbors mail while you have gone for yours.

[kcrazorbackfan]

Here's my understanding.
1. All carriers in TV are independent contractors, who bid for the job.
2. My carrier is very pleasant and always willing to help, if I have a problem. One problem in three years, (no big deal) and the problem emanated, form the main P.O.
3. Carriers are not thrilled to carry circulars and junk mail, as it heavies their burden.
4. They pick-up the mail after they have sorted it and sometimes, it is not available to them, first thing in the morning.
5. They have no affiliation to the developer.

Let's give these contractors a break and treat them with respect. IMHO

:BigApplause::BigApplause::BigApplause: Only been here a little over a year and never have had an issue with the delivery of our at the St. James mail station. Wow, some people acting like this is a life and death matter with their mail delivery.

[herbaru]

My recent experience at the Wildwood post office:
Paid $22.95 for Priority Express Mail flat fate envelope. Mailed to KY. Was told they do not do next day to that part of the country. It was guaranteed two days by 3 PM. Didn't seem right to me as I have used this before with next day delivery. I asked if it was because of the time of day, he said no.

I agree Priority Mail is a waste of money.

Actually what he missed was that Priority Mail does not have a guaranteed delivery date or time, it's simply glorified First Class Mail to get the customer to spend more money, which starts at $6.45. They do provide free boxes and you write directly on the boxes or you can use your own preprinted labels.

https://postcalc.usps.com/PopUps/PriorityMailRegionalRateBoxes.jpg

Instead he should of used Priority Express Mail, which is priced from $22.95 and he would of filled out a bill of landing and it is guranteed delivery by 10:30 the next day or your money back.

https://www.usps.com/stamp-collecting/assets/images/LABEL11HFPU-01-main-278x219.jpg

http://about.usps.com/publications/pub139/images/pub139_v01_007_1.jpg

Had he sent the packages Priority Express Mail, they would not have delivered them with the regular mail at his mail stop, but a separate truck would of delivered to his home and requested a signature, unless he had waived the signature. Since he was at his mail stop waiting at 10:30, the delivery to his home would of gone undelivered and he would of lost his guaranteed refund.

[NotGolfer]

We always work something out with our neighbors picking up our mail when we're gone (we'll do the same for them). My only issue (and I don't think it's our neighborhood mailbox people here) is we can mail a card or letter to our kids in the midwest (or vice versa). It can take 2 days......or 10....NOT sure what happens in between. I know that mail gets picked up at post offices then goes to some central sorting place that trucks the mail to the destination. We always tell the recipients that something is "in the mail" and "IF" they don't receive it after (fill in the blank) that they should let us know.

[donbettyr]

You do realize our mail is delivered privately, after it is sorted at Lady Lake PO, and given to the private provider for each postal station. Have lived in 2 villages, here, and at each the person handling the mail does a great job, after they are released from the Lady Lake PO. They can not drive to your postal station until the Postmaster in Lady Lake tells them they can go. Our packages are delivered to our door by the person throwing the mail in the postal station after she finishes, she delivers packages door to door. Sometimes they can not leave Lady Lake until 1 or 2 pm!!

[The Buckeyes]

We have all been brainwashed so much by the post office that we accept things as the norm....remember when, for the price of a stamp, the post office would actually deliver to your house!!!

[phairmason]

We have all been brainwashed so much by the post office that we accept things as the norm....remember when, for the price of a stamp, the post office would actually deliver to your house!!!

Delivering to a common mailbox areas was an efficiency choice the Villages made. Mail is delivered directly to my street-side mailbox in Missouri. My brother-in-law and nephew in Colorado deliver mail on foot to door-side mailboxes six days a week. It's not unusual for them to work 10 hours or more per day.

[The Buckeyes]

Delivering to a common mailbox areas was an efficiency choice the Villages made. Mail is delivered directly to my street-side mailbox in Missouri. My brother-in-law and nephew in Colorado deliver mail on foot to door-side mailboxes six days a week. It's not unusual for them to work 10 hours or more per day.

Are you sure it was a choice made by The Villages or, a mandate by the post office?

[dbussone]

Are you sure it was a choice made by The Villages or, a mandate by the post office?



I believe this is a USPS policy. To the extent possible, mailboxes are now clustered in urban and suburban locations. In Las Vegas, clusters typically consist of 8 mailboxes with 2 package boxes in areas where new homes are being developed.

I suspect the postal stations in TV were requested to provide efficient service and not have numerous box clusters on every street.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[kansasr]

When the system works, it's great. When it doesn't, it's frustrating.

I had 3 packages scheduled for delivery today. Checked a little after 2, they hadn't finished putting out the packages. No problem, said I'm come back later. Checked later, all 3 showing DELIVERED PARCEL LOCKER. Great!

Went to my mailbox...no key there for a parcel locker!

So with Sunday and the Monday holiday, it will be at least Tuesday before I get my hands on these packages.

I'm just glad it wasn't something critical...which of course I'd never use the USPS for!

[Allegiance]

When the system works, it's great. When it doesn't, it's frustrating.

I had 3 packages scheduled for delivery today. Checked a little after 2, they hadn't finished putting out the packages. No problem, said I'm come back later. Checked later, all 3 showing DELIVERED PARCEL LOCKER. Great!

Went to my mailbox...no key there for a parcel locker!

So with Sunday and the Monday holiday, it will be at least Tuesday before I get my hands on these packages.

I'm just glad it wasn't something critical...which of course I'd never use the USPS for!


This has happened several times too often . The system is flawed.