Is Canada Post a Courier?

When it comes to delivering mail, magazines, letters, and advertising materials, Canada Post provides a range of services that can be similar to those offered by courier companies. However, it's important to understand that Canada Post offers more extensive services and has its own subsidiary that provides high-quality courier services.

Canada Post as a Crown Corporation

Canada Post Corporation is a Crown Corporation, meaning it operates as a private company but all shares are owned by the Government of Canada. Its primary mission is to provide a quality postal service at a reasonable price to all Canadians. This means that a letter sent within the city costs the same as one sent to a location such as Yellowknife, above the Arctic Circle.

To meet these goals, Canada Post charges higher rates for long-haul services to cover the costs associated with delivering mail across the country. They use a cross-subsidization model to ensure that the costs of sending items over long distances are balanced with the lower costs of local deliveries.

Canada Post's Courier Services

Canada Post's subsidiary, Purolator, is a well-established courier service provider. While Canada Post offers its own courier-style products, such as Express Post, which includes next-day and two-day delivery options, these services rely heavily on their network of letter carriers. For example, Express Post utilizes their local expedited delivery network of vans to ensure items are delivered on time.

The History of Courier Services

The history of the courier industry and the involvement of postal services dates back to the early days of postal automation. Postal operators often faced delays due to strong union actions, which spurred the growth of private courier companies to fill the gap. These courier services played a crucial role in maintaining efficient mail delivery despite disruptions in postal operations.

Choosing the Right Service

When considering Canada Post's services, you can check their website for the speed and cost of the service you need. Whether you are sending personal items or business-related materials, it's important to compare the different options available to ensure you get the best service for your needs.

For small and medium-sized businesses and individuals, understanding the capabilities and limitations of Canada Post and its subsidiary, Purolator, can help you make informed decisions about your shipping needs.