Comments on: Weakon 127: The United States Postal Service

By: Wojciech

Wojciech — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 12:21:12 +0000

Could private companies take over for USPS? Maybe, but I second Evan’s fears about private control over what’s considered a public service. On the other hand, I believe in the free market and the USPS is acting too much like an inefficient government program.

Rather than competition, I think the USPS will face itself in the coming years–rising costs, falling revenue will come to a head and they will have to do something to correct it–becoming more efficient, etc., or face the wrath of failure.

By: thaerupe

thaerupe — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:50:02 +0000

When you say “cut loose” do you mean make them pay taxes like FedEx and UPS? The other question is why dump the public option when it isn’t costing me anything?

By: Leonardo

Leonardo — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 19:31:15 +0000

In Italy, 10 years ago the Poste was government-owned, but now it is a joint stock company (S.p.a).
Their mail services were terrible, and they still are.
But the Poste changed its business model, now Poste is a bank and a virtual cell phone operator.
Poste has offices everywhere, it is very easy to find their ATMs.

If USPS is cut loose, it needs to change and to follow the market.

By: DD

DD — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:51:53 +0000

I’m actually a big fan of the USPS. I understand that due to technology they are in the midst of a transition, but I think they do a wonderful job.

They are not perfect, but nothing is.
DD´s last blog ..Rethinking Credit Card Rewards – Are They Worth It?

By: Evan

Evan — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:52:24 +0000

I go back and forth on the issue as well. But I have to agree with your conclusion that I wouldn’t want my mail controlled by the whims of a private corporation much like I wouldn’t want private sercurity guards doing a cops job.
Evan´s last blog ..Living Paycheck to Paycheck Could Cost you Your Life