USPS Aims to Become a Bigger Last-Mile Partner for E-Commerce; FedEx Network 2.0 Coming Along

E-commerce businesses may soon gain more flexibility in their delivery strategies, as the U.S. Postal Service is shifting its role in the supply chain, according to Supply Chain Dive. Under new leadership, USPS is opening its “first-mile” and “last-mile” delivery network to a broader group of shippers, with a goal of expanding access instead of limiting it to large-volume carriers. Discussions are underway with major retailers about offering same-day and next-day delivery via hybrid service models that combine retailer transportation with USPS’s final delivery reach.

For online sellers, this change could unlock better coverage, especially in rural communities and high-density residential markets, where USPS already delivers six or more days a week. The shift also aligns with growing demand for affordable returns processing, something USPS is well-positioned to support thanks to more than 33,000 physical access points. Now is an ideal time for e-commerce brands to evaluate whether USPS can reduce last-mile delivery costs, particularly in high-density states or low-volume regions, and to consider using USPS as a primary returns channel to simplify the customer experience. It is also worth asking fulfillment or carrier partners whether they expect to integrate USPS services as this strategy expands.

Bottom line: USPS is moving from a legacy mail system toward a dynamic parcel logistics partner, creating opportunities for e-commerce brands to rethink delivery and returns economics.

FedEx is in the middle of a multi-year overhaul known as Network 2.0, a restructuring designed to integrate its Ground and Express operations into one unified network. Roughly one-quarter of the transformation is already complete, with full U.S. integration expected by 2027. The aim is to reduce operating costs, streamline routes, consolidate facilities, and enable more efficient package movement across the company’s combined infrastructure.

For e-commerce brands, the long-term impact could be significant. A unified FedEx network may mean fewer handoffs between services, more predictable pickups, and greater consistency in delivery timeframes. It could also strengthen rate negotiations, especially for sellers who currently split volume across Ground and Express services. During the transition, however, some regions may experience temporary routing changes or shifts in pickup schedules. Because of this, it is wise for e-commerce retailers to review how dependent they are on a single carrier or service tier, monitor performance during peak periods like holidays, and maintain flexibility by exploring alternatives or hybrid carrier models if needed.

In short, Network 2.0 signals a future of tighter integration and potentially more competitive parcel options, making now the right moment to reassess carrier strategy before the new FedEx model is fully in place.