Automated Postal Center Makes Mailing Quicker, Easier, More Convenient

McMurray Retail Branch's self-service, time-saving kiosk is simple and fun to use

CANONSBURG — Beginning February 14, Customers visiting the McMurray Retail Branch, at 392 Washington Road, can now experience the Postal Service's version of the ATM while delivering quick, easy, and convenient access to postal services.

"APCs — Automated Postal Centers® — provide easy access to postal products and services just as ATMs provide easy access to banking services," said Pittsburgh Postmaster Jim Johnston II. "To customers, one is a self-service bank, while the other is a self-service Post Office. Unlike many ATMs, APCs don't add transaction fees."

Johnston explained that the McMurray Retail Branch, with its 24-hour lobby, was selected to receive an APC in an effort to expand customer access to postal services beyond traditional retail hours.

"Beyond expanding customer access, the APC enables our customers to conduct business with us at their convenience."

Using credit and debit cards, the APC enables customers to:

• Buy the same self-adhesive stamps that are provided through ATMs.
• Weigh, calculate and purchase postage in any amount for items weighing up to 70 lbs.
• Send items via Express Mail®, Priority Mail®, First-Class Mail®, and Parcel Post® services.
• Look up ZIP Codes™ and obtain Postal Service mailing information.
• Obtain Express Mail, Certified Mail™, and Return Receipts.
• Purchase Delivery Confirmation™ service.
• Obtain a receipt.

The APC is located in the lobby next to a convenient Parcel drop that accepts packages of varying sizes.

The APCs will help free retail associates to assist customers with face-to-face transactions such as mailing packages to international locations, using Registered Mail™ service, and purchasing postal money orders. Passport applications will continue to be accepted in person.

Johnston said the decision to first place APCs in Post Office lobbies follows the strategy of the banking industry.

"Interestingly, many banking customers, intimidated by the new ATM technology, still gravitated to teller lines. Banks eased fears by placing staff in lobbies to assist customers with initial transactions. We're following the same scenario by having Postal Service employees assist our customers."