On August 22, Japan Post released the results of a web-based survey of its partner companies regarding outsourcing contracts for mail and parcel delivery and collection services (delivery-related outsourcing contracts).
As part of our communication with partner companies, we conduct an annual survey covering all delivery and collection outsourcing contracts (approximately 5300 contracts), and we received responses from 1116 companies.
The period from January 20th to March 31st, 2025, was designated as "Communication Promotion Month," during which discussions were held regarding a review of commission fees and other matters. Subsequently, while investigating responses and opinions regarding price negotiations, the Japan Fair Trade Commission issued guidance regarding "penalty clauses," and an investigation into the actual situation was also conducted.
As a result, 50% responded that they were "somewhat satisfied" with the overall negotiations. 46% also responded that they were "somewhat satisfied" with the revised commission fees.
On the other hand, regarding cases related to "penalties," there were 19 cases that raised concerns about the possibility of unfair collection of penalties.
Upon individual verification of the facts, Executive Officer Yoshihiro Gomi reported that "there have been no cases of unilaterally demanding high penalties or demanding penalties without the agreement of the cooperating companies."
<Executive Officer Gomi>
Additionally, there were 35 complaints about being made to perform tasks not stipulated in the contract. We investigated the facts of each case individually. As a result, it was found that in 12 cases, the work was performed outside of the contract.
The main items that were "outside the contract" included pre-sorting of packages and outsourcing deliveries outside the contracted area, and the company states that it has corrected these issues and paid the outsourcing fees.
Japan Post has established consultation desks for partner companies at all of its branch offices, and says it will "work to build partnerships with our partner companies by improving the way we conduct consultations, the content of contracts, and the services we provide" (according to Executive Officer Gomi).
