Key Facts
• Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) audited Japan Post’s vehicle operations.
• Over 100 post offices in Tokyo, Osaka, and other areas had improper driver checks.
• Violations of the Motor Truck Transportation Business Act were identified.
• MLIT plans to suspend vehicle usage, with formal action expected by October 2025.
• Japan Post already lost permits for 2,500 trucks used for inter-hub transport.
• New penalties may affect 2,000 post offices and 32,000 light cargo vehicles.
• 75% of 3,188 post offices had improper driver health checks, per April 2025 survey.
• Vehicle suspensions could last over 100 days, depending on the severity of violations.
• Japan Post relies on light cargo vehicles for most deliveries, surpassing truck usage.
• To mitigate impacts, Japan Post plans to increase outsourcing to other logistics firms.
Summary
Japan Post faces significant operational challenges as the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) prepares to suspend the use of light cargo vehicles due to improper driver health checks. Over 100 post offices in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka were found in violation of the Motor Truck Transportation Business Act. This follows the earlier suspension of 2,500 trucks used for inter-hub transport. The new penalties could impact 2,000 post offices and 32,000 light cargo vehicles, which are critical for mail and parcel deliveries. Japan Post has acknowledged widespread issues, with 75% of its post offices failing to conduct proper driver checks. To address the logistical disruptions, the company plans to increase outsourcing to other logistics providers. The suspensions, which could last over 100 days in some cases, are expected to significantly affect Japan’s postal and delivery services.
