New U.S. mail trucks hitting Tri-Cities routes look like a platypus. Take a look

The U.S. Postal service is investing millions to update its sorting and delivery center in Pasco.

While much of the work involves sorting equipment and behind-the-scenes upgrades away from public view, that is changing.

As area motorists have already noticed, old-school mail trucks are giving way to modern, sometimes awkward-looking delivery vehicles.

On Wednesday, USPS officials gathered in Pasco to share an update on ongoing renovations to the 100,000-square-foot center at 3600 W. Court St. and to draw attention to the mist visible change to date: Next-generation vehicles with platypus-style hoods.

The post office invested about $135 million in Washington postal facilities through its 10-year, Delivering for America initiative.

The modernization kick includes improved efficiency, enhanced security, employee morale and bringing more and better services to accommodate business and online shopping.

The new mail trucks are replacing the familiar fleet of boxy delivery trucks, a style that’s been plying American roads for more than 30 years. Collectors beware: Those that can’t be renovated are being scrapped.

The new fleet includes stock Ford vans and a custom-built delivery vehicle that was built for function and definitely not style.

The low-slung hood is topped by an out-sized windshield. Officials said the configuration means drivers of any height enjoy a clear view of the road.

The new vehicles come in both gas and electric models and are packed with safety features as well as air conditioning, cup holders and other driver amenities.

The cargo bay holds twice as much mail as the old trucks and its tall enough for drivers to carry out their business without stooping.

The post office estimates it will cost $37 million to replace its fleet across Washington. To date, it has added 1,000 new delivery vehicles.

Pasco’s Sorting and Delivery Center serves as ground zero for packages and mail headed to eight Tri-Cities area zip codes.

Collectively they represent about 165 mail routes and touch more than 115,000 delivery addresses and 200,000+ people.

The center handles 23,000 parcels a day. Officials said it was one of the busiest facilities of its type in the U.S. in 2024, fueled in part by an ocean of Amazon packages headed to customers in the Mid-Columbia.

Check out the updates announced in 2024.

Learn more about Delivering for America at usps.com.