Photo/Illutration Compact and economical “kei” vehicles play a crucial role in Japan’s postal delivery network. (Jin Nishioka)

More than 100 post offices across the country will suspend using light cargo vehicles after audits revealed improper or falsified sobriety checks on drivers, the transport ministry announced Oct. 1.

The suspension order, set to begin Oct. 8, is expected to expand significantly. According to sources, as many as 2,000 post offices–more than half of all outlets nationwide–could ultimately face similar penalties.

Japan Post Co. previously lost its license to operate approximately 2,500 general freight trucks following revelations of misconduct earlier this year.

The new suspensions raise concerns about further disruptions to postal logistics, as the company now relies heavily on its fleet of 32,000 smaller “kei” vans for daily deliveries.

According to the ministry, the affected 111 post offices span all 47 prefectures.

Violations include failure to conduct legally mandated alcohol and health checks on drivers, and falsification of inspection records to fabricate compliance.

The duration of the suspension and the number of vehicles affected depend on the severity of the violation and the size of the fleet at each post office.

The longest suspension issued so far is 160 days, affecting 11 post offices.

Nine penalized post offices across five prefectures each operate only one kei cargo vehicle. They are expected to respond by outsourcing deliveries to other logistics providers.

In April, Japan Post disclosed the results of a nationwide audit, revealing that 75 percent of the 3,188 post offices surveyed had conducted improper driver checks.

The company said it takes the suspension order seriously and will strengthen safety checks to ensure safe operations and restore public trust.

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