Gabriella Queen
& Sophia Zeng
4-weeks
Spring 2024
USPS
mail carriers have been using the same bag since 1974—
when they switched from leather to canvas satchels.
when they switched from leather to canvas satchels.
Despite the introduction of the double satchel, what seems like a step in the right direction, the traditional single strap canvas satchels remains the standard issue.
Age: 53
Experience: 24 years delivering mail on the East Hill of Kent, WA.
Inventory:
+ Scanner (Hazard alerts, route preparation, clocking in/out)
+ Route Keys (Open vehicles, drop boxes, street mail boxes)
+ Letter Mail (Standard letter sized mail, automated sort)
+ Odd Shaped (Magazines, bags, packages, manual sort)
+ Dog Spray (Special repellant for hazardous dogs)
Insights:
[KEY PROBLEMS]
COMFORT
Curent bag distributes weight on one shoulder.
Curent bag distributes weight on one shoulder.
WEATHER
Mail is susceptible to rain in the Pacific Northwest.
Mail is susceptible to rain in the Pacific Northwest.
SAFETY
Carriers need protection from dogs & thieves.
Carriers need protection from dogs & thieves.
[THE PROBLEM]
Mail carriers are on their feet longer than you’d expect, often walking up to 12 miles per day.
Current bags are outdated and uncomfortable—distributing all of the weight on one shoulder. Any redesign must also account for weather readiness in the Pacific Northwest.
How can we design a mail carrier for the USPS that reduces discomfort, adapts to various weather conditions, and can respond to personal workflow needs?
[DESIGN CRITERIA]
01 Adjustable
02 Durable
03 Technical
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[PROCESS—ROUND 1]
We generated a handful of different designs, with emphasis on comfort and weight distribution. We liked the bags attaching at the hip and the concept of a mesh pocket. The
asymmetrical concepts didn’t align with our weight distribution goals.
[PROCESS—ROUND 2]
Moving from paper to fabric prototypes— we generated a pattern and used the laser cutter to cut the fabric. Still working on fit and details like the daisy chain / powermesh. We had to ensure the straps would sit comfortably on chests of all sizes.
ALBEDO
What is it?
Albedo, named after it’s reflective 3M details, is a USPS mail carrier designed to adapt to a variety of weather conditions and workflow needs within the PNW.
Why?
USPS mail carrier bags are outdated—heavy, unbalanced, and lacking ergonomic support. They cause strain over long shifts and don’t accommodate modern delivery tools. The traditional materials used are outdated, offering limited weather resistance and durability. Our redesign focuses on comfort, weight distribution, and functionality to improve efficiency, reduce fatigue and increase weather resistance in the PNW.
POWER MESH STRAP
Traditionally, mail carriers tuck mail under their arms for immediate deliveries on foot. The power mesh strap pouch provides a secure, hands-free solution— allowing mail carriers to use their scanner, open mailboxes, or hold more mail than previously possible.
BAG DETAILS
We incorporated high-contrast red lining to enhance in-bag visibility, allowing mail carriers to quickly locate items even in low-light conditions. Two front pouches were added to keep a scanner and dog spray within easy reach.
MAGNETIC FLAP
We added magnetic inserts to the flap and interior of the bag for a secure yet easily accessible opening. The magnets keep the flap in place for prolonged access on sunnier days.
DAISY CHAIN BAG ATTACHMENT
The reflective daisy chain loop was chosen to provide modular attachment points, allowing users to adjust bag placement for optimal weight distribution and accessibility. Its reflective properties align with USPS visibility requirements, addressing both ergonomic and safety considerations.
ADJUSTABILITY
The mail carrier harness has 6 separate points of adjustability: the sternum strap, waist strap, two on the powermesh pouch and two more where the back of the harness meets the waist belt.
Special thanks to my team—Gabrielle Queen and Sophia Zeng—
and our awesome professor, Barrett Willet.
and our awesome professor, Barrett Willet.