Postal statistics questionnaire

The aim of this questionnaire is to gather representative data on postal activities and development as well as data that can later be used to develop postal sector measurement indicators.

The statistical data gathered by means of this questionnaire forms the basis of global and regional analyses carried out by the UPU International Bureau in the postal development field. It also provides information on each Post, i.e. designated postal operators (previously known as public postal operators) for publication in the Postal Statistics yearbook and the online UPU Postal Statistics database.

The UPU's postal statistics therefore constitute:

• a simple benchmarking tool;
• a helpful database for bilateral relations; and
• a strategic decision-making tool for reacting to international market developments.

The Postal Statistics yearbook is complemented by two other publications: Status and structure of postal entities in UPU member countries and Measuring postal e-service development.

In order to be a tool for postal development, statistical data must be reliable. It is vital that each designated operator should make the necessary efforts to provide full, reliable data. The existence of high quality statis­tics is essential if the UPU and postal businesses are to be in a position to develop appropriate policies and manage their development. Unreliable or incomplete data can lead to misinformed decisions, which in turn lead to wasted resources.