---
kind: "section"
citation: "39 U.S.C. § 5001"
title: "39"
title_heading: "Postal Service"
number: "5001"
heading: "Provisions for carrying mail"
release: "119-102"
date: "2026-07-12"
url: "https://uscodex.org/usc/39/5001"
units:
  - "Part V — Transportation of Mail"
  - "Chapter 50 — General"
---

# §5001. Provisions for carrying mail


The [Postal Service](/usc/39/102.md?p=1) shall provide for the transportation of mail in accordance with the policies established under [section 101(e)](/usc/39/101.md?p=e) and (f) of this title and the provisions of this chapter. Notwithstanding any other provision of this title, the [Postal Service](/usc/39/102.md?p=1) may make arrangements on a temporary basis for the transportation of mail when, as determined by the [Postal Service](/usc/39/102.md?p=1), an emergency arises. Such arrangements shall terminate when the emergency ceases and the [Postal Service](/usc/39/102.md?p=1) is promptly able to secure transportation services under other provisions of this title.


## Source credit

(Pub. L. 91–375, Aug. 12, 1970, 84 Stat. 766.)

## Notes

### Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

### Effective Date

Section effective July 1, 1971, pursuant to Resolution No. 71–9 of the Board of Governors. See section 15(a) of Pub. L. 91–375, set out as a note preceding section 101 of this title.