re: Can we make the USPS private or dismantle it already?

USPS should deliver letters, books, and similar items. There's no way you'd ever get UPS to mail your letter from FL to WA for $0.50. It should help move larger stuff for the federal govt, such as shipping a desk or something like that. And it should be the only carrier for FPO & APO.

Anything else should go private. That would allow USPS to streamline some things and perhaps stay budget neutral rather than losing billions.

You may want to take your receipt to the local office and argue for a refund. Since you can trace the package and since they didn't meet their guarantee, you are due a refund. If you have the nervous energy, take it up the ladder and get your money back.