USPS Holiday Shipping Guide: Key Deadlines, Updates & Tips for On-Time Delivery

For Delivery by December 25 in the Contiguous U.S. (Lower 48 States):

• USPS Ground Advantage®: December 18
• First-Class Mail® (cards, letters, lightweight packages): December 18
• Priority Mail®: December 19
• Priority Mail Express®: December 21 (Postmarked by 12/21, delivered by 6 PM or postage refunded)

For Alaska and Hawaii:

• USPS Ground Advantage: December 16
• Priority Mail Express: December 20

Military Addresses (APO/FPO/DPO):

• USPS Ground Advantage: November 4 (for ZIPs 090–092, 094–099, 340, 962–966)
• Priority Mail Express Military Service: December 16 (dependent on availability)

International Shipments:

• Most deadlines for First-Class Mail International® and Priority Mail International® have expired as of early December.
• Remaining Priority Mail Express International® deadlines for Asia/Pacific, Europe, Mexico, and the Middle East: December 16.
• Note: Package delivery service to Canada is currently suspended due to a postal strike.

Why Ship Early?

• Historic Package Volumes: Over 70 million parcels anticipated this season, risking weather or logistical delays.
• Military/International Complexity: Overseas and APO/FPO shipments require extra processing time.
• Temporary Rate Increases: From October 6, 2024, to January 19, 2025, prices for Priority Mail and Ground Advantage rose 3.2–9.2% to manage demand.

2024 Updates & Reminders

• No Peak Surcharges: USPS continues to avoid holiday surcharges (unlike FedEx/UPS).
• Post Office Closures: Closed on Christmas Day (December 25) and New Year’s Day (January 1, 2025).
• Extended Hours: Some locations offer extended hours during peak weeks.

Tips for Stress-Free Shipping

• Use Free Supplies: Get complimentary Priority Mail boxes at post offices or order online.
• Track Packages: Opt for services like Priority Mail Express with included tracking.
• Avoid Prohibited Items: Cash, lithium batteries, and perishables are not allowed.
• Schedule Pickups: Save time with free USPS.com pickups.
• Verify Addresses: Double-check formatting for military/international addresses.

Final Thoughts

Missing deadlines risks late arrivals. For last-minute gifts, prioritize Priority Mail Express (available until December 21 in most regions). International senders should consider e-gift cards if deadlines have passed.

Need Help? Visit USPS.com/holidayshippingdates for live updates and delivery estimates.

By staying informed and shipping early, your holiday joy will arrive on time! 🎁📮