For expected delivery before Dec. 25, the Postal Service advises customers to send mail and packages by the following dates:
2026 Holiday Shipping Dates for Contiguous U.S. (Lower 48 States)
- USPS Ground Advantage service: Dec. 17
- First-Class Mail: Dec. 17
- Priority Mail: Dec. 18
- Priority Mail Express: Dec. 19
2026 Holiday Shipping Dates for Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and U.S. Territories
- USPS Ground Advantage service: Dec. 16
- First-Class Mail: Dec. 17
- Priority Mail: Dec. 18
- Priority Mail Express: Dec. 19
For a complete list of suggested dates to send packages to military or international addresses, the Postal Service recommends visiting the USPS holiday shipping page beginning mid-Oct.
During the holiday season, customers should always plan to mail and ship packages early to ensure arrival by Dec. 25.