U.S. Postal Service Announces Holiday Shipping Deadlines

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(Small Business News) – The U.S. Postal Service has released its official deadlines for the 2023 holiday season, aiming to ensure the timely arrival of cards, letters, and packages by Christmas day. Small business owners preparing for the forthcoming holiday shopping and shipping season can look forward to some clear dates and predictability in their pricing.

Key Highlights:

1. No Peak Surcharges: The USPS has confirmed that there won’t be any peak or demand surcharges this holiday season. This means customers can anticipate stable pricing. What’s more, no extra charges will be levied for residential area or Saturday deliveries, fuel surcharges, or volume minimums. The USPS prides itself on offering simple, transparent pricing all year round and continues to position itself as an affordable choice for mailing and shipping.
2. Shipping Deadlines:
   • Within the Lower 48 (excluding Alaska and Hawaii):
     • USPS Ground Advantage & First-Class Mail: Dec. 16
     • Priority Mail: Dec. 18
     • Priority Mail Express: Dec. 20
   • Alaska & Hawaii: Similar deadlines, with the exception of Priority Mail for Hawaii, which is also set for Dec. 16.
   • Military Destinations (APO, FPO, DPO):
     • USPS Ground Advantage: Nov. 6
     • First-Class Mail & Priority Mail: Dec. 9
     • Priority Mail Express Military Service: Dec. 15 (certain restrictions apply)

• International Shipping: Deadlines vary based on destination. USPS provides secure shipping options to over 180 countries worldwide.
• New Shipping Service: USPS introduces its Ground Advantage option this year, promising a dependable and economical way to send parcels. It offers delivery within 2-5 business days, depending on the distance.
• Digital Convenience: Through the USPS Click-N-Ship platform, customers can easily buy shipping labels, order Priority Mail packaging, and arrange free carrier pickups. Additionally, users of this platform can enjoy Commercial Shipping Rates on all domestic package labels.
• Unique Offerings: The Postal Service remains the sole delivery service that ships to APO, FPO, and DPO addresses.

For those seeking additional resources, the USPS Holiday Newsroom is filled with tips and tools to navigate the busy festive season.