The Postal Service Announces Holiday Shipping Deadlines

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Well, maybe not a lot yet, but it’s starting to build. I’ve heard a few people say they’re getting started a little early this year because it’s been a stressful year and having the lights and decorations up helps lift their spirits. 

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Another part of getting in the Christmas spirit is the shopping aspect. My wife and I got started late last week buying some “smaller” gifts for family and friends.  

If you’re starting to check off the items on your shopping list, that’s a good thing. You’re getting somewhat of a head start which can help avoid crowds and the stress that comes with waiting until after Thanksgiving. 

No matter when you start your shopping, if you have to ship anything out of town, the United States Postal Service has announced their deadlines to make sure what you’re sending gets where you want it to go by Christmas.    

USPS Ground Advantage Service- This is the USPS service which allows you to send packages within the United States. The normal delivery time for Ground Advantage is 2 to 5 business days. 

There is even free pickup at your home for business with this plan. There’s also $100 of insurance included but you can buy up to $5000 in additional coverage.  

The encouraged deadline for Ground Advantage is December 18th. 

USPS Priority Mail Service- This service offers what the USPS calls fast, affordable delivery service that can be at the intended destination in 1 to 3 business days, depending on where it’s going.  

This plan includes free tracking so you can keep an eye on where the package is along the route.  

One advantage with this plan is that you can send any package that weighs up to 70 pounds for one flat rate to any state in the U.S. Priority Mail Service comes with $100 in insurance for domestic shipments and $200 for packages going outside the U.S. 

The deadline for this plan is December 19th.

Priority Mail Express- I think the word express says that this plan has more speed attached to it. With this option, you can have your package to its destination within two business days by 6pm of the second day. 

The USPS feels some confidence in their ability to get what you're sending in the time frame they say they will, they offer a money back guarantee with this plan. There are some holiday and Sunday delivery options available for major markets. 

The cost of this option is based on the weight and the distance being shipped, unless you choose a flat rate box to send the package in. The deadline for this plan is December 21st. 

You still have time before you have to start worrying about these deadlines passing, but it’s good to get them on your calendar now so you don’t forget.