Ever found yourself anxiously checking the mailbox on a holiday, wondering if your important package will show up? You’re not alone—many people count on USPS deliveries even when most businesses take the day off. Knowing how USPS handles holiday deliveries can save you from missed gifts, late payments, or unexpected surprises.
In this article, we’ll break down exactly how USPS operates on holidays, which services you can count on, and share tips for timely shipments.
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How USPS Handles Deliveries on Holidays: Everything You Need to Know
Understanding USPS Holiday Delivery
The United States Postal Service, or USPS, is one of the oldest and most reliable delivery services in the country. But when it comes to holidays, many people wonder: How does USPS manage deliveries? Do packages arrive on national holidays? Is the post office open for business? Let’s break it all down, so you know exactly what to expect during the festive—and often busy—holiday season.
USPS Holiday Delivery: The Short Answer
USPS, like many organizations, observes federal holidays. On these days, regular mail and package delivery comes to a halt, and most post offices are closed. However, there are exceptions for certain express services, and the landscape can vary slightly depending on the type of service, time of year, and even your location.
In summary:
- Regular mail & standard packages are not delivered on USPS holidays.
- Most post offices are closed for walk-in services on major holidays.
- Some premium services, such as Priority Mail Express, may still operate with limited delivery, even on holidays.
- Parcel lockers in some locations may still be accessible for package pickup.
The USPS Official Holiday Schedule
To plan ahead, it’s important to know which days are considered USPS holidays. These usually align with federal holidays. In 2025, the major USPS-observed holidays include:
- New Year’s Day (January 1)
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January 20)
- Presidents’ Day (February 17)
- Memorial Day (May 26)
- Juneteenth National Independence Day (June 19)
- Independence Day (July 4)
- Labor Day (September 1)
- Columbus Day (October 13)
- Veterans Day (November 11)
- Thanksgiving Day (November 27)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
On these dates, most services pause. It’s a good idea to double-check the calendar each year, as some holidays may shift to a nearby weekday if they fall on a weekend.
What USPS Services Run During Holidays?
While most USPS services stop on holidays, a few key options remain in play for urgent needs.
1. Priority Mail Express
- Delivers 365 days a year, including all holidays.
- If you absolutely need a package to arrive on a holiday, this is the service to pick.
- Be aware: Only certain locations may offer holiday delivery, and higher fees apply.
2. Parcel Lockers & Self-Service Kiosks
- Many post office lobbies with automated kiosks or parcel lockers remain open, even on holidays.
- You can pick up packages or use self-service mailing options.
3. P.O. Box Access
- Some post office locations offer 24/7 access to your P.O. box, though interior counter services will be closed.
4. Amazon & Third-Party Packages
- USPS delivers packages for some partners like Amazon, and during exceptional circumstances, Sunday or holiday delivery may be arranged, but this is not standard.
Types of Deliveries Affected on Holidays
Here’s a quick overview of what you can and cannot expect:
| USPS Service | Delivered on Holidays? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First-Class Mail | No | Delivery resumes the next business day |
| Priority Mail | No | Only Express service is available |
| Priority Mail Express | Yes | For eligible locations; extra fee applies |
| Retail Ground | No | Delivery resumes the next business day |
| Parcel Select | No | Delivery resumes the next business day |
| Certified/Registered | No | Delivery resumes the next business day |
Special Considerations for Holiday Deliveries
Weather and Volume Impacts
Holiday seasons, especially in November and December, are the busiest for USPS. With the increased number of packages and the possibility of inclement weather, delays are more common—whether or not a holiday is observed.
Local Variations
Some large urban centers may offer holiday delivery through contract carriers or as part of special arrangements, but this is not guaranteed nationwide.
Practical Tips for USPS Holiday Shipping
Shipping during peak holiday times can be overwhelming, but the right strategy makes everything easier. Here are some essential tips:
1. Plan and Ship Early
- Check the USPS holiday schedule several weeks ahead.
- Ship your packages well in advance of any holidays to avoid last-minute rush and potential delays.
2. Consider Priority Mail Express
- If your shipment is urgent, only Priority Mail Express is guaranteed to deliver on holidays.
- Call your local post office to confirm availability of this service in your area.
3. Use Tracking & Signature Confirmation
- Always choose shipping options that include tracking, so you can keep an eye on your important deliveries.
- Signature confirmation provides added security for valuable items.
4. Double-Check Address Accuracy
- Make sure your package is labeled with the correct, complete address—include apartment, suite, or unit numbers.
- Inaccurate information can cause additional delays, especially when holiday staff shortages are common.
5. Know Your Local Post Office Hours
- Even if post offices are closed on holidays, some lobbies or parcel lockers stay open.
- Check online or by phone to know your local branch’s specific offerings.
Cost-Saving Tips for Holiday USPS Shipping
Shipping around the holidays can get expensive, but these tips can help you save:
- Ship earlier to choose slower and less expensive mail options that might not be guaranteed close to a holiday.
- Consider flat-rate boxes for heavy items—if it fits, it ships for a set price.
- Take advantage of free USPS shipping supplies for Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express.
- Weigh and measure packages at home to buy postage online; online rates are often cheaper than buying at the counter.
- Bundle or consolidate shipments to minimize the number of boxes and costs.
Common Challenges and What to Expect
1. Overwhelmed System
With record-breaking volumes during holiday seasons, USPS facilities might become overwhelmed. Some packages may be delayed even after the holiday ends. Tracking will show these updates, so watching your package’s status can relieve worry.
2. Limited Customer Service
On USPS holidays, customer service lines and counters are generally closed. If you require assistance, wait until the next business day or use online support tools.
3. No Regular Deliveries
Apart from Priority Mail Express, don’t expect any regular mail or package drop-offs on holidays. Plan accordingly for medication deliveries, important legal documents, or gifts.
Best Practices for Sending and Receiving During Holidays
- Mark your calendar with important USPS holidays.
- Alert your package recipients if their gifts or items might arrive after a holiday.
- If you’re traveling, consider holding your mail via USPS “Hold Mail” service to secure your items.
- Use digital notifications and email alerts to keep informed about delivery status.
- Keep your mailbox and walkways clear, especially in the winter, to help postal workers deliver safely.
USPS Holiday Delivery: Recap
Navigating USPS holiday deliveries doesn’t need to be stressful. By understanding which services operate on federal holidays, planning shipments in advance, and choosing the right shipping options, you can ensure your packages arrive as close to your target dates as possible. Remember: With rare exceptions, regular mail won’t be delivered on holidays, but Priority Mail Express offers a solution for those must-have deliveries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does USPS deliver regular mail on federal holidays?
No, USPS does not deliver regular mail, including First-Class Mail and standard packages, on federal holidays. Delivery resumes on the following business day.
2. What is the only USPS service that delivers on holidays?
Priority Mail Express is the only USPS service that offers holiday delivery, but it is available only in select locations and for an additional fee.
3. Can I access my P.O. box or parcel locker on USPS holidays?
In many locations, lobbies, P.O. boxes, and parcel lockers are accessible 24/7, even on holidays. Check with your local post office to confirm availability.
4. How can I ensure my package arrives before a holiday?
Ship early, use tracked services, double-check the delivery address, and consider premium services like Priority Mail Express if the delivery date is critical.
5. Are post offices themselves open on federal holidays?
No, most post offices are fully closed on USPS-observed holidays. However, some locations keep lobbies and self-service kiosks accessible for package pickup and basic mailing needs.
By understanding how USPS handles deliveries on holidays, you can plan ahead, avoid delays, and keep your holiday season running smoothly. Whether sending gifts, business documents, or important medication, knowing the rules and your options makes all the difference.
