US Postal Service announces 2026 holiday shipping deadlines for holiday delivery
Have you started shopping for gifts yet?
It’s only September, but the U.S. Postal Service on Tuesday reminded the public that the winter holidays will be here before we know it by announcing the recommended mailing and shipping dates for the 2026 holiday season.
Related previous coverage in the player above: There are now less than 100 Days to Christmas. Here’s how to spend smarter
So whether you like to get the shopping spree out of the way early, or you tend to wait till the last minute to check names off your list, here’s when you’ll need to ship your gifts by to get them to the recipient on time.
For expected delivery before Christmas Day (Dec. 25), USPS 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
A complete list of suggested dates to send packages to military or international addresses can be found by visiting the USPS holiday shipping page, beginning in mid-October.
USPS is also offering tips on mailing and shipping preparation, ordering free shipping supplies, packaging guidelines (including restricted and prohibited item information), and Post Office location hours at usps.com.
