Submit Your Holiday Packages Early This Year
Every year, the United States Postal Service (USPS) asks us to ship our packages and greeting cards as early as possible during the holiday season. But this year they are really taking it seriously. This is always a very busy time of the year for postmen, but it could be the cause of a pandemic and an already difficult year, and this is a sure way to delays. Here’s what you need to know about sending out holiday packages in 2020.
Get an early start
Even with the addition of seasonal workers, the USPS requires us to ship our packages as soon as possible. According to the USPS statement :
More holiday gifts and greetings are expected to be sent in the mail during this unprecedented time, as families and friends host virtual celebrations instead of opening gifts in person. The Postal Service always encourages customers to send their holiday gifts and cards early. This year is no different.
Important mailing dates for the 2020 holiday season
It might seem like we have a lot of time before Christmas, but when you factor in the busiest times for the USPS , we really don’t:
The busiest period of the season is two weeks before Christmas, when most of the shopping starts at the last minute. Customer traffic is expected to increase from December 7th, with December 14-21 projected to be the busiest week of mailings, shipments and deliveries.
If you plan to deliver packages by December 25, USPS recommends that you receive them by mail no later than these dates:
- Dec 15 – USPS Ground Retail Service
- December 18 – USPS Priority Mail Express
- December 18 – First Class Post Office (including greeting cards).
- Dec 18 – First Class Packages (up to 15.99 oz)
- December 19 – Priority Mail service.
- December 23 – Priority Mail Express service.
The Money Back Guarantee for Priority Mail Express shipments mailed between December 22nd and 25th will only apply if the package was not delivered or delivery was not attempted within two business days. Otherwise, there are no guarantees – these dates are approximate.