Buzz
The holiday season is here, and it's time to start planning, particularly if you're buying presents for children. Knowing the deadlines for mailing packages to ensure timely delivery is essential.
This year, unlike the previous one when Christmas Eve was on a Sunday and deadlines were earlier, you can wait until just a day or two before Christmas to mail your packages, depending on the service. However, opting for last-minute expedited shipping will come at a premium. It's wiser to note these dates early and send your gifts ahead of time.
Check out the 2024 holiday shipping deadlines for USPS, UPS, and FedEx to plan accordingly.
2024 holiday shipping deadlines for USPS, UPS, and FedEx
Make sure to note these key dates to ensure your holiday packages arrive on time:
USPS 2024 holiday shipping deadlines (for delivery by Dec. 25)
Ground Advantage shipments must be sent by Dec. 18 (Dec. 16 for Hawaii and Alaska)
First-Class Mail packages should be mailed by Dec. 18
Priority Mail Service requires shipping by Dec. 19
Priority Mail Express Service deadlines are Dec. 21 (Dec. 20 for Hawaii and Alaska)
Post offices will be closed on Dec. 25, with no mail pickup or delivery. Contact your local branch for updates on holiday operating hours.
UPS 2024 holiday shipping deadlines (for delivery by Dec. 24)
UPS 3 Day Select shipments must be sent by Dec. 19
UPS 2nd Day Air packages require shipping by Dec. 20
UPS Next Day Air deadlines are Dec. 23
Utilize the shipping calculator to confirm the cutoff for timely holiday delivery via UPS Ground.
UPS stores will operate on Dec. 24 with regular delivery services, but pickups are limited to prearranged Air and International Air packages. Next Day Air pickups will be delivered on Dec. 26. On Dec. 25, UPS locations may close, with no pickup or delivery services available. Verify holiday hours with your nearest store.
FedEx 2024 holiday shipping deadlines (for delivery by Dec. 24)
FedEx Ground Economy shipments must be sent by Dec. 13
FedEx Express Saver packages require shipping by Dec. 19
FedEx 2Day and 2Day AM deadlines are Dec. 20
FedEx First Overnight, Priority Overnight, and Standard Overnight require shipping by Dec. 23
FedEx SameDay shipments must be sent by Dec. 24
FedEx Ground and FedEx Home Delivery services will operate until Dec. 23, with shipping rates varying based on delivery speed.
FedEx Office locations may operate on Dec. 24 with reduced hours, offering limited shipping services. All FedEx services will be unavailable on Dec. 25.
