Overview
- USPS recommends Dec. 17 for Ground Advantage and First-Class, Dec. 18 for Priority Mail, and Dec. 20 for Priority Mail Express for delivery before Dec. 25 in the contiguous U.S.
- FedEx and UPS list tiered deadlines, with many ground options due Dec. 15–19 and overnight services available through Dec. 23 for pre-Christmas arrival.
- USPS reports nearly 4.9 billion pieces accepted this season and says it boosted daily package capacity from about 60 million to 88 million with more sorters, seasonal hires and vehicles.
- Local outlets report busy post offices and shipping stores, with experts urging Dec. 17 as a practical safe zone to avoid cutting it close for Christmas delivery.
- Shipping pros caution that procrastinators may pay far more, and carriers note they are closed on Dec. 25 and that winter weather can still cause delays.