ALBANY, NY — On September 22, the U.S. Postal Service announced the recommended mailing and shipping dates for the 2026 holiday season.

For expected delivery before Dec. 25, the Postal Service 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

For a complete list of suggested dates to send packages to military or international addresses, the Postal Service recommends visiting the USPS holiday shipping page beginning mid-Oct.

During the holiday season, customers should always plan to mail and ship packages early to ensure arrival by Dec. 25.

For tips on mailing and shipping preparation, ordering free shipping supplies, packaging guidelines (including restricted and prohibited item information), and Post Office location hours, visit usps.com or the USPS YouTube channel.

Information to help customers prepare for the busy holiday season can be found on the USPS Holiday Newsroom at usps.com/holidaynews.