USPS mailing and shipping dates for holidays

Washington—The U.S. Postal Service recently announced its recommended mailing and shipping dates for holiday mail and packages. 
The following are recommended send-by dates for expected delivery before Dec. 25. 
Mailing and shipping dates for items sent to addresses in the contiguous united states (lower 48 states): 

USPS Ground Advantage service: Dec. 18 

First-Class Mail service: Dec. 18 

Priority Mail service: Dec. 19 

Priority Mail Express service: Dec. 21. 

Mailing and shipping dates for items sent to Alaska and Hawaii: 

USPS Ground Advantage service: Dec. 16 

First-Class Mail service: Dec. 18 

Priority Mail service: Dec. 19 

Priority Mail Express service: Dec. 20. 

For customers sending packages internationally, or to military addresses, USPS suggests checking the complete list of recommended holiday mailing and shipping dates at usps.com/holidayshippingdates. 
USPS urges customers to plan and ship early during this holiday season. The earlier you send, the better; don’t delay, mail and ship today. 
For tips on preparing shipments, including packaging guidelines, ordering free shipping supplies and information on local Post Office location hours, visit usps.com.