EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — There are still a few weeks left until the holidays, but mail shipping deadlines are approaching even sooner.
The U.S. Postal Service, FedEx, and UPS have released recommended shipping dates to ensure that gifts and cards arrive in time for Christmas.
Last year saw a record number of holiday packages being shipped across the country as the pandemic forced many people to order gifts online. The Post Office expects to deliver 35% more packages during this holiday season than last year.
Here are the dates you should mark on your calendar for delivery by Christmas:
- Dec. 15 — USPS Retail Ground Service
- Dec. 17 — First-Class Mail
- Dec. 18 — Priority Mail
- Dec. 23 — Priority Mail Express
- Dec. 9 — FedEx Economy
- Dec. 15 — FedEx Ground and Home Delivery, Freight Priority and Direct
- Dec. 21 — Express Saver, and Three-Day Freight
- Dec. 22 — 2Day & 2Day AM, and Two-Day Freight
- Dec. 23 — Overnight Services
- Dec. 24 — FedEx Same Day
- Ground shipping — check the website for a quote
- Dec. 21 — Three-day select
- Dec. 22 — Second-day air services
- Dec. 23 — Next-day air services
These dates vary for those living in Hawaii and Alaska, and they also list recommended shipping dates for those sending packages overseas or to the military.
These recommendations were provided by each company — the delivery date may vary based on origin, destination, acceptance date, and other conditions. Contact the shipping companies directly with any questions.