USPS Delivery Schedule Explained: Days, Times, Holidays (2025)

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Whether you’re mailing a birthday card, shipping an online order, or expecting a crucial package, understanding the United States Postal Service (USPS) delivery schedule can save you time, money, and headaches.

As one of the oldest and most trusted mail carriers in the U.S., USPS follows a predictable set of delivery standards—albeit with a few nuances that can affect when your mail or package arrives.

Standard USPS Delivery Days and Hours

Under normal circumstances, USPS operates Monday through Saturday, delivering most mail and packages within this window. However, Sunday deliveries have become more common in recent years—particularly for Amazon packages and Priority Mail Express parcels.

Typical Delivery Hours

• Weekdays (Monday to Friday): Expect deliveries between 8 AM and 5 PM, although rural routes or exceptionally busy periods may push the delivery time later into the evening.
• Saturdays: USPS also delivers on Saturdays, usually following a similar schedule from about 8 AM to the mid- or late-afternoon.

Keep in mind that local office conditions, route schedules, and volume fluctuations may result in slight variations in these typical delivery hours.

USPS Delivery Schedules by Service Type

USPS offers a range of services, each with different delivery timeframes and costs. Understanding which class of mail you’re using—or expecting—can help you set realistic timelines and reduce stress.

First-Class Mail

• What It’s Best For: Letters, small packages (up to 13 oz), postcards, and envelopes.
• Typical Delivery Time: 1–5 business days (for domestic mail).
• Features & Considerations: This is one of the most common and cost-effective ways to send standard letters and lightweight parcels. Delivery can sometimes happen faster than stated, but USPS doesn’t guarantee a specific arrival date for First-Class Mail.

Priority Mail

• What It’s Best For: Packages weighing over 13 oz but under 70 lbs that need to arrive quickly.
• Typical Delivery Time: 1–3 business days.
• Features & Considerations: Priority Mail is one of the most popular shipping options, offering relatively quick delivery times, free USPS-branded packaging, and tracking. In many cases, Priority Mail delivers in two days or even overnight regionally.

Priority Mail Express

• What It’s Best For: Urgent or time-sensitive packages needing overnight or 1–2 day delivery.
• Typical Delivery Time: Overnight or next-day service to most U.S. addresses, guaranteed (or your money back).
• Features & Considerations: Priority Mail Express is the only USPS service that guarantees overnight delivery, including weekends and holidays (in select locations). If speed is your top priority, this is the service to choose.

USPS Retail Ground

• What It’s Best For: Large or heavy parcels that do not require expedited shipping.
• Typical Delivery Time: 2–8 business days.
• Features & Considerations: Formerly known as Parcel Post, Retail Ground is slower and more economical, especially for oversized packages. There’s a weight limit of 70 lbs.

Media Mail

• What It’s Best For: Books, DVDs, CDs, printed music, and other educational media.
• Typical Delivery Time: 2–8 business days (though it can sometimes take longer).
• Features & Considerations: Media Mail offers a cost-effective way to send educational materials. However, USPS can open and inspect Media Mail packages to ensure compliance with content restrictions.

Parcel Select

• What It’s Best For: Commercial shippers, large-volume e-commerce sellers who can access discounts by dropping shipments at specific USPS locations.
• Typical Delivery Time: 2–9 business days, typically.
• Features & Considerations: Not usually used by individuals, Parcel Select is a bulk or commercial counterpart to USPS Retail Ground, offering reduced rates for high-volume shippers.

Weekend Deliveries: Saturdays and Sundays

Saturday Delivery

USPS provides Saturday deliveries for most mail classes (First-Class, Priority Mail, etc.). Typically, there is no additional fee for Saturday service with USPS. Delivery times on Saturdays generally mirror weekday schedules, with mail carriers on the road until the afternoon or early evening.

Sunday Delivery

Sunday deliveries are more limited:

• Priority Mail Express: USPS guarantees Sunday and holiday delivery with this service, although additional fees may apply.
• Amazon Packages: USPS has a partnership with Amazon to deliver packages on Sundays in many urban and suburban areas. If you’re expecting an Amazon order, there’s a good chance USPS may bring it to your doorstep on a Sunday—particularly during busy retail seasons.

USPS Holidays and Special Events

USPS observes federal holidays, which means mail service (including mail drop-offs and deliveries) typically does not run on these days:

1. New Year’s Day (January 1)
2. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (third Monday in January)
3. Presidents Day (third Monday in February)
4. Memorial Day (last Monday in May)
5. Juneteenth National Independence Day (June 19)
6. Independence Day (July 4)
7. Labor Day (first Monday in September)
8. Columbus Day (second Monday in October)
9. Veterans Day (November 11)
10. Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November)
11. Christmas Day (December 25)

If a holiday falls on a Saturday, the federal holiday is often observed the previous Friday; if it falls on a Sunday, it may be observed on the following Monday. Priority Mail Express may still run on some holidays, but you should confirm at your local post office or through USPS.com if you have an urgent shipment that absolutely must arrive on a holiday.

How Late Does USPS Deliver?

USPS strives to complete most deliveries by 5 PM, but during peak times—like the holiday season—carriers may still be out delivering well after dark. In some cases, it’s not unusual to receive your mail as late as 7 PM or 8 PM, particularly in high-volume areas or due to weather and staffing issues.

If you notice significantly delayed deliveries on a regular basis, you may want to contact your local post office to find out if there’s a route issue, staffing shortage, or other local factors.

Tracking and Managing USPS Deliveries

One of the best ways to stay on top of your mail’s whereabouts is through USPS Tracking. Here are a few tools at your disposal:

• USPS Tracking Number: Most shipping services (excluding basic First-Class letters) come with a tracking number. You can enter this number at USPS.com or on the USPS mobile app for updates.
• Informed Delivery: A free service that lets you preview scanned images of incoming letter-sized mail and track packages before they arrive. Sign up on the USPS website.
• Text & Email Notifications: Opt in for real-time delivery updates via text or email once you have a tracking number.
• Package Intercept & Hold for Pickup: If you’re concerned about missing a package or theft, you can request USPS to hold your mail at a local post office for pickup or try intercepting a package mid-transit (additional fees may apply).

Common Delivery Delays and How to Avoid Them

Even the most reliable mail systems can face hiccups. Here are a few common delay causes and tips:

Weather-Related Delays

How to Avoid: Plan ahead during known severe weather seasons; consider using Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail if the package is time-sensitive.

High Volume Seasons (Holidays and Sales)

How to Avoid: Ship as early as possible, especially during holidays like Christmas, Mother’s Day, and Valentine’s Day.

Incorrect or Incomplete Address

How to Avoid: Double-check addresses before shipping. Use USPS’ official address lookup tool for accuracy.

Insufficient Postage

How to Avoid: Weigh packages and use USPS postage calculators to avoid underpayment.

Customs Delays (International)

How to Avoid: Complete customs forms accurately, and be aware of destination country rules and regulations.

Tips for Faster and More Reliable Shipping

Choose the Right Service Class

• For urgent deliveries, opt for Priority Mail or Priority Mail Express.
• For heavier, less urgent parcels, USPS Retail Ground or Media Mail may be more cost-effective.

Leverage Flat Rate Boxes

With USPS Priority Mail Flat Rate boxes, you can ship anything that fits under 70 lbs for a standard rate.

Print Labels Online

Use USPS.com or shipping platforms (e.g., PayPal, eBay, or other third-party software) to print labels. You often get a discounted commercial rate, and you can arrange a free package pickup from your doorstep.

Check Pickup and Drop-Off Options

If you have a busy schedule, USPS Package Pickup can save you a trip to the post office. Request it online, and your carrier will pick up your labeled packages during regular mail delivery.

Monitor Tracking Regularly

Stay informed of your package’s progress, and communicate with recipients about expected delivery windows.

FAQ: USPS Delivery Schedule

Does USPS deliver on Sundays?

Yes, but typically only Priority Mail Express packages and select Amazon parcels in certain areas. You can confirm your eligibility by entering your address information on the USPS website or checking Amazon shipping details.

Are there additional fees for Saturday delivery?

No. Unlike some private carriers, USPS does not charge extra for Saturday delivery.

What time does USPS stop delivering?

Most carriers complete their routes by 5 PM, but it can extend later, especially during peak seasons or in high-volume neighborhoods.

Can I get my money back if USPS is late?

For Priority Mail Express, USPS offers a money-back guarantee if they fail to deliver on time. Other classes like Priority Mail and First-Class do not typically come with guaranteed delivery dates.

Do I need a signature for delivery?

Some packages, like high-value or insured items, may require a signature. If you’re not home, USPS will leave a notice to arrange redelivery or pickup from the post office.

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