USPS Holidays are days when the United States Postal Service does not operate its regular mail delivery or customer services. If you are planning to send packages or letters, knowing USPS holidays is very important. On these holidays, post offices are closed, and mail delivery is paused. Many people get confused about whether their mail will arrive on time, especially during big holiday seasons. USPS holidays include federal holidays like Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s Day. During these days, both local post offices and mail carriers take a break, so no regular mail is delivered. Being aware of USPS holidays can help you plan your shipments better, avoid delays, and even choose alternative delivery options if needed. This guide will help you understand all important USPS holidays, their impact on mail services, and tips to manage your mailing efficiently.
Planning around USPS holidays can save a lot of stress for both individuals and businesses. Not every day off affects all services the same way. Some USPS holidays stop mail delivery completely, while other services like Priority Mail Express may still operate but with limited hours. Knowing the exact dates of USPS holidays each year helps you avoid late deliveries, missed packages, and unhappy recipients. For businesses, this is very important because delays can affect customer satisfaction. You can also plan ahead for sending gifts, bills, or important documents to ensure they arrive on time. USPS holidays are public knowledge, and the USPS website updates them every year. By understanding these holidays, you can make smarter decisions, keep your shipments on schedule, and even use USPS tracking tools more effectively during busy times like Christmas or Memorial Day.
What Are USPS Holidays and Why They Matter
USPS holidays are official days when the postal service pauses its operations. These holidays follow federal holiday rules. On these days, post offices close, and mail delivery stops. USPS holidays matter because they affect when your mail will be received. For example, if you send a package on Christmas Eve, it might not move until after Christmas. People often forget about these holidays, which can cause delays. Knowing USPS holidays is simple but very useful for planning your mailing schedule.
Complete List of USPS Holidays in 2025
Here are the main USPS holidays in 2025:
- New Year’s Day – January 1
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day – January 20
- Washington’s Birthday (Presidents Day) – February 17
- Memorial Day – May 26
- Juneteenth National Independence Day – June 19
- Independence Day – July 4
- Labor Day – September 1
- Columbus Day – October 13
- Veterans Day – November 11
- Thanksgiving Day – November 27
- Christmas Day – December 25
How USPS Holidays Affect Mail Delivery
On USPS holidays, regular mail, first-class mail, and standard shipping are paused. Packages already in transit may not move on the holiday. However, Priority Mail Express may still operate in some locations, but it can be slower than usual. If you are expecting important mail, plan ahead to avoid delays. Holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving are the busiest, so delays are common. Always consider USPS holidays when scheduling shipments, especially for time-sensitive mail.
USPS Holidays vs. Federal Holidays: What’s the Difference
USPS holidays mostly match federal holidays, but not all federal holidays are USPS holidays. For example, Election Day is a federal observance, but it is not a USPS holiday. Understanding this difference helps you know when mail services will pause. Always check USPS announcements for any special changes or closures that might not follow the standard federal schedule.
Tips to Plan Your Mail Around USPS Holidays
- Check the USPS holiday calendar – Knowing exact dates helps you plan shipments.
- Send mail early – Avoid sending packages the day before a holiday.
- Use Priority Mail Express – If mail is urgent, this service can still deliver during some holidays.
- Inform recipients – Let friends, family, or customers know about potential delays.
- Track your packages – USPS tracking updates continue even during holidays.
USPS Holidays and Priority Mail Services
Priority Mail Express is USPS’s fastest service. It may still operate on some USPS holidays but can have limited hours. If you need urgent delivery, this service is a better option. Regular services like First-Class Mail and standard shipping are usually paused on holidays. Always check USPS updates to know which locations offer Priority Mail Express during a holiday.
How Businesses Can Avoid Shipping Delays on USPS Holidays
Businesses must plan around USPS holidays to keep customers happy. Late deliveries can impact trust and sales. Tips for businesses:
- Prepare shipments in advance of major holidays.
- Inform customers about potential delays.
- Offer alternative shipping options if available.
- Use online tracking and notifications to manage expectations.
What to Do If Your Package Arrives During a USPS Holiday
If you receive a package on a USPS holiday:
- Understand that regular mail may not move on that day.
- Check USPS tracking for updates.
- Some Priority Mail Express packages may still be delivered.
- Be patient; normal operations resume the next business day.
USPS Holiday Schedule: How to Check Online
The easiest way to check USPS holidays is by visiting the official USPS website. They post an updated list each year with exact dates and any special changes. You can also find information on local post office closures, which helps plan your mail pickups and deliveries.
Conclusion
USPS holidays affect mail delivery, post office operations, and shipping schedules. Being aware of these holidays allows you to plan ahead, avoid delays, and choose the right mailing services. Whether you are sending gifts, bills, or important documents, understanding USPS holidays ensures your mail reaches on time. Businesses and individuals benefit from planning around these holidays to maintain smooth mailing operations. Always check the official USPS holiday calendar for updates and make smart mailing decisions to avoid surprises.
FAQs
Q1: Are all USPS holidays federal holidays?
No, most USPS holidays match federal holidays, but some federal observances do not close USPS operations.
Q2: Will Priority Mail Express work on USPS holidays?
Yes, in some locations, Priority Mail Express operates even on USPS holidays, but service may be limited.
Q3: Does USPS deliver on Christmas or Thanksgiving?
No, regular mail delivery is paused on major holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving.
