USPS is one of the most popular shipping carriers in the United States, delivering millions of packages and letters every day. However, if you’re new to USPS or have never used their services before, you may be wondering when your package will arrive. In this article, we will discuss USPS delivery services, delivery time, options, and exceptions to help you understand when your package will arrive.
USPS offers a variety of delivery services, including Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, and USPS Retail Ground. Each service has different delivery times and options, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. Additionally, USPS offers international delivery services for those shipping outside of the United States.
One of the most important factors to consider when using USPS is delivery time. USPS provides estimated delivery times for each service, but keep in mind that these are estimates and may vary depending on factors such as weather, holidays, and package volume. In the next section, we will discuss USPS delivery options and exceptions to help you better understand delivery times.
Key Takeaways
- USPS offers a variety of delivery services, including international options
- Delivery times are estimates and may vary due to various factors
- USPS provides delivery options and exceptions to help you better understand delivery times.
USPS Delivery Services
USPS offers a wide range of delivery services to fit your needs. Whether you’re shipping a package or sending a letter, USPS has a service that will fit your budget and timeline. Here are the different mail classes that USPS offers:
Priority Mail
Priority Mail is a fast and affordable shipping service that delivers within 1-3 business days. This service includes free USPS tracking and a money-back guarantee. Priority Mail is a great option for shipping packages that weigh up to 70 pounds.
Priority Mail Express
Priority Mail Express is USPS’s fastest shipping service, delivering overnight to most locations. This service also includes free USPS tracking and a money-back guarantee. Priority Mail Express is ideal for time-sensitive packages that need to be delivered quickly.
First-Class Mail
First-Class Mail is USPS’s most affordable mail class, delivering within 1-3 business days. This service is ideal for sending letters, postcards, and small packages that weigh up to 13 ounces.
USPS Retail Ground
USPS Retail Ground is a reliable and affordable option for shipping large and heavy packages. This service delivers within 2-8 business days and includes USPS tracking. USPS Retail Ground is a great option for those looking for an economical shipping service.
Media Mail
Media Mail is a cost-effective option for shipping books, CDs, DVDs, and other media items. This service delivers within 2-8 business days and includes USPS tracking. Media Mail is a great option for those looking to save money on shipping.
Standard Mail
Standard Mail is a bulk mailing service that is ideal for businesses sending large quantities of mail. This service delivers within 2-8 business days and includes USPS tracking. Standard Mail is a great option for those looking to save money on postage.
In addition to these services, USPS offers educational materials on their website to help customers understand any restrictions or guidelines for each mail class. USPS also provides delivery times for each service, so customers can plan accordingly. USPS delivers to all 50 states, as well as APO/FPO/DPO addresses and U.S. territories.
Overall, USPS offers a variety of affordable and reliable delivery services to fit your needs.
USPS Delivery Time
USPS delivery time varies depending on the type of mail service you choose. Here are the delivery times for some of the most popular USPS mail services:
Delivery Time for Priority Mail
Priority Mail is a fast domestic service that delivers in 1-3 business days. This service is perfect for sending time-sensitive items like documents, merchandise, and gifts.
Delivery Time for Priority Mail Express
Priority Mail Express is the fastest domestic service offered by USPS. It delivers in 1-2 business days, including weekends and holidays. This service is ideal for urgent and time-sensitive items.
Delivery Time for First-Class Mail
First-Class Mail is a standard mail service that delivers in 1-3 business days. This service is suitable for sending lightweight packages and envelopes.
Delivery Time for USPS Retail Ground
USPS Retail Ground is a reliable and affordable service that delivers in 2-8 business days. This service is perfect for sending oversized and heavy packages.
Delivery Time for Media Mail
Media Mail is a cost-effective service that delivers in 2-8 business days. This service is ideal for sending educational materials like books, CDs, and DVDs.
Delivery Time for Standard Mail
Standard Mail is a bulk mail service that delivers in 3-10 business days. This service is suitable for sending advertising mail, catalogs, and other promotional materials.
In conclusion, USPS offers a range of mail services with varying delivery times to suit your needs. Choose the service that best fits your requirements and budget.
USPS Delivery Options
USPS offers a variety of delivery options to suit different needs. Here are the delivery options available for different types of mail:
Delivery Options for Priority Mail
Priority Mail offers fast and reliable delivery with tracking and insurance. Delivery options for Priority Mail include:
- Priority Mail Express 1-Day: Guaranteed overnight delivery by 10:30 am or noon to most locations.
- Priority Mail Express 2-Day: Guaranteed delivery in 2 days to most locations.
- Priority Mail: Delivery in 1-3 business days.
Delivery Options for Priority Mail Express
Priority Mail Express is the fastest mail service offered by USPS. Delivery options for Priority Mail Express include:
- Priority Mail Express 1-Day: Guaranteed overnight delivery by 10:30 am or noon to most locations.
- Priority Mail Express 2-Day: Guaranteed delivery in 2 days to most locations.
Delivery Options for First-Class Mail
First-Class Mail is the most affordable mail class for sending lightweight mail items. Delivery options for First-Class Mail include:
- First-Class Mail: Delivery in 1-3 business days.
Delivery Options for USPS Retail Ground
USPS Retail Ground is a reliable and economical way to send packages and oversized envelopes. Delivery options for USPS Retail Ground include:
- Retail Ground: Delivery in 2-8 business days.
Delivery Options for Media Mail
Media Mail is a cost-effective way to send educational materials or other media content. Delivery options for Media Mail include:
- Media Mail: Delivery in 2-8 business days.
Delivery Options for Standard Mail
Standard Mail is an affordable way to send advertising mail and other bulk mailings. Delivery options for Standard Mail include:
- Standard Mail: Delivery in 2-8 business days.
Overall, USPS offers a range of delivery options to meet different needs and budgets. Customers can choose the delivery option that best suits their requirements and budget to ensure their mail arrives on time and in good condition.
USPS Holidays
Federal Holidays
The United States Postal Service (USPS) observes the following ten federal holidays:
- New Year’s Day (January 1)
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day (third Monday in January)
- Presidents’ Day (third Monday in February)
- Memorial Day (last Monday in May)
- Independence Day (July 4)
- Labor Day (first Monday in September)
- Columbus Day (second Monday in October)
- Veterans Day (November 11)
- Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
On these days, USPS offices are closed, and there is no mail delivery or pick-up. However, Priority Mail Express and some package delivery services may still be available.
USPS Holidays
In addition to the federal holidays, USPS also observes the following holidays:
- New Year’s Day (January 1)
- Independence Day (July 4)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
On these days, USPS offices are closed, and there is no mail delivery or pick-up. However, Priority Mail Express and some package delivery services may still be available.
It is important to note that Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve are not federal holidays, but USPS may have limited hours on these days. It is recommended to check with your local post office for their holiday hours.
In conclusion, USPS observes the federal holidays and a select few additional holidays. On these days, USPS offices are closed, and there is no mail delivery or pick-up. However, Priority Mail Express and some package delivery services may still be available. It is always best to check with your local post office for their holiday hours.
USPS Tracking
USPS offers tracking services for most of its mail and package delivery services. This allows customers to keep an eye on their shipments and know when they will be delivered. USPS tracking is available for Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, First-Class Mail, USPS Retail Ground, Media Mail, and Standard Mail.
Tracking for Priority Mail
Priority Mail is a fast and affordable service that delivers in 1-3 business days. USPS tracking is automatically included with Priority Mail at no additional cost. Customers can track their Priority Mail shipments using the USPS website or mobile app. The tracking information includes the date and time of delivery or attempted delivery, as well as any delivery instructions or updates.
Tracking for Priority Mail Express
Priority Mail Express is USPS’s fastest domestic service, with guaranteed overnight delivery to most locations. USPS tracking is also included with Priority Mail Express at no additional cost. Customers can track their shipments using the USPS website or mobile app. The tracking information includes the date and time of delivery or attempted delivery, as well as any delivery instructions or updates.
Tracking for First-Class Mail
First-Class Mail is a cost-effective service for lightweight packages and envelopes. USPS tracking is available for First-Class Mail, but it is not included automatically. Customers must purchase USPS Tracking as an add-on service for an additional fee. Once purchased, customers can track their First-Class Mail shipments using the USPS website or mobile app.
Tracking for USPS Retail Ground
USPS Retail Ground is a reliable and affordable service for packages that are not time-sensitive. USPS tracking is available for Retail Ground, but it is not included automatically. Customers must purchase USPS Tracking as an add-on service for an additional fee. Once purchased, customers can track their Retail Ground shipments using the USPS website or mobile app.
Tracking for Media Mail
Media Mail is a cost-effective service for shipping books, sound recordings, and other media materials. USPS tracking is available for Media Mail, but it is not included automatically. Customers must purchase USPS Tracking as an add-on service for an additional fee. Once purchased, customers can track their Media Mail shipments using the USPS website or mobile app.
Tracking for Standard Mail
Standard Mail is a service for sending bulk mail and advertising mail. USPS tracking is not available for Standard Mail, as it is not a guaranteed delivery service. However, customers can purchase USPS Tracking as an add-on service for an additional fee if they want to track their Standard Mail shipments.
In summary, USPS offers tracking services for most of its mail and package delivery services. Customers can track their shipments using the USPS website or mobile app, and tracking information includes the date and time of delivery or attempted delivery, as well as any delivery instructions or updates.
USPS Delivery Exceptions
USPS delivery exceptions refer to situations where the delivery of mail is delayed or disrupted due to a variety of reasons. These can include weather conditions, security concerns, or other unforeseen circumstances. It is important to be aware of these exceptions, as they can impact the delivery of your mail.
Delivery Exceptions for Priority Mail
Priority Mail is a fast and reliable mail service that is typically delivered within 1-3 business days. However, there are certain exceptions that can delay the delivery of Priority Mail. These can include:
- Inclement weather conditions
- Natural disasters
- Security concerns
- Customs delays
- Incorrect or incomplete address information
Delivery Exceptions for Priority Mail Express
Priority Mail Express is the fastest mail service offered by USPS, with guaranteed overnight delivery to most locations. However, there are certain delivery exceptions that can impact the delivery of Priority Mail Express, including:
- Inclement weather conditions
- Natural disasters
- Security concerns
- Customs delays
- Incorrect or incomplete address information
Delivery Exceptions for First-Class Mail
First-Class Mail is a cost-effective mail service that is typically delivered within 1-3 business days. However, there are certain delivery exceptions that can delay the delivery of First-Class Mail, including:
- Inclement weather conditions
- Natural disasters
- Security concerns
- Customs delays
- Incorrect or incomplete address information
Delivery Exceptions for USPS Retail Ground
USPS Retail Ground is a reliable and affordable option for shipping larger items. However, there are certain delivery exceptions that can impact the delivery of USPS Retail Ground, including:
- Inclement weather conditions
- Natural disasters
- Security concerns
- Customs delays
- Incorrect or incomplete address information
Delivery Exceptions for Media Mail
Media Mail is a cost-effective option for shipping educational materials, including books and DVDs. However, there are certain delivery exceptions that can delay the delivery of Media Mail, including:
- Inclement weather conditions
- Natural disasters
- Security concerns
- Customs delays
- Incorrect or incomplete address information
Delivery Exceptions for Standard Mail
Standard Mail is a cost-effective option for sending bulk mail, including advertisements and catalogs. However, there are certain delivery exceptions that can impact the delivery of Standard Mail, including:
- Inclement weather conditions
- Natural disasters
- Security concerns
- Customs delays
- Incorrect or incomplete address information
It is important to note that delivery exceptions can vary depending on the specific location and circumstances. If you have any questions or concerns about the delivery of your mail, it is recommended that you contact USPS for more information.
USPS International Delivery
USPS offers international delivery services for packages and mail items. The delivery time for international packages varies depending on the destination country and the shipping service selected. USPS provides tracking for most international packages, which allows customers to track their package’s progress until it reaches its destination.
Delivery to Alaska and Hawaii
USPS delivers to Alaska and Hawaii, but the delivery time may take longer than for packages delivered within the continental United States. USPS offers different shipping options for packages to Alaska and Hawaii, including Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, and First-Class Mail. Customers can use the USPS website to calculate the shipping cost and delivery time for their package.
Delivery to Other Countries
USPS delivers to more than 190 countries around the world. The delivery time for international packages varies depending on the destination country and the shipping service selected. USPS offers different shipping options for international packages, including Priority Mail Express International, Priority Mail International, and First-Class Mail International. Customers can use the USPS website to calculate the shipping cost and delivery time for their package.
When shipping internationally, customers must fill out a customs form, which provides information about the contents of the package and helps ensure that it complies with the destination country’s customs laws. USPS provides a variety of resources to help customers fill out customs forms correctly, including online tutorials and customer service support.
In summary, USPS offers international delivery services to more than 190 countries around the world. The delivery time for international packages varies depending on the destination country and the shipping service selected. Customers can use the USPS website to calculate the shipping cost and delivery time for their package, and must fill out a customs form when shipping internationally.
USPS Delivery Options for Businesses
When it comes to USPS delivery options for businesses, there are a few different routes to take. Whether you’re shipping domestically or internationally, USPS has a variety of options to choose from. Here are some of the most popular options:
Shipping Labels
One of the easiest ways to ship with USPS is by using shipping labels. These labels can be printed at home or at a USPS location, making it easy to get your packages out the door quickly. Additionally, USPS offers a variety of label options, including Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, and more.
Click-N-Ship
For businesses that want to streamline their shipping process, Click-N-Ship is a great option. This online tool allows you to create shipping labels, pay for postage, and schedule package pickups all in one place. Plus, you can save your shipping information for future use, making it even easier to ship packages in the future.
Extended Hours
If you need to ship packages outside of regular business hours, USPS has you covered. Many USPS locations offer extended hours, making it easy to drop off packages on your schedule. Plus, some locations even offer 24/7 access to package drop-off boxes.
USPS Stores
For businesses that need more hands-on assistance with their shipping needs, USPS stores are a great option. These locations offer a variety of services, including shipping supplies, package pickup, and more. Plus, USPS staff are available to answer any questions you may have about shipping.
Overall, USPS offers a variety of delivery options for businesses, making it easy to get your packages where they need to go. Whether you prefer to ship online or in person, USPS has a solution that will work for you.
USPS COVID-19 Updates
The United States Postal Service (USPS) has been operating throughout the COVID-19 pandemic with some changes to their services and procedures. Here are some updates on how USPS has been handling the situation:
- USPS has been following the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to ensure the safety of their employees and customers. They have implemented measures such as providing personal protective equipment (PPE) and regularly sanitizing their facilities and equipment.
- Due to the pandemic, USPS has experienced some delays in their delivery times. They have been working to minimize these delays and have provided customers with a tool to track their packages on their website.
- USPS has also made changes to their signature confirmation process to minimize contact between customers and employees. They have temporarily suspended the requirement for a signature on delivery for some packages and are instead using a new process called “USPS Delivery Instructions” that allows customers to provide specific delivery instructions.
- Customers who are concerned about the safety of their mail can take advantage of USPS’s “Informed Delivery” service, which allows them to preview their mail and packages digitally before they arrive. This service is free and available to all customers.
Overall, USPS has been taking the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their employees and customers while still providing their essential services. Customers may experience some delays, but USPS is working to minimize them and keep everyone informed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What days does USPS deliver?
The United States Postal Service delivers mail and packages every day except for Sundays and federal holidays. This means that USPS delivers mail and packages from Monday to Saturday.
Does USPS deliver on Sundays?
USPS does not deliver regular mail or packages on Sundays, with the exception of Priority Mail Express and Amazon packages. However, USPS does offer Sunday delivery for an additional fee in select locations.
What time does mail come in my zip code?
The time of day that mail is delivered in your zip code can vary depending on the volume of mail being delivered and the specific delivery route. Generally, mail delivery begins in the morning and continues throughout the day until all mail is delivered.
When does USPS start delivering?
The time of day that USPS begins delivering mail can vary based on the specific delivery route. In general, mail delivery begins in the morning and continues throughout the day until all mail is delivered.
Does USPS Priority Mail deliver on Sundays?
USPS Priority Mail does not typically deliver on Sundays, except for Priority Mail Express packages. However, USPS does offer Sunday delivery for an additional fee in select locations.
What time of day does USPS usually deliver packages?
The time of day that USPS delivers packages can vary depending on the specific delivery route and the volume of packages being delivered. Generally, packages are delivered during regular mail delivery hours, which can start in the morning and continue throughout the day until all packages are delivered.