Holiday shipping deadlines 2021: Last day to mail packages for Christmas delivery

2021 holiday shipping deadlines may be as early as Dec. 9
Saturday, November 27, 2021
NEW YORK -- Postal workers who recall packages and letters piled up in distribution hubs a year ago are gearing up for another holiday crush.

The United States Postal Service and private shippers UPS and FedEx are bolstering their hiring -- bringing in nearly a quarter million temporary workers -- to ensure they don't become overwhelmed by packages again.

Here are recommended holiday 2021 shipping deadlines for major shipping companies to help you get your packages in the mail on time.
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United States Postal Service (USPS) 2021 holiday shipping deadlines


For delivery before Dec. 25

  • USPS Retail Ground: Dec. 15
  • First Class Mail: Dec. 17
  • Priority Mail: Dec. 18
  • Priority Mail Express: Dec. 23


Click here for USPS shipping deadlines for mail sent to international and military addresses. USPS also offers a list on its website with tips about how to avoid common holiday shipping mishaps to ensure your packages arrive on time.

MORE: Labor shortage hits Santa supply as workers weigh COVID-19 risks
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UPS holiday 2021 shipping deadlines


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For Dec. 24 delivery
  • UPS Ground: UPS recommends its self-service options for calculating delivery time

  • UPS 3 Day Select: Dec. 21
  • UPS 2nd Day Air: Dec. 22
  • UPS Next Day Air: Dec. 23


Click here for more information about shipping via UPS to international addresses.

FedEx holiday 2021 shipping deadlines


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Recommended last days to ship for delivery by Dec. 25

  • FedEx Ground and Freight Economy: Dec. 9
  • FedEx Home Delivery: Dec. 15
  • FedEx Ground: Dec. 15
  • FedEx Freight Priority and Direct: Dec. 15
  • FedEx Express Saver: Dec. 21
  • FedEx 3Day Freight: Dec. 21
  • 2Day & 2Day AM: Dec. 22
  • FedEx 2Day Freight: Dec. 22
  • FedEx 1Day Freight: Dec. 23
  • FedEx Extra Hours: Dec. 23
  • FedEx SameDay: Dec. 24


Click here for information about FedEx international shipping deadlines.

These recommendations were provided by each company and are subject to change. Please contact shipping companies directly with any questions.
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