US: 2025 Holiday Shipping Deadlines for UPS, USPS, and FedEx

Jump to deadlines for: Canada | United Kingdom | Australia

The peak season holiday shipping rush is here. Depending on the carrier you choose and which service you select, you may need to ship orders much sooner. We’ve created a list of every shipping deadline you need to know to ensure your gifts arrive on time for Christmas.

Here are your deadlines for UPS, USPS, and FedEx:

U.S. Domestic Shipping Deadlines

UPS®

• UPS 3 Day Select®: December 19, 2025
• UPS 2nd Day Air®: December 22, 2025
• UPS® Ground: Check ups.com/ctc (varies by origin/destination)
• UPS® Ground Saver: Check ups.com/ctc (varies by origin/destination)
• UPS Next Day Air®: December 23, 2025 

USPS®

In addition to these dates, the USPS announced that it will resume a rate increase for some package services from October 5, 2025, to January 18, 2026. Peak price changes and surcharges are normal this time of year for all major carriers. This helps them handle the increased package volume during the holiday season and ensures they can maintain their service standards. ShipStation users may be able to offset temporary rate increases by accessing rates lower than those offered to the public.  

• USPS Ground Advantage™: December 17, 2025  
• First-Class Mail®: December 17, 2025  
• Priority Mail®: December 18, 2025
• Priority Mail Express®*: December 20, 2025 

Saturday delivery matters for last minute shoppers

With Christmas falling on a Thursday this year, Saturday delivery may be utilized for some express, day-definite services. Therefore, 2-day and next-day services will incur an additional charge for the specified Saturday delivery option offered by the carriers. 

International Shipping Deadlines

UPS®

Shipments to Canada and Mexico:

• UPS® Standard: Check ups.com/ctc for details

GlobalPost

For shipments from the United States, here are GlobalPost’s shipping deadlines:

DHL Express

• DHL Express Worldwide: December 18, 2025

FedEx

Shipments to Canada and Mexico:

• FedEx® International Connect Plus: December 18, 2025

USPS®

Shipments to Canada, Europe, Mexico, and Australia/New Zealand:

• USPS First-Class Package International Service®: December 9, 2025
• USPS Priority Mail International® Service: December 9, 2025
• USPS Priority Mail Express International® Service: December 16, 2025

How ShipStation makes holiday shipping more efficient

Find the best holiday shipping services

ShipStation provides discounted shipping rates for multiple carriers, including USPS, UPS, DHL, and GlobalPost. This allows you to save up to 87% on shipping costs and compare different rates and delivery times to choose the best option for each shipment. With ShipStation, you can find the right shipping service for any of your parcels—whether it’s the holidays or not. With ShipStation, you can save up to 87% on shipping labels on the services you need for holiday shoppers!

*Discounts off UPS daily rates. Rates are limited to shipping from the U.S. only. Rates and any applicable discounts are subject to change at any time without notice.

Streamline your holiday shipping with ShipStation

ShipStation makes it easy to import your orders from different selling channels, batch print labels, automate processes, and access all your carriers and integrations from one place. Learn more about ShipStation to better prepare your operations for the holiday rush. 

Batch Shipping: ShipStation allows you to process and print up to 500 shipping labels at once, saving time and reducing manual effort.

Customized Automated Shipping Rules: You can set up shipping rules based on specific criteria, such as destination, weight, or order value. ShipStation then automatically applies the rules such as shipping methods and options for each order.

Shipping Rate Calculator: ShipStation provides real-time shipping rate calculations, allowing you to pay the best shipping rate for your shipments.

Returns Management: ShipStation provides tools to streamline the returns process, making it easier for customers to initiate returns and for businesses to manage return shipments.

Mobile App: ShipStation offers a mobile app, allowing you to manage shipments and track orders on the go.

Inventory Sync: Eliminate the need for manual inventory updates across Amazon, BigCommerce, eBay, Etsy, Shopify, and Walmart.

Tips to ensure timely holiday shipping

To navigate the holiday shipping landscape successfully, here are some actionable tips that can help guarantee your packages arrive on time.

Choosing the right shipping service

Selecting the appropriate shipping service is critical. Each company offers different options, costs, and services, so choosing one that fits your needs is essential. For example, if you need a package to arrive quickly, opting for express services is ideal, although it may come at a premium.

Review different carriers to understand their offerings better. Factors to consider include service reliability, estimated delivery times, and customer reviews. Always check if the service you choose has specific holiday policies or guarantees on delivery times. Additionally, consider using shipping calculators available on carrier websites to compare costs and delivery speeds, which can help you make a more informed decision. Some carriers even offer discounts for bulk shipping during the holiday season, so it’s worth exploring those options if you have multiple packages to send.

Packaging tips for safe and secure delivery

Proper packaging reduces the risk of damage during transit, ensuring that your holiday gifts arrive in good condition. Here are some packaging tips:

1. Select sturdy packaging materials suitable for the item being shipped.
2. Use padding, such as bubble wrap or packing paper, to protect fragile items.
3. Securely seal all items using quality tape to prevent any accidental openings.
4. Clearly label your packages with accurate addresses and, when needed, include return addresses.

Taking time to package properly and clearly label each item can save potential headaches later on. Furthermore, consider the environmental impact of your packaging choices. Opt for recyclable or biodegradable materials whenever possible, as this not only helps reduce waste but also appeals to eco-conscious recipients. Additionally, using a box that is the right size for your items minimizes movement during transit, further protecting your gifts. If you’re shipping internationally, be sure to familiarize yourself with customs regulations and any additional documentation that may be required to avoid delays at the border.

Dealing with potential holiday shipping delays

Even with careful planning, shipping delays can occur. Understanding potential causes can help prepare for these challenges.

Understanding common causes of shipping delays

Shipping delays can stem from various factors, including:

• Increased volume during peak holiday season.
• Inclement weather conditions affecting delivery routes.
• Customs issues when shipping internationally.
• Address errors or incomplete information provided during shipping.

Being aware of these potential issues allows you to take proactive steps, such as tracking packages and allowing extra time in your shipping schedule. Additionally, it can be beneficial to stay informed about the shipping policies of your chosen carrier, as they may have specific guidelines or recommendations for mitigating delays. For instance, some carriers offer expedited shipping options that can help ensure your package arrives on time, even during busy periods.

How to handle late shipments

If you find yourself facing a late shipment, the first step is to stay calm. Most delivery services provide tracking options that can help provide visibility on your package’s current status.

In many cases, contacting customer service for your carrier can provide clarity and next steps. If the package is confirmed lost, inquire about compensation or re-shipping options. In the meantime, consider sending a digital gift card or a personalized e-message to let the recipient know you care, even if the package is delayed. It’s also a good idea to keep your recipient informed about the situation; transparency can help manage expectations and maintain trust. Furthermore, if you frequently ship items, consider building a buffer into your timelines for important deliveries, allowing for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise.

Frequently Asked Questions about Holiday Shipping and Shipping Deadlines

If you have additional questions regarding holiday shipping, you’ve come to the right place. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions.

What to do if your package is lost?

If your package is lost, start by checking your tracking information for any updates. Often, packages may be delayed rather than lost entirely.

If there are no updates after several days, contact your shipping carrier’s customer service for further assistance. They may offer a claim process if they determine that the package is indeed lost. Be prepared with shipment details, including tracking numbers and proof of value, for any claims you intend to submit.

Can you ship packages on holidays?

Shipping on holidays varies by carrier. Most shipping services do not operate on major holidays, so planning your shipments accordingly is vital.

Always check with your specific shipping provider for their holiday schedule and any designated cut-off times surrounding the holidays to avoid any complications in your shipping plans. Being aware of these limitations can help you stay ahead during the busy holiday season.

Sarah Tyler

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