USPS 2024 Holiday Schedule: What You Need to Know
Navigating Postal Services During National Holidays
As the United States Postal Service (USPS) announces its holiday schedule for the year 2024, customers are advised to plan their mailing and shipping activities around these key dates to ensure timely delivery and avoid inconveniences. The USPS will observe the following holidays, during which post offices will be closed and regular mail delivery services will be paused:
- Monday, January 1 - New Year's Day
- Monday, January 15 - Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday
- Monday, February 19 - Presidents’ Day
- Monday, May 27 - Memorial Day
- Wednesday, June 19 - Juneteenth National Independence Day
- Thursday, July 4 - Independence Day
- Monday, September 2 - Labor Day
- Monday, October 14 - Columbus Day
- Monday, November 11 - Veterans Day
- Thursday, November 28 - Thanksgiving Day
- Wednesday, December 25 - Christmas Day
During these federal holidays, all USPS-operated post offices will not offer regular mail delivery, package shipping, or customer service operations. However, the USPS has made provisions to accommodate customers needing access to their Post Office Boxes. Post office lobbies will remain open to ensure that individuals can access their PO Boxes even on these holidays.
The announcement aims to help customers plan their postal needs ahead of time, especially during the holiday seasons when there is a significant increase in mail and package volume. "Understanding the USPS holiday schedule is crucial for both personal and business planning," said a USPS spokesperson. "We encourage everyone to take note of these dates to help ensure that their important parcels and communications are not delayed."
For those looking to send mail or packages on these holidays, the USPS recommends using their Self-Service Kiosks available at select locations or their online services, which remain operational 24/7 for purchasing postage and managing shipments. Additionally, Priority Mail Express service will continue to operate 365 days a year, offering an option for urgent deliveries, even on holidays.
Customers often inquire about the best ways to send mail around the holidays. The USPS advises mailing items as early as possible to account for the increased volume and potential delays. For critical deadlines, particularly in December, using Priority Mail or Priority Mail Express can provide more reliable delivery times.
Furthermore, the USPS website offers comprehensive resources for tracking packages, scheduling pickups, and finding specific post office hours, including holiday hours. Customers are encouraged to check these details as they plan their visits or shipments.
As the 2024 holiday season approaches, the USPS remains committed to providing timely and efficient service while recognizing the importance of these national holidays. Customers are encouraged to use the available tools and services to ensure their mailing needs are met, despite the holiday closures.