USPS says this is when you need to ship out holiday packages

The fall season may have just started, but the United States Postal Service is already recommending the best days to mail holiday packages.

The USPS on Sept. 22 shared a list of the best dates to send packages from the 50 states, Puerto Rico and U.S. territories. The dates range between Dec. 16 for Ground Advantage service and Dec. 19 for Priority Mail Express, which promises one- to three-day delivery.

The USPS will share its complete holiday shipping guidelines, including a list of suggested shipping dates for military and international addresses, in mid-October, according to a news release.

In the meantime, here’s a look at the guidance.

When to ship holiday packages for lower 48 states

Here’s a look at when people in the lower 48 states (all states excluding Alaska and Hawaii) should get packages out in time for Christmas:

USPS Ground Advantage service: Dec. 17
First-Class Mail: Dec. 17
Priority Mail Express: Dec. 19

When to ship holiday packages for Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and US territories

Here’s a look at when people in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and US territories should get packages out in time for Christmas:

USPS Ground Advantage service: Dec. 16
First-Class Mail: Dec. 17
Priority Mail Express: Dec. 19

Did you know you can get free shipping materials from the USPS?

The USPS offers a wide variety of free shipping supplies, including padded envelopes, cardboard boxes and shipping labels when a customer sends a package via Priority Mail, according to the USPS website. These items can be ordered on the USPS website or are available at local post offices.

Greta Cross is a national trending reporter at USA TODAY. Story idea? Email her at gcross@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: USPS says this is when you need to ship out holiday packages

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