There's no doubt the holidays are the most wonderful time of the year for the U.S. Postal Service. The holidays mean sending gifts and cards to family and friends around the world.
To make sure you thoughtful gesture is received in time, you'll want to follow the 2012 recommended holiday shipping and mailing deadlines and tips.
MILITARY MAIL
For our military service members and diplomatic personnel far from home, few things brighten their days more than mail from friends and loved ones. The USPS says it is very important to get the address right and use the service member's full name. Addressing mail to "Any Service Member" is no longer permitted.
USPS APO/FPO/DPO Guidelines and Restrictions.
Before you send a letter or package to one of our troops overseas, make sure you’re aware of certain restrictions. Every country has customs regulations regarding incoming mail.
| Addressed to: | APO/FPO/DPO AE ZIPs 090-092, 094-098, AA ZIP 340 AP ZIPs 962-966 |
| Express mail military service | Dec. 17 |
| First-Class and Priority Mail | Dec. 10 |
| Parcel Airlift Mail (PAL) | Dec. 3 |
| Space Available Mail (SAM) | Nov. 26 |
| Parcel Post Service | Nov. 13 |
Other Important Mailing Deadlines:
- First-class mail service - Dec. 20
- Priority Mail Service - Dec. 21
- Express Mail Service - Dec. 22
- Parcel Post Service - Dec. 14
Click here to go to the USPS Postage Price Calculator site.