The week before Christmas is always the busiest time for mailing, shipping and delivering packages, but this year, the U.S. Postal Service is working harder than ever. Postal Service manager Marci Luna says online shopping has made 2017 the busiest delivery season ever.
"We're projecting approximated 10 percent higher volume, specifically packages. We're looking at just processing this week alone, about 850 million packages."
If you want your Christmas cards to make it before the holiday, the recommended mail by date is this Tuesday (the 19th). Priority mail packages should be in the mail no later than Wednesday the 20th. Luna says people can skip the long lines at the post office by going online and printing package labels on their website.
Self-service kiosks are also available at post offices located around the Southland. You can use those to purchase stamps and mail packages without needing to stand in line.
Postal carriers will be working around the clock this holiday season. Officials with the USPS say they're asking homeowners to leave their lights on and make sure animals are restrained.
Here are some more common postal deadlines if you want your packages and cards to arrive before the 25th:
Tuesday, Dec 19th: Ship First Class mail - including cards - via U.S. Postal Service
Wednesday, Dec 20th: Ship with U.S. Postal Service Priority Mail. UPS requires 2nd Day Air.
Thursday, Dec 21st: Ship UPS Next Day Air to ensure delivery before Christmas Day.
Friday, Dec 22nd: Ship with U.S. Postal Service Priority Mail Express Service for delivery by Christmas.
Sunday, Dec. 24: Sorry, it's too late. No U.S. Postal Service deliveries or blue-box pickups are scheduled.
Photo: Getty Images