From Kiplinger · · 1m 30s
USPS Holiday Shipping Rates Increase
USPS holiday shipping rates rise for 2026-2027 with cost-saving tips.
In brief
USPS holiday shipping rates rise for 2026-2027 with cost-saving tips. USPS temporarily raises holiday shipping rates from October 4, 2026, to January 17, 2027, but planning and comparison can save money. Originally reported by Kiplinger.
USPS Holiday Shipping Rates Increase
USPS temporarily increases holiday shipping rates from October 4, 2026, through January 17, 2027.
Higher Rates for Priority Mail
Priority Mail costs an additional $0.80 for five-pound packages in Zones 1-4, and $2.10 more for Priority Mail Large Flat Rate Boxes.
Steeper Surcharge for Heavy Packages
Priority Mail Express shipments weighing 26 to 70 pounds in Zones 5-9 face a $20.80 surcharge.
Cost-Saving Tip 1: Compare Shipping Options
USPS Ground Advantage delivers slower than Priority Mail but may save money for non-time-sensitive gifts.
Cost-Saving Tip 2: Check Package Size
Larger boxes can trigger extra fees, with packages over 22 inches long or two cubic feet in volume incurring additional charges.
Cost-Saving Tip 3: Avoid Flat Rate Boxes
Standard Priority Mail rates start at $11.50 for small packages, cheaper than medium Flat Rate Boxes at $25.80.
Cost-Saving Tip 4: Compare Carriers
USPS, UPS, and FedEx offer online calculators to compare rates for packages between Chicago and Sevierville.
Cost-Saving Tip 5: Ship Early
USPS recommends shipping by December 17, 2026, for expected delivery before Christmas.
Holiday Shipping Rates End January 17
USPS seasonal price increases end January 17, 2027, but planning can save money year-round.
In short
USPS temporarily raises holiday shipping rates from October 4, 2026, to January 17, 2027, but planning and comparison can save money.
