# USPS Holiday Shipping Rates Increase

> USPS holiday shipping rates rise for 2026-2027 with cost-saving tips.
- Title: USPS Holiday Shipping Rates Increase · Kiplinger | Shortify
- Summary: 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…
- Keywords: usps, holiday shipping, priority mail, ground advantage, shipping rates, 2026, 2027, cost saving, package shipping, shipping costs, Holiday, Shipping
- Source: Kiplinger — https://kiplinger.com/personal-finance/online-shopping/usps-holiday-shipping-rates-are-up-how-to-save
- Published: 2026-10-09T18:26:52+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: usps, holiday shipping, priority mail, ground advantage, shipping rates, 2026, 2027, cost saving, package shipping, shipping costs
## 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.
## Key takeaway

USPS temporarily raises holiday shipping rates from October 4, 2026, to January 17, 2027, but planning and comparison can save money.