WASHINGTON (AP) -- The U.S. Postal Service said the holiday mail crush is here, and has announced what you need to know about this year's key dates.
Postmaster General Patrick Donahoe said one big date to remember this holiday season is December 17th. He said that'll be "the busiest mailing day of the year for holiday cards and packages."
Another important date is December 22nd, the last day to send Express Mail to make sure it gets delivered on Christmas Day.
But Donahoe said there are a lot of services available online, too. For example, you can print your own labels and buy postage online. And when your packages are ready, the postal service will come pick them up for free. Check it out at USPS.com.
Dec. 10 -- Priority and First-Class APO/FPO Military Mail (not Afghanistan)
Dec. 14 -- U.S. Parcel Post (ground) packages
Dec. 17 -- Express Overseas Military Mail
Dec. 10 -- International First-Class and Priority Mail (*)
Dec. 19 -- Global Express Mail (*)
Dec. 20 – Cards and Letters.
Dec. 21 – Priority Mail
Dec. 22 – Express Mail.
