It may seem premature to be already thinking about sending off holiday packages. But just to make sure no ones got unrealistic expectations for getting those gifts into other peoples hands by Hanukkah (December 25 to January 2), Christmas (December 25) or Kwanzaa (December 26 to January 1), the U.S. Postal Service just shared its recommended shipping dates to ensure delivery before December 25. And impressively, it looks like the dates arent that far in advanceif youre using express service, you can even get something in the mail as late as December 21.

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　　Here are the recommended send-by dates for expected delivery before December 25, so long as the addresses are in the lower 48 states:

　　USPS Ground Advantage service: December 18 First-Class Mail service: December 18 Priority Mail service: December 19 Priority Mail Express service: December 21 And if youre sending to Alaska or Hawaii:

　　USPS Ground Advantage service: 16 First-Class Mail service: December 18 Priority Mail service: December 19 Priority Mail Express service: December 20 If youre sending packages internationally or to military addresses, youll need to look at this complete list of recommended holiday mailing and shipping dates. A few examples: sending to Mexico or Europe using first class or priority mail, the deadline is December 9, while sending to any military site has a deadline of November 4 for ground advantage service and December 9 for first class or priority mail.

　　And if youve already made those special purchases, you might consider sending early like maybe even now. We all know those post office lines become longer when we get deeper into December. The postal service says, The earlier you send, the better; dont delaymail and ship today!

　　If you have questions on how to prepare your shipment or need free shipping supplies, click here. That site will also have information on your local post offices location and hours.