USPS Delivery Times Guide 2025
How long does USPS take to deliver? Get accurate delivery time estimates for Priority Mail, Ground Advantage, First-Class, and all other USPS services. Updated for 2025 with current service standards.
USPS Delivery Time Calculator
Enter your ZIP codes below to get personalized delivery estimates for your specific route.
Upcoming USPS Non-Delivery Days:
- Sun, Dec 14 - Sunday - No regular mail delivery
Ready to Calculate
Enter your origin and destination ZIP codes above, then click "Calculate Delivery Time" to see estimated arrival dates for all USPS services.
How Long Does USPS Take to Deliver?
USPS delivery times range from 1-8 business days depending on the service selected. Priority Mail Express delivers in 1-2 days with a guarantee, Priority Mail takes 1-3 days, Ground Advantage delivers in 2-5 days, and First-Class Mail arrives in 1-5 days. Media Mail is the slowest at 2-8 days.
Priority Mail Express
1-2 business daysFastest USPS service with overnight to 2-day delivery and money-back guarantee
Priority Mail
1-3 business daysFast, reliable delivery in 1-3 business days with tracking included
USPS Ground Advantage
2-5 business daysAffordable ground shipping in 2-5 business days for packages up to 70 lbs
First-Class Mail
1-5 business daysEconomical option for lightweight letters and cards in 1-5 business days
How Long Does Priority Mail Express Take?
Priority Mail Express delivers in 1-2 business days with a money-back guarantee. It's the only USPS service with guaranteed delivery dates. Overnight delivery is available to many locations, and it operates 365 days a year including holidays.
Money-Back Guarantee
If USPS misses the guaranteed delivery date, you can request a full refund of postage.
Key features: Overnight delivery to many locations, 365-day delivery including holidays, up to $100 insurance included, and signature confirmation available.
Learn more about Priority Mail ExpressHow Long Does Priority Mail Take?
Priority Mail typically delivers in 1-3 business days. Local shipments often arrive in 1 day, regional deliveries take 2 days, and cross-country shipments arrive in 2-3 days. It includes free tracking, up to $50 insurance, and free USPS boxes and envelopes.
Use our calculator above to get specific estimates for your route based on origin and destination ZIP codes.
Calculate Priority Mail delivery timeHow Long Does USPS Ground Advantage Take?
USPS Ground Advantage delivers in 2-5 business days depending on distance. It replaced USPS Retail Ground and First-Class Package Service in 2023. Ground Advantage includes full tracking, up to $100 insurance, and accepts packages up to 70 lbs at prices 20-30% lower than Priority Mail.
Calculate Ground Advantage delivery timeHow Long Does First-Class Mail Take?
First-Class Mail delivers in 1-5 business days. Local mail often arrives in 1-2 days, while cross-country letters may take 3-5 days. First-Class is the most economical option for letters, postcards, and lightweight items under 13 oz. Standard letters do not include tracking.
Learn about First-Class MailFactors That Affect USPS Delivery Times
Several factors can impact how long USPS takes to deliver your package:
Distance (Shipping Zones)
USPS uses zones 1-8 based on distance. Local deliveries (Zone 1) are fastest, while cross-country shipments (Zone 8) take longer.
Service Type Selected
Express services prioritize speed, while economy options like Media Mail may take longer but cost less.
Day of the Week
Packages shipped early in the week often arrive faster. Friday shipments may not process until Monday.
Weather and Holidays
Severe weather and holiday periods (especially November-December) can cause delays across all services.
Address Accuracy
Incorrect or incomplete addresses cause delays while USPS attempts to correct delivery information.
USPS Service Comparison
Compare delivery times, tracking, and insurance across all USPS services:
| Service | Delivery Time | Tracking |
|---|---|---|
Express | 1-2 days | |
Priority | 1-3 days | |
Ground | 2-5 days | |
FC Package | 2-5 days | |
Media | 2-8 days |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does USPS Priority Mail take to deliver?
USPS Priority Mail typically delivers in 1-3 business days. Local shipments often arrive in 1 day, while cross-country shipments usually take 2-3 business days. Priority Mail includes tracking and up to $50 insurance.
What is the fastest USPS shipping option?
Priority Mail Express is the fastest USPS service, delivering in 1-2 business days with a money-back guarantee. It includes overnight delivery to many locations and 365-day delivery including holidays.
How long does USPS Ground Advantage take?
USPS Ground Advantage delivers in 2-5 business days depending on distance. It replaced Retail Ground and First-Class Package Service, offering tracking and $100 insurance for packages up to 70 lbs.
Does USPS deliver on weekends?
USPS delivers packages on Saturdays as part of regular service. Priority Mail Express offers Sunday delivery in many areas. Standard mail (letters) is delivered Monday through Saturday only.
Why is my USPS package taking so long?
Common reasons for USPS delays include: weather conditions, high volume periods (holidays), incorrect addresses, customs processing for international mail, and distance between origin and destination. Use our calculator to get realistic delivery estimates.