HomeLocalUSPS struggling with ‘historic’ holiday volume; customers should expect delaysUSPS struggling with ‘historic’ holiday volume; customers should expect delaysThu, December 17, 2020 by SylacaugaNews.com Digital TeamSHARE NOW SYLACAUGA, Ala. – The United States Postal Service is experiencing unprecedented volume increases and limited employee availability due to the impact of COVID-19.Due to COVID-19, most individuals have done their Christmas shopping online this year.Online holiday sales in the United States are expected to hit nearly $184 billion this holiday season, which is up 30% from last year.Some deliveries may be delayed this holiday season, however the USPS has nearly 644,000 employees working throughout these unique conditions.2020 Holiday Shipping DeadlinesThe Postal Service recommends the following mailing and shipping deadlines for expected delivery by Dec. 25 to Air/Army Post Office/Fleet Post Office/Diplomatic Post Office and domestic addresses:Dec. 15 — USPS Retail Ground serviceDec. 18 — APO/FPO/DPO (except ZIP Code 093) USPS Priority Mail Express serviceDec. 18 — First-Class Mail service (including greeting cards)Dec. 18 — First-class packages (up to 15.99 ounces)Dec. 19 — Priority Mail serviceDec. 23 — Priority Mail Express* serviceMore holiday postal service information can be found by clicking here.