The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) will temporarily close all post office branches for 24 hours on Monday, October 13, 2023, in observance of Columbus Day. This federal holiday commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in America and is marked by various ceremonies and events across the country. The day will also see the observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, a holiday that honors the history and culture of Native Americans and other indigenous communities.
During this closure, only Priority Mail Express items will continue to be delivered. Regular mail delivery and retail services will resume on Tuesday, October 14, 2023. Customers are encouraged to plan their mailing and shipping needs accordingly, as post offices will not operate on the holiday.
Alternatives Available for Customers
While physical post offices will be closed, USPS offers alternative access to postal services through approximately 2,600 self-service kiosks located in select lobbies nationwide. These kiosks provide various functionalities, including:
– Printing postage for Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, and international shipping
– Purchasing stamps
– Weighing and mailing packages
– Accessing package tracking information
Many of these kiosks are available 24 hours a day, allowing customers to complete essential postal transactions even when traditional post office locations are closed.
For updated holiday hours and to locate nearby self-service kiosks, customers can visit the USPS Postal Locator at tools.usps.com.
Upcoming Postal Holidays
The USPS observes several holidays throughout the year, and the upcoming closures include:
– November 11, 2023 – Veterans Day
– November 27, 2023 – Thanksgiving Day
– December 25, 2023 – Christmas Day
For more information about USPS services and updates, including potential changes to pricing during the holiday season, customers can visit the official USPS website at usps.com.
As the holiday season approaches, it is essential for customers to stay informed about service changes and plan their shipping needs to avoid any disruptions.
