Does USPS deliver packages on Sundays? What’s Changed Recently
Yes, USPS does deliver packages on Sundays, but only under certain conditions. The U.S. Postal Service mainly delivers Priority Mail Express and some Amazon packages on Sundays, while regular mail and most standard services are not delivered. Recent changes in 2024–2025 have slightly adjusted delivery availability, depending on location, demand, and agreements with retailers.
This guide will explain exactly which packages you can expect on Sundays, the reasons behind USPS’s delivery policies, and what has changed in recent years.
Why Sunday Delivery Matters Today
The demand for faster shipping has grown massively with the rise of online shopping. Amazon, Walmart, and e-commerce stores have made two-day and even same-day shipping a standard expectation. USPS has partnered with some retailers and adjusted its services to meet that demand.
Unlike decades ago when Sunday meant a postal holiday, USPS now recognizes that customers want their packages as quickly as possible—even on weekends.
What USPS Delivers on Sundays
Not all mail is delivered on Sundays. Here’s what typically qualifies:
1. Priority Mail Express
- This is the only guaranteed USPS service that delivers 365 days a year, including Sundays and holidays.
- Customers pay a premium for overnight or next-day delivery.
- Tracking updates clearly show Sunday movement when applicable.
2. Amazon Packages
- USPS has a long-standing partnership with Amazon.
- Many Prime orders are delivered on Sundays in metro areas.
- Rural areas may have limited or no Sunday coverage.
3. Select High-Volume Packages
- During the holiday season (November–December), USPS often delivers additional package types on Sundays due to increased demand.
What USPS Does Not Deliver on Sundays
- First-Class Mail (letters, postcards, bills)
- Standard Mail (flyers, advertisements)
- Periodicals (magazines, newspapers, journals)
- Most regular packages unless tied to Priority Mail Express or Amazon
This means if you’re expecting regular mail, it will not arrive on Sunday.
Recent Changes to USPS Sunday Delivery
Over the last few years, USPS has made adjustments due to cost, demand, and logistics. Here’s what’s new:
1. Increased Sunday Coverage for Amazon (2023–2025)
- USPS expanded its Amazon delivery network in urban regions.
- More ZIP codes are now eligible for Sunday delivery.
2. Holiday Expansion
- USPS now begins Sunday holiday deliveries earlier, sometimes as soon as mid-November, to handle peak e-commerce shipping.
3. Staffing Adjustments
- USPS has faced staffing shortages but has reallocated employees to handle growing package demand on weekends.
4. Service Pricing
- Priority Mail Express prices increased slightly in 2024, but the Sunday guarantee remains intact.
Why USPS Doesn’t Deliver All Mail on Sundays
While customers may wish for 7-day service across all mail types, there are key reasons USPS limits Sunday operations:
- Cost: Delivering nationwide on Sundays would require massive staffing and transportation expenses.
- Low Demand for Letters: Most people want packages, not paper mail, on Sundays.
- Competition: UPS and FedEx also limit their Sunday services, except for certain express shipments.
USPS balances affordability and efficiency by focusing only on high-value, urgent, or partner-driven deliveries.
How to Know if Your Package Will Arrive on Sunday
To check if your USPS package may arrive on a Sunday:
- Look at the Service Type – If it’s Priority Mail Express, it will likely arrive.
- Check Tracking Updates – USPS tracking will often display “Out for Delivery” even on Sunday morning.
- Confirm Retailer Shipping Options – Amazon explicitly tells customers if Sunday delivery is available at checkout.
- Consider Your Location – Large cities are far more likely to receive Sunday service compared to rural towns.
USPS vs. UPS vs. FedEx Sunday Delivery
To understand USPS’s policy better, let’s compare with other major carriers:
- UPS: Offers limited Sunday delivery but mainly for large retailers.
- FedEx: FedEx Home Delivery covers Sundays, but not all areas.
- USPS: Focuses on Amazon, Priority Express, and seasonal demand.
This makes USPS one of the more widely available options for weekend deliveries, especially since they already visit nearly every household daily.
Common Questions About USPS Sunday Delivery
Does USPS charge extra for Sunday delivery?
- No additional fee for Amazon orders (it’s covered by Amazon).
- Yes, Priority Mail Express is more expensive but always includes Sunday.
Does USPS deliver to PO boxes on Sundays?
- Yes, but only if your package qualifies (Priority Express or Amazon).
Can I request Sunday delivery for regular Priority Mail?
- No, only Priority Express guarantees Sunday.
Does USPS deliver on Sunday holidays?
- Yes, Priority Mail Express delivers even on Christmas Day.
What This Means for Customers
For most people, USPS Sunday delivery is good news—your urgent packages don’t have to wait until Monday. However, don’t expect letters, bills, or general shipments to show up on Sunday unless they’re sent through the right service.
If you shop frequently on Amazon or use Priority Express, you’ll benefit most from USPS’s Sunday operations.
Final Thoughts
So, does USPS deliver packages on Sundays?
Yes – but only Priority Mail Express and select Amazon packages qualify. Regular mail and most packages wait until Monday.
The good news is that USPS continues to expand Sunday coverage in response to online shopping growth. Whether you’re tracking an Amazon Prime order or sending an urgent document, USPS Sunday delivery ensures faster service than ever before.
