U.S. international holiday mailing dates approaching
Recent changes to U.S. Postal Service packaging and products will make it even easier — and greener — to send holiday mail to international destinations.
Earlier this year, the Postal Service simplified its international product offerings into four options: Global Express Guaranteed, Express Mail International, Priority Mail International and First-Class Mail International.
The change makes it easy for customers to mail letters and packages worldwide.
Each of the products can be used for either domestic or international mail.
There are no longer separate products for international mailing.
The changes to international products also give customers a little more time to prepare for the holidays. The first recommended mailing date is Dec. 4, for packages to Africa and Central and South America. But international mail can be sent as late as Dec. 19 for arrival by Dec. 25.
“Our customers have more international connections than ever before,” said Anita Bizzotto, chief marketing officer and executive vice president. “We’re giving them quick, easy international mail connections, whether they’re shipping to a business or family and friends. That’s the power of today’s mail.”
International mail products:
• Global Express Guaranteed is the premium international shipping option from the Postal Service, with delivery in one to three business days to more than 190 countries.
• Express Mail International is guaranteed to select destinations, arriving three to five business days to major destinations.
• Priority Mail International is an airmail service that offers reliable and economical means of sending correspondence and merchandise weighing up to 70 pounds.
• First-Class Mail International is the most economical way to mail overseas, replacing Airmail Letter Post and Economy Letter Post for convenience and efficiency.
Using Express Mail International and Priority Mail International also sends a very “green” message around the world. These products received “Cradle to Cradle”SM Certification at the Silver level for human and environmental health, exceeding even the highest standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency.
