Holiday Rush: Usps Carriers Gear up for Record Volume

Increased Demand as the Holidays Approach

As the holiday season draws near, the United States Postal Service (USPS) is preparing for its busiest time of the year. With an expected volume surge, the USPS is set to process an astounding 88 million packages daily in December, a significant increase from the standard 60 million. This spike is attributed to the installation of over 600 new package sorters since 2020, enhancing the USPS’s ability to handle the holiday rush effectively.

Local Heroes: Mail Carriers on the Frontlines

In Albuquerque, mail carriers like Dave Easton are the backbone of this operation. Working out of the Steve Schiff Post Office for over 21 years, Easton delivers upwards of 220 packages a day during the holiday season, a threefold increase from his regular workload. His dedication shines through as he builds personal connections with the community while ensuring timely deliveries.

Community Connections

Residents have come to rely on Easton not just for mail delivery but for his familiarity with the neighborhood. One local noted, “He keeps going no matter what. If your name is right but the number is wrong, he’ll put the proper mail in the proper slot.” Such anecdotes highlight the commitment of USPS carriers to their communities, especially during this hectic time.

Operational Capacity and Workforce Expansion

The surge in holiday mail has prompted USPS to hire approximately 14,000 seasonal employees nationwide, enabling round-the-clock operations to meet demand. For instance, a single post office team can handle between 10,500 to 14,500 packages daily during peak periods, compared to 8,000 in off-peak seasons.

Key Shipping Deadlines

To ensure holiday gifts arrive on time, the USPS has established critical shipping deadlines for 2025. For deliveries in the contiguous U.S., the deadlines are:

• USPS Ground Advantage and First-Class Mail: December 17
• Priority Mail: December 18
• Priority Mail Express: December 20

These deadlines are part of the USPS’s commitment to providing reliable service, even during peak seasons.

Investments in Infrastructure

To further enhance its capabilities, the USPS has opened nearly 200 new facilities over the past four years, including nine Regional Processing & Distribution Centers and 19 Regional Transfer Hubs. In 2025, over 36,000 new delivery vehicles are being deployed, with plans for a total of 66,000 zero-emission electric vehicles to improve operational efficiency and sustainability.

As the USPS gears up for the holiday season, local mail carriers like Easton play a vital role in delivering not just packages, but joy to families across Albuquerque and beyond.