NORTHERN CALIFORNIA – The Postal Service is reminding its customers that Post Offices nationwide will be open Christmas Eve, Tuesday, Dec. 24, and New Year’s Eve, Tuesday, Dec. 31.

However, most Post Offices will shorten retail lobby hours and close at noon on these dates.

Regular mail delivery will be unaffected by the change.

Revised hours will be posted at each Post Office and commercial customers are asked to check with their business mail entry units for specific information regarding holiday hours of operation.

Blue collection boxes having final collection times before 12 p.m. will not be affected by these changes. However, collection boxes with final collection times scheduled after that may be collected early.

Therefore, mail should be deposited into these mailboxes by 12 p.m. for early pickup Dec. 24 and Dec. 31.

Customers requiring postal services later on those days are encouraged to contact their local Post Office. Customers also may call 1.800.ASK.USPS for additional information.

Post Offices will be closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. Only Priority Mail Express will be delivered on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

All Post Offices will be open and regular mail delivery will resume Dec. 26 and Jan. 2.

The Postal Service is also reminding customers that if they are planning to ship or mail any holiday items that the deadlines for doing so are rapidly approaching.

The key shipping dates for Dec. 25 arrival are:

• Dec. 20 – First-Class Mail (mail with stamps such as holiday cards);
• Dec. 21 – Priority Mail;
• Dec. 23 – Priority Mail Express.