Many people rely on the United States Postal Service (USPS) for timely delivery of important documents, online orders, and personal correspondence. While Monday through Saturday deliveries are expected, one common question remains: Does USPS deliver on Sundays?
In this guide, we’ll explore USPS’s weekend operations in detail. You’ll learn which services are eligible for Sunday delivery, how it works, what areas are covered, and how it compares to other carriers. Whether you’re a small business owner, online shopper, or someone expecting a critical package, this article answers every question you might have about USPS Sunday delivery.
What Is USPS and How Does It Handle Delivery Schedules?
The United States Postal Service (USPS) is an independent agency of the U.S. federal government, responsible for delivering mail and packages across the country. USPS operates six days a week, with limited services available on Sundays.
Standard USPS Delivery Schedule
| Day | Delivery Status |
|---|---|
| Monday | Regular Delivery |
| Tuesday | Regular Delivery |
| Wednesday | Regular Delivery |
| Thursday | Regular Delivery |
| Friday | Regular Delivery |
| Saturday | Regular Delivery |
| Sunday | Limited Delivery (select packages only) |
- USPS does not deliver regular First-Class Mail or standard letters on Sundays.
- Certain premium package services, however, are eligible for Sunday delivery.
Does USPS Deliver on Sundays?
Short Answer: Yes, but only for specific services.
While most USPS services do not operate on Sundays, USPS does deliver on Sundays through two primary services:
- Priority Mail Express
- Amazon Package Deliveries
These are time-sensitive or contractual services that require USPS to operate seven days a week in some areas.
Which USPS Services Are Eligible for Sunday Delivery?
Let’s break down the USPS offerings that include Sunday delivery:
1. Priority Mail Express
- USPS’s fastest service, available 365 days a year (including Sundays and holidays)
- Offers overnight delivery to most U.S. addresses
- Includes money-back guarantee
- Flat rate and weight-based options available
Cost: Starts at around $28.75 (as of 2025)
2. Amazon Sunday Delivery (Contracted Service)
- USPS has a partnership with Amazon to deliver packages 7 days a week, including Sundays
- This service is only available in eligible metro and suburban areas
- Delivery windows are often from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., depending on location
Note: Not all USPS packages from Amazon are delivered by USPS on Sunday—some are handled by Amazon’s own logistics or third-party services.
Where Is USPS Sunday Delivery Available?
Sunday delivery by USPS is not universal—it’s primarily available in densely populated urban areas and certain suburbs. The availability depends on:
- Volume of packages
- Distance from USPS distribution centers
- Demand from Amazon or Priority Mail Express usage
Areas Likely to Receive USPS Sunday Delivery
| Region Type | Availability |
|---|---|
| Major Metro Cities | High |
| Suburban Areas | Moderate |
| Rural Areas | Limited/None |
Examples of cities with USPS Sunday delivery:
- New York City, NY
- Los Angeles, CA
- Chicago, IL
- Houston, TX
- Miami, FL
- Atlanta, GA
These cities have high e-commerce demand, particularly from Amazon, which influences USPS to expand Sunday delivery services in those regions.
How to Know If Your USPS Package Will Arrive on Sunday
Want to check if your package is scheduled for Sunday delivery? Here’s how:
1. Track Your Package
Visit the USPS Tracking Page and enter your tracking number. Look for any of the following indicators:
- “Out for Delivery” on Sunday morning
- “Expected Delivery Day: Sunday”
- Delivery status updates between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m.
2. Check the Shipping Service Used
- If the sender used Priority Mail Express, it may be eligible.
- If your order is from Amazon, it might be scheduled for Sunday delivery via USPS.
- Regular First-Class Mail, Media Mail, and Retail Ground are not delivered on Sundays.
3. Contact USPS or the Sender
If your tracking status is unclear, call USPS customer service or reach out to the sender for confirmation.
USPS Sunday Delivery vs. Other Carriers
Understanding how USPS stacks up against competitors like UPS, FedEx, and Amazon on Sunday delivery can help you choose the right service based on cost, reliability, and delivery time.
1. USPS
- Sunday Delivery: Limited to Amazon and Priority Mail Express
- Time Window: Usually between 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- Cost: Included with Priority Mail Express; varies with Amazon contracts
- Coverage: Available in select urban and suburban areas
2. UPS
- Sunday Delivery: Only available with UPS SurePost (in partnership with USPS)
- Direct Sunday Service: Not offered independently
- Best For: Non-urgent residential deliveries
3. FedEx
- FedEx Home Delivery offers seven-day service, including Sundays
- More widespread Sunday coverage than USPS
- Ideal for business-to-consumer (B2C) shipments
4. Amazon
- Offers dedicated Sunday delivery in partnership with USPS and Amazon Logistics
- High Sunday reliability
- Free with Amazon Prime
| Carrier | Sunday Delivery | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| USPS | Yes (limited) | Varies | Amazon + Priority Express only |
| FedEx | Yes | Varies | Broad coverage |
| UPS | No (via USPS) | Varies | Not direct UPS service |
| Amazon | Yes | Often Free | With Amazon Prime or qualifying order |
Conclusion: USPS is not the most comprehensive Sunday carrier—but it’s a cost-effective option for select services, especially for Amazon customers.
How Much Does USPS Sunday Delivery Cost?
The cost of USPS Sunday delivery depends entirely on the service used.
1. Priority Mail Express
- Base Price: Starts around $28.75
- Includes: Sunday/Holiday delivery at no extra charge
- Overnight guaranteed delivery even on weekends
2. Amazon Sunday Deliveries via USPS
- No additional charge for customers
- Costs covered by Amazon
- Often included with Amazon Prime memberships
3. Other USPS Mail Classes
- First-Class Mail, Retail Ground, and Media Mail do not qualify for Sunday delivery.
- There’s no upgrade option to force Sunday delivery unless converted to Priority Mail Express.
Example Price Chart (As of 2025)
| USPS Service | Sunday Eligible | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Priority Mail Express | Yes | $28.75+ |
| Amazon Sunday Delivery | Yes | Free to Customer |
| First-Class Mail | No | $0.66+ |
| USPS Ground Advantage | No | $5.00+ |
Note: Pricing depends on weight, zone, and delivery speed.
Tracking and Delivery Hours for USPS Sunday Service
One of the most common concerns among customers is whether they can track USPS Sunday deliveries and when they should expect their packages to arrive.
Can You Track USPS Packages on Sundays?
Yes, USPS package tracking is fully active on Sundays. If your package qualifies for Sunday delivery—such as Amazon packages or Priority Mail Express—you can:
- Use the USPS tracking number at tools.usps.com
- Track updates through the USPS Mobile App
- Receive real-time delivery notifications (if opted-in)
- Check “Out for Delivery” and “Delivered” statuses even on Sunday mornings
Example tracking status updates you might see on a Sunday:
- “Out for Delivery” – Package is on its way
- “Delivered, In/At Mailbox” – Package successfully delivered
- “Available for Pickup” – Item at local post office (if undeliverable)
USPS Sunday Delivery Hours
Sunday delivery windows are typically limited to daytime hours, though it may vary slightly based on location and package volume.
| Service Type | Typical Delivery Window |
|---|---|
| Priority Mail Express | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Amazon via USPS | 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
Tip: In metro areas or during holidays, packages might arrive slightly earlier or later depending on local logistics.
Holiday Overlap and Sunday
On weekends that coincide with federal holidays, Sunday delivery may still proceed if:
- It’s Priority Mail Express
- It’s an Amazon shipment
- Delivery area is part of USPS’s Sunday route coverage
Common Misconceptions About USPS Sunday Delivery
There are many myths around USPS Sunday delivery. Let’s break down the most frequent ones to avoid confusion:
1. USPS Delivers All Mail on Sundays
Incorrect.
Only Priority Mail Express and certain Amazon packages are delivered on Sundays. Regular mail (First-Class letters, postcards, etc.) is not delivered on weekends.
2. You Can Pay Extra for Sunday Delivery on Any Package
Not true.
You cannot simply “add” Sunday delivery. It must be built into the service—only Priority Mail Express includes it by default.
3. All Areas Get USPS Sunday Delivery
False.
Only select ZIP codes and metro areas have Sunday coverage. Rural or remote areas may not be eligible, even with Priority Mail Express.
4. USPS Employees Don’t Work Sundays
Outdated.
USPS hires special Sunday delivery staff and contracts workers through Amazon Logistics to fulfill Sunday commitments. Many distribution centers operate 7 days a week.
5. Tracking Doesn’t Update on Sundays
Wrong again.
USPS tracking systems update in real time, even on weekends. You may not see full detail early in the day, but scan events like “out for delivery” will still appear.
When Should You Use USPS Sunday Delivery?
Sunday delivery is a premium service. While it’s not for every package, there are specific situations where using it is not only helpful—it’s essential. Understanding when to take advantage of this offering can help you plan smarter and get better service from USPS.
1. Urgent or Time-Sensitive Shipments
If you’re mailing something that must arrive on time, even over the weekend, Priority Mail Express is ideal.
Examples include:
- Legal documents
- Medical supplies or prescriptions
- Time-sensitive contracts
- Perishable items (if packed properly)
Case Study Example:
A law firm in Dallas used Priority Mail Express to overnight a notarized contract that had to be signed by Monday morning. USPS delivered it Sunday at 11:30 AM, well within the guarantee.
2. Holiday and Peak Shopping Seasons
During Christmas, Black Friday, or Prime Day, USPS adds capacity on Sundays to handle the massive spike in online orders, especially for Amazon customers.
If you’re ordering gifts, gadgets, or other items around these times, Sunday delivery can reduce delays and improve reliability.
3. Amazon Prime Deliveries
Amazon leverages USPS to meet its 1–2 day Prime delivery promise—even on Sundays. If you’re an Amazon Prime customer and live in a Sunday service area:
- Your order might show a “Sunday Delivery” date
- USPS will handle last-mile delivery on Amazon’s behalf
Fun Fact: Amazon started this partnership with USPS in 2013, and it has since expanded to cover thousands of ZIP codes across the U.S.
4. Metro and Urban Areas with High Volume
If you’re in a city like Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, or Houston, USPS Sunday service is much more likely. These regions see high volume, and Sunday delivery helps:
- Reduce weekday backlog
- Speed up critical deliveries
- Keep Amazon’s SLAs (Service Level Agreements)
How to Ensure Your Package Qualifies for Sunday Delivery
Not every package automatically qualifies for Sunday delivery by USPS. If getting a package delivered on a Sunday is critical, you’ll need to meet certain conditions and take proactive steps. Here’s how to increase the chances your package will arrive on a Sunday:
1. Use USPS Priority Mail Express
The only USPS service that officially guarantees Sunday delivery is Priority Mail Express. This is USPS’s fastest domestic service with overnight delivery to most locations, 365 days a year.
Checklist to Qualify for Sunday Delivery:
- Drop off the package before the local cut-off time (usually late afternoon on Saturday)
- Ensure it’s labeled “Priority Mail Express”
- Choose “Sunday/Holiday Delivery” when purchasing postage (this is a separate option)
2. Ship Through Amazon (for Buyers and Sellers)
If you’re buying from Amazon, USPS may deliver your order on Sunday automatically, especially if:
- You’re an Amazon Prime member
- The item is Fulfilled by Amazon
- You live in a high-density zip code with USPS-Amazon partnership
If you’re a seller on Amazon:
- Enroll in Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) to access Sunday delivery
- Ensure inventory is stocked in warehouses close to buyers
3. Ship to Eligible ZIP Codes
Sunday delivery is not available everywhere. USPS focuses Sunday service on major cities and metro areas. Use the USPS ZIP Code Lookup Tool to check if your recipient’s ZIP code falls within the delivery zone.
Examples of USPS Sunday delivery ZIP codes:
| City | Sample ZIP Codes |
|---|---|
| New York, NY | 10001, 10002, 10003 |
| Los Angeles, CA | 90001, 90012, 90045 |
| Houston, TX | 77001, 77002, 77003 |
| Chicago, IL | 60601, 60611, 60614 |
4. Track and Confirm
Always use tracking to confirm the delivery day. If your package is eligible, tracking will reflect a Sunday delivery estimate.
What Time Does USPS Deliver on Sundays?
Sunday delivery times are not fixed, but USPS typically follows patterns based on volume, route, and staffing. Understanding when you can expect a package helps avoid unnecessary waiting and improves planning—especially if you’re receiving time-sensitive items.
USPS Sunday Delivery Hours
- Typical Range: Between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM
- Peak Timeframe: Most packages are delivered between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM
- Exceptions: In some cases, especially during the holiday season, deliveries may occur as late as 8:00 PM
USPS does not guarantee an exact delivery window for Sunday service unless it’s Priority Mail Express, which comes with a time-specific guarantee (often by 10:30 AM or 12:00 PM, depending on the ZIP code).
What Affects Delivery Time on Sundays?
Several factors influence the exact timing:
- Package volume: Higher volumes mean later deliveries
- Delivery address: Urban areas typically get earlier service than rural locations
- Weather and traffic: Delays may occur due to local conditions
- Carrier routes: Sunday routes may differ from weekday ones
Quote from USPS Customer Service:
“Sunday deliveries are handled based on local availability and volume. Priority Mail Express gets first priority, followed by packages from major shippers like Amazon.”
Tips to Track Sunday Deliveries
- Use USPS Tracking or the Informed Delivery dashboard to monitor progress
- If you’re an Amazon customer, their app shows “Out for Delivery” alerts that are often more detailed
- Sign up for text or email alerts for real-time updates
Can You Receive Regular Mail on Sundays?
The short answer is: No, USPS does not deliver regular mail on Sundays. The service is strictly limited to specific packages.
What USPS Does Not Deliver on Sundays
- First-Class letters
- Marketing mail and flyers
- Standard packages (Media Mail, Retail Ground, etc.)
- Letters with insufficient postage
What USPS Does Deliver on Sundays
| Type of Mail | Sunday Delivery? |
|---|---|
| Priority Mail Express | Yes |
| Amazon packages (select) | Yes |
| First-Class Mail | No |
| Standard Letters & Flyers | No |
This distinction is crucial for businesses and individuals relying on traditional mail services—only packages shipped with expedited services are considered for Sunday delivery.
Is USPS Sunday Delivery Available in All Areas?
No, USPS Sunday delivery is not available in all areas across the United States. Delivery coverage on Sundays depends on multiple factors including location, shipping method, and agreements with third-party partners like Amazon.
Key Factors That Determine Sunday Delivery Availability
- Population Density:
- Urban areas and major metropolitan cities are more likely to receive Sunday delivery due to higher package volumes.
- Rural and remote locations may not have Sunday delivery service at all.
- Amazon Logistics Contracts:
- Amazon has a contract with USPS to deliver packages on Sundays in select ZIP codes.
- These ZIP codes change depending on demand and regional shipping infrastructure.
- Local USPS Distribution Centers:
- Availability also depends on whether the nearest USPS hub operates on Sundays.
- Smaller post offices may not offer Sunday dispatch or delivery routes.
- Time of Year:
- During the holiday season (typically November to January), USPS expands Sunday delivery to meet increased demand.
- Temporary routes and staffing are added to accommodate this volume.
How to Check If Sunday Delivery is Available in Your Area
To find out if USPS delivers to your location on Sundays:
- Enter your ZIP code on the USPS Service Commitments tool
- Track your package and look for a Sunday “Out for Delivery” status
- Contact your local post office and ask if Sunday delivery is supported
Example:
ZIP codes in New York City (10001) and Los Angeles (90001) almost always receive Sunday delivery. In contrast, rural Montana ZIP codes may not.
How to Track a Sunday USPS Delivery
Tracking your Sunday USPS delivery is straightforward with the right tools. USPS provides real-time tracking updates through its digital services and apps.
Methods to Track USPS Sunday Deliveries
| Method | Features |
|---|---|
| USPS Tracking Number | Enter at USPS Tracking Tool |
| Informed Delivery | Daily email or dashboard preview of packages and letters |
| Text & Email Alerts | Sign up on the USPS site for live updates |
| Amazon Tracking | View delivery vehicle location for Amazon shipments |
What to Look for in Your Tracking Status
- “Out for Delivery” on Sunday means it will likely arrive that day.
- “Delivered” confirms receipt with timestamp and delivery location (e.g., mailbox, front porch).
- No update since Saturday? Your package may not be on a Sunday route. Check again Monday morning.
Tip: Use the USPS Mobile App for real-time push notifications about delivery changes.
What to Do If Your Sunday Package Hasn’t Arrived
It can be frustrating to expect a Sunday delivery and not receive your package. But before panicking or filing a complaint, consider a few common scenarios that may delay Sunday USPS delivery.
Steps to Take When a USPS Sunday Delivery Is Missing
- Check the Tracking Status Again
- Go to USPS Tracking and re-enter your tracking number.
- Look for any updates like “Delivery Attempted,” “Held at Post Office,” or “Re-Scheduled.”
- Confirm Sunday Delivery Was Scheduled
- Not all shipments are eligible. If your shipping method doesn’t include Sunday delivery (like First-Class Mail), the package may still be in transit for Monday delivery.
- Look Around the Property
- Delivery scans may be marked “delivered” even if the package is hidden or left in a secure location.
- Check:
- Porch and mailbox
- Garage area
- Side doors or gated entry
- With neighbors
- Call Your Local Post Office
- Contact them directly to ask if the route was delayed or if there was a misdelivery.
- You can find their number via USPS Locator.
- Initiate a Missing Mail Search
- If 24 hours pass with no delivery, use the Missing Mail Request form on the USPS website.
- File a Claim (if eligible)
- Priority Mail Express shipments are guaranteed. If not delivered on time, you may be eligible for a refund.
Tip: Save your receipt and tracking number. You’ll need both to make a claim or search request.
Alternatives to USPS for Sunday Delivery
While USPS does offer limited Sunday delivery through Priority Mail Express and Amazon packages, there are other reliable services if you need a guaranteed Sunday delivery—especially for time-sensitive or business-critical shipments.
1. UPS (United Parcel Service)
UPS does not traditionally deliver on Sundays for residential addresses. However, they offer Sunday delivery for certain SurePost packages—especially those that are handed off to USPS for the final delivery leg.
- UPS Express Critical®: This is a premium service for urgent shipments and includes 7-day delivery, including Sundays.
- Note: SurePost deliveries may arrive on Sunday, but only if USPS final-mile delivery is involved.
2. FedEx
FedEx provides broader and more consistent Sunday delivery options, making it one of the top alternatives to USPS for weekend shipping.
FedEx Sunday Delivery Options:
| Service | Sunday Delivery | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| FedEx Home Delivery | Yes | Available in most residential ZIP codes |
| FedEx SameDay | Yes | Critical shipments, delivered same day |
| FedEx Custom Critical | Yes | 24/7 delivery service with full tracking |
Key Benefits of FedEx Sunday Delivery:
- Covers more ZIP codes than USPS
- Same-day or overnight delivery available
- Real-time tracking and support
Quote: “FedEx was the first to launch 7-day residential delivery across most of the U.S.” — FedEx Newsroom
3. Amazon Logistics
Amazon’s in-house delivery service (Amazon Logistics) handles most Sunday deliveries for Prime members. These drivers operate separately from USPS and FedEx.
- Covers both urban and suburban areas
- Sunday delivery is often included at no extra cost with Amazon Prime
- Tracking available directly via the Amazon app
Conclusion
USPS does deliver on Sundays, but this service is limited to Amazon packages and Priority Mail Express shipments. While standard mail and most Priority Mail packages are not delivered on Sundays, the growing demand for e-commerce deliveries has made Sunday service more common in metropolitan and high-volume areas.
If you need guaranteed Sunday delivery, Priority Mail Express is your best option, albeit at a higher cost. Amazon customers often benefit from free Sunday delivery as part of their Prime membership, with USPS acting as one of Amazon’s key delivery partners.
Always use USPS Tracking to monitor your shipment’s progress and confirm if your package is scheduled for Sunday delivery. By understanding these delivery rules and alternatives, you can plan your shipments more effectively and avoid delays.
FAQs About USPS Sunday Delivery
Below are clear, concise answers to common questions people ask about USPS Sunday delivery. This section is optimized for Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) and structured for easy scanning and voice search.
Does USPS deliver on Sundays to residential addresses?
Yes, USPS delivers on Sundays, but only for Amazon packages and Priority Mail Express items. Standard mail (like First-Class or Priority Mail) does not qualify for Sunday delivery.
Is USPS Sunday delivery available in all areas?
No, Sunday delivery is available in select metropolitan areas and high-package-volume zones. Rural and remote areas may not have Sunday service.
What time does USPS deliver on Sundays?
Sunday delivery usually occurs between 9 AM and 7 PM, depending on your location and volume of packages.
Is there an extra fee for USPS Sunday delivery?
Yes, Priority Mail Express includes a fee for Sunday or holiday delivery. Amazon packages shipped via USPS usually include Sunday delivery at no extra charge if you’re a Prime member.
Can I track USPS Sunday deliveries?
Yes. You can track all USPS deliveries—including Sunday shipments—through USPS Tracking, mobile apps, or text updates.
What if USPS doesn’t deliver my package on Sunday as expected?
If it was a Priority Mail Express package, you may be eligible for a refund. For Amazon shipments, contact Amazon directly. Use the tracking number to file a missing mail claim if necessary.