Americans who rely on the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) for sending mail, receiving packages, or accessing in-person postal services should take note: all USPS locations will be closed for one day in observance of Veterans Day, which falls on Tuesday, November 11. The closure affects retail operations and regular mail delivery nationwide. Normal services will pick back up on Wednesday, November 12.
This annual closure is part of the federal government’s recognition of Veterans Day—a significant holiday dedicated to honoring the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Table of Contents
Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Observed Holiday | Veterans Day |
| Closure Date | Tuesday, November 11 |
| Services Available During Closure | Priority Mail Express only |
| Services Resuming | Regular mail delivery resumes Wednesday, November 12 |
| Closure Applies To | All USPS retail locations and standard delivery |
| Official Website | usps.com |
Why USPS Will Close on Veterans Day
Veterans Day is a federal holiday that commemorates the sacrifices and contributions of U.S. military veterans. To observe the occasion, all federal offices and most public institutions, including the USPS, close for the day.
Postmaster General and CEO David Steiner emphasized USPS’s connection to military service, noting the organization remains one of the largest civilian employers of U.S. veterans. Their experience and dedication are valued across postal operations and customer service nationwide.
This day of closure allows the nation, including USPS employees, to reflect on and honor those who have served.
What Services Are Affected?
On November 11, USPS retail counters and regular mail delivery services will not be available. However, Priority Mail Express shipments will still be delivered, ensuring that urgent items continue to move across the network.
If you’re expecting a standard package or mailing items on that date, you may see a one-day delay depending on your shipping schedule.
Self-Service Kiosks Will Still Be Available
While Post Offices will close, customers still have access to more than 2,600 USPS self-service kiosks located in select lobbies across the country. These kiosks remain open 24/7, even during holidays.
Services available at USPS kiosks include:
- Purchasing stamps
- Printing shipping labels for Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express
- Weighing and mailing packages
- Accessing tracking information
These kiosks offer a helpful alternative for customers who need to ship or prepare items outside normal business hours.
Check Local Post Office Hours Before Visiting
Because some post office lobby areas remain open even when staff counters are closed, customers are encouraged to use the Postal Locator Tool on the USPS official website to confirm specific operating details based on location.
The History of Veterans Day
Veterans Day has deep historical significance. The holiday originated as Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. The first observance took place in 1919, honoring the anniversary of peace.
In 1954, following World War II and the Korean War, Congress amended the observance to Veterans Day, broadening its purpose to honor all U.S. military veterans, not only those who fought in World War I.
Veterans Day vs. Memorial Day
Many people confuse these two significant holidays:
| Holiday | Purpose | Honored Individuals | Time of Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Veterans Day | Honors all military veterans | Living and deceased veterans | November 11 |
| Memorial Day | Honors fallen service members | Those who died while serving | Last Monday in May |
Both hold deep meaning, but recognize different forms of sacrifice.
How to Prepare for the One-Day USPS Closure
To avoid inconvenience:
- Mail important documents early to prevent delays.
- Schedule package pickups before November 11.
- Use self-service kiosks if mailing on the holiday is necessary.
- Plan incoming shipments with delivery estimates in mind.
This one-day closure usually does not cause major disruption but can affect time-sensitive correspondence if not planned ahead.
Conclusion
The U.S. Postal Service’s one-day closure on November 11 is a nationwide observance of Veterans Day and an opportunity to reflect on the contributions of military veterans. While most postal services will pause for the day, Priority Mail Express deliveries and USPS self-service kiosks will ensure essential mailing needs are still supported.
Whether you’re sending mail, receiving shipments, or dropping off packages, planning a day ahead will help keep your schedule running smoothly.
FAQs
Q1. Will mail be delivered on Veterans Day?
A = Only Priority Mail Express will be delivered. Regular mail delivery will pause for the day.
Q2. Are USPS self-service kiosks available on the holiday?
A = Yes, USPS self-service kiosks are available 24/7, including holidays.
Q3. When will regular services resume?
A = Full USPS services resume the following day, Wednesday, November 12.
