SAN DIEGO — During the busiest shipping season of the year, the U.S. Postal Service says it has already processed an estimated 5.2 billion packages, a testament to the holiday rush that transforms local post offices into bustling hubs of activity.
CBS 8 reporter Abbie Black recently stepped behind the counter at the Linda Vista post office to experience firsthand the complex world of holiday shipping, discovering the intricate dance of logistics and customer service that keeps America connected.
"This is not as easy as it looks," Black said, after spending a day alongside Lead Sales Associate April Avington. "Every package is a puzzle, every customer has a unique request, and there's a constant line."
The day revealed critical shipping insights for holiday mailers. Packages over 12 inches in length incur additional charges, and customers must be vigilant about reusing shipping labels and packaging.
"This is how we connect families across the country," said Tanya Toedt Fitzharris, San Diego Postmaster. "Getting something in the mail is so special."
Jayne Cahill, a customer shipping packages to multiple states, exemplified the strategic shipping approach. "I'm shipping early so I can go make cookies and enjoy my parties," she said.
The behind-the-scenes look revealed postal workers aim to process each customer in under five minutes, maintaining efficiency during the holiday crush.
What is the final day to ship Christmas packages?
- Ground Advantage: Dec. 18
- First-Class Mail: Dec. 18
- Priority Mail: Dec. 19
- Priority Mail Express: Dec. 21
- Ground: check website
- Three-Day Select: Dec. 19
- Second-Day Air: Dec. 20
- Next-Day Air: Dec. 23
- Ground (5-day shipping): Dec. 17
- Ground Economy: Dec. 13
- Express Saver: Dec. 19
- Same Day: Dec. 24