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How Long Does It Take to Mail a Letter in 2025?

Mail Delivery Times Chart

The short answer: USPS First-Class Mail usually takes 1–5 business days to deliver within the U.S. But delivery times vary depending on where you're mailing from, where it's going, and when you drop it off.

USPS Delivery Times (First-Class Mail)

  • Local mail: 1–2 business days
  • Regional mail: 2–3 business days
  • Cross-country mail: 3–5 business days
  • Saturday delivery: Included (no extra fee)

What Affects Delivery Speed?

These factors can speed up—or slow down—your letter:

  • What time you drop it off (earlier = faster)
  • Mailing from a post office vs mailbox
  • Holiday schedules and USPS workload
  • Weather disruptions or misrouting

How to Mail a Letter Without Leaving Home

Want to skip the lines and still send real mail? With The Letter Pilot, you can send a real letter right from your browser. We print, stamp, and mail it for you.

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More Helpful Mail Guides

- Learn how to mail a letter online

- See what snail mail means in 2025

- Need tracking? Read our guide to Certified Mail

Updated July 2025 • USPS delivery times made easy

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