Wondering “is the post office open on MLK Day” as the long weekend rolls up? You’re not alone — thousands search each year to confirm whether today is a holiday and how it affects mail, pickups and retail hours. Below I break down the facts, what typically happens to deliveries, and quick steps you can take if you need to ship or pick up packages.
Why people are searching right now
MLK Day is an annual federal holiday, which triggers a predictable spike in queries like “is today a federal holiday” and “is there mail on MLK Day.” Many plan errands, job schedules, or online shopping, and wonder whether stores like Costco are open today. Add to that employers posting schedules and retailers promoting holiday hours, and the trend surges every January.
Short answer: Post office hours on MLK Day
Federal law designates Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a federal holiday. That means most U.S. Post Office branches are closed and regular mail delivery does not occur on MLK Day. If you need official confirmation, check the USPS holiday schedule directly: USPS holiday calendar.
So — is there mail on MLK Day?
Generally, no. There is no regular First-Class Mail, Periodicals, or most business mail delivery on MLK Day. Some exceptions exist for special services: Priority Mail Express deliveries or certain parcel operations might operate on limited schedules depending on contracts and local hub activity. For specifics about an expected package, use the tracking number or contact customer service.
How MLK Day affects other services
Because MLK Day is a federal holiday, many federal offices are closed, banks may be closed or operate reduced hours, and some couriers alter schedules. It’s worth checking the federal holiday list at the Office of Personnel Management: OPM federal holidays.
Retail and warehouse clubs: is Costco open today?
Retailers set their own holiday hours. Many Costco warehouses are open on MLK Day, but hours can vary by location and membership policies. To answer “is Costco open today” for your area, check your local warehouse hours on Costco’s site or call ahead. A quick online lookup or the store locator will save you a trip.
Real-world examples and scenarios
Example 1: You mailed a letter Saturday and expect it Monday. Because MLK Day is a holiday, you should expect the next update on Tuesday — mail carriers don’t deliver routine mail on federal holidays.
Example 2: You need to ship a last-minute item. Priority Mail Express or third-party couriers might offer holiday pickup or special delivery options; confirm with USPS or your chosen carrier. If timing is tight, schedule a pickup or drop-off before the holiday.
Comparison: Post office vs private carriers on MLK Day
| Service | Typical MLK Day Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| USPS | Most branches closed; routine mail not delivered | Check USPS holiday calendar for exceptions |
| UPS | Often reduced or modified service | Ground shipments may be delayed; check UPS announcements |
| FedEx | Some services observe the holiday; others operate | FedEx Express may run; FedEx Ground often follows reduced schedule |
| Retail (Costco) | Varies by location | Search “is Costco open today” and call local warehouse |
What to do if you need mail or shipments around MLK Day
- Check tracking numbers — carriers often update status around holidays.
- Visit your local post office website or call before going — windows are closed on holidays.
- Consider Priority Mail Express or scheduled pickups before the holiday for time-sensitive items.
- For returns or urgent packages, use carrier drop boxes or authorized retail partners open that day.
- If you need retail hours, search “is Costco open today” plus your city to confirm local hours.
Common questions people ask (quick answers)
Is today a holiday?
If today is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, yes — it’s a federal holiday. That means many public offices and services are closed or have limited hours.
Is today a federal holiday?
Yes — MLK Day is on the federal holiday list, observed each January on the third Monday. Federal employees get the day off, and most federal offices close.
Is there mail on MLK Day?
Routine mail typically does not go out on MLK Day. Some limited services or package movements may still occur; tracking is the best source of truth for a specific item.
Actionable takeaways
- If you need a reliable timeline: assume no regular mail on MLK Day and plan shipments accordingly.
- Want to ship or pick up? Do it before the holiday or confirm special pickup options.
- Checking store hours (“is Costco open today”) and calling local branches avoids surprises.
Resources and links
For the most current, authoritative information visit the official sources: USPS holiday details (USPS holiday calendar) and the federal holiday list at OPM (OPM federal holidays). For store hours, search “is Costco open today” plus your city or use the Costco hours page.
Parting thought
Plan ahead—holidays compress errands into fewer days, so a quick check of the USPS schedule and store hours (yes, even to answer “is today a holiday” or “is today a federal holiday”) saves you time and frustration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most U.S. Post Office locations are closed on MLK Day since it’s a federal holiday; routine mail delivery generally does not occur that day.
Most routine packages won’t be delivered on MLK Day. Some express services may operate in limited form; check tracking or contact the carrier for specifics.
Costco decides hours locally—many warehouses remain open on MLK Day but times vary. Look up your local warehouse hours or call to confirm.