Usps Mail Drop System
General Delivery Rules
Hold Times
- Official USPS rule: Up to 30 days
- Large AT towns: Usually 30 days
- Small/rural offices: Often 7-14 days
Best Practice
- Ship packages 7-10 days before arrival
- Never ship earlier than 14 days
- Always include an ETA
- If delayed, call the post office
Box Labeling Format
Do not deviate from this format:
THEMAN HOGG
GENERAL DELIVERY
CITY, STATE ZIP
PLEASE HOLD FOR AT HIKER
ETA: MM/DD/YYYYRules:
- Write your name on all six sides
- Use Sharpie
- ETA matters
Recommended Mail Drop Locations
| Location | Mile | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Springs, NC | ~274 | One of the most reliable mail drops on the AT |
| Damascus, VA | ~469 | AT hub, dependable, generous hold times |
| Daleville, VA | ~727-729 | Easy access, grocery nearby |
| Harpers Ferry, WV | ~1,023-1,026 | Psychological halfway point, very reliable |
| Duncannon, PA | ~1,140-1,150 | Excellent PO + hostel logistics |
| Hanover, NH | ~1,747 | Key resupply before the Whites |
| Monson, ME | ~2,074-2,079 | Gateway to 100-Mile Wilderness. Hold time often 14 days max. |
Note: Shaw’s Hiker Hostel in Monson offers food drop services for the 100-Mile Wilderness—a useful option if you want to lighten your initial carry.