Discontinuation of International Surface Air Lift
Published Date: 11/25/2025
Rule
Summary
Starting January 18, 2026, the Postal Service is ending its International Surface Air Lift (ISAL) service. This change affects anyone sending international mail using ISAL, as the service will no longer be available and pricing updates will follow. If you rely on ISAL, plan ahead to switch to other mailing options and avoid surprises!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
ISAL International Mail Service Ends
If you send international mail using International Surface Air Lift (ISAL), that service will stop being offered on January 18, 2026. The Postal Service says ISAL will no longer be available and that pricing updates will follow, so plan ahead to switch to other mailing options to avoid surprises.
Merchandise Must Use Other International Services
If you mail items that contain merchandise (previously sent using ISAL), you must now use Global Express Guaranteed, Priority Mail Express International, Priority Mail International, or First-Class Package International Service; commercial mailers may also use International Priority Airmail (IPA) packages (small packets). This change is effective January 18, 2026.
Indonesia: Addressee Contact Info Requested
If you send Registered Mail letters or items to Indonesia using First-Class Package International Service, IPA packages (small packets), Priority Mail International, or Priority Mail Express International, Pos Indonesia requests that you provide the addressee's mobile phone number and email address on the address label and on the customs declaration form, if possible. This is to help customs clearance and delivery.
Libya: Strict Merchandise Limits
If you send mail to Libya, merchandise is limited to donations of food, clothing, medicines, and medical supplies intended strictly for medical purposes. First-Class Package International Service items and International Priority Airmail (IPA) items are subject to this content restriction.
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Key Dates
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-22505, International Mail Manual; Incorporation by Reference
Starting November 4, 2026, the Postal Service officially updates and incorporates the International Mail Manual (IMM) into federal rules. This manual sets clear, easy-to-find standards and prices for sending mail internationally, replacing all older versions. If you send or handle international mail, this update helps you stay on track with the latest rules—no extra costs, just smoother mailing!
2026-22498, Domestic Mail Manual; Incorporation by Reference
The Postal Service just updated its Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) with new mailing rules and prices, effective November 4, 2026. This update makes it easier for everyone to find all the mailing info they need in one place, saving time and hassle. If you send mail or run a business that relies on USPS, these changes could affect how you prepare and price your mail.
2026-21265, Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records
The USPS is creating a new system to better manage customer calls and improve service using smart analytics. This change affects anyone who contacts USPS customer support and kicks in on November 18, 2026, unless people send feedback before then. No extra costs are mentioned, just smoother, faster help when you call USPS.
2026-21317, New Mailing Standards for Live Animals
Starting October 19, 2026, the Postal Service is updating rules for mailing live animals to keep them safer and better tracked. If you ship live animals, you’ll now need to number each container, write the recipient’s info clearly, and avoid reusing fiberboard boxes. These changes help protect animals during shipping without extra costs or delays.
2026-21310, Customs Requirements and Payment Procedures for Certain Customs Charges
Starting October 19, 2026, the Postal Service is updating rules for international mailers about customs charges, especially for packages going to the European Union. Mailers now must follow new customs payment steps and might have to pay extra fees if customs info is wrong or duties aren’t collected from the receiver. These changes help mailers avoid surprises and keep international shipping smooth and fair.
2026-21081, International Product Change-Priority Mail Express International, Priority Mail International & First-Class Package International Service Agreement
The Postal Service is adding a new international shipping deal for Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, and First-Class Package International services. This change affects businesses and customers who send packages overseas, offering new options under a special contract starting October 2026. It aims to improve service and pricing through a negotiated agreement with the Postal Regulatory Commission.
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Previous: 2025-21001, Protecting Against National Security Threats to the Communications Supply Chain Through the Equipment Authorization Program
The FCC is tightening rules to block certain communication devices that could threaten national security, especially those with modular transmitters. Starting December 26, 2025, companies can’t import or sell these risky devices anymore, and some previously approved gear will lose its green light. This change mainly affects manufacturers and sellers, aiming to keep our communications safe without causing big money headaches for small businesses.
Next: 2025-21089, International Registered Mail
Starting January 1, 2026, international Registered Mail will only be available for letters with documents, not packages. This change affects anyone sending First-Class Package International Service and Free Matter for the Blind packages, which will no longer get Registered Mail as an extra service. The Postal Service updated its rules to match new global postal agreements, so plan ahead if you mail internationally!