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
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Previous / Next Documents
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!
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