UPS (NYSE: UPS) expects to hire between 90,000 and 95,000 seasonal employees to support the anticipated holiday surge in package deliveries that begins in October and continues through January 2015. Last year, the company in October expected to hire 55,000 seasonal workers.

The seasonal positions include package sorters, loaders, delivery helpers and drivers and can lead to permanent employment following the holiday period.

“We have needs throughout the United States and anticipate more applicants this year than in 2013,” said John McDevitt, UPS senior vice president of human resources and labor relations.

In addition, FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) expects to add more than 50,000 seasonal positions for the upcoming peak season across its operating companies, Mike Glenn, president and CEO FedEx Services, said today in a conference call with investors to discuss first-quarter earnings.

“This includes package handler, helpers, drivers and other support positions,” Glenn said. “Based upon our growth expectations and network expansion, the majority of those seasonal workers will have the opportunity to continue working for us after the holiday season.”

Stores are also hiring. Kohl’s Department Stores today announced it expects to hire more than 67,000 associates nationwide this holiday season. Kohl’s anticipates hiring an average of 50 associates at its 1,163 stores; approximately 9,300 seasonal positions at distribution centers; and about 670 seasonal credit operations positions. Hiring began this month and most jobs will be filled by mid-November.

Most retailers, 70 percent, plan to hire staff at 2013 levels, according to the eighth annual retail holiday survey by consulting firm Hay Group. However, the emphasis has shifted from seasonal to permanent workers, with 24 percent of companies planning to hire more permanent staff in 2014, up from 13 percent last season.

Twenty-four percent of retailers expect an increase 5 percent or more in year-over-year sales during the 2014 holiday season, while another 70 percent predict sales will be on par with the 2013 season.

Hay Group’s survey included responses from major U.S. retailers including U.S. retailers including J. Crew, Express, Sports Authority, Shopko, Carter’s, Stage Stores and QVC. Respondents collectively represent over one million employees and nearly $183 billion in revenues in 2013.