It's that time of year and we've all been there… you find the perfect gift for someone, and now it’s just a matter of getting it there on time! 😰
We’ve got you! Here’s a quick guide to make sure your perfect gift arrives at the perfect time!
Start Early to Avoid Delays
The holidays are the busiest time of year for carriers, and high package volumes or carrier issues can cause delays. Shipping as early as possible helps reduce stress and ensures your package arrives on time.
Ordering from Small Businesses
When ordering from a small business, start early, as handmade and custom items often require more time to create and ship. Be mindful of unique holiday shipping deadlines and check return policies, as they may differ from larger retailers. Lastly, remember that while small businesses work hard to meet delivery dates, carrier delays are beyond their control, so a little patience goes a long way!
Weather Delays
Winter weather can impact travel and delivery times, especially for ground shipments. If your package is headed to an area prone to snow or storms, consider giving it extra time to arrive.
So, what are the USPS shipping cut-off dates?
Source: USPS Holiday Shipping Dates
**Be sure to check the website for International and Military shipping dates, terms, conditions,
and USPS updates!**
What to Keep in Mind:
-
Double-check recipient addresses to avoid delays or lost packages. Even a small error can lead to a returned or delayed package.
-
Carriers often apply holiday surcharges due to higher volume and extra handling.
-
Each carrier—USPS, FedEx, UPS, and DHL—has different cut-off dates for each shipping option, so be sure to check these deadlines.
-
For last-minute shipping, consider two-day or overnight delivery to ensure arrival before December 25th.
-
Save all tracking and receipt information in case you need to follow up with the carrier. Most carriers offer insurance, and having proof of shipment and tracking helps if issues arise.
Alternate Carrier Shipping Information
