As the holiday season approaches, ensuring your gifts arrive on time can be a source of stress. With Christmas lurking just around the corner, today is a critical day for shipping your presents. If you’re wondering when to ship gifts to guarantee delivery by Christmas, keep reading!

Today: The Last Day for Affordable Gift Shipping

Today is the last day to ship gifts using normal Priority Mail rates if you want them to arrive by Christmas. According to the United States Postal Service (USPS), the cutoff is November 18th for standard shipping options. After today, you risk incurring higher shipping fees and uncertainties about when your packages will arrive. If you were planning to wait until tomorrow, you may still have a chance, but don’t count on it.

Shipping Options and Cutoff Dates

To help you navigate your shipping options, here are the cutoff dates for major carriers:

USPS: Today is the last day for normal Priority Mail. Priority Express deadlines extend to the 20th, but this option comes at an increased cost.
UPS: The last day for normal ground shipping has likely passed. You can opt for 3-Day shipping with a cutoff on the 19th, 2nd Day Air on the 22nd, and Next Day Air on the 23rd.
FedEx: Similar to UPS, the 4-day shipping option is no longer available as of today. The cutoff for their 3-day service is tomorrow, so make your decision quickly!

If you’re still unsure whether your gifts need to reach their destination by Christmas, consider if your friends or family members can wait a bit longer. This year, many recipients understand the nuances of shipping delays, so there’s some leeway.

The Importance of Sending Early

In the spirit of the holiday season, planning ahead for shipping gifts is critical. Many people have experienced the anxiety of late deliveries, which can dampen the festive spirit. To avoid last-minute chaos, stay informed about the various shipping options and their cutoff dates. This year, be ahead of the game—as noted by government resources, early shipping can save consumers from potential headaches later.

Don’t Forget the Final Touches

Remember to add those personal touches when wrapping and mailing your gifts. A handwritten note or customized wrapping can make all the difference in making your loved ones feel special during the holidays.

So, to reiterate, today truly is the last day for shipping gifts affordably if you want them in your loved ones’ hands by Christmas. Don’t miss out! Make sure you check your shipping preferences and act soon.