This Is the Last Possible Day to Mail Christmas Packages and Have Them Arrive on Time

If you want your holiday gifts to arrive by Christmas, you need to keep a close eye on shipping deadlines. Each year, major carriers like USPS, UPS, and FedEx release their recommended last days to ship packages for them to reach their destination by December 25.

Why Deadlines Matter

The holiday season is the busiest time of the year for shipping services. With millions of packages being processed daily, delays can and do happen. Weather disruptions, staffing shortages, and increased demand mean that even a small delay in sending your package can lead to a missed holiday delivery.

That’s why shipping early is key—especially if you're sending something time-sensitive or sentimental.

General 2024 Shipping Deadline Estimates

While official dates can vary by carrier and service, here are estimated cutoffs you can plan around:

• USPS Ground Advantage: December 16

• USPS Priority Mail: December 19

• USPS Priority Mail Express: December 21

• UPS Ground: December 15 (varies by distance)

• UPS 2nd Day Air: December 20

• UPS Next Day Air: December 21

• FedEx Ground/Home Delivery: December 15

• FedEx Express Saver: December 19

• FedEx 2Day: December 20

• FedEx Overnight: December 21

Be sure to double-check these with your carrier, especially for international shipping or rural destinations.

Tips to Ensure On-Time Delivery

• Package Early: Don’t wait until the last minute. If you can, send your gifts by the first week of December.

• Use Tracking: Always get a tracking number so you and your recipient can follow the package’s progress.

• Confirm Addresses: Ensure the recipient’s address is complete and correct, including apartment numbers or suite details.

• Package Properly: Use sturdy boxes and plenty of cushioning for fragile items.