2024 US and International Holiday Shipping Deadlines

As the holiday season approaches, planning ahead for shipping becomes essential. Whether sending gifts to loved ones or running a business, knowing the shipping deadlines can save you from last-minute stress. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the 2024 U.S. and international holiday shipping deadlines to ensure your packages arrive on time.

U.S. Domestic Shipping Deadlines

The deadlines for domestic shipments within the U.S. depend on the carrier and the type of service you choose. Below are the major carriers and their deadlines for Christmas delivery in 2024:

USPS (United States Postal Service)

• December 13: USPS Retail Ground® Service
• December 18: First-Class Mail® (including greeting cards)
• December 19: Priority Mail®
• December 23: Priority Mail Express®

UPS (United Parcel Service)

• December 19: UPS® Ground (check the UPS website for the specific ground shipping map, as delivery times vary based on location)
• December 21: UPS 3 Day Select®
• December 22: UPS 2nd Day Air®
• December 23: UPS Next Day Air®

FedEx

• December 15: FedEx Ground® and Home Delivery®
• December 20: FedEx Express Saver®
• December 21: FedEx 2Day® and FedEx 2Day® AM
• December 23: FedEx SameDay®

International Shipping Deadlines

Shipping internationally requires more lead time due to customs and distance, and shipping early is crucial to avoid delays. Below are general deadlines for international shipping from the U.S. using major carriers.

USPS International Deadlines

• November 29: USPS Retail Ground® to APO/FPO/DPO (military mail)
• December 2: First-Class Mail International® (for standard international letters or cards)
• December 2: Priority Mail International®
• December 7: Priority Mail Express International®
• December 16: Global Express Guaranteed® (GXG)

UPS International Deadlines

• December 15: UPS Standard® to Canada and Mexico
• December 16: UPS Worldwide Expedited®
• December 19: UPS Worldwide Express® and Worldwide Saver®

FedEx International Deadlines

• December 9: FedEx International Economy® (most destinations)
• December 16: FedEx International Priority® (most destinations)
• December 22: FedEx International First® (select destinations only)

Tips to Ensure Smooth Holiday Shipping

• Check customs regulations: Every country has rules for what can and cannot be shipped. Ensure you know any restrictions in the destination country to avoid delays.
• Package properly: Protect your items by using proper packing materials, especially for fragile or valuable items.
• Track your packages: Most carriers provide tracking services so you can monitor your package’s progress and address any potential issues quickly.
• Plan for delays: While shipping companies provide estimates, inclement weather, customs, and the sheer volume of holiday shipping can cause delays. Always ship earlier if possible.

Following these deadlines for both U.S. and international deliveries is crucial to avoid the holiday rush and ensure your gifts and shipments arrive on time. Use the proper shipping service based on how quickly you need your package to arrive, and always take into account potential delays due to the high volume during the holiday season. Happy shipping!