Mailing a Gift? Holiday Shipping Deadlines Are Earlier Than Ever for 2023
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'Tis the busiest time of the year! It seems the holiday season has snuck up on us once again. That means plenty of planning for people all across the country, Ree Drummond included. "Winter means holidays," says Ree, "[which means] figuring out which Christmas cookies to make, searching for the perfect gifts, picking out the best tree on the lot, making (and delivering) cinnamon rolls to friends and neighbors—the works!"
The works is right! With so much going on, it can be difficult to ensure all your various packages get to their destination on time—even if you prepped your food gifts or picked out presents early. And, let's be honest, there's nothing wrong with buying a few last-minute gifts. That's why we've gathered all of the most important holiday shipping deadlines for 2022, so you can ensure your packages arrive in time for Christmas.
What are the holiday shipping deadlines?
As is often the case, shipping deadlines vary. Some retailers can deliver up through Christmas Day, but it's still best not to leave things for the 11th hour. That's especially true this year, with labor and product shortages creating unexpected delays. Here are the recommended holiday shipping dates, according to top U.S. delivery services:
December 17: Last date to send packages using the Retail Ground service and First Class Mail service.
December 19: Last date to send packages using the Priority Mail service.
December 23: Last date to send packages using the Priority Mail Express service.
Ground shipping: use their shipment calculator for details.
December 19: Last date to send packages using UPS 3 Day Select.
December 21: Last date to send packages using UPS 2nd Day Air services.
December 22: Last date to send packages using UPS Next Day Air services.
December 8: Last date to send packages using FedEx Ground Economy services.
December 14: Last date to send packages using FedEx Ground and Home Delivery services.
December 20: Last date to send packages using FedEx Express Saver services.
December 21: Last date to send packages using FedEx 2 Day services.
December 23: Last date to send packages using FedEx Same Day services.
What is the last date to order gifts for Christmas?
Amazon: In previous years, December 23 was the last day to order using one-day delivery, and December 24 was the last day for same-day delivery. However, you can send Amazon eGift cards and Prime memberships through Christmas Day.
Barnes & Noble: December 17 at 12 p.m. ET is the last day for Standard shipping for Christmas delivery. The last day for Express shipping is December 19, 11:59 a.m. ET, and December 20 is the last day for Expedited shipping. You can swing by stores for in-person pickup on Christmas Eve until noon local time.
Etsy: Deadlines will vary by the type of delivery service individual sellers use.
Macy's: For Christmas Day delivery, Macy's recommends customers order via Standard and Premium shipping by December 21 and Express shipping by December 22. Select stores will offer same-day delivery on December 24.
Sephora: Last day for Standard is December 20 at 6 a.m. EST, and last day for Flash 2-day shipping is December 21 is 6 a.m. EST for expected arrival by December 24.
Target: Plan on standard shipping times (three to five days), though some items are eligible for two-day shipping.
The Home Depot: Allow three to five business days for parcel ground delivery in addition to order processing time. Select items are available for two-day shipping, and select items are available for curbside pickup (though not on Christmas Day).
Walmart: Depending on the item's availability, packages can be sent via two-day shipping, three-day shipping, and standard delivery of more than three days. There is an Express Delivery option for items delivered from a local store within two hours. However, note that Walmart is closed on Christmas Day.
1-800-Flowers: Many bouquets and gifts are available for same-day or next-day delivery if they're ordered by select times. Even better, select local markets can also make Christmas Day deliveries! Check online for their order cutoff times.
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