The holiday season is a time of joy and gift-giving, but it can also be a time of stress, especially when it comes to online shopping. More people are shopping for Christmas gifts online than ever before. Shopping online is fun and easy, and offers a great variety, but it can be challenging to ensure that all your presents arrive on time.
Mail carriers reported strong performance during the 2023 holiday season, but the risk of delays is still relevant, due to high demand, supply chain disruptions, and weather issues. To avoid the disappointment of late deliveries, plan your online shopping carefully. Here are some tips on getting that on-time delivery:
Online shopping has seen a significant increase in popularity, especially during the holiday season. Major shipping companies like UPS and FedEx managed to maintain high delivery standards in 2023, with UPS achieving an on-time delivery rate of 96.4% and FedEx at 95.3%.
Despite these strong performances, delays still happen, and they can be caused by various factors. Things like severe weather, such as snowstorms and ice, can disrupt delivery schedules. Additionally, the ongoing effects of the global supply chain crisis have led to bottlenecks and shortages. Consumers must be proactive in their shopping strategies to avoid disappointment.
Start your shopping early. The earlier you begin, the more flexibility you have with shipping options. Starting early also gives you a buffer period to handle any unexpected delays or issues that might arise. A lot of the delays occur during the final two weeks leading up to Christmas, when shipping volumes are at their peak. By shopping in November or early December, you can avoid the last-minute rush and increase the likelihood that your packages will arrive on time.
Each retailer has specific shipping deadlines for guaranteed Christmas delivery, which can vary. Be sure to check these deadlines on the retailer’s website before making a purchase. Many retailers provide a calendar or a specific cut-off date for different shipping options, such as standard, expedited, or express shipping. Understanding these deadlines can help you make more informed decisions and avoid missing the window for guaranteed delivery.
If you’re shopping closer to Christmas, consider opting for expedited or express shipping options. While these options are more expensive, they can significantly reduce transit times and increase the chances of on-time delivery. Keep in mind that during peak times, even expedited services can experience delays, so it’s still advisable to shop early when possible.
After placing your order, make use of the tracking information provided by the retailer or shipping carrier. Most major carriers offer real-time tracking tools that allow you to monitor the progress of your package. If you notice any delays or issues with your shipment, contact the retailer or carrier immediately to resolve the problem.
To minimize the risk of missed deliveries, consider alternative delivery options such as in-store pickup or curbside pickup if available. Many retailers now offer these services as a way to provide flexibility and convenience to their customers. In-store and curbside pickup allow you to bypass the shipping process altogether, ensuring you have your gifts in hand well before Christmas. Additionally, some retailers offer lockers or other secure locations where you can pick up your packages at your convenience.
If you are sending gifts to multiple locations, it’s essential to consider the different delivery times and potential delays that might occur in each area. Weather conditions, local delivery capacity, and other regional factors can impact delivery times.
Consider coordinating with neighbors or friends to place a combined order from the same retailer. This can help meet free shipping thresholds and reduce delivery stops, potentially minimizing delays during peak times. If you're not home when the package arrives, a neighbor can receive it for you, reducing the risk of missed deliveries or theft. This strategy is particularly useful in tight-knit communities where neighbors often collaborate.
