With Christmas fast approaching, the deadlines for ordering gifts online are closing in. Don’t wait until it’s too late! In this article, we will provide a list of important shipping deadlines to be aware of so you can ensure your gifts arrive on time.
Additionally, we will offer tips on choosing gifts and making last-minute purchases as stress-free as possible.
Key deadlines you need to know
Bear in mind that these are general guidelines for delivery within the United States.
- Standard Shipping: December 18th – This is usually the cutoff date for most retailers offering standard shipping.
- Priority Shipping: December 20th – For those willing to spend extra on expedited shipping, most retailers’ priority shipping options will be accepted up until this day.
- Express Shipping: December 22nd – This option is generally more costly but may still be available for procrastinators seeking an eleventh-hour solution.
Individual retailer deadlines
Besides these general guidelines, specific retailers have their own cut-off dates for holiday shipping:
- Amazon: Non-Prime members should place orders by December 17th for standard delivery, whereas Prime members can lean on the prime two-day shipping option until December 22nd.
- Best Buy: The deadline for standard shipping is December 18th, with express shipping available until December 20th.
- Target: Orders placed before December 17th should arrive before Christmas with its standard shipping option. Express two-day shipping is available for orders made by December 20th.
Tips for successful online gift shopping
In order to avoid disappointment, keep the following tips in mind when shopping online:
Read the fine print
Always read the retailer’s shipping fine print. Some may have specific rules or exceptions that affect their delivery estimates during the holiday season.
Check inventory availability
Popular items may sell out quickly, so be sure to check inventory levels before placing an order. If a gift you had in mind is sold out, consider opting for a similar item or using price comparison tools to find it elsewhere.
Be prepared for delays
Understand that shipping carriers are often under immense pressure during peak seasonal periods. Be prepared for potential delays and plan accordingly.
Keep track of tracking numbers and stay informed about your parcels’ journey to ensure timely arrival.
Browse with purpose
If you’re still searching for gift ideas, there are plenty of helpful resources available. Gift guides can offer inspiration and valuable suggestions tailored to your recipient’s interests.
Alternatively, browse lists of bestsellers, editor picks, or curated collections for further insight.
Last-minute purchasing strategies
If the shipping deadlines have passed and you still need to purchase gifts, these strategies might help:
An alternative shipping address
Consider having gifts shipped to relatives or friends at your destination if visiting loved ones for the holidays. This approach requires open communication with both the gift recipients and those accepting packages on your behalf.
Digital gifts & gift cards
Some items don’t require shipping, such as digital downloads, subscriptions, or gift cards. These can save you the stress of physical deliveries while still providing thoughtful gifts.
Click and collect
Many retailers offer click-and-collect services, meaning you can place your order online and pick it up in-store within hours. This approach can save precious time during the festive season while ensuring your gifts are wrapped and ready by Christmas Day.
In conclusion, preparing for the holiday shopping frenzy should involve awareness of important shipping deadlines.
Familiarizing yourself with retailer-specific dates, using comparison tools, and reading critical fine print can help avoid disappointment come Christmas morning. Happy shopping!
