Holiday Shipping Woes: Plan Ahead to Avoid Delays
As the holiday season approaches, concerns about shipping delays are on the rise. A recent survey by BadCredit.org found that 54% of shoppers are worried about receiving their online orders on time. With good reason, it seems. Industry experts warn that packages may take longer to arrive this year, especially those ordered during peak shopping days like Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
The Perfect Storm: High Volume and Labor Shortages
The combination of high volume and ongoing labor shortages is putting a strain on third-party shippers. With many companies struggling to hire enough workers to sort, transport, and deliver packages, delays are inevitable. At the same time, consumers have grown accustomed to expecting fast delivery speeds, adding to the pressure on shippers.
Fragile Supply Chains and Porch Piracy
When there are more packages to ship, shipping times increase, raising the risk of damage, loss, or theft en route. Once an item is delivered, there’s also the risk of “porch piracy.” With 40% of consumers unaware of holiday shipping deadlines, according to Stamps.com, it’s crucial to plan ahead and be aware of shipping deadlines to ensure gifts arrive on time.
Be Prepared: Know Your Shipping Deadlines
To avoid last-minute delays, familiarize yourself with shipping deadlines across carriers. With Thanksgiving falling later this year, the holiday season is shorter, making planning ahead even more essential. Choosing guaranteed delivery options can also help alleviate concerns.
Key Shipping Deadlines to Remember
- December 13, 2024: Last day for FedEx Ground Economy
- December 18, 2024: Last day for USPS Ground Advantage and USPS First-Class Mail
- December 19, 2024: Last day for UPS 3-Day Select and USPS Priority Mail
- December 20, 2024: Last day for UPS 2nd Day Air
- December 21, 2024: Last day for USPS Priority Mail Express
By being aware of these deadlines and planning ahead, you can ensure that your holiday gifts arrive on time and avoid the stress of last-minute delays.
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