Happy, Hectic Holiday Shipping

December 14, 2017

Tis the season to be jolly, but there’s a lot of scrambling to be done before you can have a smile on your face Christmas morning. Today we’re exploring what’s in store for shipping during the busiest time of the year, so kick back in front of the fireplace like a roasting chestnut and let Ernest make your holidays a little easier.

Shipping Deadlines

Gift-givers who plan on shipping packages this year will need to keep a close eye on the calendar. The last day to ship at normal rates will be December 15 for packages shipping through USPS, FedEx and UPS, and December 17 for Amazon. After those dates, shippers will need to pay a bit more for expedited services to ensure smiles all around the Christmas tree.

Last-minute shoppers will also be excited to hear that Amazon will offer same-day shipping on Christmas Eve. While that might not be enough time to get your package wrapped up neatly and stuffed in a stocking, it’s sure to be a lifesaver if you’re in a gift-giving pinch.

Be aware that both FedEx and UPS implement a Peak Surcharge that spans mid-November through early December, then picks back up a week before Christmas Eve. That means you’ll be subject to additional fees if you don’t plan your shipping accordingly, so make a list of when to send your packages out and check it twice!

Holiday shipping deadlines

 

Free Shipping Day

For those savvy shoppers hoping to snag gifts on the cheap, December 14, 2018 is Free Shipping Day. This helpful e-tailer holiday is celebrating its 11th anniversary this year, and over 1,000 online shops across the nation will be participating.

At Ernest we don’t just care about your packaging; we care about it getting delivered on time, especially for the holidays. With the holiday crunch, carriers will be working overtime to get your package to its destination. There’s always the risk of it not receiving the TLC it needs to arrive undamaged, but with Ernest on your side, you’re guaranteed the strength it needs to survive.