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 the most important holiday shipping deadlines for 2023, so you can ensure your packages arrive in time for Christmas.

While many carriers and retailers only list deadlines for ordering packages in time for December 25, you can also utilize express shipping for Hanukkah, which starts on December 7, and use these dates as a guide for Kwanzaa, which starts on Dececember 26. So, read below for all the info. Oh! And if you want to send letters to Santa, make sure they're sent by December 11. Happy shopping... and shipping!

holiday shipping deadlines
CRobertson - Getty Images

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 domestic holiday shipping dates, according to top U.S. delivery services:

USPS

  • December 16: Last date to send packages using the Retail Ground service and First Class Mail service.

  • December 18: Last date to send packages using the Priority Mail service.

  • December 20: Last date to send packages using the Priority Mail Express service.

UPS

  • Ground shipping: use their shipment calculator for details.

  • December 19: Last date to send packages using UPS 3 Day Select.

  • December 20: Last date to send packages using UPS 2nd Day Air services.

  • December 21: Last date to send packages using UPS Next Day Air services.

FedEx

  • December 13: Last date to send packages using FedEx Ground Economy services.

  • December 15: Last date to send packages using FedEx Ground and Home Delivery services.

  • December 19: Last date to send packages using FedEx Express Saver services.

  • December 20: Last date to send packages using FedEx 2 Day services.

  • December 22: Last date to send packages using FedEx Same Day services.

holiday shipping deadlines
Camille Wesser - Getty Images

What is the last date to order gifts for Christmas?

  • Amazon: Though we don't know exact 2023 dates, 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 16 at 12 p.m. EST is the last day for Standard shipping for Christmas delivery. The last day for Express shipping is December 18, 11:59 a.m. EST, and December 19 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 20 and Express shipping by December 21 at 12 p.m. EST. Select stores will offer same-day delivery on December 24.

  • Sephora: Last day for Standard is December 19 at 6 a.m. EST, last day for Flash 2-day shipping is December 20 at 9 a.m. EST, and last day for 1-day shipping is December 21 at 9 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 or even one business 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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