Stressed about holiday shopping? Here’s some good news: Today is Free Shipping Day and 2,347 retailers including Kohl’s, Best Buy, Levi’s and Shoes.com, have signed up to get your gifts shipped for free before Christmas Eve! How’s that for motivation to start shopping today? Here are some more tips to make shipping your gifts easier.
Know When Your Gifts Will Arrive
Whether you’re using UPS, USPS, or FedEx knowing the amount of time it will take to deliver your packages and the absolute last day to ship them will be helpful. For example, the last day to ship a package that will arrive in time for Christmas is December 23 for FedEx, while the last day for Christmas arrival is December 20 for USPS First-Class mail.
Plan for Unexpected Delays
Bad weather can delay gift shipments. Long lines and a surplus of shipments can also cause a delay, especially since this is the busiest week of the year. So try to get your gifts out as soon as possible.
Print Labels at Home or Get Flat-Rate Boxes
Once you’ve finished shopping, iVillage iVoice Sharon Rowley suggests heading over to USPS for flat-rate boxes which range from $5.20 to $14.95 for small and large boxes. You can weigh non-flat rate boxes at home and then print off a shipping label with postage from USPS.com. Then just leave the boxes at your mailbox for your mail carrier to pick up.
Protect Your Precious Baked Goods
If you’re planning on shipping food, check out our tips on how to pack your cakes and cookies and try baking one of these treats that are perfect for shipping.
For more easy ways to get ready for the holidays, check out the results of our Get Organized for the Holiday Season Community Challenge.
