To ensure timely delivery of holiday gifts, the last days to ship with FedEx, UPS, and USPS are approaching.

• As third-party shippers become more stretched, online orders may take longer to arrive than in previous years.
• To ensure timely delivery of your package for the holidays, the last days to ship are approaching.

There is a growing concern among consumers that their online orders may not arrive on time for the holiday, which is understandable.

A survey by BadCredit.org of nearly 1,000 adults found that more than half, or 54%, are concerned about shipping delays during the current season.

DHL Supply Chain's new CEO for North America, Patrick Kelleher, recently informed CNBC that packages may arrive later than usual, particularly those ordered around big dates such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Due to the high volume, third-party shippers are under immense pressure, as per Lauren Beitelspacher, a marketing professor at Babson College. Additionally, the ongoing labor shortage makes it challenging for some companies to hire enough workers to handle package sorting, transportation, and delivery on schedule.

The pressure on shippers has increased as consumers now expect even faster delivery speeds.

This holiday season, cardholders are more likely to max out their credit cards or come close to doing so, according to a survey.

""Although we are spoiled and can easily get what we want, we've learned how fragile the supply chain is," Beitelspacher said."

As the number of packages to ship increases, shipping times may become longer, increasing the likelihood of damage, loss, or theft during transit, as well as the risk of "porch piracy" upon delivery.

Key deadlines to know

A survey by Stamps.com found that 40% of consumers are unaware of holiday shipping deadlines.

Stamps.com's general manager, Nick Spitzman, emphasized the importance of consumers being prepared and informed about shipping deadlines during the holiday season to ensure timely delivery of their gifts.

To avoid last-minute delays during the shorter holiday season, Spitzman advises shoppers to familiarize themselves with shipping deadlines across carriers and choose guaranteed delivery options.

To ensure timely delivery of your package, it is recommended to ship it within the remaining days.

●       Dec. 13, 2024: Last day for FedEx Ground Economy

December 18, 2024: The final day for USPS Ground Advantage and First-Class Mail.

The last day for UPS 3-Day Select and USPS Priority Mail is December 19, 2024.

●       Dec. 20, 2024: Last day for UPS 2nd Day Air

●       Dec. 21, 2024: Last day for USPS Priority Mail Express