Christmas Shipping Deadlines 2026

When do packages need to be mailed for Christmas delivery?

For shipping within the US, you need to mail your packages before December 23rd with next day services for them to arrive before Christmas 2026. However, we always recommend you ship your Christmas gifts as soon as possible. Christmas shipping deadlines may vary depending on the following factors:

  • Your shipping destination

  • Which parcel service you choose (economy or express)

  • Your chosen parcel courier

To help you plan your Christmas shipping and be sure your gifts arrive on time, we’ve put together this handy guide showing the Christmas shipping deadlines for all the biggest US couriers including UPS, FedEx, DHL and USPS.

Just click the links below to find the dates you're looking for:

US Christmas shipping deadlines

The holiday season is a busy time for all of our couriers, so avoid any potential delays and mail your Christmas gifts as early as possible.

For peace of mind, try to send gifts two weeks before Christmas for US domestic deliveries. Not only will it save you a lot of last-minute stress, but it will be cheaper than paying for an expedited service later.

For domestic services, please see the dates below from our range of popular couriers. In order for your package to arrive in time for Christmas, you must ship by these dates.

UPS® Christmas Shipping Dates 2026:

Service

Mail by*

UPS® Ground & UPS® Ground Saver

Get a quote

UPS 3 Day Select®

December 19

UPS 2nd Day Air®

December 22

UPS Next Day Air®

December 23

USPS Christmas Shipping Dates 2026:

Service

Mail by*

USPS Priority Mail

December 18

USPS Ground Advantage

December 17

*Your package must be with the courier by this date

Top Monkey Tip

If you’re booking a package pickup service, make sure you book the day before you would like the collection. E.g. Book by Thursday 12th for a package collection on Friday 13th.

International Christmas shipping deadlines

Sending presents overseas? You’re in the right place. Parcel Monkey can help you ship packages at cheaper rates to over 200 global destinations.

Christmas shipping deadlines for destinations outside the US can start as early as late November for economy services, so the earlier you ship - the better!

Delivery times may vary by country, but the best way to find the last shipping day for your specific destination is to get a quote.

Need to find the Christmas shipping deadline for a specific country?

When you get a quote with Parcel Monkey, your quote results will include an estimated delivery time to your chosen destination. This is a good guide to help you work out when you need to mail your packages. Get ahead of the international shipping game and start planning as soon as possible.

For peace of mind, always allow an extra few days for shipping during the holiday season. It’s far better for your packages to arrive early than late. Find delivery times


How to mail a Christmas present?

Mailing a Christmas present is simple with Parcel Monkey. All you need to do is:

  1. Get a free quote.

  2. Select the best delivery service for you.

  3. Book your package delivery - remember to enter your and your recipient’s address details accurately.

  4. Package your Christmas box and attach your postage label.

  5. Arrange a collection or drop your package off.

We’ll be here to help you over Christmas. You can contact us via live chat or send us an email through your account.

Here are our Christmas opening hours:

Christmas Eve 2026

AM opening only

Christmas Day 2026

Closed

Friday, December 26 2026

9am - 6pm

Saturday, December 27 2026

Closed

Sunday, December 28 2026

Closed

Monday, December 29 2026

9am - 6pm

Tuesday, December 30 2026

9am - 6pm

Wednesday, New Years Eve

AM opening only

Thursday, New Years Day

Closed

Friday, January 2 2027

9am - 6pm