As Christmas approaches, nearly nine in ten Brits remain unaware of the UK’s last posting dates, while over a third admit to leaving gift buying to the last minute. To help avoid festive disappointment, Simon Coles, Postmaster at Copperhouse Post Office in Hayle, is urging customers to plan ahead and ensure their parcels reach loved ones in time for the big day.
Last Posting Dates for Christmas 2024
To guarantee delivery before Christmas, keep these dates in mind for your parcels:
Thursday 19th December:
Friday 20th December:
- Royal Mail 1st Class
- Royal Mail Tracked 48
- Evri Standard
- Parcelforce Express24
Saturday 21st December:
- Royal Mail Tracked 24
- Evri Priority
- DPD
Monday 23rd December:
- Royal Mail’s Special Delivery Guaranteed®
Simon advises customers: “Christmas is such a special time of year where we see people from all over the community excited to post their parcels to loved ones at home and abroad. We want to make sure that your posting experience is as stress-free and simple as possible, so making sure you send your parcels early is key to ensure it arrives in time.”
Tips for Smooth Posting
Simon also shared essential advice to make posting parcels easier this festive season:
- Label and secure: “Ensure the package is properly secured with strong tape and use address labels to avoid any confusion during transit. This ensures your hard-earned money spent on Christmas presents means they arrive safely.”
- Prepare ahead: “Make sure you fill out your customs form before you come in. You can pop into the Post Office and get a form or fill one out online. Remember to write the address clearly on the front of the package, and make sure the present is wrapped securely. There’s nothing worse than spending time and money on making a present look beautiful for it to be torn in transit.”
- Choose the right service: “We offer a range of delivery carriers to suit your timing and budget needs. With multiple carriers available under one roof, we really are a one-stop shop! Above all, come and speak to us; we’re here to help, and our knowledge can make all the difference during the festive rush.”
Don’t Forget Returns
In addition to sending gifts, nearly one in five Brits will also be returning items before Christmas, largely due to pre-holiday sales such as Black Friday.
For more information on specific posting dates and requirements, visit your local branch or check postoffice.co.uk/Christmas.
Avoid the last-minute panic and make sure your parcels spread joy this Christmas!