While some of us might not want to start thinking about it, Christmas is looming, so if you’re thinking of doing your shopping online this year rather than in-store, make sure you don’t end up having to pay for express delivery for those last minute gifts.
The final postal and ordering dates for online purchases seem earlier than ever this year, so it’s useful to know the timelines to avoid missing out.
Royal Mail last recommended postal dates
Whether you are sending gifts or Christmas cards, make sure you don’t miss the final delivery dates for the UK:
| Postage type | Last recommended posting date |
| 2nd Class 2nd Class Signed For Royal Mail Tracked 48® | Monday 18 December |
| 1st Class 1st Class Signed For Royal Mail Tracked 24® | Wednesday 20 December |
| Special Delivery Guaranteed® | Thursday 21 December |
| Special Delivery Guaranteed® (Guaranteed Saturday delivery for an extra fee) | Friday 22 December |
| Parcelforce Worldwide express48 and express48 Large | Wednesday 20 December |
| Parcelforce Worldwide express24. expressAM | Thursday 21 December |
International deliveries
If you are looking at sending something overseas, the large majority of final postal dates have already passed. If you’re in the Republic of Ireland, there are a few destinations that you might be able to send post to, but if you’re anywhere else in the UK your post now won’t reach it’s international destination before Christmas.
Last online ordering dates
If you are thinking about buying your gifts online this year, it could be worth getting a move on with your orders to be sure that your gifts arrive before December 25. Millions of Brits are collectively expected to spend billions on online purchases this festive season, so things could take a little longer to arrive than usual.
Lots of retailers haven’t specifically outlined their final Christmas delivery dates, but the ones that have tend to be around Tuesday 19 for standard delivery and up to Thursday 21 December for express options.
Of course, always make sure you check with the retailer directly for the exact timelines on the item you are ordering to make sure it will be delivered on time. Larger items and furniture could have much longer delivery timelines, so always check to avoid disappointment. You can find out about what your rights are if items take longer than expected to arrive in our guide Online shopping – know your rights.
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