Deadline looms for Christmas package shipping
Online shopping boosts mail traffic, congestion
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Time is running short to ship packages for a Christmas delivery.
The United States Postal Service, UPS and FedEx are all gearing up for last minute drop offs.
USPS
"We've seen an increased volume since most people are shopping online," said Naddia Dhalai, strategic communications specialist. "They won't be visiting loved ones this year, so they are mailing their gifts. We've definitely seen the volume coming through."
Shipping deadlines:
¯ Friday for letters, cards and first-class packages of less than 16 ounces;
¯ Saturday for priority mail service, including boxes of up to 70 pounds.
"Priority mail is our two- to three-day service, depending on where it's going," Dhalai said.
¯ The last service, priority mail express, "is overnight service and the last day is Dec. 23," she added.
UPS
UPS Representative Dionicio Hernandez said for UPS Ground shipments, people should check the Calculate Time and Cost calculator at ups.com/ctc for shipping quotes for global package delivery.
Other deadlines:
¯ Monday – UPS 3 Day Select;.
¯ Dec. 22 – UPS 2nd Day Air;
¯ Dec. 23 – UPS Next Day Air.
FedEx
"FedEx expects to see a large number of packages traverse our global network," said Shannon Davis, communications advisor. "We project that peak shipping volumes will be up 22 percent over last year and have been preparing for the influx of packages for months in advance of an unprecedented holiday season."
Davis said today is the last day to ship via FedEx Ground if a person has a regular scheduled pickup or if they drop off shipments at a staffed FedEx location.
Shipping deadlines:
¯ Dec. 22 – to ship FedEx 2Day or FedEx 2Day A.M.;
¯ Dec. 23 – the last day for a consumer to ship FedEx Express Overnight.