What to know about last-minute holiday shipping deadlines, cheapest options
As Christmas quickly approaches, it's crunch time for holiday shoppers, which means details like shipping costs, deadlines and how to avoid tariff fees on gifts will come in handy when planning last-minute purchases.
Cheapest holiday shipping deadlines
Major carriers have shared their deadlines for holiday gifts so that presents will arrive on time.
Whether you're looking to send a package on the cheap and need to find the most budget-friendly option or are in search of the earliest arrival before Dec. 24, see the full list below to help you pick the best delivery option.
FedEx
The shipping cutoff for FedEx Ground Economy packages to arrive by Christmas was Dec. 15.
USPS
Dec. 17 is the deadline for packages or cards sent via U.S. Postal Service for both ground shipping and First-Class Mail to ensure they arrive in time for the holidays.
UPS
UPS dates may vary by location, but Dec. 17 is the deadline for ground shipping, so check with your nearest location before sending a package across the country.
Priority and express holiday shipping options and deadlines
There are more expensive options from the same carriers for anyone sending their items closer to the holidays.
USPS Priority Mail
Dec. 18 is the deadline for Priority Mail with the U.S. Postal Service.
UPS 3-day
Packages being sent using three-day shipping with UPS must be sent by Dec. 19.
UPS also offers 2nd Day Air, which must ship by Dec. 22, and UPS Next Day Air, which has a Dec. 23 deadline.
FedEx Express Saver
The shipping deadline to ensure holiday packages arrive on time is Dec. 20.
Tips to save on holiday shipping
- As you're mailing gifts, double or triple check zip codes on the label to avoid any delays.
- Put a card inside the package with your return address just in case it gets damaged.
- Check with the store where you purchase a gift and ask about any free shipping deadlines.
- Ship packages directly to friend or family member when possible.
- Consider USPS Flat Rate boxes, which offers a range of envelope and box sizes, and won't charge customers more than the specified amount.
How to avoid potential tariff fees while holiday shopping
Anyone shopping gifts online right now may notice added fees related to tariffs, which can occur either at checkout -- separate from shipping and taxes -- or after your package is delivered.
According to the Mastercard Economics Institute, some popular holiday gifts getting hit especially hard with tariffs this season include clothes like leather gloves and sweaters, sports equipment and toys.
When buying goods from a retailer overseas, assume you might get charged a customs bill. To try to avoid this while shopping online, look for "import charges included" or "delivery duty paid" on the checkout page. If you don't see that, check the website's FAQ section or call the seller directly.
Keep in mind that once a package bought from overseas crosses the border, even if you try to return it, you could still be on the hook for paying any customs fees, so be sure to check before you buy.
An earlier version of this story was originally published Dec. 5, 2025.
