Holiday shipping deadlines are almost here for 2024

AUSTIN, Texas - If you’re still buying Christmas presents, you are almost out of time to get them sent out.

"There are 6 fewer days between Thanksgiving and Christmas this year which means shipping deadlines are going to be a little tighter," National Retail Federation Katherine Cullen said.

Friday is the last day for Fed-Ex ground economy. 

For customers using ground advantage or first class, USPS suggests shipping packages no later than Wednesday, Dec. 18. Priority mail packages should be sent by Thursday, December 19th. Any last minute items should be sent using priority mail express by Saturday, Dec. 21.

"The closer you get to December 24th, 25th, the more you’ll have to pay," Stamps.com general manager Nick Spitzman said.

A new survey by Stamps.com indicates younger generations are willing to pay extra for faster shipping.

• Gen Z: 56 % willing to pay up
• Baby Boomers: 27% willing to pay up

The survey also shows 68% of millennials prioritize receiving their deliveries on time.

"I think it’s important to play it safe and send as early as possible," Spitzman said.

The U.S. Postal Services’ load is expected to continue to increase this holiday season, but they said they are ready. USPS said they have thousands of new vehicles, more precise operation systems, and hundreds of new package sorting machines.