CINCINNATI -- The clock is ticking for all you last-minute shoppers and last-minute shippers when it comes to Christmas presents.
The U.S. Postal Service said Monday will be the busiest mailing and shipping day of the year with an expecting 640 million packages, letters and cards being sent.
The agency has a list of deadlines available to help everyone get their special gifts to their destination on time.
Here are the absolute deadlines to keep in mind:
- December 15: standard post
- December 19: first class
- December 21: priority mail
- December 23: priority mail express
Post masters report increased demand this year, largely driven by online shopping.
Some post offices have increased their hours to meet demand and will also be open on the 21st. Residents are urged to check their local post office if they fear they’ll have to use that option.
The Postal Service isn’t the only delivery option. Here are the deadlines from its main competitors:
FedEx: Dec. 16 is the last day to ship FedEx Ground if you want delivery by Christmas Day: Dec. 21 is the deadline for Express Saver, and Dec. 22 is the deadline for 2 Day Air. The 23rd is the last day to send overnight packages for arrival on the 24th.
UPS: Dec. 18 is the last day to ship UPS 3 Day Select – those packages will be delivered before Christmas Day. The 22nd is the last day for 2-Day Air, and Dec. 23 is the deadline for overnight packages to arrive by Christmas Eve.
