Guidelines on Getting It There by Christmas

It's not too late.... honest!

With so many people shopping online this Holiday Season, it's important for buyers (and sellers!) to acknowledge deadlines. Sales deadlines, ordering deadlines, shipping deadlines, postal deadlines, etc.

It can really make your head spin!

What's the best way to make sure that gift you ordered online is going to be under the tree on Christmas Day?

Here's a list of my helpful

Online Holiday Shopping Tips for Buyers:

View the US Postal Service's Holiday Shipping Deadlines at: http://www.usps.com/holiday/shippingcalendar.htm

*Although no delivery is guaranteed (except 'Guaranteed', of course), the USPS has fairly accurate cut-off shipping dates.

View the online seller's shipping policies

*Does the Seller ship on the same day, or within a day of ordering? Even if Priority Mail delivers within 3 days, it won't matter if the Seller's policy is to ship only on Wednesdays and you've ordered on a Friday!

See if the Seller offers a variety of shipping options, like Priority or Express mail

*Many Sellers offer several different shipping options, including alternative carriers in the event a package needs to get there fast.

Look for shipping upgrades at reduced rates

*Some Sellers will offer an upgrade from Parcel Post or First Class Mail to Priority or Express Mail for a minimal fee - in many cases, the price difference may be negligible and well worth it!

Communicate the need for prompt delivery with the Seller

*Send the seller an email before purchase and let them know by what date you need the package - most Sellers will be upfront with you and let you know if it's feasible for them to honor your request.

Ask the Seller to provide you with your package's Tracking or Delivery Confirmation Number

*Knowing where your package is - or at least knowing it's on it's way! - will provide security and peace of mind during this stressful Season.

Look for complimentary gift wrapping services

*Having your Gift pre-wrapped can save lots of time, especially if arriving at the last minute!

Look for Sellers who'll ship to alternative addresses

*Many Sellers will send your gift directly to your recipient, and with nominal or absolutely no additional fees - a real time saver!

Following these Guidelines will hopefully help relieve some of the stress of Holiday Shopping - and shipping - online!

If you have any other online buying tips to pass along, please post them by adding a Comment!