Why Amazon and Etsy Are Ideal for Shut-Ins and Disabled People Sourcing Christmas Gifts

The festive season is a time of joy, togetherness, and giving. 

However, for individuals who are housebound or disabled, sourcing and delivering Christmas gifts can pose significant challenges.

Whether due to mobility issues, health concerns, or other limitations, traditional shopping may not always be feasible. This is where online platforms like Amazon and Etsy become invaluable resources.

1. Convenience and Accessibility

Both Amazon and Etsy provide the ability to shop from the comfort of your home. With just a few clicks, you can browse thousands of products, compare prices, and read reviews—all without the need to navigate crowded shops or carry heavy shopping bags. These platforms are designed to be user-friendly, and many offer accessibility features like screen reader compatibility, ensuring that everyone can shop with ease.

2. Wide Range of Products

One of the key advantages of Amazon and Etsy is the sheer variety of items available.

Amazon is ideal for practical and mainstream gifts, offering everything from electronics to books and toys. Its vast inventory ensures you’ll find something for everyone on your list.

Etsy, on the other hand, excels in unique, handmade, and personalised gifts. If you’re looking for something meaningful or one-of-a-kind, Etsy’s artisan community has you covered.

3. Personalisation Options

Etsy, in particular, shines when it comes to personalisation. Many sellers offer customised items such as engraved jewellery, bespoke art, or monogrammed accessories. Personalised gifts can make your loved ones feel truly special, and the ability to communicate directly with sellers allows you to tailor your purchase to perfection.

4. Delivery to Recipients

Both platforms offer the option to deliver gifts directly to recipients. Amazon’s extensive logistics network ensures fast and reliable delivery, often with the option for gift wrapping and a personalised message. Etsy sellers frequently provide similar services, allowing you to send beautifully wrapped, handmade items directly to your loved ones. This eliminates the need for you to package and post items yourself—a game-changer for those with limited mobility.

5. Budget-Friendly Options

For those on a tight budget, both platforms cater to a wide range of price points. Amazon’s competitive pricing and frequent discounts make it easy to find affordable gifts. Meanwhile, Etsy offers plenty of small, affordable handmade items that carry a personal touch, perfect for thoughtful yet budget-conscious gifting.

6. Support for Independent Sellers

Shopping on Etsy also provides the opportunity to support small businesses and independent creators. This aligns with the spirit of giving, as your purchase directly contributes to the livelihood of artisans around the world.

7. Inclusive Payment and Delivery Options

Both Amazon and Etsy offer multiple payment methods, including gift cards, credit/debit cards, and PayPal. They also provide various delivery options, from express shipping to eco-friendly alternatives, ensuring flexibility to meet your needs.

8. Peace of Mind

For shut-ins and disabled individuals, the ability to shop online reduces the stress and physical strain associated with holiday preparations. Amazon’s customer service and return policies offer added peace of mind, while Etsy’s seller reviews and direct communication foster trust in your purchases.

Final Thoughts

Amazon and Etsy are more than just shopping platforms; they are lifelines for those who face challenges accessing traditional retail. Their combination of convenience, variety, and accessibility makes them ideal for sourcing and delivering Christmas gifts. By leveraging these platforms, you can ensure that the joy of giving remains at the heart of your holiday season, no matter your circumstances.

This Christmas, let technology and creativity bridge the gap, bringing smiles to your loved ones and making the season bright for everyone.

Using Amazon and Other Online Retailers to Send Gifts to Loved Ones Abroad

The holiday season is all about sharing joy and thoughtfulness, but if your loved ones live abroad, getting gifts to them can be a challenge. 

Thankfully, online retailers like Amazon, Etsy, and other platforms make it simple to send presents to family and friends across the globe, allowing you to make them feel cherished even from a distance. 

Here’s a guide to using online retailers to make gift-giving easier, more personal, and cost-effective when your loved ones live far away.

1. Choose the Right Retailer

Different online retailers offer varying degrees of international service, so it’s worth researching which platform is best for your needs. Here are some top options:

Amazon: Amazon’s worldwide reach is one of the main reasons it’s ideal for international gift delivery. With Amazon’s different country sites (such as Amazon UK, Amazon US, and Amazon Australia), you can often purchase and deliver items within a specific region, which can reduce shipping times and costs.

For example, my late mother was living in the USA for several years. Rather than having birthday and Christmas gifts posted from the UK to her address in America I ordered gifts for her on Amazon.com and chose the 'gift' option to have her presents suitably gift wrapped and delivered direct to her home in the USA.

Etsy: If you’re looking for unique, handmade, or personalised gifts, Etsy is a great choice. Many Etsy sellers offer international shipping, and the platform provides plenty of filters to help you find items that can be shipped directly to your loved one’s country.

Local Retailers and Stores: In some cases, local online stores in the recipient’s country may offer convenient options. Some British department stores and retailers, like John Lewis and Marks & Spencer, offer international delivery services for their products.

Choosing the right retailer can save both money and time, ensuring your gift reaches its destination swiftly and without unnecessary hassle.

2. Take Advantage of Regional Sites

One of the simplest ways to send gifts abroad is to use a regional version of an online retailer. Amazon, for example, operates country-specific sites that let you order from the nearest Amazon warehouse to your recipient’s location. This approach has several benefits:

Faster Delivery: By ordering from a regional site, your gift often arrives more quickly as it ships from within the country.

Lower Shipping Costs: Shipping costs can be much lower (or even free) if the item is sent from a local Amazon warehouse rather than from overseas.

Reduced Customs Fees: Items shipped within the same country or region are less likely to incur customs fees or import taxes, which saves your recipient from unexpected expenses.

Simply switch to the Amazon site for your recipient’s region (such as amazon.de for Germany or amazon.ca for Canada), and make your purchase as you would on your home country’s site.

3. Be Mindful of Customs and Import Taxes

When sending items internationally, especially high-value items, be aware of potential customs duties and import taxes. In some countries, your recipient may have to pay customs fees or taxes when their package arrives, which can be an unwelcome surprise. Here’s how to avoid issues:

Check Import Rules: Many retailers, including Amazon, provide information on customs duties for specific countries. It’s a good idea to read these details before making a purchase.

Use Gift Options: Some retailers mark parcels as gifts, which may reduce customs duties in certain countries.

Choose Duty-Free Items: If possible, select items that are shipped directly from within the recipient’s country or from duty-free zones to minimise fees.

4. Consider Subscription Gifts for Year-Round Enjoyment

If you want to send a gift that keeps giving, consider a subscription service. Many retailers and online platforms now offer subscription options that can be delivered internationally. Some popular choices include:

Amazon Prime Membership: If available in their region, gifting a Prime membership gives them access to streaming services, exclusive deals, and faster shipping.

Magazine or Book Subscriptions: Many bookshops and magazine publishers offer international subscriptions, which deliver new issues or books each month.

Streaming or Entertainment Subscriptions: Services like Netflix, Audible, and Spotify offer gift cards or subscription options in many countries, allowing your loved ones to enjoy entertainment on demand.

Subscription gifts are perfect for friends and family who enjoy new experiences and ongoing enjoyment, adding a delightful surprise to their routine long after Christmas.

5. Personalise with a Note or Gift Wrapping

Adding a personal touch can make your gift extra special, even when it’s ordered online. Many online retailers offer options for gift wrapping and personalised notes, making it easy to add a heartfelt message. Here’s how to make it memorable:

Use Gift Options: On Amazon, you can often select “This item is a gift,” which allows you to include a message and choose gift wrap for an added fee.

Send a Video Message: Since physical cards can be difficult to include in online orders, consider recording a video message that your recipient can view when they receive their gift. A quick email or video link adds a personal touch.

Add Personalised Items: Etsy and other artisan platforms offer a range of personalised gifts, from engraved jewellery to custom-printed artwork. These bespoke items bring an added layer of thoughtfulness that your loved one is sure to appreciate.

Personalising your gift, even when shopping online, shows your loved ones that distance hasn’t taken away the time and care you’ve put into their present.

6. Take Note of Delivery Deadlines

To ensure your gift arrives in time for Christmas, keep an eye on delivery deadlines, as shipping times can be longer for international orders. Amazon and other large retailers typically publish deadlines for Christmas delivery, which are worth noting, especially when ordering to destinations with longer shipping routes.

If you’re cutting it close, consider paying for express shipping options where available. Many retailers offer expedited delivery for an additional fee, which can make all the difference if you’re short on time.

7. Explore Gift Cards for Flexibility

When in doubt, a gift card can be a thoughtful and flexible alternative that allows your recipient to choose something they truly want. Most major online retailers offer digital gift cards that can be emailed instantly, allowing your loved ones to select their gift at their convenience. Here are some options:

Amazon Gift Cards: Available in multiple currencies and regions, Amazon gift cards are a simple way to ensure your recipient can find something they’ll love, whether it’s a book, gadget, or home decor.

Local Gift Cards: Many regional retailers also offer digital gift cards that can be used in local stores. For instance, Marks & Spencer offers international gift cards for a British shopping experience, while major grocery stores and supermarkets often have similar options.

Streaming and Entertainment Cards: Digital gift cards for services like Netflix, Spotify, or iTunes give your loved one access to endless entertainment choices, tailored to their tastes.

Gift cards make a great option when you’re unsure of size, style, or personal preferences, giving your recipient the freedom to choose.

8. Consider Handmade and Sustainable Options

If you’re looking for a gift with a personal or sustainable touch, platforms like Etsy offer a world of handmade and eco-friendly items crafted by artisans across the globe. Many of these items can be shipped internationally, and you can often filter by location to find creators closer to your recipient’s country.

Supporting small businesses and independent makers not only offers unique, high-quality gifts but also contributes to a more sustainable and thoughtful Christmas, helping your loved one feel truly appreciated.

Final Thoughts: Bringing Loved Ones Closer, One Gift at a Time

Even though distance can make Christmas celebrations feel challenging, online retailers like Amazon and other platforms make it possible to share joy and warmth with those who live far away. With thoughtful planning, personalisation, and a bit of research, your gifts can feel just as special and meaningful as if you’d delivered them in person.

This Christmas season, let the magic of online shopping help you bridge the miles and spread festive cheer to your loved ones around the world.

Supporting Shut-Ins and Disabled Individuals with Meal Delivery Services for Christmas and Beyond

As we approach the festive season, our thoughts often turn to how we can make life easier for those who may find it difficult to enjoy the Christmas spirit due to mobility issues, illness, or isolation. 

For shut-ins and disabled individuals, everyday tasks like grocery shopping and preparing meals can be particularly challenging. 

That’s why meal delivery services can be a lifeline, offering not only convenience but also a sense of care and connection during this important time of year.

Here’s how meal delivery services can make a real difference during Christmas and beyond:

1. Ensuring Nutritional Support

One of the biggest challenges for individuals with limited mobility or chronic illness is maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet. For many, a trip to the supermarket is physically draining, and preparing meals can feel like an overwhelming task. Meal delivery services offer a wide range of healthy, nutritionally balanced meals that are ready to heat and eat. Whether it's a festive turkey dinner or a wholesome stew, these services provide high-quality options, ensuring that individuals receive the nourishment they need to stay healthy.

2. Easing the Burden on Family Caregivers

Christmas can be a particularly stressful time for caregivers, who are often stretched thin trying to balance the needs of their loved ones with the hustle and bustle of the season. Meal delivery services help to ease this pressure, giving caregivers peace of mind that meals are sorted, nutritious, and tailored to the recipient’s needs. Whether it’s for a few days over Christmas or as part of a longer-term solution, meal delivery frees up time for caregivers to focus on other tasks or enjoy a break, knowing their loved one is well taken care of.

3. Social Connection and Care

Meal delivery services don’t just provide food; they offer a crucial point of human interaction. Regular deliveries mean there’s a friendly face stopping by to check in, even if it’s just briefly. For many shut-ins, this small social connection can brighten their day. Some services even allow personalised notes or the inclusion of small gifts, offering an extra touch of kindness, particularly around Christmas, when feelings of loneliness may be heightened.

4. Tailored to Special Diets and Needs

Whether someone has specific dietary requirements due to allergies, medical conditions, or personal preferences, meal delivery services are highly adaptable. Gluten-free, low-sodium, vegetarian, or diabetic-friendly options are widely available, meaning individuals can enjoy meals that cater to their specific health needs. Additionally, portion sizes can be adjusted based on nutritional needs or appetite, ensuring that no food goes to waste and that every meal is enjoyed to the fullest.

5. Reducing Stress and Promoting Independence

For many disabled individuals, maintaining independence is a priority, and meal delivery services help in fostering that autonomy. By having access to meals that don’t require extensive preparation, individuals can maintain a sense of control over their daily routines. This reduction in the physical and mental stress of planning, shopping, and cooking is invaluable, particularly during the busy Christmas season. Knowing that a hot meal is just a doorstep away can relieve anxiety and promote a more relaxed, joyful atmosphere.

6. Extending Beyond the Festive Season

While Christmas is often the time we think about giving and supporting those in need, it’s essential to remember that challenges like mobility issues or illness don’t end when the decorations come down. Meal delivery services offer a long-term solution to ensure year-round care and support. By continuing services beyond the holidays, we ensure that shut-ins and disabled individuals are not forgotten, and their well-being is prioritised throughout the year.

7. Flexibility for Changing Needs

As health needs evolve, meal delivery services can easily adjust to meet new requirements. Whether someone requires soft foods, high-protein meals, or low-carb options due to a medical condition or recent surgery, these services are equipped to handle changing demands. This flexibility ensures that individuals are supported through various stages of life, promoting better health outcomes and a higher quality of life.

The Gift of Care

The Christmas period is a time of generosity, love, and care. For shut-ins and disabled individuals, receiving regular meal deliveries can be an essential service that enhances their quality of life not just for the holidays, but for every day. Whether you’re considering setting up a meal plan for a family member or looking into services for yourself, the benefits are undeniable. By providing consistent, nutritious, and delicious meals, we give the gift of care and compassion, ensuring no one is left behind during the festive season and beyond.

This Christmas, consider how you can make a difference by helping someone access the support they need through meal delivery services. It’s a small gesture that can have a lasting impact on their health, well-being, and happiness.

Which companies cook and provide delicious meal delivery services throughout the UK? Here is a list which you can save for future reference:-

Here’s a list of UK companies that provide meal delivery services throughout the country, which specialises in delivering ready-made meals directly to your door. These companies cater to various dietary needs, making them great options for those who are elderly, disabled, or have specific health requirements.

1. Oakhouse Foods

Speciality: Ready-made meals, frozen food deliveries.

Dietary Options: Gluten-free, vegetarian, low-sugar, low-fat, and more.

Service Area: Nationwide.

Website: oakhousefoods.co.uk

2. Wiltshire Farm Foods

Speciality: Ready-made meals for older adults, delivered frozen.

Dietary Options: Diabetic, low-salt, vegetarian, gluten-free, soft & pureed meals.

Service Area: Nationwide.

Website: wiltshirefarmfoods.com

3. Parsley Box

Speciality: Ready-to-heat meals delivered in pantry-safe packaging (no need for freezing).

Dietary Options: Gluten-free, low-sugar, dairy-free, vegetarian, and more.

Service Area: Nationwide.

Website: parsleybox.com

4. Cook

Speciality: Hand-prepared, frozen meals using high-quality ingredients.

Dietary Options: Gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan, and low-calorie options.

Service Area: Nationwide, with stores and home delivery.

Website: cookfood.net

5. Gousto

Speciality: Meal kit delivery service with fresh ingredients and recipes.

Dietary Options: Vegetarian, gluten-free, low-calorie, dairy-free, and more.

Service Area: Nationwide.

Website: gousto.co.uk

6. Diet Chef

Speciality: Calorie-controlled, weight-loss meal plans delivered to your door.

Dietary Options: Gluten-free, vegetarian, low-calorie options.

Service Area: Nationwide.

Website: dietchef.co.uk

7. Allplants

Speciality: Plant-based, vegan meals delivered frozen.

Dietary Options: 100% vegan, gluten-free options available.

Service Area: Nationwide.

Website: allplants.com

8. Everdine

Speciality: Clean, gourmet frozen meals delivered to your door.

Dietary Options: Vegetarian, gluten-free, low-calorie, high-protein options.

Service Area: Nationwide.

Website: everdine.co.uk

9. Field Doctor

Speciality: Nutritious, frozen meals designed by dietitians and chefs.

Dietary Options: Low FODMAP, gluten-free, dairy-free, plant-based.

Service Area: Nationwide.

Website: fielddoctor.co.uk

10. Mindful Chef

Speciality: Healthy recipe boxes with fresh ingredients.

Dietary Options: Gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, low-carb, pescatarian, and more.

Service Area: Nationwide.

Website: mindfulchef.com

11. Pots For Tots

Speciality: Fresh, homemade baby and toddler meals delivered frozen.

Dietary Options: Dairy-free, gluten-free, vegetarian.

Service Area: Nationwide.

Website: potsfortots.co.uk

These companies offer a wide range of options to cater to various dietary requirements and preferences, providing accessible and convenient meal solutions for those in need across the UK.

Alternatives to the Royal Mail for Christmas Gift Deliveries

As Christmas approaches, many of us find ourselves hunting for the perfect presents to send to loved ones. 

While the Royal Mail has long been a trusted service for delivering Christmas gifts across the UK, relying on just one service during the holiday rush may not always be ideal. 

There can be delays, missed deliveries, or higher costs for last-minute shipments. So, why not explore alternative delivery services to ensure your presents arrive on time and in good condition?

Here’s a look at some alternative courier services to consider this Christmas season:

1. Hermes (now Evri)

One of the most popular alternatives to the Royal Mail is Evri. Formerly known as Hermes, they offer affordable delivery services with the option for next-day delivery, which is ideal for last-minute shoppers. Evri is known for its wide network of parcel shops, making it convenient to drop off your package.

Evri also allows parcel tracking, giving you peace of mind that your gifts are en route to their destination. With competitive pricing and a reliable service, they’re a solid choice for many.

2. DPD

For those looking for a premium service, DPD is a great option. Known for its precise delivery windows, you can track your parcel in real time, and recipients are given a one-hour delivery slot, reducing the chances of missed deliveries.

DPD offers next-day delivery across most parts of the UK and has a strong reputation for customer service. While DPD is often more expensive than Evri or other budget couriers, the reliability and speed make it worth considering for valuable or time-sensitive gifts.

3. Collect+

Collect+ offers a convenient alternative, especially if you don’t want to queue at a post office. It partners with a network of local shops and supermarkets where you can drop off your parcels. With over 7,000 locations, you’re bound to find a Collect+ point near you.

This service is especially useful if you prefer sending packages in the evening or on weekends, as many Collect+ points have extended opening hours. The service is cost-effective, and parcels are fully tracked from start to finish.

4. Yodel

Yodel is another courier service that handles millions of parcels every week, including during the festive season. Known for its affordable rates, Yodel provides parcel tracking and a range of delivery options, from standard to next-day services.

Yodel’s delivery network covers the entire UK, making it a suitable alternative to the Royal Mail, especially for those sending parcels to rural or hard-to-reach areas.

5. Parcel2Go

If you’re unsure which courier service to choose, Parcel2Go acts as a comparison site, allowing you to compare prices from various couriers including DPD, Evri, and Yodel. This is particularly helpful when sending multiple parcels or larger items, as you can select the best service based on your budget and delivery requirements.

6. Amazon Shipping

For Amazon shoppers, Amazon Shipping could be the most straightforward choice. If your gifts are purchased through Amazon, their delivery service often offers next-day or even same-day delivery for Prime members. During the Christmas period, Amazon increases its shipping capacity to ensure timely deliveries.

7. UPS and FedEx

If you’re sending gifts abroad, particularly to the US or other international destinations, consider using UPS or FedEx. These courier services specialise in international shipments, offering fast and reliable delivery times. They also provide customs clearance assistance, which can be a huge help when sending gifts overseas.

Though typically more expensive than local couriers, their global networks and high delivery standards ensure that your parcels arrive on time, even during the holiday rush.

8. DHL

Another excellent option for international deliveries is DHL. DHL Express is known for its speed, offering next-day delivery to many European destinations and 2-3 days for farther locations. It’s an ideal service for sending gifts to family and friends abroad.

With real-time tracking and excellent customer service, DHL is a strong contender for those looking to ship internationally.

Why Consider Alternatives?

While the Royal Mail remains a reliable service for many, using alternative couriers can sometimes offer better pricing, faster delivery, or added convenience. Here are some key reasons to consider alternatives this Christmas:

Avoiding Delays: The Christmas period is exceptionally busy for the Royal Mail. Using a different courier may help you avoid delays and ensure your gifts arrive on time.

Cost: Some couriers offer more competitive rates for certain parcel sizes or weights, making it more cost-effective to use their services.

Convenience: With extended drop-off times and alternative collection points, some courier services may be more convenient for your schedule.

International Deliveries: While the Royal Mail offers international shipping, services like DHL or UPS may be faster and more specialised for sending gifts abroad.

Final Thoughts

Christmas gift-giving doesn’t have to be stressful, especially when it comes to delivery. With a range of courier services available, there are plenty of options to suit every need, whether you’re sending a small gift across the UK or a special present overseas. Explore these alternatives to the Royal Mail to ensure your gifts are delivered safely and on time this festive season.

Happy posting, and may your Christmas be merry and bright!

US Government shutdown delayed, but exporters should brace for Christmas disruption, warns ParcelHero

An 11th-hour deal means a potential US Government shutdown has been postponed until 17 November. But international parcel delivery expert ParcelHero says a long-term agreement looks further away than ever. UK exporters to the US should prepare for disruption before Christmas, it warns.

The US Government narrowly avoided a shutdown of many services after a stopgap funding deal was finally agreed last Saturday. 

The shutdown could have had an impact on UK-US trade and deliveries. But home delivery expert ParcelHero is warning the deal may have only delayed the inevitable until November 17th.

With mere hours to spare, the Republican House Speaker, Kevin McCarthy, managed to delay a Government shutdown for a further 45 days. 

Tens of thousands of US Government employees would have been furloughed without pay and many federal services suspended from 00:01 ET (5am BST) on Sunday.

ParcelHero’s Head of Consumer Research, David Jinks M.I.L.T., says: "The short-term funding deal is good news for the US economy and everyone who does business with America. But in truth it's only kicked the can down the road. And a deal in November now looks even less likely to be a success.

‘The Government funding bill was narrowly passed in the House when McCarthy struck a deal with the Democrats, in defiance of the hard-line right in his own party. Rebel Republicans previously threatened to trigger moves to replace McCarthy if he were to make such a deal. Now they have started proceedings that will end in his replacement, possibly with a Speaker less willing to seek a compromise. If that happens, the chances of a funding deal on 17 November look even more distant."

He went on to say: "If there's a US Government shutdown after 17 November, it could have an impact on UK businesses and individuals who are sending products, gifts and mail to the US. That’s bad news leading in to the peak Christmas season. Some of the services which may be potentially affected are:

Mail

‘Many traditional UK Post Office mail services and certain economy courier services to the USA make use of the United States Postal Service for final delivery. There were some fears a shutdown could disrupt low-cost UK-US mail deliveries.

‘However, the USPS is funded via the sales of products (like stamps) and services, and not directly by the US Government. That means deliveries shouldn't be interrupted.

"The US National Postal Mail Handlers Union says: "It needs to be emphasised that the Postal Service and its employees won't be directly impacted by a shutdown. The USPS isn't an appropriated federal agency, and Mail Handlers will still receive pay checks and will still report to work." US Post Offices should also remain open.

Customs and maritime shipments

"The US Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS) says a potential shutdown “will hinder the work of Government agencies that contribute to the foreign commercial activities of the United States”. That list includes US Customs and Border Protection, the Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security, the Department of Transportation and the Federal Maritime Commission.

"CSIS says: “Essential work from agencies such as Customs and Border Protection’s cargo processing and inspection at ports, will continue, but functions less essential to day-to-day work but ultimately critical to these agencies’ long-term capabilities, like training activities, will be suspended.”

"Likewise, Government activities related to imports and trade monitoring, such as tariff exclusion request processing, would likely cease.

Airfreight

‘Many UK products are airfreighted to America, often in the holds of passenger services. The US political news site The Hill reports US Transportation Secretary, Pete Buttigieg, has warned of potential disruptions in the airline industry, and highlighted the possible impact of a shutdown on air traffic control training:

“A shutdown would include, just in the transportation side alone, shutting down air traffic control training at the exact moment when the country recognizes the need for more, not less air traffic control staffing, and when we have finally got cancellations back at or below normal rates. 

"The air traffic controllers who would be working in the towers, they wouldn’t get paid. They’re under enough stress as it is doing that job without having to come into work with the added stress of not receiving a pay check.”

US services

‘Finally, during the last shutdown, almost 90% of the Department of Commerce’s staff was furloughed and the International Trade Commission was closed. Any progress on the elusive US-UK free trade agreement would also be further hindered. ParcelHero’s USA page will give live information on all available services in the event of a US Government shutdown, as well as full details on Customs advice, sending food, prohibited items, etc. 

‘The US is ParcelHero’s biggest individual overseas market. For expert advice on UK-US shipping, including Customs information, help for exports and prohibited items details, see: https://www.parcelhero.com/en-gb/international-courier-services/usa-parcel-delivery

Love Surprises? You'll Love myByBox

Lovestruck romeos who want to surprise their partners on Valentine’s Day with a present bought online can now ensure their secret gifts are kept safe thanks to www.myByBox.com and its network of electronic locker banks.

Whether they hate waiting at home for deliveries, or simply want to keep their purchases a secret until the big man's day, an increasing number of online shoppers are opting to pick up their purchases from one of the thousands of ByBox locker banks located around the country in convenient locations.

And those who have left it to the last minute can rest easy as www.figleaves.com is able to take orders up to 3pm on Monday February 13 for its range of lingerie for delivery into your choice of locker box on the morning of the 14th. Happy days!

“With ByBox lockers you can either keep a surprise as a surprise or make sure cupid's arrow doesn't misfire if St Valentine has fallen off your radar until the 11th hour," said Stuart Miller, Chief Executive and co-founder of ByBox.

“People want the flexibility of being able to pick up a parcel to suit them rather than spend hours looking out for the postman or waiting for a parcel carrier to arrive – myByBox makes the whole process simple.

“And on Valentine’s Day there’s no need to rush to answer the door before your partner – using myByBox.com we will keep your gifts discreetly tucked away until you decide to collect them or get you out of a hole if you've forgotten!

There are over 300 ByBox locker bank locations in the UK and ByBox delivers parcels to them in the middle of the night, 365 days a year, including Bank Holidays, with an enviable success rate of 99.77%.

The model is proving so popular that ByBox plans to invest £2 million installing extra banks of secure lockers at handy spots within the M25 London area such as railway stations and shopping centres.

So this Valentine’s Day, why not surprise them the digital way. Sign up to myByBox and send them a parcel. Flowers? Chocolates? A ring? Surprise us!

Delivered next-day to your nearest locker with a text and email sent to your phone.

Shutl unveils data from Christmas 2011 holiday period: bigger, later, faster, more male and more mobile!

Shutl, the internet start-up that delivers what you want, when you want it, today unveils delivery data collected over the 2011 holiday period.

Shutl offers online and in-store shoppers the ability to receive their orders in as little as 90 minutes or within a one-hour window of their choice, same day or any day. Shutl serves retailers across all product categories, with clients ranging from Argos to Laithwaites Wine and Karen Millen.

Shoppers shutl’d late this Christmas…
- 51% of all peak pre-Christmas shutling happened over a 10-day period (from 14th to 23rd December), with 24% occurring over a frantic 4-day window (from 19th to 22nd December).
- Shoppers bought 2 hours later in the day versus 2010, with a seven-fold increase in the number of insomniacs placing online orders between midnight and 3am.

What separates men and women?
- Pre-peak, men accounted for only 36% of Shutl orders on average, however 38 of the 40 days leading up to Christmas saw a higher proportion of men using the service. Saturday 17th December saw the first (and only) time male users outnumbered female! Men seemingly have higher expectations than women - or at least they don’t value their time as highly! Feedback left by female shoppers over the period consistently ranked the Shutl service 4% higher than their male counterparts, scoring it a whopping 96% combined across ‘value for money’, ‘ease of use’, ‘speed of delivery’ and the ‘delivery person’. The greatest variance was for ‘value for money’, although male perception improved by as much as a 150% in the build-up to Christmas.

Kindle beats iPad in battle, but Apple is winning the war
- 55% of top 100 products shutl’d were consumer electronics.
- Amazon’s Kindle was the top seller, representing 1.6% of all items shutl’d over the period and outselling iPads by almost 2:1.
- When including iPods, Apple narrowly pips Amazon to the post, accounting for 1.7% of all items shutl’d.

2011 in numbers: bigger, faster, cheaper and more mobile
- This year saw a 155% increase in the availability of Shutl (600k shoppers were offered Shutl delivery). This is the combined result of more retailers offering the service and the successful completion of company’s first phase of expansion beyond London.
- 2,570% more shoppers chose to shutl versus 2010, driven by increased availability, greater awareness and better pricing.
- The fastest delivery was an order placed at Oasis on 16th November 2011, delivered in 17mins : 24secs of checking out. This was 41% faster than last year’s quickest (29mins : 24secs), though still some way off Shutl’s 14mins : 59secs world record set in March 2011.
- A 4,385% surge in the number of people using the Shutl service via a mobile device, with iPads proving to be the most popular (accounting for a whopping 77% of all mobile traffic).
- The average price paid for Shutl delivery over the holiday period was £5.64, with over 40% of customers receiving their delivery for free!

“It has been a merry Christmas for Shutl, the retailers we serve and our courier partners. We take it as an encouraging sign for 2012 that so many people preferred to end 2011 shopping rather than sleeping!” comments Tom Allason, Founder and CEO of Shutl.

“We’re already working hard to make Shutl available to as many shoppers as possible in time for Christmas 2012.”

Shutl is a UK start-up that promises to bring delivery up to speed by letting shoppers get what they want, when they want it. The service connects retailers to local same-day courier companies, enabling delivery to both online and in-store customers within as little as 90 minutes (‘Now’) or within a one-hour delivery window of their choice (‘Later’).

Shutl currently holds the record for the world’s fastest e-commerce delivery; a shopper taking receipt of their goods within 15 minutes of checking out online. Shutl was founded by veteran entrepreneur Tom Allason, also known for founding eCourier.co.uk. The company has been operating since March ’10 and counts Argos, Aurora Fashions, B&Q Tradepoint, Karen Millen and Laithwaites Wine amongst its customers.

Don't Yell for Yodel!

Don't yell for Yodel! That's the message that many customers are sending to mail order firms like Amazon, Littlewoods, Early Learning Centre, Homebase, Tesco, etc.

Yodel appear not to acknowledge that they have a problem, diverting attention from problems by saying that they made many successful deliveries.

However, there have been far too many examples of deliveries not being made to the intended recipient for utterly ludicrous and dubious reasons. Typical claims are that people were not in to receive the parcel when they were at home. That a card was put through a letterbox, when it wasn't. That because the home they were to deliver to was in a remote rural location they could not find it. Even though the address was, in reality, quite close to the centre of a very busy town!

If you cannot get any sense from Yodel or the firm that you have bought the item from (after all it is THEIR responsibility to ensure that you receive the goods you buy from them!) you can try contacting Consumer Direct http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Governmentcitizensandrights/Consumerrights/index.htm who will be able to help tell you either get your goods or your money back.

Complaints to Yodel can be made at http://www.yodel.co.uk/contact-us.aspx.

Also if you bought your goods by credit card then under the current laws you can get your money back from the credit card company.