'You’ve already missed the last deadline for sending a parcel for Christmas… Island!' says Parcelhero

The final Christmas parcel collection dates may be nearer than you think, warns the home delivery expert Parcelhero. In fact, you’ve already missed the last date for Christmas Island (Kiritimati). 

But when is the final date to send to more common destinations such as the USA, Australia or India, and did you know the last collection date for many countries is a day earlier this year?

International delivery expert Parcelhero has been comparing all the major parcel companies' final collection dates for parcels to arrive in time for Christmas. 

It says that, ironically, considering its name, it’s already too late to organise a parcel collection for Christmas Island. 

"This year, the Pacific atoll, now more commonly known as Kiritimati, had the earliest deadline of all: 2 December.

Parcelhero says there is better news for everyone planning to send to most other international destinations. Brits still have around a fortnight to send their parcels to most of the more common destinations. 

But some countries’ final courier collection dates may be earlier than you think, it warns,  and the final recommended deadline to the most common European destinations is a day earlier than last year.

Parcelhero’s Head of Consumer Research, David Jinks M.I.L.T., told That's Christmas 365: "More people every year are choosing to book a courier collection to send their Christmas gifts, rather than braving long Post Office queues. 

"That makes a lot of sense. However, the world’s leading couriers have announced some surprisingly early recommended collection deadlines this year, in order to ensure parcels get to their destinations in time for Christmas Eve. Don’t forget, no couriers deliver on Christmas Day itself.

"There’s actually less than a fortnight to go before many major Christmas destinations run out of time. Gifts destined for the Falklands (a British Overseas Territory) must be collected by 12 December, while Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and Zimbabwe are all out of time after 16 December. The early 17 December date for Australia, New Zealand and Sri Lanka is also likely to take people by surprise.

"Perhaps the biggest shock for anyone tempted to leave their courier collection until the very last minute is that they have a day less than last year in which to book a collection and be certain their gifts will arrive on time for the big day. 

"That’s because international couriers usually recommend 20 December as the final collection date but this year the 20th lands on a Saturday, and most couriers don’t offer a standard weekend collection.

"That means for popular destinations such as France, Germany, The Netherlands and Ireland, we are recommending people organise a collection date of no later than 19 December. Leaving your parcel pick up until Monday, 22 December is taking a big risk that your gifts won’t arrive on time for Christmas.

"Our recommended final collection dates to some of the most popular international destinations are:

New Zealand: Wednesday,17 December

Australia: Wednesday, 17 December

Pakistan: Thursday, 18 December

India: Friday, 19 December

USA: Friday, 19 December

Italy: Friday, 19 December

Spain: Friday, 19 December

France: Friday, 19 December

Germany: Friday, 19 December

Netherlands: Friday, 19 December

"It’s also vital to note that some less common destinations have much earlier collection deadlines to look out for than the dates above. Christmas Island/Kiritimati isn’t the only country to have a very early cut-off. Some countries that are in conflict, such as Yemen, have a collection deadline of 4 December, and politics can also play a part. 

"For example, Cuba’s deadline is as early as 11 December because of the red tape involved in sending items there. Perhaps this is best shown by looking at Korea. The deadline for South Korea is a comfortable 18 December but the deadline to send to Communist North Korea is 11 December. 

"If you are worried about getting gifts to friends and loved ones in time, we recommend you enter your parcel’s destination and dimensions into our online parcel price comparison tool. You will then see the date your package is due to be delivered. 

"Remember, if you send your gifts in plenty of time then you can choose standard delivery options. If you leave it until the very last minute, you will need to pick an Express delivery service and that will cost you more.

"Using Parcelhero’s price comparison tool can also save people up to 60% off their parcel delivery. For full details of UK and international prices and collection times to ensure your packages arrive in time for 24 December, see https://www.parcelhero.com

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!