Planning to send Christmas gifts and cards through Australia Post? Deadlines are looming
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Around this time of year, it seems like everyone is in a mad dash to get their shopping done so they can enjoy a stress-free holiday season.
But even if you've managed to check everything off your list early, there's one more important task you need to take care of before Christmas Day – and that's sending your gifts through the post.
Australians have just days left to send presents if they want them to arrive in time for Christmas Eve, and the closer we get to December 25, the slimmer your chances are of having them delivered on time.
We've put together a rundown of the important dates you need to make a note of so you can ensure your mail gets where it needs to go without any delays.
When does international mail need to be sent to make it for Christmas?
If you're planning to send parcels abroad, such as to New Zealand, the USA, the UK, and most parts of Europe and Asia, sadly, there aren't any other options left if you want them to arrive in time for Christmas.
The deadline for sending packages internationally has passed, with December 9 (Friday) being the last day for express delivery.
According to Australia Post, packages sent after the deadline will be delivered 'as quickly as possible', but because of the holiday demands, the deliveries might not make it until after Christmas itself.
When does domestic mail need to be sent to make it for Christmas?
For those sending parcels around Australia, the deadlines vary depending on which state or territory you're sending them to.
If you're sending parcels to Western Australia or the Northern Territory, the deadline for standard parcel post has already passed, but you can still send them via Express Post up until Wednesday, December 14.
For parcels being sent to the rest of Australia, you have until Monday, December 12, to send them via standard parcel post. And if you're sending them via Express Post, you have until Monday, December 19.
Cards and letters being sent by regular post can also be sent as late as Monday, December 19. But if you want to send them interstate, they must be sent by Thursday, December 15.
When in doubt, it's always better to send your mail early rather than risk it not arriving on time. So make sure you get your parcels in the post ASAP to avoid any disappointed loved ones come Christmas Day!
Aside from knowing the deadline for sending off parcels, the packaging process is also something that needs to be done correctly.
Not only will the right package help protect the items you're sending, but it can also make sure that your delivery labels are easy to scan, which will keep your shipment from being held up.
If you're sending something in an Australia Post-issued container, like a recyclable satchel or a box, be sure to include clear instructions for the intended recipient there.
If you insist on using your own wrapping paper, here are some safety precautions to take to make sure the presents make it to their destinations undamaged:
Now that you've finished your gifts getting ready, it's time to head on over to the post office in your area. But what if you arrive there only to learn that you cannot ship your gift by air freight?
Many everyday things, like nail polish, perfume, and electrical equipment that use lithium batteries, contain ingredients that could explode or catch fire. That is why, when sending things like these, there are safety rules that must be followed.
Some personal care products, such as fragrances, colognes, and aftershaves, fall under the category of dangerous goods because they contain alcohol. Because of this, they can only be sent via road delivery, which can take much longer.
Here in this link, you can find more information about dangerous and prohibited items, so you'll know if the present you're thinking of sending can make the flight. You can also visit your neighbourhood Post Office and enquire about the best way to send your presents to friends and family.
We hope you found this post helpful, members - and we hope you have a very merry and peaceful Christmas!
But even if you've managed to check everything off your list early, there's one more important task you need to take care of before Christmas Day – and that's sending your gifts through the post.
Australians have just days left to send presents if they want them to arrive in time for Christmas Eve, and the closer we get to December 25, the slimmer your chances are of having them delivered on time.
We've put together a rundown of the important dates you need to make a note of so you can ensure your mail gets where it needs to go without any delays.
When does international mail need to be sent to make it for Christmas?
If you're planning to send parcels abroad, such as to New Zealand, the USA, the UK, and most parts of Europe and Asia, sadly, there aren't any other options left if you want them to arrive in time for Christmas.
The deadline for sending packages internationally has passed, with December 9 (Friday) being the last day for express delivery.
According to Australia Post, packages sent after the deadline will be delivered 'as quickly as possible', but because of the holiday demands, the deliveries might not make it until after Christmas itself.
When does domestic mail need to be sent to make it for Christmas?
For those sending parcels around Australia, the deadlines vary depending on which state or territory you're sending them to.
If you're sending parcels to Western Australia or the Northern Territory, the deadline for standard parcel post has already passed, but you can still send them via Express Post up until Wednesday, December 14.
For parcels being sent to the rest of Australia, you have until Monday, December 12, to send them via standard parcel post. And if you're sending them via Express Post, you have until Monday, December 19.
Cards and letters being sent by regular post can also be sent as late as Monday, December 19. But if you want to send them interstate, they must be sent by Thursday, December 15.
Key Takeaways
- It is important to send your Christmas presents and cards early to ensure they arrive on time.
- The deadline for sending standard parcels is December 12, and the deadline for sending express parcels is December 14.
- The deadline for sending Christmas cards is December 19 if you are sending them within the same state or territory, or December 15 if you are sending them interstate.
Aside from knowing the deadline for sending off parcels, the packaging process is also something that needs to be done correctly.
Not only will the right package help protect the items you're sending, but it can also make sure that your delivery labels are easy to scan, which will keep your shipment from being held up.
If you're sending something in an Australia Post-issued container, like a recyclable satchel or a box, be sure to include clear instructions for the intended recipient there.
If you insist on using your own wrapping paper, here are some safety precautions to take to make sure the presents make it to their destinations undamaged:
- If you're sending anything in a box, don't wrap the label around the box's edges or secure it with strapping or sticky tape.
- Avoid using labels with a glossy finish since they may be difficult to scan; matte white labels with black writing are ideal.
- To prevent your package from falling off the conveyor belt, avoid using high gloss packaging.
Now that you've finished your gifts getting ready, it's time to head on over to the post office in your area. But what if you arrive there only to learn that you cannot ship your gift by air freight?
Many everyday things, like nail polish, perfume, and electrical equipment that use lithium batteries, contain ingredients that could explode or catch fire. That is why, when sending things like these, there are safety rules that must be followed.
Some personal care products, such as fragrances, colognes, and aftershaves, fall under the category of dangerous goods because they contain alcohol. Because of this, they can only be sent via road delivery, which can take much longer.
Here in this link, you can find more information about dangerous and prohibited items, so you'll know if the present you're thinking of sending can make the flight. You can also visit your neighbourhood Post Office and enquire about the best way to send your presents to friends and family.
We hope you found this post helpful, members - and we hope you have a very merry and peaceful Christmas!