The Ultimate Christmas Gift Buying Timeline: How To Order Online & Get Gifts Delivered on Time

Here’s a schedule to help you make sure your online Christmas gifts arrive on time:

1. November 15 – November 25: Start Early for Overseas Gifts

• Why: Shipping times can be unpredictable for international packages, especially with holiday surges.
• Action: Order any gifts from overseas by mid-November to allow for international delays.

2. November 25 – December 5: Order Personalized & Custom Items

• Why: Many custom items, like monogrammed or handcrafted pieces, need extra time for creation and shipping.
• Action: This window is ideal for ordering anything personalized so it arrives by mid-December.

3. December 5 – December 10: Regular Online Shopping

• Why: Most domestic online stores still have ample shipping options available without needing rush shipping.
• Action: Order standard items within this timeframe to have them arrive comfortably before the holidays.

4. December 10 – December 15: Expedited Shipping Options

• Why: This is the last call for standard shipping if you want to avoid higher rush shipping costs.
• Action: If you’re cutting it close, opt for 2-day shipping to ensure the gifts arrive in time.

5. December 16 – December 20: Express & Same-Day Shipping Options

• Why: Many retailers offer express or same-day options, especially if you live near a fulfillment center.
• Action: For last-minute gifts, use express shipping if available, but expect to pay a premium for these services.

6. December 21 – December 24: Last-Minute In-Store Pickup & Digital Gift Cards

• Why: This close to Christmas, shipping can’t guarantee on-time delivery.
• Action: Opt for local store pickup if available or send digital gift cards directly to the recipient.

This schedule gives a comfortable buffer for each type of gift, ensuring you don’t face any holiday shipping delays!