Gifts that don’t arrive on time can really throw a wrench in your holiday plans. And while 2021 has given a whole new meaning to shipping delays, the SimplePrints team wants to help
you avoid the holiday stress of wondering if that perfect gift will make it to your loved one in time. So we’re here to help you understand shipping options and choose the right shipping method from the start.
Considerations for Shipping
Before you actually submit your gift order, it’s important to understand the aspects of shipping that will increase your cost and time to deliver.
Distance
The package destination is a big driver for both price and timeline. Shipping internationally is going to have different restrictions and timeframes than domestic shipping. Plus, the further the destination is from your mailing zip code, the longer the potential transit time, depending on the carrier and shipping method.
Size and Weight
When you have overly large or heavy packages, shipping costs can increase substantially. That’s why it’s important to factor in the size of your gift when you consider the shipping cost. For example, a large metal print may cost more to ship than your set of mini photo books.
Speed
How quickly you need the package delivered is going to come at a cost. And since companies tend to experience higher order volumes as the holidays approach, it’s less likely they can guarantee that packages will arrive timely. So the best thing you can do to combat the need for speed is to plan ahead and give your gifts plenty of time to work through the system.
Tracking
Tracking services typically cost extra, but they’re included as part of the order when you make a purchase through SimplePrints. Easy tracking can save a lot of stress and heartache, especially for keeping tabs on those meaningful gifts. And if you come across any issues with the purchasing or shipping process, the SimplePrints support team is always available to provide assistance.
The Best Holiday Shipping Methods
Now that you understand the factors that may impact your shipping cost and timeframe, it’s time to assess your shipping options.
Standard: Choosing a standard shipping option is typically great for when you’re purchasing or sending gifts earlier in the season. When you have the extra time to spare, standard shipping will cost less money and often still get your gift to you or your recipient in 5-10 business days.
Expedited: An expedited shipping method is a happy medium between standard and rush options for those who need their gifts delivered quickly, but not in the next few days.
Rush: Rush shipping is a premium option intended for gifts that require the fastest possible delivery. Speedy delivery comes at a cost which means rush shipping could cost 5-7 times more than standard shipping or 2-3 times more than expedited, depending on location, size, and weight.
When choosing a shipping method with SimplePrints, you’ll be shown an estimated delivery date on the checkout screen. But it’s worth noting that carrier delays, weather, and other factors could impact how long it takes for your package to arrive. That’s why it’s always better to be safe and place your holiday gift orders as soon as you decide on the perfect gift, well before the cutoff dates if possible.
To help you plan accordingly, below are the 2021 shipping deadlines for major holidays.
**The dates provided are estimates. Packages may experience delays due to external factors. For international shipping, please see the dates on the app checkout page for the most accurate estimates for your country.
First Day of Advent & Hanukkah (November 28)
Orders to be submitted by 3:00 pm EST
Canada Shipping Deadlines
Canada Standard | Wednesday, Nov 10 |
Canada Expedited | Friday, Nov 12 |
Canada Rush | Tuesday, Nov 16 |
US Shipping Deadlines
US Standard | Friday, Nov 12 |
US Expedited | Tuesday, Nov 16 |
US Rush | Wednesday, Nov 17 |
Christmas and Kwanzaa (Receive by Dec 25)
Orders to be submitted by 3:00 pm EST
Canada Shipping Deadlines
Canada Standard | Thursday, Dec 2 |
Canada Expedited | Friday, Dec 10 |
Canada Rush | Tuesday, Dec 14 |
Other International Shipping Deadlines
*please check app for more accurate estimates for your country
Other International Standard | Tuesday, Dec 7 |
Other International Rush | Friday, Dec 10 |
US Shipping Deadlines
US Standard | Monday, Dec 13 |
US Expedited | Tuesday, Dec 14 |
US Rush | Thursday, Dec 16 |
Three Kings Day (Receive by Jan 6)
Orders to be submitted by 3:00 pm EST
Canada Shipping Deadlines
Canada Standard | Friday, Dec 17 |
Canada Expedited | Tuesday, Dec 21 |
Canada Rush | Thursday, Dec 23 |
US Shipping Deadlines
US Standard | Tuesday, Dec 21 |
US Expedited | Thursday, Dec 23 |
US Rush | Monday, Dec 27 |
Tips for Successful Shipping
While choosing the most appropriate shipping method is critical, these additional tips can help to create a successful holiday gift-giving experience.
Make a plan for gifts. The sooner you decide on the perfect gifts, the better. Scouting out gift options and understanding timelines for custom gifts can help you choose the most meaningful gift options for loved ones.
Know the shipping deadlines. Reference the tables above to confirm the shipping deadlines for your gift’s destination country. Marking these deadlines on your calendar means you’ll know the last day you can place an order online to get your gifts sent out on time.
Order smart. Purchasing multiple gifts in a single order is a great way to save money on shipping. You’ll also need to decide if you want gifts sent directly to recipients or if you plan to receive them at your home, repackage, and send them back out. Consolidating orders and sending them to a single destination can help maximize savings.
Get a jump start on gifting. In 2021 more than ever, companies are anticipating high order volume and increased need for shipping. And gifts may be prioritized by the shipping method selected. That means if you need a gift by a certain date, it’s smart to order as soon as you know which gift you want and use a faster shipping method if you’re getting close to the date you plan to give the gift.
Have a backup plan for delays. Thanks to COVID it seems like shipping delays are now par for the course. If your special gift runs the risk of not making it in time, plan for what you’ll do instead. Some people like to send an email with a screenshot of the gift or slip a printout or special note into a card. If you create a SimplePrints book, you can send the recipient a preview link to share their gift as they anxiously anticipate its arrival. That way, the recipient still has something to open, and they can get excited about the special gift heading their way!
Review your confirmation email. After you submit an order online, carefully review your confirmation email. Specifically, double-check you’ve ordered the proper gift, quantity, and customization. But it’s just as critical to check the address to be sure there are no typos, and you’ve included all necessary information, like an apartment number or phone number for international shipping. Address typos and omissions are the most common reason for returned packages, and we want to be sure that doesn’t happen to you!
Make sure your address is ready to receive packages. If you have a nonstandard address, a PO box, or know from experience that carriers have a hard time getting to you, be proactive about it. Once you place your order, verify the proper address and shipping method, and then reach out to the carrier as needed to provide more explicit delivery instructions.
Pack smart. If you decide to have a gift sent to your home and intend to repackage it, it’s important to secure your package for safe travels. Parcels with more packing may have a bit more weight, but they’ll be more secure in the shipping process. And especially for heartfelt custom gifts, the extra weight and cost are well worth it for peace of mind that your package will arrive safely and in one piece.
The Bottom Line
Today more than ever, the holiday season is uncertain in so many ways. And while decisions on in-person gatherings may still be up in the air, selecting the right shipping method can ensure that your gifts will arrive where they need to be this holiday season. That means once you decide on the perfect gift and shipping method, you can relax, put on a Lifetime holiday movie, and think of other ways to fill your time.
Guest Blogger: Brooke Joly
Brooke Joly lives in coastal South Carolina with her husband and fur babies. She enjoys trying new healthy recipes, any kind of outdoor exercise, and sharing ways to make healthy living approachable through her wellness blog.