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It’s the last stretch – the holidays are here and we’ve got some last minute tips to make sure your packages get delivered on time.
Tips for getting your holiday packages delivered on time
As the holiday season approaches, businesses and individuals alike scramble to ensure their holiday packages or any packages at all reach their destinations on time. Whether you’re shipping gifts to loved ones or important goods for your business, time is of the essence. While it might be too late to ship early, it’s never too late to optimize your shipping strategy and ensure your packages arrive on schedule.
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At FlagShip, we understand how important it is for your holiday packages to arrive on time. That’s why we’ve put together these essential tips to help you avoid delays and ensure smooth, timely delivery during the busiest shipping season of the year.
Prepare Accurate Shipping Documentation for Your Holiday Packages
One of the most common reasons holiday packages face delays, especially for international shipments, is incomplete or inaccurate shipping documentation. To avoid this, ensure that your documents are properly filled out. Here’s what you need to include:
| Document | Purpose | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Required for all international shipments, this document lists the contents and value of your holiday packages. | Include at least three copies with every international shipment to avoid delays at customs. |
| CUSMA Certification | Certifies that your goods meet duty-free shipping requirements under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). | Make sure your supplier provides this certification to avoid unnecessary duties. |
| Brokerage Setup | Ensures smooth processing of your holiday packages through customs. | Arrange for a customs broker ahead of time to prevent border delays. |
Incorrect documentation can result in delays, extra costs, or even the return of your shipment. If you’re unsure about your shipping documents, FlagShip’s customer service team is always here to help.
Know the Couriers’ Prohibited Items for Holiday Shipments
Every courier service has a list of prohibited items, which can vary. Before shipping your holiday packages, make sure the contents are allowed by the courier you’ve selected. Common prohibited items include hazardous materials, liquids, perishable goods, and certain electronics.
Here’s a quick overview of prohibited items for major couriers:
| Courier | Prohibited Items |
|---|---|
| Purolator | Flammable liquids, explosives, live animals |
| FedEx | Perishable food, alcohol, firearms |
| UPS | Cash, tobacco, dangerous goods |
| DHL | Antiques, jewelry, endangered species |
| Canpar | Hazardous materials, personal documents |
If you’re uncertain whether your package contains prohibited items, contact our customer service team. We’ll guide you through the regulations to ensure your holiday packages aren’t delayed or rejected.
Securely Package Your Holiday Gifts
Proper packaging is crucial, especially during the holiday rush when packages go through multiple sorting facilities. To make sure your holiday packages arrive intact, follow these packaging tips:
- Use sturdy boxes: Avoid reusing old boxes that may collapse during transit. Invest in new, durable boxes to protect your holiday gifts.
- Protect fragile items: Use bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or foam to cushion fragile items and prevent them from shifting inside the box.
- Avoid decorative wrapping: While gift wrapping adds a festive touch, it can get caught in sorting machines and tear. Keep your gift-wrapping inside the box to avoid mishaps.
- Seal packages securely: Use strong packing tape to seal all seams of the box. Double-check that no openings are left exposed.
Find the Cheapest Way to Ship Gifts
The holidays can be expensive, so finding the cheapest way to ship gifts helps keep costs low while ensuring reliable delivery. With FlagShip, you can instantly compare discounted rates from Purolator, UPS, FedEx, DHL, Canpar, and GLS — all in one place.
You can save up to 70% off standard courier rates without contracts or minimum volumes. Our online shipping system automatically calculates the best rate and delivery time for your parcel, helping you make smart shipping decisions every time.
Sign up for free to access discounted courier rates and start shipping smarter this holiday season.
How to Pack Gifts for Shipping
If you’re wondering how to pack gifts for shipping, the right packaging makes all the difference. Here’s how to make sure your gifts arrive safely and professionally:
- Use new, sturdy boxes rated for the parcel’s weight.
- Wrap fragile or breakable items with bubble wrap or kraft paper.
- Keep any decorative gift wrapping inside the box.
- Seal all openings securely with heavy-duty tape.
- Place shipping labels on the largest, flattest side of the box.
FlagShip Tip: Enter your package’s dimensions and weight into the FlagShip online system, it automatically finds the most cost-effective shipping options for your package.
Choose the Right Shipping Service for Your Holiday Packages
Choosing the right shipping service is crucial to ensure your holiday packages arrive on time. During the holiday season, it’s even more important to select the right option for your timeline. Here are some popular shipping options:
| Service | Delivery Speed | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Shipping | 2-7 business days | Budget-conscious shipping for non-urgent holiday deliveries |
| Express Shipping | 1-2 business days | Fast deliveries for urgent holiday shipments |
| Overnight Shipping | Next-day delivery | When timing is critical |
Choosing the right shipping option can make the difference between on-time delivery and disappointment. FlagShip’s online shipping system allows you to compare rates and delivery times from top couriers like Purolator, UPS, FedEx, and DHL. This way, you can select the best service for your holiday packages.
Get Support for Your Holiday Shipments
If you run into any issues with your holiday shipments or have questions about delivery status, FlagShip’s customer service team is here to help. We provide full support to ensure your holiday packages reach their destination. Our team can assist you with:
- Tracking your package in real-time
- Helping with customs documentation and clearance
- Answering questions about your shipment’s status
Simply give us a call at 1-866-320-8383 or email us at support@flagshipcompany.com for assistance.
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As the holidays draw closer, getting your packages delivered on time becomes more challenging due to the increased volume of shipments. But with the right preparation and by following the tips outlined above, you can ensure that your packages arrive on time and in perfect condition.
FlagShip is committed to providing you with reliable shipping solutions during the holiday season and beyond. From offering discounted shipping rates to providing top-notch customer service, we are here to help your holiday shipping run smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions — Holiday Packages (Canada 2025)
- What are the holiday shipping deadlines for major carriers?
FlagShip’s Courier Holiday Schedule 2025 covers Purolator, UPS, FedEx, DHL, Canpar, and GLS—helping you plan ahead for carrier closures and reduced hours during the holiday season. - How can I make sure my holiday package arrives on time?
Ship early, confirm addresses, and use FlagShip’s tracking tools to monitor delivery. - Do I need a signature on delivery for a holiday package?
Yes — for valuable or time-sensitive gifts, adding “Signature Required” ensures secure delivery. - What’s the fastest option if I’m shipping last-minute before Christmas?
Express or overnight services from Purolator, UPS, or FedEx are your best options for 1–2 day delivery. - Do couriers deliver on weekends or evenings in December?
Some couriers extend delivery times in major Canadian cities during December, including weekend or evening options. - Is it faster to drop off at a depot versus scheduling a pickup?
During the week before Christmas, dropping off at a courier depot can save up to a full day of processing time. - What are the best labeling tips for December?
Double-check postal codes, unit numbers, and ensure labels are flat and securely taped.
Happy Holidays from FlagShip! Let us help you ship with ease this season.
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