The festive season is fast approaching, and for businesses and individuals alike, that means it’s time to plan ahead for Christmas deliveries. Last year, Australia Post delivered nearly 100 million parcels across the country during November and December. To give parcels the best chance of arriving to your customers before Christmas Day, Australia Post recommends lodging them as early as possible and no later than the last lodgement dates for domestic and international deliveries. Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s dates.
Domestic Lodgement Dates
For parcels sent to/from metro areas in Australia, it’s important to lodge by the recommended dates to avoid delays. Below are the last lodgement dates for sending domestically within Australia:
- Parcel Post: Lodge your parcels no later than Friday 20 December. While this is the latest date for delivery in time for Christmas, it’s best to send items as early as possible to avoid potential delays. Australia Post will work hard to deliver items lodged after this date, but there is a risk they may not arrive until after Christmas.
- Express Post: If you need to send something closer to Christmas, Monday 23 December is the last day for Express Post parcels. Express Post is the fastest domestic service, but again, sending earlier is recommended for peace of mind.
For parcels being sent to/from locations outside a metro area, or being lodged over the counter, it’s important to allow extra time. Australia Post suggests lodging your items a few days earlier than these dates to account for longer delivery times in those locations.
International Lodgement Dates
If your customers are overseas, Australia Post’s last lodgement dates for international deliveries are based on the service you choose. International shipping tends to require more lead time, so be sure to check the recommended dates for your destination.
Here are the key Christmas lodgement dates for 2024 international deliveries:
- Economy Air: This is the most affordable option for international shipping, but it also requires the most time. The last lodgement dates for Economy Air parcels range from 19 November to 4 December, depending on the destination. Be sure to double-check the specific date for your recipient’s country.
- International Standard: If you’re looking for a balance between cost and speed, International Standard allows for a few extra days of shopping. The last sending dates for this service fall between 26 November and 11 December, again depending on the destination. This option gives a bit more flexibility, but sending earlier is still recommended.
- International Express: For last-minute shoppers or businesses dealing with tight timelines, International Express can offer an extra week. The final lodgement dates range from 2 December to 16 December, giving you more time to get those gifts or orders on their way.
Why Early Lodgement Matters
While Australia Post will continue to deliver parcels after the final lodgement dates, there’s a risk that items sent after the recommended dates may not reach their destination until after Christmas. This is why encouraging your customers to shop early so you can lodge their items as soon as possible is so important. The closer we get to Christmas, the busier postal services become, and unexpected delays can occur.
For businesses, peak season is often the most crucial time of year, and ensuring your customers receive their orders on time can make a huge difference in customer satisfaction and repeat business. Providing clear communication about the last sending dates in your marketing, on your website, and in your store can help set customer expectations and reduce the likelihood of disappointment.
How to Check Lodgement Dates
To help you plan, Australia Post has made all the last lodgement dates available on their website. There, you’ll find detailed information on sending within Australia via Parcel Post and Express Post, as well as all the key dates for international deliveries through Economy Air, International Standard, and International Express services.
Final Tips for Christmas Shipping Success
Here are a few tips to help you navigate the busy Christmas period:
- Start Early: The earlier you can send your items, the better chance they have of arriving on time, especially with the increased demand during the holiday season.
- Use the Right Packaging: Make sure your parcels are packed securely and clearly labelled to avoid any issues during transit.
- Track Your Parcels: For peace of mind, opt for a tracked service where possible, so you can monitor your delivery’s progress via the Australia Post app.
- Set Customer Expectations: If you run a business, communicate the last sending dates to your customers early, so they can plan their shopping accordingly.
By planning ahead and using Australia Post’s recommended lodgement dates, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free festive season.
For more tips on navigating the Peak season, check out Australia Post’s 2024 Peak Playbooks: Peak season planning and preparation – Australia Post (auspost.com.au)
Check the Australia Post website for all final dates and ensure your orders arrive on time.
