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A guide to last posting dates for Christmas

Recommended last posting dates are the final days you can send a parcel and still expect it to arrive before Christmas.

This guide explains how they work, how they can vary, where to check the latest dates and what to do if you’re cutting it close.

Last updated: 25/9/2026

Why Christmas posting dates matter

Christmas is one of the busiest times of year for sending parcels, and missing the recommended last posting date is one of the most common reasons gifts arrive late.

Dates vary depending on the service and courier you use and where your parcel’s going. They also shift slightly year to year. So it’s always worth checking the current dates rather than relying on last year’s.

Here, we’ll explain how last posting dates work and what to do if you’re sending later than planned.

In this guide

What is a last posting date?

A recommended last posting date is the final day you can send a parcel using a particular service and still expect it to arrive before Christmas Day.

Posting after this date doesn’t always mean your parcel won’t arrive, but it makes it less likely and removes the guarantee, if the service comes with one.

So it’s a useful deadline to plan around, especially for gifts.

Why do dates vary by service and destination?

Last posting dates depend on a few things.

  • Speed of service: Next-day and guaranteed services usually have later cut off dates than standard services
  • Destination: International parcels need much earlier posting dates than UK ones, since they take longer to travel and may need to clear customs. The further away a destination, the longer delivery may take
  • Courier: Each courier sets their own dates based on how their network handles the seasonal rush
  • How busy the season is: Dates can shift slightly year to year depending on expected demand

This is why there isn’t one single last posting date for Christmas.

Where can I check this year’s exact dates?

Because the recommended dates change each year and vary by service, it’s best to check the current dates directly rather than relying on previous years.

Check the Post Office mails pages close to Christmas, where seasonal last posting dates are published for UK and international delivery services from DPD, Evri and Royal Mail.

It’s worth checking a few weeks before Christmas, since some international dates fall earlier than you might expect.

What if I’ve missed the last posting date?

If you’ve missed the recommended date for standard services, you still have options.

  • Look for a faster, guaranteed service, which often has a later cut-off date
  • For international parcels, check whether a premium international service is available with a later cut off
  • Accept that your parcel may still arrive close to Christmas, just without a guarantee

Left it too late to get a physical gift there? You could still give them a digital gift card or send money to loved ones overseas so they can choose a gift they’ll love.

Key takeaways

  • Last recommended posting dates are deadlines for parcels to arrive by Christmas, not hard limits on sending
  • Dates vary by service, courier and destination, and change slightly each year
  • International parcels usually need posting much earlier than UK ones
  • Always check current dates nearer the time, rather than relying on last year’s
  • Faster, guaranteed services often have later cut off dates if you’re sending close to Christmas

Ready to send a Christmas parcel?

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Common questions

  • Local UK deliveries usually have later cut-off dates than long distance or international ones, though it’s still worth checking the specific service you’re using.

  • No, they can shift slightly depending on the calendar and expected demand, so always check the current year’s dates rather than assuming they’ll match last year’s.

  • Collection deadlines can also apply, especially over the festive period. Check when a courier stops holding parcels for collection over Christmas and New Year.

  • Posting before the deadline gives you the best chance, but delivery still depends on the service running as expected, especially during a busy period.

  • Yes, international last posting dates are usually listed by country or region, since delivery times vary a lot depending on where your parcel’s going.

  • Before you send your parcel, check that your item is allowed by the courier you’re using. Some items are prohibited. Others are restricted or not covered for loss or damage.

    If your parcel doesn’t follow these rules, the courier may delay it, return it, dispose of it or destroy it.

    What can I send in the post?

More on sending parcels

Related tools, services and guides

  • Customs forms

    See what details you may need for parcels going overseas

  • Collections

    Choose to pick up parcels sent with various couriers from participating branches

  • Returns

    Find out how to send back online shopping

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