Those hoping to avoid the seasonal rush are in luck as new Post Office figures have today revealed the peak posting day for festive shoppers in the run up to Christmas.
Post Office is anticipating Monday 20 December to be the day when its branches are busiest as festive fervent shoppers hurry to ship last minute gifts and presents. In part, this is because there are a full five working days before Christmas this year, meaning customers may be tempted to wait until the last moment to tackle their Christmas ‘to do’ list.
In 2019, the two weeks ahead of Christmas saw post offices more than double their trading activity and Post Office are warning customers of a similar pattern this year. Post Office is encouraging customers to avoid the in-branch seasonal rush and ensure gifts are delivered promptly by sharing top tips for posting and with good reason.
The festive posting pressures are being felt across the nation. Recent Post Office research has shown that 25 per cent of people are worried they will be seen to be not making an effort if Christmas gifts don’t arrive on time, with one in 10 anxious that they may have to explain to kids why Santa didn’t bring gifts!
Post Office is advising those posting internationally, or opting for second class, to come into branch earlier if possible as customers look to ensure their post and parcels arrive safely and securely abroad.
Reflecting on the days ahead, Laura Joseph, Post Office Customer Experience Director, has shared her five top tips to customers and communities for posting this Christmas:
1. Where possible, avoid the lunchtime rush and make use of longer opening hours by popping in early or in the evening, perhaps after work.
2. Try to prepare what you can before you head into branch to save time. Don’t wait until you’re in a busy branch to pack items: it’s much better to do it in the comfort of your own home.
3. If you’re posting abroad, make a note of the last posting dates and make use of online customs forms. You can fill these in advance of your trip which will help save time.
4. Think about what you’re posting. If you’re uncertain, check the restricted items list to avoid disappointment. Many people don’t realise that you can’t post gifts containing alcohol, nail polish, aftershave or perfume internationally so it’s a good idea to check in advance.
5. Make sure your parcels are in a fit state to send (for example, parcels with strings or bows on the outer layer won’t be accepted) and don’t forget that you can take advantage of services with tracking and cover for high value goods.
Laura Joseph, customer experience director at Post Office, said: “We all know how exhausting the Christmas rush can be each year. And we all want to make sure our Christmas cards and presents arrive in time for the big day, especially when we can’t be together in person. In our 11,500 Post Office branches across the UK, our Postmasters help their local communities to do exactly that, making sure Christmas is special wherever you are.”
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