Compiled by Herald/Review staff
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Another Instapak on top of the item will fill the mailing box and create a secure items for shipping. (Ed Honda-Herald/Review)
Peak season statistics
€ The average holiday package weighs between seven and 10 pounds.
€ Monday is the busiest shipping day of the week. - The busiest shipping week of the 2006 season is expected to be Dec. 18-22.
€ Because Christmas falls on a Monday this year, ship packages for arrival by Friday, Dec. 22.
Pack-and-ship hints
€ Pack like a pro: Use a new shipping box. Protect gifts by wrapping items separately, using adequate packaging materials, such as foam packing "peanuts" and plastic bubble cushioning.
€ Remove batteries from toys and electronics to prevent suspicious noises and worn-out batteries.
Also, be sure to use packaging tape (duct tape and masking tape are no-nos).
€ Practice shipping etiquette: That perfect gift isn't so perfect if mom gets Lego and your nephew discovers he's been enrolled in the potpourri of the month club.
€ Before you ship, double check the contents and address. Use a single address label that has clear, complete delivery and return addresses. Place a duplicate address label inside the box in case the outer label becomes illegible.
€ Think air for fragile items: Air delivery services get your gifts there fast and provide special handling to protect delicate or fragile items. If you're looking to save time, or need fragile or odd-sized items, consider seeking expert help.
USPS mail-by dates
€ Dec. 4 - Military mail destined for Iraq and Afghanistan
€ Dec. 10 - Military mail to other international destinations
€ Dec. 13 - Parcel Post
€ Dec. 18 - First-class Mail
€ Dec. 20 - Priority Mail
€ Dec. 22/23 - Express Mail
UPS key shipping dates
€ Dec. 18 - Check with the experts for delivery dates if you are shipping UPS ground service. Most ground packages require five days or less to reach their destination, but if you are shipping coast-to-coast, it may take longer.
€ Dec. 19 - Ship 3-day select for delivery on Dec. 22.
€ Dec. 20 - Ship UPS 2nd day air for delivery on Dec. 22.
€ Dec. 21 - Ship UPS next day air for delivery on Dec. 22.
If you are shipping international or to military personnel overseas, contact The UPS Store to determine the best date to ensure on-time delivery.
Fed Ex key shipping dates
€ Dec. 15 - For ground service to arrive before Christmas Day
€ Dec. 18 - For Home Delivery shipments to arrive before Christmas Day
€ Dec. 19 - For Express Saver shipments to arrive before Christmas Day
€ Dec. 20 - For 2Day shipments to arrive before Christmas Day
€ Dec. 21 - For 2Day with Saturday Delivery, standard overnight, priority overnight, first overnight shipments to arrive before Christmas Day
€ Dec. 22 - For overnight with Saturday delivery to arrive before Christmas Day
DHL key shipping dates
€ Dec. 15 - For before Christmas Day arrival for ground service
€ Dec. 19 - For before Christmas Day arrival for two-day service
€ Dec. 21 - For before Christmas Day arrival for next day service
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