When is the last day to post Christmas cards?

2 December 2022, 16:59

Make a note in your diary if you want to catch the Christmas post. Picture: Getty

When are the last posting dates for Christmas? Here are the deadline details, including UK and international delivery cut-offs.

With decorations going up and festive plans in full swing, shoppers are being urged to get their Christmas post organised.

Due to ongoing strikes, cards and gifts will need to be sent in plenty of time to make sure they arrive before the big day.

As families prepare to send millions of packages to loved ones across the country, Royal Mail has updated its deadline guide.

Now strike dates have been confirmed, when is the last day to post Christmas cards and presents? And how will the strikes affect Christmas post?

Cut-off dates for Christmas letters and parcels are looming. Picture: Getty

When is the last day to post Christmas cards?

If you're sending cards and presents within in the UK, make sure you hit the latest Royal Mail deadlines for Christmas 2022.

UK Inland Services

However if you're sending gifts abroad, the Christmas 2022 postage delivery deadlines fall earlier.

International Economy

International Standard

International Tracking and Signature Services

HM Forces Mail - British Forces Post Office (BFPO)

Royal Mail has brought forward the last posting dates for Christmas. Picture: Getty

Will the Royal Mail strikes affect Christmas delivery dates?

Royal Mail is facing yet more strike action during the festive period, which will have a direct impact on Christmas delivery dates.

The CMW (Communication Workers Union) told the postal service that workers who collect, sort and deliver parcels and letters will be striking on Friday 9th December, Sunday 11th December, Wednesday 14th December and Thursday 15th December 2022.

A statement published by Royal Mail on 2nd December read: "Due to the recent strike action by members of the Communication Workers Union, disruption to deliveries and our services is expected.

"Items posted in the run up, during and after strike days are likely to be subject to delay. We’re sorry for any inconvenience this will cause."

Royal Mail is facing six days of strikes this month. Picture: Getty

How can I make sure my letters and parcels arrive before Christmas?

Shoppers are facing uncertainly over whether their cards and presents will arrive in time for Christmas.

Royal Mail has issued advice on how workers are trying to combat the situation – and what you can do to ensure your loved ones get their gifts before 25th December.

On days when national strike action is taking place, Royal Mail told consumers it will:

To help get ahead of the strikes, the postal service urged customers to:

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