Denver, Colo. – The stress of finding the perfect Holiday gifts for all your loved ones doesn’t have to be compounded by long lines at the post office or even worse, a lost package. To help consumers avoid any unnecessary shipping nightmares, the shipping experts at PostNet offer the following tips:



Pack properly. The packaging experts at PostNet can help make sure your gift arrives in one piece, but if you are packing a gift yourself, make sure it is in a sturdy box. Cross out any old labels and adequately protect the contents inside. A good rule is to make sure packages could be dropped a few feet without breaking.


Plan ahead. You can always overnight, but be prepared to pay the price. Ground shipping is typically the least expensive option, and for Christmas deliveries, you should plan on shipping by Dec. 15, 2010.


Fruits and veggies – know before you buy. States such as Arizona, California, Florida and Hawaii have more restrictions than others. Information on what kind of produce can be shipped and where can be found on the Department of Agriculture’s Web site (www.usda.gov). When in doubt, ask the experts at PostNet.


Send to workplaces. If packages are delivered to a home and the delivery is repeatedly missed, the recipient runs the risk end up going out of their way to pick up the package at the shipping company’s nearest hub. Aside from the convenience factor, shipping to an office can also prevent theft and keep neighbors from snooping.


Tracking numbers. Always keep your tracking number so packages can be located at any given time. A tracking number will also provide anticipated delivery dates.


PostNet recommends shipping by the following dates to make sure Christmas gifts get to their destinations on time:



Holiday Shipping Last Days to Ship:



· Private carriers (UPS and FedEx): Dec. 17 for ground and international, and Dec. 20 for air/express

· U.S. Postal Service: Dec. 15 for Parcel Post, and Dec. 20 for First-Class Mail. If you’re shipping a gift to an overseas military address (APO/FPO), you should plan to send it no later than Dec. 4.



PostNet also gives consumers the unique option to ship packages across the globe via FedEx, UPS, DHL and the U.S. Postal Service. This way, consumers can compare shipping rates and delivery guarantees between all major carriers and choose the option that’s right for them.