In addition, the Transportation Security Administration advises travelers to ship packages in advance because wrapped gifts in both checked and carry-on baggage may need to be opened if further inspection is required.
"We suggest you have your packages sent out on or before Dec. 14 to arrive before Christmas Day, otherwise you might need more expensive air shipping services," says Eric Hosfelt, PostNet-Utah.
He offers the following tips for shipping packages:
1. Pack packages properly to ensure the safety of their content. The most important factor in shipping is to start with a sturdy box.
Reusing boxes is not recommended, but if you must, make sure all old labeling is removed or crossed out with a thick black marker -- and use extra tape because boxes lose their strength each time they go through the shipping system. When shipping wrapped packages, always make sure individual gifts are packed with adequate padding before putting them into their shipping box and never try to ship the wrapped package on its own. A general rule of thumb: make sure packages can be dropped a few feet without breaking.
Three of the biggest mistakes are customers not having complete addresses for shipping recipients, customers coming in with packages wrapped in paper, which is a big no-no, and customers coming in with very large, heavy boxes. "It's better to split it into two boxes as heavy boxes can sometimes be hit with an oversize fee," Hosfelt said.
2. For the best value, plan ahead and know the regulations of other countries. For example, Mexico charges 500 percent duties on items made in China -- and when shipping to countries that don't use the English alphabet, such as China and Japan, expect long shipping times because the postal systems in these countries have to translate the English addresses into their language's characters.
With Christmas falling on a Monday this year, the last day for standard overnight shipping is Dec. 21. Packages can be shipped on Dec. 22 with delivery the next day, but customers will pay more for Saturday delivery.
Ground shipping is the least expensive option and for delivery by Christmas, plan on shipping packages within the continental U.S. by Dec. 14.
3. If you're shipping live animals, fresh fruits and vegetables, plants or alcohol, be sure you know the rules before you buy. States such as Arizona, California, Florida and Hawaii have more restrictions than others. Information on what items can be shipped and where can be found on the Department of Agriculture's website: www.usda.
gov.
And if you want to send someone alcohol for the holidays, do so through a licensed distributor. Consumer-to-consumer alcohol and cigarette shipments are prohibited.
4. When shopping on-line this holiday season, if packages are delivered to a home and the delivery is repeatedly missed, the recipient may end up going far out of the way to pick up the package at the carrier's nearest location.
Some delivery companies allow you to reroute packages once they have been shipped. Others do not. Aside from the convenience factor, it will keep kids from snooping.
5. Ask for tracking numbers. By calling a shipping company's 800 number or visiting their web site, packages can be located at any given time. A tracking number will also give an anticipated delivery date for your package.
Expensive gifts to ship:
1. Sporting equipment such as golf clubs, hockey sticks and bicycles.
2. Computers.
3. Artwork.
4. Musical equipment, especially guitars.
5. Furniture.
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