Last-minute holiday gifts and shipping deadlines for 2025
The holidays are almost here — if you’re still finishing your shopping, this guide highlights the key carrier cutoff dates for 2025 and quick gift ideas that can still arrive on time. Focus on fast-shipping retailers, digital gifts and local pickup to avoid holiday delays.
Major 2025 holiday shipping deadlines (US)
- USPS: Ground Advantage — December 17; Priority Mail Express — December 20.
- UPS: Three‑Day Select — December 19; Next Day Air — December 23.
- FedEx: Ground Economy — December 15; First Overnight — December 23.
- Amazon Prime: December 23 (Prime shipping cutoff).
Quick last‑minute gift categories that ship fast
- Digital gifts: e‑gift cards, streaming subscriptions, audiobooks or app subscriptions — instant delivery.
- Small electronics & accessories: chargers, earbuds, phone stands — many ship same‑day from big retailers.
- Experience gifts: concert tickets, classes, escape rooms — bookable and deliverable by email.
- Local options: curbside pickup, same‑day delivery from Walmart, Target or local stores.
Where to shop for on-time delivery
Prioritize retailers with fast fulfillment: Amazon (Prime), Walmart, Target, and major electronics stores. For guaranteed timing, use same‑day or in‑store pickup where available.
Tips to avoid holiday shipping headaches
- Order early — even one extra day can help during peak season.
- Choose expedited shipping only if necessary; check carrier cutoff times and local warehouses.
- Consider digital or local gifts as fail‑safe options if delivery windows are tight.
- Keep tracking info handy and notify recipients of expected delivery windows.
For curated last‑minute gift suggestions, see our shopping lists for gadgets, stocking stuffers and experience gifts. You can also browse quick picks on Amazon: Last-minute gifts — Amazon (affiliate).
Discussion: Running behind — what’s your go‑to last‑minute gift? Digital subscription, local pickup, or a trusty gadget? Share your best last‑minute rescue tips below.