Introduction
With holiday shopping peaking in November–December, it’s important sellers know the last shipping dates for major couriers in Canada. Every holiday season in Canada, millions of gifts risk arriving late because sellers and shoppers miss courier cutoff dates. To save you the stress (and keep your customers happy), we’ve compiled the 2025 holiday shipping deadlines for Canada Post, FedEx, and UPS, in one clear guide.
Why These Deadlines Matter
- Demand spikes during the holidays, weather delays are always an issue, and courier holiday closures are some of the major factors that impact delivery timelines.
- Each courier and service level (be it Ground vs. Express) has different cutoff dates.
Canada Post: Holiday Cutoff Dates
Canada Post has a strict holiday timeline.
FedEx: Canada 2025 Holiday Shipping Schedule
FedEx’s schedule is built around holiday closures, they do not have day-to-day cutoffs.
UPS: Canada 2025 Holiday Shipping Schedule
UPS is the same way like FedEx. Instead of a holiday schedule, they have days on which they don’t operate.
Holiday Shipping DeadlinesTips to Avoid Delays
- Ship early, ideally in early December or November to avoid peak congestion.
- Use tracking & insurance for high-value gifts.
- Package for harsh winter conditions – cushion securely and label clearly.
- Check holiday closures – couriers don’t deliver on Dec 25 or Dec 26, and operations resume Jan 1.
- Offer multiple delivery options in your shop.
Conclusion
Holiday shipping deadlines vary significantly by courier, service, and destination. Use this guide to plan ahead and clearly communicate final ordering dates to your customers.
Download our full guide on holiday shipping deadlines here.
FAQ Section
Q1: When is the last day to ship with Canada Post for Christmas 2025?
Priority/Xpresspost: Dec 22; Regular Parcel: Dec 19.
Q2: Does FedEx deliver on Christmas Eve in Canada?
Yes, express services like Priority Overnight and 2-Day are delivered until Dec 24, but pickups must happen Dec 23.
Q3: What is the safest courier for last-minute shipping?
For extreme last-minute needs, FedEx Express or UPS Next Day Air guarantee service, but ship by Dec 23.
Q4: Are personal and commercial shipments treated differently?
Deadlines are based on service and destination, not business vs individual. But commercial pickups may close earlier near holidays, check with the courier.
Q5: What happens if I miss the holiday shipping deadline in Canada?
If you miss the deadlines, your package may not arrive in time for holidays. The alternate option is to choose a local delivery partner to fulfill.
Q6: What is the last date to send Christmas gifts from Canada to the US with Canada Post?
The last date is Dec 19.
Q7: Can I track holiday parcels with Canada Post during peak season?
Yes, they can be tracked.
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