As the holiday season approaches, it's essential to plan ahead for shipping needs. Many carriers adjust their schedules during the holidays, impacting delivery timelines. To help you stay on track, we’ve compiled a summary of the major carrier holiday schedules, allowing you to make informed shipping decisions for your business or personal needs.
Key Takeaways from the 2024 Holiday Schedule
This year, parcel and freight carriers like FedEx, UPS, DHL, XPO Logistics, and others have specific dates when they will be closed or operating with limited services. For a quick overview, refer to the chart below, which provides a clear breakdown of each carrier’s availability during key dates, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Note: Carrier's schedules may be updated at any time. For the latest information, visit the carriers' official websites. We will continue to update our Service Alerts carrier schedule with the latest information.
Important Dates to Remember:
- Thanksgiving Weekend (11/28 - 11/29): Most carriers are closed for both days, but a few offer limited services.
- Christmas Week (12/23 - 12/26): Some carriers operate on modified schedules, especially on Christmas Eve (12/24), while nearly all are closed on Christmas Day (12/25).
- New Year's Eve and New Year's Day (12/31 - 1/1): Expect closures or limited operations on these days.
Notable Carrier-Specific Details
- FedEx: Operating with multiple modified schedules on key dates. For example, FedEx Express will have Mod3 service on 12/23, 12/24, and 12/26.
- UPS: Ground services follow Mod2 on 12/24, with Mod3 in effect on 12/31.
- TForce Freight: Limited service (Mod) on 12/23, 12/30, and New Year’s Eve.
Check your specific carrier’s schedule for exact modifications and plan accordingly. This information can help you avoid unexpected delays and ensure smooth deliveries during the holidays.
Tips for Shipping During the Holidays
- Plan Ahead: Send packages early to avoid potential holiday delays.
- Utilize Tracking: Keep an eye on tracking updates, especially with modified schedules.
- Consider Alternative Services: For urgent shipments, check if expedited services are available on limited operation days.
Final Thoughts
Shipping during the holidays can be challenging, but understanding each carrier's schedule helps streamline the process. Use this chart as a reference, and plan ahead to keep your shipments on track through the holiday season. If you have questions about a carrier's holiday schedule, feel free to contact us!
And don't forget to register for our Freight of the Union Newsletter to stay on top of logistics news and insights!