When is the last date for posting letters and parcels?
An Post has now confirmed their last mailing dates for letters and parcels to arrive in time for Christmas 2020.
It’s likely coronavirus restrictions will be in place at home and abroad over the festive season, so there’s even more reason to check final posting dates and ensure timely arrival.
Here are those last posting dates for local and international destinations.
Last posting dates before Christmas 2020
| Service | Republic of Ireland | Northern Ireland | Great Britain | Rest of Europe | United States | Rest of World | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard post letters | 21 Dec | 19 Dec | 18 Dec | 17 Dec | 11 Dec | 7 Dec | |
| Standard post parcels | 21 Dec | 19 Dec | 18 Dec | 12 Dec | 7 Dec | 7 Dec | |
| Registered post | 21 Dec | 19 Dec | 18 Dec | 12 Dec | 7 Dec | 7 Dec | |
| Express post | 21 Dec | 19 Dec | 18 Dec | 12 Dec | 9 Dec | 7 Dec | |
| International Courier Service | N/A | N/A | 21 Dec | 21 Dec | 17 Dec | 17 Dec |
Other Christmas posting info
- There will be no mail collection on 24th December and no collection or delivery between 25th December and 29th December.
- The International Courier Service is only available at selected Post Offices, so check An Post to find your nearest International Courier Service drop off.
- There is a chance that these final posting dates may change due to issues surrounding Covid-19.
An Post says:
Last dates of posting for 2020 may be impacted by on-going Covid-19 related events, including for international mail deliveries. Although no changes are foreseen at this time, An Post will endeavour to notify customers of changes as far in advance as is reasonably possible if events change.
Wondering about last order dates from your favourite stores?
We’ve collated the delivery times and prices from your favourite online stores to make sure you get your Christmas shopping delivered in good time.
| Online store | Delivery times | Cost | Other delivery info | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon | 3-6 working days | Free over €20 | 2 day free delivery for Prime members | |
| Argos | 5 working days | €4.95 | Larger items may take longer | |
| Boots | 2-3 working days | €5.00 | Free delivery over €40 | |
| Currys | Within 9 working days | €5.99 | Larger items €24.99 | |
| Dunnes | 7 working days | €3.95 | 10-15 days for furniture. Free over €50 | |
| Harvey Norman | 5-7 working days | €5.99 | Larger items €24.99 | |
| Marks & Spencer | 8-10 working days | €3.95 | Express delivery (€9.95) | |
| Next | Confirmed at checkout | €3.00 | Free delivery over €20 | |
| Smyths Toys | 1-3 working days | €1.99-€6.99 | Larger items may take 3-6 days | |
| Tesco | Varies | Free grocery delivery for over 65s (€50+ spend) |
Deliveries to remote or rural areas may take longer than the estimated delivery times.
Due to higher than normal demand for home deliveries this year, a number of stores like Currys Amazon & Boots are stating that delivery lead times may be longer than usual.
Christmas Posting FAQs
How can I make sure my parcel will arrive safely?
If you’re posting a valuable or important parcel or letter, An Post’s Registered Post service can give you peace of mind.
If you use the Registered Post service, you will get:
- Proof the item was posted
- Proof of receipt with a signature
- Secure delivery
- Online tracking of Registered Post (depending on the destination)
- Insurance cover for valuable items
- Compensation if your item is not received
How much does it cost to send my parcel abroad?
The price you pay will depend on the size and weight of your post, where you send it in the world and what service level you choose.
An Post has a handy postage calculator that can help you work out how much your letter, packet or parcel will cost to send internationally.
What if my order doesn't arrive in time for Christmas?
If your order is not delivered, you need to take it up with the retailer rather than the delivery company. The retailer is responsible for the parcel until it is delivered to you.
You have the right to cancel your order and claim your money back up to 14 days starting from the date you received your item or before.
Alternatively, if you paid by debit or credit card, you can claim on your card issuer’s chargeback scheme. If you paid with PayPal you can raise a dispute via PayPal Buyer Protection. Check out Your refund rights in Ireland for further information about your options.
