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106 million packages shipped per day between Thanksgiving and Christmas
106 Million Packages Shipped Per Day Between Thanksgiving and Christmas
As holiday shopping reaches its peak, shippers across the country are preparing for an exceptionally busy period. According to recent data, approximately 106 million packages are being shipped daily between Thanksgiving and Christmas this year. This reflects a staggering 29% increase in daily shipping volume compared to last year. However, it's important to note that this surge is largely due to the holiday peak being about five days shorter this year.
The shipping season kicked off with Cyber Monday, and shipping volumes have been on an upward trajectory each Monday since. Companies, including FedEx, are maintaining constant communication with their shippers to gauge daily shipping expectations. This proactive approach allows FedEx to increase its capacities and ensure they have adequate resources to deliver packages safely each day.
FedEx has identified major retailers, such as Walmart, Wayfair, and Gap, as significant customers during this holiday season. Retailers have until today to place orders with these major companies to ensure Christmas delivery without incurring additional charges. However, UPS has indicated that deadlines vary depending on the shipping location, while Amazon's deadlines depend on the specific products ordered.
Additionally, holiday surcharges are expected to play a crucial role in profitability for both FedEx and UPS, as they charge their large retail clients extra fees on a per-package basis compared to their June volume during the busy holiday season.
This year also marks a trend in which retailers are increasingly leveraging gig delivery companies for same-day and next-day deliveries. Companies like Shipt, owned by Target, and Vho, which provides delivery services for brands like Lululemon, Macy's, and Zara, are seeing significant engagement. Vho's CEO highlighted the shift in perspective among retailers, viewing logistics not merely as a cost but as a crucial avenue for maximizing returns on shipping expenses.
Furthermore, the increase in e-commerce continues to benefit traditional shipping companies, including FedEx and UPS, as well as full truckload carriers like Knight-Swift and warehousing firms such as Prologis. Supply chain companies are also reporting a substantial increase in freight in anticipation of possible future tariffs, indicating a dynamic shift in supply chain management practices.
To wrap up, while options for expedited shipping remain available, including on December 23rd for both FedEx and UPS, customers should be prepared for potential extra charges.
Keyword
- 106 million packages
- Holiday season
- FedEx
- UPS
- E-commerce
- Retailers
- Shipping volume
- Holiday surcharges
- Gig delivery companies
- Same-day delivery
FAQ
1. How many packages are shipped daily during the holiday season?
Approximately 106 million packages are shipped daily between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
2. What is contributing to the increased shipping volume this year?
The increased shipping volume is largely attributed to the holiday peak being about five days shorter compared to previous years.
3. Which major retailers are prominently involved in holiday shipping?
Major retailers involved include Walmart, Wayfair, and Gap.
4. Are there deadlines for holiday shipping to ensure Christmas delivery?
Yes, today is the final day for ordering from major retailers without incurring extra charges, but deadlines may vary based on location and retailer.
5. How are companies adapting their shipping strategies?
There is a growing trend of retailers using gig delivery companies for rapid shipping, viewing logistics as a strategic component rather than a mere cost.