Have you had trouble getting delivery of that one thing one you ordered online?  It is a common problem these days.  It has been challenging to keep the virus out of offices and factories, dealing with shutdowns and business restrictions. There has also been a rise in raw materials prices and skyrocketing shipping costs. The United States of America is short on truck drivers and warehouse workers.

Border crossing for truckers and customs changes at ports have transportation workers responding to regulations that seem to be in constant flux. With countries requiring different vaccinations or documentation, these border restrictions have caused bottlenecks and long delays.,

Rethink Some Gifts

There is a global shortage of semiconductor chips.  This shortage means that many electronic items from toys to computer games to washing machines and automobiles are on backorder.  These items may not be available in time for the holidays.

Shop Local

It may sound obvious, but if you shop at that local store, online or in-person, and you see the product on the shelf or in the inventory, you know you can get it—no waiting for delivery.  Shopping local also has added benefits like promoting the local economy.  You may also find unique or one-of-a-kind items that recipients of the girts will truly treasure.

Be Mindful of Shipping Deadlines

Sending gifts to family and friends during the holidays can be challenging.  Pay special attention to shipping deadlines this year and add a little extra time to be safe.  UPS, for example, has suspended its service guarantee due to the pandemic.  As of the date of this writing, the latest dates to ship packages for December 24 are as follows:

USPS

For the continental U.S.:

• December 15: USPS retail ground service
• December 17: First-class mail service
• December 18: Priority mail service
• December 23: Priority mail express service

For Alaska and Hawaii:

• December 17: First-class mail service and priority mail service to and from Hawaii
• December 18: First-class mail service and priority mail service to and from Alaska
• December 21: Priority mail express service to and from both Alaska and Hawaii

UPS

• For ground shipping, get a quote
• December 21: 3-day select
• December 22: 2nd-day air
• December 23: Next-day air

FedEx

• December 9: Ground economy
• December 15: Ground and home delivery
• December 21: Express saver
• December 22: 2Day and 2Day AM
• December 23: Standard overnight, priority overnight, and first overnight
• December 24: Same day