UPS 2017 Holidays: Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to holiday shipping, UPS is a top choice for many businesses and individuals. However, with so many packages flowing through their network, it can be hard to keep track of what’s going on. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about UPS holiday shipping for 2017.

A Brief Overview of UPS Holiday Schedule for 2017

First things first, it’s important to have a general understanding of when UPS observes holidays. For 2017, UPS will be closed on the following days:

• New Year’s Day (Sunday, January 1, 2017)
• Memorial Day (Monday, May 29, 2017)
• Independence Day (Tuesday, July 4, 2017)
• Labor Day (Monday, September 4, 2017)
• Thanksgiving Day (Thursday, November 23, 2017)
• Christmas Day (Monday, December 25, 2017)

It’s also worth noting that UPS typically experiences a surge in package volume during the weeks leading up to Christmas, which can impact delivery times. To avoid disappointment, make sure to plan ahead and allow for extra time when shipping during this period.

Additionally, UPS offers a variety of shipping options during the holiday season to accommodate the increased demand. These options include expedited shipping, same-day delivery, and even Sunday delivery in select areas. It’s important to check with your local UPS store or online for specific details and pricing.

How to Plan Your Shipping Strategy Around UPS Holidays

If you’re a business owner, it’s crucial to plan your holiday shipping strategy well in advance. Take into account UPS holiday closures as well as any internal deadlines you need to meet. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with UPS’s holiday shipping deadlines to ensure that your packages arrive on time.

One thing to keep in mind is that UPS may have different cutoff times for packages destined for different regions, so be sure to double-check before finalizing your shipping plans. And don’t forget to factor in any additional transit time due to holiday volume, which can expose your packages to potential delays.

Another important consideration when planning your shipping strategy around UPS holidays is the potential for inclement weather. During the winter months, snow and ice can cause delays and disruptions to shipping schedules. It’s a good idea to have a backup plan in place, such as alternative carriers or shipping methods, in case of weather-related issues.

Understanding the Impact of UPS Holidays on Your Business

If your business relies on timely delivery of packages, UPS holidays can have a significant impact on your bottom line. In addition to potential delays, you may also experience increased shipping costs during peak holiday periods. It’s important to take these factors into account when planning your holiday shipping strategy, and to communicate any potential delays to your customers to avoid disappointment.

Tips for Ensuring Timely Delivery During UPS Holiday Season

To increase your chances of a successful holiday season, there are a few steps you can take to ensure timely delivery of your packages. First, make sure to package your items properly to protect them during transit. In addition, consider using UPS’s online tracking tools to keep tabs on your packages in real-time.

You may also want to consider upgrading to UPS’s premium shipping options to enjoy faster transit times and increased reliability. However, bear in mind that these upgrades can be costly, so weigh the benefits against the costs before making a decision.

Another important tip to ensure timely delivery during the UPS holiday season is to plan ahead and ship your packages early. The holiday season is a busy time for shipping companies, and delays can occur due to high volume. By shipping your packages early, you can avoid the rush and increase the chances of your packages arriving on time.

How to Track Your UPS Shipments During Holiday Rush

As mentioned earlier, UPS offers a range of online tracking tools to help you keep track of your packages. To access this information, simply enter your tracking number on the UPS website or app. You’ll be able to see real-time updates on your package’s location and estimated delivery time.

For added convenience, you can also sign up for email or text alerts to receive updates directly to your inbox or phone. This can be particularly useful during peak holiday periods, when packages may be more prone to delays.

In addition to the online tracking tools, UPS also offers a service called UPS My Choice. This service allows you to customize your delivery preferences, such as choosing a specific delivery time or location, and even rerouting your package to a different address. This can be especially helpful during the holiday season, when you may not be home to receive your package.

Another useful feature of UPS My Choice is the ability to request a hold on your package. This means that if you know you won’t be available to receive your package on a certain day, you can request that UPS hold it at a nearby location for pickup at a later time.

Common Challenges Faced by Shippers During UPS Holidays and How to Overcome Them

Despite their best efforts, shippers may still encounter a few common challenges during UPS holidays. These can include delayed delivery, lost or damaged packages, and miscommunication with customers. To overcome these challenges, it’s important to proactively communicate with your customers and keep them informed of any potential delays.

You can also consider purchasing additional insurance for your packages to protect against loss or damage. And if you’re experiencing issues with UPS, don’t hesitate to reach out to their customer service team for assistance.

Another challenge that shippers may face during UPS holidays is an increase in shipping costs. UPS may charge higher rates during peak holiday seasons, which can impact your bottom line. To mitigate this challenge, consider planning ahead and shipping your packages earlier to avoid rush fees. You can also explore alternative shipping options, such as USPS or FedEx, to compare rates and find the most cost-effective solution for your business.

A Guide to UPS Shipping Rates and Services During the Holiday Season

UPS offers a range of shipping services to suit different needs and budgets. Depending on your business’s requirements, you may want to consider UPS’s Ground, 2nd Day Air or Next Day Air delivery options.

When it comes to rates, be aware that UPS may charge peak season surcharges during periods of high demand. These surcharges can vary based on factors such as package volume and location. Make sure to review UPS’s pricing schedule carefully before making any decisions.

It’s also important to note that UPS has implemented new safety measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes contactless delivery options and increased sanitation protocols for their facilities and vehicles. These measures may impact delivery times and service availability, so it’s important to plan ahead and communicate with your customers about any potential delays.

Finally, if you’re shipping internationally, UPS offers a range of customs clearance services to help streamline the process. From basic document preparation to full customs brokerage, UPS can help ensure your packages clear customs smoothly and efficiently.

How to Save Money on UPS Shipping During the Holidays

If you’re looking to save money on your UPS holiday shipping costs, there are a few strategies you can employ. Consider consolidating multiple packages into a single shipment, as this can often result in lower rates. You can also try negotiating with UPS for better pricing based on your overall volume.

Finally, don’t forget to take advantage of any promotional offers or discounts that UPS may be offering during the holiday season. Keep an eye on their website or social media channels for announcements.

Top Reasons Why You Should Choose UPS for Your Holiday Shipping Needs

If you’re still unsure about choosing UPS for your holiday shipping needs, there are several reasons why they’re a top choice for many businesses. UPS offers reliable service, with a strong track record of delivering packages on time. They also offer a range of shipping options to suit different needs, and have a robust online tracking system to help you keep tabs on your packages.

In addition, UPS is committed to sustainability, with a range of initiatives to reduce their carbon footprint. By choosing UPS, you can feel good about supporting a company that’s dedicated to both efficiency and environmental responsibility.

What to Do If Your UPS Package is Delayed During the Holidays

If you’re experiencing a delayed UPS package during the holidays, don’t panic. First, check your tracking information to get an update on its progress. If the package has been stuck in transit for an extended period, reach out to UPS customer service for assistance.

It’s also a good idea to communicate with your customers, letting them know about the delay and what you’re doing to resolve the situation. In some cases, UPS may offer compensation for delayed packages, so be sure to ask about this if you’re eligible.

How to Avoid Common Mistakes When Shipping with UPS During the Holidays

When it comes to holiday shipping, there are a few common mistakes that shippers make that can lead to delays or other issues. These can include incorrect addressing, insufficient packaging, and failing to meet UPS’s shipping deadlines.

To avoid these mistakes, make sure to double-check all addressing information before shipping, and package your items securely to prevent damage. And don’t forget to factor in UPS’s shipping deadlines when planning your holiday strategy.

An Insider’s Look at What Goes On Behind the Scenes at UPS During the Holidays

Ever wonder what it’s like to work at UPS during the holiday season? According to UPS, their employees work hard to ensure that every package is delivered on time. This can mean long hours and increased workload, but also a sense of pride in a job well done.

If you’re interested in learning more about the inner workings of UPS during the holidays, consider reaching out to your local UPS branch to see if they offer tours or other behind-the-scenes experiences.

How Technology is Helping UPS Handle Increased Holiday Demand

Finally, it’s worth noting that technology is playing an increasingly important role in helping UPS manage the surge in holiday package volume. UPS has invested heavily in automated sorting and tracking systems, which help to increase efficiency and reduce errors.

They’ve also created a range of online tools to help shippers streamline their shipping process, such as their WorldShip and UPS CampusShip platforms. By embracing technology, UPS is able to handle the increased demand of the holiday season with greater ease and efficiency than ever before.

Future Trends in Holiday Shipping: What You Can Expect from UPS

Looking to the future, it’s clear that holiday shipping will continue to evolve and change. UPS is committed to staying at the forefront of these changes, with a focus on sustainability and innovation.

Going forward, we can expect to see increased use of drones and other autonomous technologies to deliver packages, as well as continued investment in green energy and resource conservation.

As always, UPS will continue to adapt and evolve to meet the holiday shipping needs of their customers, while also working to create a more sustainable future for us all.