Get ready for the holiday season

All you need to know to ship smart and set yourself up for success.

Holiday shipping made simple

Peak shopping season is right around the corner, and buyers are already gearing up. We’ve put together some holiday shipping tips to help you thrive during this busy period.

Save on shipping costs with eBay Labels

Enjoy discounted rates from major carriers and save time by printing pre-populated labels yourself, or present a QR code at a carrier location where they’ll print the label for you. Plus, with automatic tracking updates on orders shipped with eBay Labels, you can ensure every delivery goes smoothly this holiday season.

2025 holiday shipping deadlines

Here are the last shipping dates for eBay Labels select services to help ensure your package arrives by December 24, 2025.

  • eBay Shipping Services
    Service
    Ship by
    eBay Standard Envelope 12/17
  • USPS®
    Service
    Ship by

    USPS Ground Advantage (TM)

    12/17

    USPS Ground Advantage (TM):
    AK, HI, PR, US Territories

    12/16

    USPS Priority Mail®

    12/18

    USPS Priority Mail Express®

    12/19


    Learn more: USPS

     

  • FedEx®

    Service

    Ship by

    FedEx Ground® Economy

    12/15

    FedEx Ground® & Home Delivery

    12/17

    FedEx 2Day

    12/23

    FedEx 2Day One Rate

    12/23

    FedEx Priority Overnight®

    12/23

    FedEx Standard Overnight®

    12/23


    All dates are for Contiguous United States.

    Learn more: FedEx

     

  • UPS®

    Service

    Ship by

    UPS Ground®

    Check ups.com/ctc for details.

    UPS Ground® Saver

    Check ups.com/ctc for details.

    UPS Next Day Air®

    12/23

    UPS Next Day Air Saver®

    12/23

    UPS 2nd Day Air®

    12/22


    Learn more: UPS

     

Prepare for seasonal carrier rate increases

Holiday shipping surcharges can sneak up quickly, but a little preparation goes a long way. Stay ahead by learning more about seasonal carrier rate increases.

Reach more holiday shoppers

Get your items in front of more buyers with eBay International Shipping. Global shoppers are already on the lookout for holiday gifts, and the best part? We’ll handle tariffs, customs, and all the international shipping details so you don’t have to.

Help your listings stand out with lower shipping costs

Buyers often look at item and shipping costs together when deciding to purchase. With calculated shipping, you can offer eBay Labels’ discounted rates to keep your total costs competitive and help drive your holiday sales. Listings automatically show the best shipping charge based on location, package details, and delivery service.

We’ve got your back over the holiday season

Learn how eBay supports and protects you, no matter what the season throws your way.

Up-to-date shipping details in the Community

Stay informed with updates on carrier delays, inclement weather, and other factors that might affect your business during the busy holiday season.

Dedicated support when deliveries are delayed

As long as you consistently meet handling-time commitments, you’ll receive full credit for on-time shipping despite carrier delays.

We’ll adjust estimated delivery dates for you

We track carrier delays by ZIP code and adjust estimated delivery dates, so you don’t have to change your handling times or worry about penalties.

Brush up on holiday shipping essentials

  1. Keep your handling time under two days
    During the holiday rush, so there’s no need to extend handling times in your listings.
  2. Provide accurate shipping details
    Make sure you meet handling times and that you ship with the service specified in your listings (Economy, Standard, Expedited, or Overnight).
  3. Check your package dimensions
    Pack items securely and use standard-sized packaging when possible. To avoid label surcharges, measure carefully (always round up) and declare any irregular packaging. Watch this video to learn how weight and size affect shipping costs.
  4. Double-check your carrier
    If you use carrier-branded packaging, ship with the corresponding carrier and make sure that your label matches the drop-off location.
  5. Offer an expedited shipping option
    Shoppers want fast and safe delivery. Offering buyer-paid options, like two-day or overnight shipping, could boost your sales.

Get the latest shipping news

Follow our Seller News announcements, Seller check-ins, and updates on the eBay Community.

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