2024 Holiday Schedule for Canada Post: The Dates & Delivery Deadlines You Should Know

With the holiday season driving a surge in orders, businesses must stay aligned with Canada Post's schedule to meet delivery expectations. Proper planning and early preparation can help avoid delays, ensuring smooth logistics and enhanced customer satisfaction.
2024 Holiday Schedule for Canada Post: The Dates & Delivery Deadlines You Should Know
3 Min Read
November 22, 2024
Max
3 min read
Nov 22, 2024

Key Points:

  • Ship early for Christmas to avoid delays, with Canada Post recommending deadlines of December 20 for standard services and December 21 for expedited options.
  • Canada Post ensures normal operations during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, enabling timely deliveries despite high shipping volumes.
  • Leverage multi-carrier shipping software to easily access alternative services such as USPS and FedEx alongside Canada Post to ensure flexibility and avoid disruptions during peak seasons.

The holiday shopping rush is almost here, and with December around the corner, it’s time to get your shipping plans in order to ensure smooth deliveries this Christmas season.

One of the most common questions during this time is about Canada Post’s holiday cut-off dates for Christmas deliveries. This guide will walk you through the key deadlines for Canada Post, Canpar Express, and FedEx, helping you stay on top of the shipping timelines and avoid any last-minute surprises.

As you finalize your holiday preparations—launching promotions, setting up campaigns, and stocking inventory—it’s equally important to plan your shipping strategy. To deliver a joyous holiday experience to your customers, meeting the Christmas shipping cut-offs is essential. Staying ahead of these deadlines will ensure your orders are delivered on time, leaving your customers happy and stress-free this holiday season.

What is the Canada Post Holiday Schedule for 2024?

Getting Christmas orders delivered on time is a top priority, especially during the peak holiday season when delays with Canada Post are more likely. Once your holiday shipping options are live, it’s essential to keep customers informed about the final posting dates for domestic and international deliveries. Providing this information helps encourage earlier orders and reduces the risk of missed cut-offs.

Shipping deadlines vary based on the service or courier selected, so it’s important to share accurate timelines for Canada Post services to help customers plan accordingly. Any updates to your shipping processes, such as adjusted fees or timelines, should be clearly stated in your policies to ensure transparency and build trust during this busy time of year.

Let’s take a look at the 2024 Holidays & Delivery Deadlines for Canada Post:

Holiday Date Operational Status
Valentine's Day Wednesday, February 14 Normal Operation
Good Friday Friday, March 29 Closed
Easter Monday Monday, April 1 Closed
Victoria Day (Many regions) Monday, May 20 Closed
Cananda Day Monday, July 1 Closed
Labor Day Monday, September 2 Closed
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Monday, September 30 Closed
Thanksgiving Day Monday, October 14 Closed
Remembrance Day Monday, November 11 Closed
Black Friday Friday, November 29 Normal Operation
Cyber Monday Monday, December 2 Normal Operation
Christmas Day Wednesday, December 25 Closed
Boxing Day Thursday, December 26 Closed
New Year's Eve Tuesday, December 31 Normal Operation

Valentine's Day: Wednesday, February 14, 2024

February 14th is a day filled with love and joy, and Canada Post is committed to helping your Valentine’s Day surprises arrive on time. With normal operations running smoothly, you can count on timely deliveries of gifts, cards, and parcels. To ensure they reach their destination by Valentine’s Day, it’s recommended to ship by February 10 or 11. Planning ahead guarantees your loved ones feel the love on time.

Good Friday: Friday, March 29, 2024

Good Friday is an important public holiday across Canada, marked by the closure of Canada Post services, including mail collections and deliveries. This observance enables employees to take part in religious ceremonies or community gatherings. To prevent any shipping delays, it’s essential to schedule your shipments ahead of time. Aim to send your parcels by Wednesday, March 27, to guarantee timely delivery despite the holiday.

Canada Post Services and Deadlines

Service Deadline Details
Regular Parcel Service 27 March 2024 Standard delivery service for parcels within Canada; delivery times vary by region.
Xpresspost 28 March 2024 Fast and reliable service with next-day delivery in most areas; includes tracking.
Priority™ 28 March 2024 The fastest service available; next-day delivery with guaranteed service and tracking.
International Parcel (Standard) 25 March 2024 For sending parcels internationally; delivery times vary by destination.
International Xpresspost 27 March 2024 Fast international shipping option with tracking; delivery times vary by destination.

Easter Monday: Monday, April 1, 2024

Easter Monday follows Easter Sunday and is recognized as a holiday by many organizations across Canada. On this day, Canada Post will be closed, meaning there will be no mail collections or deliveries. This closure allows employees to observe the holiday and spend time with family and friends. To ensure timely delivery of Easter greetings and gifts, it is advisable to send them before the holiday weekend. Aim for dispatch by Friday, March 29.

Service Deadline Details
Regular Parcel Service 29 March 2024 Standard delivery service for parcels within Canada; delivery times vary by region.
Xpresspost 30 March 2024 Fast and reliable service with next-day delivery in most areas; includes tracking.
Priority™ 30 March 2024 The fastest service available; next-day delivery with guaranteed service and tracking.
International Parcel (Standard) 27 March 2024 For sending parcels internationally; delivery times vary by destination.
International Xpresspost 29 March 2024 Fast international shipping option with tracking; delivery times vary by destination.

Victoria Day: Monday, May 20, 2024

Victoria Day, celebrated in honor of Queen Victoria’s birthday, marks the unofficial start of summer in Canada. On this public holiday, Canada Post will suspend all mail collections and deliveries. Many Canadians use the day for outdoor activities and family gatherings.

To ensure your parcels and mail arrive on time, plan ahead and dispatch items by Friday, May 17. Early preparation helps avoid delays and ensures recipients can enjoy their Victoria Day celebrations uninterrupted.

Canada Day: Monday, July 1, 2024

Canada Day is a time for nationwide celebration, marking the country’s confederation on July 1st, 1867. From parades to fireworks, it’s a day filled with joy and unity. Canada Post locations will be closed on this public holiday, with no mail collections or deliveries, allowing employees to celebrate with their communities. Plan ahead and dispatch your packages by Friday, June 28, to ensure timely delivery before the festivities.

Service Deadline Details
Regular Parcel Service 28 June 2024 Standard delivery service for parcels within Canada; delivery times vary by region.
Xpresspost 29 June 2024 Fast and reliable service with next-day delivery in most areas; includes tracking.
Priority™ 29 June 2024 The fastest service available; next-day delivery with guaranteed service and tracking.
International Parcel (Standard) 26 June 2024 For sending parcels internationally; delivery times vary by destination.
International Xpresspost 28 June 2024 Fast international shipping option with tracking; delivery times vary by destination.

Labor Day: Monday, September 2, 2024

Labor Day in Canada is a time to honor the contributions and achievements of workers nationwide. As part of the observance, Canada Post will suspend all operations, including mail collections and deliveries, allowing employees to participate in community events and spend time with their families.

To ensure your mail and parcels reach their destinations on time, it’s crucial to plan ahead. Dispatching items by Friday, August 30, is highly recommended. Sending early helps avoid delays during the long weekend, a period when many Canadians embrace travel and leisure activities to celebrate this well-deserved break.

Service Deadline Details
Regular Parcel Service 30 August 2024 Standard delivery service for parcels within Canada; delivery times vary by region.
Xpresspost 31 August 2024 Fast and reliable service with next-day delivery in most areas; includes tracking.
Priority™ 31 August 2024 The fastest service available; next-day delivery with guaranteed service and tracking.
International Parcel (Standard) 28 August 2024 For sending parcels internationally; delivery times vary by destination.
International Xpresspost 30 August 2024 Fast international shipping option with tracking; delivery times vary by destination.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: Monday, September 30, 2024

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation stands as a solemn occasion in Canada to honor the victims and survivors of residential schools. It offers an opportunity to reflect on the enduring impact of these institutions on Indigenous communities while fostering education, understanding, and meaningful dialogue.

In observance of this day, Canada Post operations, including mail collections and deliveries, will be paused. To ensure your correspondence or packages reach their destinations without delay, plan ahead and send items by Friday, September 27. Early preparation ensures your messages of remembrance and support arrive on time, reflecting the significance of this meaningful day.

Service Deadline Details
Regular Parcel Service 27 September 2024 Standard delivery service for parcels within Canada; delivery times vary by region.
Xpresspost 28 September 2024 Fast and reliable service with next-day delivery in most areas; includes tracking.
Priority™ 28 September 2024 The fastest service available; next-day delivery with guaranteed service and tracking.
International Parcel (Standard) 25 September 2024 For sending parcels internationally; delivery times vary by destination.
International Xpresspost 27 September 2024 Fast international shipping option with tracking; delivery times vary by destination.

Thanksgiving Day: Monday, October 14, 2024

Thanksgiving in Canada is a time to gather with family, share delicious meals, and reflect on the year’s blessings. To allow Canada Post employees to celebrate with their loved ones, all mail and delivery services will be paused on Thanksgiving Day.

To ensure your messages of gratitude and festive parcels reach their destinations before the holiday, it’s recommended to send them by Friday, October 11. Thoughtful planning will ensure your tokens of appreciation arrive in time to make the day extra meaningful.

Remembrance Day: Monday, November 11, 2024

Remembrance Day serves as a time for Canadians to express gratitude and honor the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces. As part of this solemn observance, Canada Post will not operate on November 11, meaning no mail collections or deliveries will occur. Ensure your messages of appreciation and remembrance arrive on time by dispatching them by Friday, November 8. Early planning ensures your sentiments are part of this day of nationwide reflection.

Service Deadline Details
Regular Parcel Service 8 November 2024 Standard delivery service for parcels within Canada; delivery times vary by region.
Xpresspost 9 November 2024 Fast and reliable service with next-day delivery in most areas; includes tracking.
Priority™ 9 November 2024 The fastest service available; next-day delivery with guaranteed service and tracking.
International Parcel (Standard) 6 November 2024 For sending parcels internationally; delivery times vary by destination.
International Xpresspost 8 November 2024 Fast international shipping option with tracking; delivery times vary by destination.

Black Friday: Friday, November 29, 2024

Black Friday marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season, with retailers and customers alike gearing up for significant sales. Canada Post will maintain normal operations on this day, ensuring timely mail and parcel deliveries. Customers can rely on standard services for smooth and uninterrupted shipping during this busy period.

Cyber Monday: Monday, December 2, 2024

As the online shopping frenzy continues on Cyber Monday, Canada Post will also operate as usual, handling the increased volume of eCommerce parcels. With normal operations in place, customers can expect reliable collection and delivery services to keep up with the heightened demand.

Christmas Day: Wednesday, December 25, 2024

Christmas Day is one of the most significant holidays in Canada; it celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is marked by family gatherings and gift-giving. On Christmas Day, all Canada Post locations will be closed, with no collections or deliveries taking place. To manage the high volume of shipments leading up to Christmas and ensure timely delivery before December 25th, it’s essential to send items well in advance—ideally by December 20th for standard services.

Canada Post Christmas Shipping Deadlines for Packages 

Service Deadline Details
Regular Parcel Service 20 December 2024 Standard delivery service for parcels within Canada; delivery times vary by region.
Xpresspost 21 December 2024 Fast and reliable service with next-day delivery in most areas; includes tracking.
Priority™ 21 December 2024 The fastest service available; next-day delivery with guaranteed service and tracking.
International Parcel (Standard) 18 December 2024 For sending parcels internationally; delivery times vary by destination.
International Xpresspost 20 December 2024 Fast international shipping option with tracking; delivery times vary by destination.

Canada Post Christmas Shipping Deadlines for Cards

Destination Send By
Local Zone Thursday, December 19
Regional Zone Wednesday, December 18
National Zone December 17

Learn more on the Canada Post Website

Boxing Day: Thursday, December 26, 2024

Boxing Day follows Christmas Day and is traditionally a day for shopping and relaxation after the festivities. On this day, Canada Post will also be closed, meaning there will be no mail services available. To avoid delays during this busy shopping period following Christmas celebrations and ensure timely delivery for any post-Christmas greetings or returns you may need to send out after Boxing Day itself.

New Year's Eve: Tuesday, December 31, 2024

New Year's Eve marks the end of the year and celebrations leading up to midnight festivities across Canada. On New Year's Eve day itself (December 31), Canada Post will operate with normal business hours allowing for last-minute shipping needs as people prepare for New Year celebrations. However, it's advisable to send any important items earlier in December to avoid last-minute rushes.

By understanding these operational statuses for each holiday throughout the year and planning accordingly with early dispatching where necessary can help ensure smooth communication and timely delivery through Canada Post services! If you have any further questions or need assistance regarding shipping during these holidays feel free to ask!

2024 Holiday Shipping Deadlines for Canada Post International Deliveries

Sending international gifts this Christmas? Make sure your packages arrive before December 25, 2024, by shipping early and following Canada Post’s guidelines. Timely preparation is the key to avoiding delays and spreading holiday joy worldwide.

Canada Post 2024 USA Shipping Deadlines for Packages

Service Destination Send By
Xpresspost™ USA USA 17 December, 2024
Expedited Parcel™ USA USA 13 December, 2024
Tracked Packet/Small Packet USA 12 December, 2024

Canada Post 2024 International Shipping Deadlines for Packages

Popular Sending Destinations Xpresspost International™ Tracked Packet/Small Packet
Africa 10 December, 2024 3 December, 2024
Asia 11 December, 2024 9 December, 2024
Australia 11 December, 2024 9 December, 2024
Central/South America and Caribbean 10 December, 2024 3 December, 2024
China 11 December, 2024 9 December, 2024
Europe 11 December, 2024 9 December, 2024
France 16 December, 2024 11 December, 2024
Germany 16 December, 2024 11 December, 2024
India 11 December, 2024 9 December, 2024
Japan 16 December, 2024 11 December, 2024
Middle East 11 December, 2024 9 December, 2024
Netherlands 16 December, 2024 11 December, 2024
New Zealand 11 December, 2024 9 December, 2024
Switzerland 16 December, 2024 11 December, 2024
United Kingdom 16 December, 2024 11 December, 2024

‍View more details on the Canada Post Website

Use the 2024 Canada Post Schedule to Ensure Your Holiday Orders Arrive on Time

Encourage your customers to place their orders early to avoid the hassle of last-minute shipping—perhaps by offering festive promotions to sweeten the deal! During the busy holiday season, even domestic deliveries may face delays. By planning ahead and following Canada Post's recommended shipping deadlines, you can ensure your customers receive their packages before Christmas, spreading holiday joy without interruptions.

At Easyship, we’re committed to simplifying your holiday shipping, ensuring you can deliver a seamless, highly reliable experience to your customers. Take advantage of our powerful features and exclusive discounts:

  • Global Fulfillment Support: Access Easyship’s network of fulfillment centers to store inventory closer to your customers. Reduce shipping costs and delivery times, especially during peak seasons.
  • Tax and Duty Calculation: No surprises at checkout! Easyship calculates taxes and duties for international shipments, ensuring a smooth delivery experience for international customs clearance.
  • Branded Shipment Tracking: Keep your customers updated this holiday season with branded tracking emails and automated notifications, ensuring they stay informed about their package status and delivery location at all times.‍
  • Free Shipping Rate Calculator: Compare rates from hundreds of carriers to identify the most affordable, fastest, and reliable options tailored to every shipment.
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Key Points:

  • Ship early for Christmas to avoid delays, with Canada Post recommending deadlines of December 20 for standard services and December 21 for expedited options.
  • Canada Post ensures normal operations during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, enabling timely deliveries despite high shipping volumes.
  • Leverage multi-carrier shipping software to easily access alternative services such as USPS and FedEx alongside Canada Post to ensure flexibility and avoid disruptions during peak seasons.
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