Don’t Miss the An Post Christmas 2024 Deadlines
As the holiday season draws near, countless people across Ireland are preparing to send Christmas cheer to loved ones near and far. For many families, especially those with connections abroad, the tradition of posting cards, letters, and parcels is a deeply emotional one, a way of bridging the miles and keeping the magic of Christmas alive.
With so many Irish families having relatives and friends in the United States, Australia, and beyond, sending something personal – a card, a photo, or a small gift – means more than ever. It’s a moment of connection, a reminder of home, and a gesture that can light up someone’s Christmas, even on the other side of the world.
To help your Christmas treasures arrive in time, An Post has announced the latest recommended posting dates for 2024.
Latest Christmas Posting Dates for 2024
Make sure your cards and gifts reach their destination by these dates to ensure delivery before Christmas Day:
| Service | Republic of Ireland | Northern Ireland | Great Britain | Rest of Europe | USA | Rest of the World |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Post Letters | December 22 | December 19 | December 18 | December 17 | December 10 | December 5 |
| Standard Post Parcels | December 21 | December 19 | December 18 | December 12 | December 5 | December 5 |
| Registered Post | December 20 | December 19 | December 18 | December 17 | December 5 | December 5 |
| Express Post | December 20 | December 19 | December 18 | December 17 | December 10 | December 10 |
| International Courier | – | – | December 18 | December 16 | December 16 | December 16 |
Sending Love Across the Miles
For Irish families with loved ones in America, Australia, or scattered across Europe, the holiday season can be bittersweet. A handwritten card or carefully chosen gift often carries with it the warmth of a hug that can’t be given in person and the laughter of conversations that have to wait until the next visit home.
Whether it’s a Christmas card to a sibling in Boston, a small parcel to a best friend in Sydney, or a heartfelt letter to a grandparent in London, these little gestures help keep traditions alive and connections strong.
Make the Most of Your Mailing
- Post Early! While these are the final posting dates, delays can happen during the festive rush. Sending items well ahead of schedule ensures they’ll arrive on time.
- Include Personal Touches
Adding a family photo, a handwritten note, or even a sprinkle of festive glitter can make a world of difference. - Track Important Packages
For extra peace of mind, opt for services like Registered Post or Express Post. - Pack Thoughtfully
Use strong, secure packaging to protect your items, especially if they’re traveling long distances.
Special Direct Mail Service: PostAim
For businesses, make sure your direct mail campaigns land before December 23 by presenting all materials to the Mail Centre by December 4, 12 noon.
So, as you write your cards and wrap your gifts this year, remember the joy that opening a piece of post can bring to someone far away. In a world of instant messages and video calls, there’s still something magical about a letter or package delivered with love.
From all of us at Christmas FM, happy posting and have a truly special Christmas! 🎄💌
