‘Tis the Season: How Can the Holidays Effect Shipping?

We all love the changing of the leaves, the cooler temperatures, and the opportunity to enjoy time with family and friends.  Though the season brings many calming and enjoyable things on the surface, behind the scenes it is quite frantic and chaotic trying to make things happen.  

One behind the scenes factor is shipping.  With the way our world’s have changed over recent years we depend more on shipping now than ever and for everything.  From presents and gifts to household goods and groceries, there are more shipping trucks, vans, and even cars on the road than ever before. 

5GStore is no exception to the pains of dealing with high volume shipping.  Although 5GStore strives to ship the same day whenever possible, and usually does, we sadly can’t guarantee that your package will arrive on time once it leaves our warehouse in Illinois.  

Our primary source of shipping does not guarantee delivery by the day promised, unless the package is shipping overnight or internationally.  But at this time of year even those particular shipping methods will be exempt from being able to guarantee for the following dates,  Dec 13th through Jan 2nd.  

So what can you do to ensure you’re getting the products you need in a timely manner?

  • Plan ahead when possible.  Order early and allow extra time for the delivery process. 
  • Upgrade the shipping.  Try 2 or 3-day as opposed to regular Ground. 
  • Map your route.  Consider the distance between your destination and Illinois.  
  • Utilize pick up locations.  Many of the hubs have daily deliveries.  
  • Combine shipments.  Try to get 2 or more purchases to travel together.

As mentioned above, in addition to volume, weather plays a major role in how quickly you can get your products.  Since your package is coming from Illinois you should consider the weather there, where you live, and all points in between.  

Wishing a safe and healthy holiday season to you, your families, and business!

Take Control of your Shipments

It is important that you know how to stay ahead of the delays. Here are a few ways that you can take control and help reduce the impacts of these expected delays around this time of year due to the Holidays and Weather.

  1. Pick your method wisely
    • All carriers are facing Heavy Package Volumes and Driver shortages.
    • Ground Shipments are continuing to have extended delivery times averaging around 2-3 days longer.
    • Although the carriers strive to deliver your packages as quickly as possible – at this time all “Delivery Guarantees” are suspended through January 2022.
  2. Utilize pick up locations
    • Don’t forget to utilize the FedEx or UPS pickup locations.
    • This is a great way to avoid missing the first delivery attempt!
  3. Place your orders early
    • With the New Year quickly approaching – be sure to get your orders placed the week of 12/13/2021 to ensure you are ready to go before the end of the year.
    • Remember, we are here to help support getting your new equipment up and running!
  4. Ensure your shipping address is complete!
    • Be sure your shipping address is complete including a company name and/or suite/apt number when applicable. 

As always – thank you for being a 5Gstore Customer!