Gift Shipping Guide
Ship presents safely. Tips for wrapping, timing, and surprise deliveries.
Gift Shipping Tips
- Don't gift-wrap before shipping. Wrapping paper offers zero protection. Pack the item safely in a box, then include gift wrap separately or have the recipient wrap it.
- Use USPS Priority Mail for gifts. Includes insurance, 1-3 day delivery, free boxes.
- Declare low value on customs for international gifts. Many countries have duty-free gift thresholds (-100). Mark as GIFT on the customs form.
- Ship early for holidays. Ground adds 1-3 days during peak season. See deadlines
- Include a gift receipt. Makes returns easy without revealing the price.
- Use carrier delivery management to ensure delivery when recipient is home (UPS My Choice, FedEx Delivery Manager).
- Get signature confirmation for valuable gifts. Prevents porch theft.
Gift Customs Rules (International)
| Country | Gift Duty-Free Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| US (incoming) | Must be marked as unsolicited gift | |
| Canada | CAD | Only from non-Canadian sender |
| UK | £39 | Must be personal gift, not purchased commercially |
| EU | €45 | Varies slightly by country |
| Australia | ,000 AUD | All goods under ,000 are duty-free |