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Sunday 22/02/2026

Guernsey Post Prepares for Record Parcel Deliveries Amid Festive Rush

Guernsey Post office workers with parcels and festive decor
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Guernsey Post anticipates delivering over 750,000 parcels during November and December, reflecting a 5% increase in November compared to last year.
  • The rise in parcel volumes is attributed to the sustained demand for online shopping and early promotions by major retailers.
  • Royal Mail has set last posting dates for UK parcels, with 23 December being the deadline for special delivery guaranteed.
  • Courier comparison sites like Parcel2Go offer competitive pricing for heavier parcels, often cheaper than individual courier companies.
  • Citizens Advice reports that 15 million people faced issues with parcel deliveries, highlighting the importance of choosing reliable services during the festive season.

As the festive season approaches, Guernsey Post is gearing up for an unprecedented surge in parcel deliveries, expecting to handle over 750,000 parcels throughout November and December. This marks a 5% increase in parcel volumes for November compared to the previous year, driven by the continued strength of online shopping demand.

Rising Demand and Operational Adjustments

The postal service attributes this rise to evolving shopping patterns, with major retailers launching offers earlier and extending promotions over several weeks. Steve Sheridan, Chief Executive of Guernsey Post, noted, "Our teams are working tirelessly to keep everything running smoothly," emphasizing the company's commitment to maintaining a reliable and efficient service during this busy period. To manage the increased workload, Guernsey Post has expanded its workforce by hiring 10 Christmas casuals, ensuring deliveries continue efficiently into early January.

Navigating Holiday Shipping Deadlines

Meanwhile, Royal Mail has announced its last posting dates for UK parcels, with 23 December being the final day for special delivery guaranteed. For those sending gifts abroad, deadlines vary by country, with the earliest being 5 December for Australia. To assist consumers, courier comparison sites like Parcel2Go provide a comprehensive list of deadlines and competitive pricing options for both domestic and international deliveries.

Choosing the Right Delivery Service

With a myriad of parcel delivery options available, from standard to next-day services, consumers are advised to compare prices and services carefully. Martin Lewis’s MoneySavingExpert website suggests that Royal Mail is often the best choice for small items under 1kg, while courier comparison websites may offer better deals for heavier parcels. However, with Citizens Advice reporting that 15 million people encountered issues with parcel deliveries last year, selecting a reliable service is crucial during the holiday season.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

As the holiday season progresses, Guernsey Post's ability to manage the increased parcel volumes will be closely watched. Success in maintaining efficient delivery services could bolster consumer confidence in online shopping, potentially leading to sustained growth in parcel volumes beyond the festive period. On the other hand, any significant disruptions could prompt consumers to explore alternative delivery options, impacting the postal service's market share.

The emphasis on early promotions by major retailers may set a precedent for future holiday seasons, encouraging a shift towards more evenly distributed shopping patterns. This could alleviate pressure on delivery services, allowing them to optimize operations and improve customer satisfaction. As the demand for parcel deliveries continues to rise, the role of courier comparison sites in offering competitive pricing and reliable service options will likely become increasingly significant.