Are you in a rush to send a package to the USA for New Year’s Eve?
If yes, you’re probably asking the same question everyone asks this time of year: Is it still possible—and how fast can it get there?
The truth is, international shipping doesn’t stop after Christmas, but holiday schedules, courier cutoffs, and customs delays can change everything. Choosing the right service now matters more than ever.
In this blog, we’ll break down what actually works for last-minute international shipping to the USA during New Year and holiday periods—so you know your options before time runs out.
1. Can I still ship internationally to the USA and get it before New Year?
Yes, it’s still possible—but only with express or priority international services. Standard shipping is no longer realistic at this stage.
International freight forwarders like AIR7SEAS still move packages during the holiday period, but delivery before New Year depends on where you’re shipping from, when you book, and how fast the service is. The sooner you ship, the better your chances.
2. What is the fastest international shipping option to the USA right now?
The fastest option is international express air shipping, often labeled as:
- Express Worldwide
- Priority Express
- Time-Definite International
These services typically deliver in 1–3 business days, excluding customs delays. Same-day pickup is also possible, if you’re racing against the clock.
3. How long does international shipping to the USA take at the end of December?
At the end of December:
- Express shipping: 1–3 business days
- Priority/expedited: 3–5 business days
- Standard shipping: Often delayed and unpredictable
Holiday backlogs, reduced staffing, and customs volume can all add extra time, so transit estimates are usually best-case scenarios, not guarantees.
4. Are there international shipping delays to the USA during New Year holidays?
Yes, delays are common. While shipping lines, airlines, and truckers continue operating. But New Year’s Day is a public holiday, and many customs offices work with reduced staff. This can slow down:
- Customs clearance
- Final delivery
- Tracking updates
Planning for at least one extra buffer day is smart.
5. Which shipping option is best for urgent international shipping to the USA during holidays?
An international freight forwarder often makes more sense for urgent, end-of-year shipments.
Freight forwarders work with multiple airlines and courier networks, allowing them to secure the fastest available routing instead of relying on a single carrier. Even when timelines are tight, they can create custom shipping solutions that balance speed, cost, and reliability.
Why international freight forwarders are better for last-minute shipping:
- While urgent shipping is never cheap, freight forwarders can compare carriers and routes to avoid unnecessary holiday surcharges.
- They are not locked into one courier’s cutoff times or capacity limits.
- Shipments are tracked end-to-end, often with proactive updates rather than delayed status changes.
- Forwarders help ensure documentation is correct, reducing the risk of holiday-related customs delays.
- If a delay occurs, forwarders can reroute or adjust plans quickly.
For truly urgent shipments during New Year and holiday periods, international freight forwarders provide better visibility, more adaptable pricing, and a higher chance of on-time delivery compared to standard courier services.
6. What are the cutoff dates for New Year international shipping to the USA?
There’s no single global cutoff date. Each courier sets its own deadlines based on:
- Country of origin
- Service type
- Pickup time
That said, the last week of December is extremely tight, and same-day or next-day booking is often required. Missing a cutoff usually means delivery after New Year.
7. How much does urgent international shipping to the USA cost during holidays?
Urgent shipping costs more during the holidays. Prices depend on:
- Package weight and size
- Origin country
- Speed of service
Expect premium pricing, sometimes 2x higher than standard shipping. However, for time-sensitive packages, speed and reliability usually matter more than cost.
8. Will US customs delay international shipments during New Year?
Customs can cause delays, especially during holidays. Express shipments usually clear faster, but delays can still happen if:
- Documentation is incomplete
- The item is restricted
- Duties or taxes are unpaid
Proper paperwork and honest item descriptions help avoid unnecessary hold-ups.
9. Can I send New Year gifts internationally to the USA with express delivery?
Yes, you can—but be careful with what you send. Items that commonly cause issues include:
- Food and beverages
- Batteries and electronics
- Perfumes and liquids
Choosing express shipping and checking restrictions in advance greatly improves your chances of smooth delivery. For help click
10. Is door-to-door international courier service to the USA available during holidays?
Yes. Most major international freight forwarders still offer door-to-door pickup and delivery, even during the holiday season. Availability may vary by location, but many services operate with:
- Online booking
- Scheduled pickups
- End-to-end tracking
This is often the easiest option when time is limited.
Wrap-Up Tip
If you’re shipping to the USA around New Year, speed, documentation, and shipping partner choice matter more than ever.
Acting quickly and choosing the right service and freight forwarder can still make last-minute international shipping possible.