The Post Office has issued an urgent appeal to customers planning to send Christmas cards and parcels internationally, advising them to begin preparations immediately to ensure timely delivery for the holiday season.
With surface mail requiring significantly longer transit times, the postal service is particularly emphasizing the need for early action for customers sending Christmas gifts abroad via this economical shipping method.
“Customers who use surface mail to send their Christmas gifts abroad should do so soon, as this will ensure that the parcels reach their destinations in time for Christmas,” the Post Office stated in their announcement.
However, customers should note that parcels to the United States are currently prohibited due to a USA Executive Order, though mail and parcels to all other international destinations remain permitted.
Despite global shipping challenges, the Post Office continues to offer the most competitive rates in the market for international mail and parcel services to destinations worldwide.
Christmas mailing cut off dates 2025:
SURFACE MAIL
| Destination | Cut-off date |
|---|---|
| AUSTRALIA/SYDNEY | 7 November 2025 |
| CHINA/HONG KONG | 7 November 2025 |
| SINGAPORE | 7 November 2025 |
| PORT LOUIS/MAURITIUS | 7 November 2025 |
| JAPAN/YOKOHAMA | 7 November 2025 |
| BRAZIL/SANTOS | 7 November 2025 |
| TAIWAN/KEELUNG | 7 November 2025 |
| SRI LANKA/COLOMBO | 7 November 2025 |
| REUNION | 7 November 2025 |
| SEYCHELLES/MAHE | 7 November 2025 |
| EUROPE | 14 November 2025 |
| UK | 14 November 2025 |
| USA (no parcels- only documents) | 14 November 2025 |
AIR MAIL – CUT OFF DATES
Airmail (no parcels to USA, only documents): 21 November 2025
For customers seeking peace of mind, the Post Office offers comprehensive tracking options through their Registered, Parcel and Express Mail Service (EMS) products. Items can be tracked via the SAPO website or by contacting their dedicated call center at 0860 111 502.
Essential packaging guidelines
The postal service has provided crucial packaging advice to ensure safe delivery:
- Secure packaging is mandatory as parcels are transported in bulk
- Fill empty space in containers with packaging material such as shredded paper or polystyrene to provide shock absorption
- Verify legal requirements for destination countries, as most nations prohibit the import of plant and animal materials
Prohibited items
Customers are reminded that certain items cannot be posted internationally:
- Illegal substances including drugs
- Liquids or items that could leak and damage other packages
- Explosive or flammable materials such as aerosols or flammable liquids, which pose risks during air transport
With several key deadlines just days away, the South African Post Office is urging customers to act immediately to avoid disappointment during the festive season.
