IT MAY only be October, but thrifty gift givers wanting to make sure international cards and presents arrive in time for Christmas are running out of time.

Royal Mail have announced the latest Christmas posting date for International Economy mail, their cheapest service to South Africa, Hong Kong, Singapore, the USA and Canada, is Thursday, October 17.

Andy Pickering, head of network at Royal Mail, said: “In the modern world, it is easy to forget that it can still take a long time to reach some destinations by land and sea. 

“We don’t want anyone to be disappointed if they are waiting for Christmas mail. As always, we urge customers to post all mail as early as possible as Royal Mail builds up to its busiest time of year.”

The more expensive International Standard airmail, as well as tracking and signature services recommended posting dates for around the globe are typically in early December and will be confirmed at a later date.

Meanwhile within the UK there is longer still with the 2017 dates revealed as; 

  • December 20 for second class mail
  • December 21 for First Class Mail
  • December 21 for Special Delivery
  • December 22 for Special Delivery Saturday guaranteed