We’ve Made a List......... Now You Check it Twice

You can now buy your Christmas cards online.

1. Think Christmas and POST EARLY.
   
   
2. Children it's time to write your letter to Santa and post it off to Santa Claus, North Pole (55c stamp).  
   
   Write early, and include a clearly written name and address and Santa's helpers in An Post will make sure that you receive a personal reply from the great man himself just before Christmas.
   
   
3. Check the last dates of posting for Christmas as they differ for each destination worldwide.
   
   
4. Remember to pack mail items correctly and securely
   1. If there is more than one item in a package, wrap each one separately.
   2. Check if there is enough padding by shaking the package. It is important that contents are secure and not moving about inside the package.
   3. Wrap each item in bubble wrap and mark the package FRAGILE if posting breakable items.
   4. Use tape designed for sealing shipping packages. Do not use cellophane, masking tape or string.
      
      
5. Always address mail in capital letters or with a printed label. Use clear and legible writing to help on-time delivery of mail.
   
   
6. Always include a sender's name & address on the front top left hand corner of mail items. If we cannot deliver your item it will be returned to you.
   
   
7. Check the correct postage for each destination, mail type and service. Include an airmail sticker if posting abroad.
   
   
8. International postal restrictions prohibit the sending of liquid substances through the post.
   
   
9. Ensure the contents of your parcel are not prohibited in the country of destination. If you are unsure, CallSave An Post Customer Services, 1850 57 58 59.
   
   
10. Attach a customs declaration, available at your local Post Office, for destinations outside the EU.
    
    
11. Seal every envelope to keep the contents safe inside.
    
    
12. Check at your local Post Office or CallSave 1850 57 58 59 for advice on sending valuables or transferring money.
    
    

If you have a query about any service, please contact customer.service@anpost.ie or CallSave 1850 57 58 59

Merry Christmas from An Post.

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Your Guide to Safe Online Shopping

Top Tips

Visit iloveshopping.ie, the An Post online shopping directory.

Top 8 Safe Online Shopping Tips 

1. Direct Delivery
   Most online retailers give you the option of having your purchase delivered to an address other than your credit/debit card billing address. If there's nobody at your home address during the day, it makes sense to direct your parcel to an address where someone will be able to take delivery for you - your work address, for example. Otherwise, if you're not at home when the postman calls, you will have to collect your package from your local parcel depot. 
   
   
2. Always Ensure Your Computer Is Secure
   Make sure your system is running with up-to-date anti-virus software, and has the latest software security updates installed. 
   
   
3. Protect Your Privacy
   Check the “Terms of Service” and “Privacy Policy” to know what information the website is collecting about you and how the owners of the website will use it. 
   
   
4. Get The Details
   Check for expected delivery dates, shipping and handling fees, warranties, return policies and other important information. 
   
5. Keep An Eye On The Final Price
   Keep an eye on the price and make sure it includes all extras such as VAT, postage and packaging, and insurance if required. Most sites display the price of the product inclusive of VAT. The shipping charge, if any, is added at the checkout stage. This information should be easy to find on the retailer’s site.
   
   
6. Keep Good Records
   Print or save any records related to your purchases. Generally, the store will email you a receipt for your purchase. 
   
   
7. Shop Only At Sites You Trust
   For the safest online shopping experience, it's best to stick with online shops you trust.
   
   
8. Know Your Rights
   As an Online shopper you are protected by law, to some extent more so than high street shoppers. As a consumer shopping in the EU, the EU Distance Selling Act protects you as long as the company you're ordering from is based in the EU.
   
   For more information on your rights and the EU Distance Selling Act, be sure to visit the Citizens Information website www.citizensinformation.ie.
   

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