An Informed Holiday Ahead

 

 

The holidays are just around the corner with enough parties, dinners and other last minute “must attend” get-togethers to keep me, you and everyone in between very busy in the next few months. At this point in my year, I become all about finding ways to make life easier. Which is why I’m going to share one of my favorites. It’s not exactly an “insider tip,” but more of something I can’t believe you wouldn’t want to know.

My smartphone is one of the greatest conveniences ever come up with and here’s a great way to use it: sign up for USPS Informed Delivery® – a free feature that offers a sneak peek of what’s coming in your mail to help you cover your bases, particularly as the holidays pick up speed.

With my lovely digital bestie, I can check every day what is waiting in my mailbox without going home.

Informed Delivery is free whether you have a home or PO Box™ address

Imagine how it can keep you (and me) more on top of things during the holiday season ahead.

Use it to…

Request text alerts or email notifications when a package is on the way or has been delivered.

Provide specific delivery instructions for your carrier, like “leave it at the side door” or “stash it under the bench.” Wherever you think best. Or…

Choose “Hold for Pickup” if you will be out of town for an extended period.

Plus here’s one you may not have considered: think of the times you were away at Christmas and returned to find a stack of unopened holiday mail from relatives. With Informed Delivery, you can check your mail online and respond before the holidays are past. (I have 70+ cousins who have called me out for the last time!)

Now if only I could figure out how to stop that one great-aunt from sending her “special fruitcake” for me every year. That holiday wish… may take a little longer.