It's the last internet shopping day before Christmas – here's what you need to know

Today (Friday, 12 December) is realistically the last day you should be making any online shopping purchases if you want it to arrive in time for Christmas.

With increased seasonal demand, variable courier schedules, and the additional time required for goods to clear customs in Jersey, the final posting dates advertised by online retailers often don’t reflect our Island’s unique logistics.

Although some major online retailers will be pushing Monday next week as the deadline, to avoid disappointment, we strongly advise Islanders to complete any remaining online Christmas shopping today.

With cost-of-living pressures continuing to affect households, it has never been more important to make sure you are getting the best value. So especially when online, still make sure that you are shopping around as prices can vary significantly between retailers, especially during December. Before checking out, compare prices across multiple suppliers.

You can also use price-tracking tools so that you track historical price changes to help you spot genuine deals and avoid ‘sale’ prices that aren’t truly discounted.

Make sure that you are also getting the VAT removed when about to check-out your basket, as Jersey consumers should not be charged UK VAT. Many retailers automatically deduct it at the checkout, but not all. Sometimes you can find the same item on offer at another retailer who is deducting the VAT. If not, and if a smaller retailer, you can sometimes pick up the phone or email them asking if they would remove it. You might be quite pleasantly surprised as to how many have never considered selling to Jersey so do not have the facility to remove VAT automatically, but who are prepared to do it over the phone.

Don’t forget that items imported into Jersey may be subject to GST, depending on their value. If GST applies, you will need to pay it before your package can be released for delivery. Therefore, keep an eye out for GST payment notifications, pay promptly to avoid delays during the busiest postal period of the year, and have your order details and tracking information to hand so you can quickly verify charges. These small steps can make all the difference in ensuring your gifts arrive on time.

Ordering today gives you the best chance of avoiding delays, unexpected customs hold-ups, or last-minute stress. By shopping around, using trusted price-tracking tools, confirming VAT deductions, and being ready to pay any GST due, you can make sure your Christmas preparations go as smoothly as possible.