Media Alerts

Holiday 2025 Consumer Trends: Why Shipping, Trust & Convenience Will Make or Break Your Season

What online retailers need to know about holiday shoppers, and how to stay competitive when expectations are high, and patience is low.

Female scanning the label of a package at a desk full of boxes

The holiday season is no longer just about discounts, it’s about delivering a frictionless experience from cart to doorstep. In 2025, consumers are hyper-aware of delivery risks, return policies, and perks that make shopping feel worth it. From long shipping windows to unclear protection options, small missteps can lead to big losses in loyalty.

Key Holiday Consumer Insights

  • 45% start shopping in November, while 36% begin even earlier.
  • 64% plan to buy apparel & accessories this season, followed by gift cards (59%).
  • 37% have experienced a lost, stolen, or damaged package during past holiday seasons.
  • 45% say repeat shipping issues would permanently damage trust in a brand.

What Holiday Shoppers Expect in 2025

  • Delivery Reliability Is Everything - Holiday shoppers are more sensitive to delivery delays than to prices.
  • Shipping Protection Could Be A Differentiator - 23% are likely to purchase shipping insurance, and 17% say they might abandon a cart if it's not offered. Brands have an opportunity to differentiate by building trust around protection.
  • Deals Drive Decisions - Price and discounts influence 79% of shoppers. Adding convenience perks like BOPIS can create a seamless, value-packed experience.
  • Returns Are a Hidden Loyalty Lever - Returns are a pre-purchase consideration. Nearly 40% will abandon their cart if return policies are too complex. Brands that offer hassle-free options can win more cautious shoppers.

Ready to Optimize for the Holiday Rush?

Download the full infographic to explore all the trends and unlock actionable insights for this season.

Download Infographic

InsureShield Shipping Insurance protects shipments and businesses with customizable protection, fast claims, and easy processing.

For media inquiries, please contact upscapital@pancomm.com.

Insurance coverage is offered through UPS Capital Insurance Agency, Inc., a licensed insurance producer. All descriptions or illustrations of coverage are provided for general informational purposes only and do not in any way alter or amend the terms, conditions, or exclusions of any insurance policy or program.  Insurance coverage is not available in all jurisdictions or to all customers.