Holiday shoppers hit by rising shipping costs, FedEx survey shows

Customers using logistics services for Christmas shopping are raising concerns over rising shipping fees and delays during the holiday season, according to a new survey by Federal Express Corporation (FedEx), one of the world's largest express transportation companies.

Conducted in September 2025, the survey gathered insights from 850 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and 850 consumers across 13 Asia-Pacific (APAC) markets, along with more than 1,200 SMEs across nine European markets. Results showed that delayed deliveries (55 percent) and higher shipping costs (45 percent) remain the primary frustrations from previous holiday seasons, underscoring the need for e-tailers to improve logistics and customer experience.

These concerns directly influence purchasing decisions. More than half of APAC consumers said lower shipping costs (53 percent) and faster delivery times (50 percent) would increase their likelihood of buying from European sellers.

Businesses in both regions are responding to rising expectations. Nearly one-third of APAC (29 percent) and European (33 percent) companies are enhancing fulfillment and delivery systems to support cross-border demand, while over one-third (34 percent in APAC and 32 percent in Europe) are strengthening customer service capabilities.

Despite challenges, 85 percent of businesses in both regions say they are confident about meeting delivery deadlines this holiday season.

Survey findings also show strong optimism in sales projections. More than 70 percent of APAC businesses and over 80 percent of European businesses expect better holiday sales compared to last year. Many APAC companies began preparations as early as September in anticipation of strong cross-border demand.

Cross-border e-commerce and online shopping festivals continue to boost activity. This year, 88 percent of APAC consumers plan to complete at least a quarter of their holiday shopping online, while 53 percent expect to increase online spending compared to 2024.

“In Asia Pacific, the festive gifting season stretches well beyond Christmas and into Lunar New Year, creating one of the world’s most dynamic windows for cross-border commerce,” said Salil Chari, senior vice president for Marketing and Customer Experience, FedEx Asia Pacific.

“With e-commerce surging across APAC and Europe, e-tailers are gearing up to maximize sales. Through our extensive network and smart, intuitive digital solutions, we’re helping businesses on both sides deliver exceptional customer experiences, streamline logistics particularly during the business holiday season, and succeed in an increasingly competitive landscape,” he added.

FedEx Philippines Managing Director Maribeth Espinosa noted that the country’s long holiday season—from September to the New Year—combined with a rapidly expanding e-commerce sector, is creating significant opportunities for global trade.

“More Filipino MSMEs and e-tailers are connecting with international customers, while local shoppers increasingly embrace global purchases. At FedEx, we’re committed to fuelling this growth by helping businesses expand globally and ensuring shipments arrive on time for every celebration,” she said.