Every year come late December, we swear that we'll never leave our gift shopping to the last minute again. The problem with last-minute shopping isn't just the crowded stores and lack of parking spaces. Even when you shop online the holiday rush can be a hassle. Now is the right time to start buying your holiday gifts, especially if you plan to shop online.

Online stores, just like brick-and-mortar shops, sometimes sell out of their most popular products. We always tend to believe that Internet retailers have a limitless supply of all their goods, but their stock can run low, too. Right now, inventory is high. Place your orders while your top choices are ready and waiting to be shipped. No one wants to gift wrap an "IOU" because the item they ordered was out of stock.

Planners, for example, are hugely popular holiday gifts. Last year's planners and calendars have been used up, and it's time to replace them. If you want to give your friends, family members, customer or employees a gift like the Day-Timer Bristol Pocket Planner, then there's no time to waste in placing your order.

Another reason to buy your holiday gifts early is that prices are still low. It's no coincidence that popular gift items take a price hike the closer the calendar moves to December. The law of supply and demand kicks in, and it's not unusual for prices to increase as a result. Take advantage of low prices by shopping during the "off season."

For example, customizable All American Frosted pens are available right now for less than fifty cents a piece. Personalized pens are an inexpensive stocking stuffer, or you could include one with a padfolio or desk set. Another inexpensive gift you can purchase right now is a Coil Cinch Tote. This colorful carry-all is a present in and of itself, or you can be creative and use it in place of a gift bag.

Speaking of expenses, you also have to consider the cost of shipping when you buy gifts online. Placing last minute orders means paying for rush delivery. Sure, you can have the items overnight, but it's going to cost you extra. Coffee mugs, like the 12 oz. Executive Mug, are a favorite last-minute gift idea. Filled with candies and gourmet coffee packages, it's a thoughtful gift that's perfect for anyone. Instead of placing a rush order, purchase extra coffee mugs now.

Why pay more for shipping when you can simply order early? By purchasing your gifts well in advance of the holidays, you can opt for the least expensive shipping method. You also won't have to worry about slow delivery because of an overloaded postal system.

Shopping early is shopping smart. If you order your holiday gifts now, you can be sure you'll get the items you want at the lowest prices with the least expensive shipping. Save money and save time so you'll have plenty of both for enjoying the holidays!