Unlike Santa, FedEx won't be able to make all of its scheduled deliveries on Christmas Eve

MILWAUKEE -- Unlike Santa Claus, Federal Express is conceding it won't be able to make all its scheduled deliveries on Christmas Eve.

FedEx is hoping to ease the disappointment by delivering packages on Christmas Day and opening counters at its Express offices across the U.S. so customers can pick up the gifts themselves.

The carrier blames the delayed shipments on inclement weather in parts of the U.S. and a last-minute surge of holiday shopping.

The counters at the Express offices will be open Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Fed Ex's other offices will be closed.

Household deliveries will be given top priority on Friday.

Customers can find out if their delayed shipment is scheduled for Christmas Day delivery or available for pick up by checking at fedex.com or calling 800-463-3339.