A Beginner's Guide to Sending Anything Anywhere (and don’t lose your mind while doing so)
So you’ve got a parcel that needs to be delivered as soon as possible. It needs to be treated carefully and it needs to arrive safely. Your whole project depends on that tiny (or even huge) package. You haven’t done this before, you know how to make videos, write emails, type reports… but sending packages is not your area. So how do you do it? Welcome to the ultimate cheat sheet for conquering the complex world of shipping within the USA! Whether you're sending a love letter, returning that online shopping spree regret, or shipping your life in a box across the country, understanding the ins and outs of courier services like FedEx, UPS, and USPS can transform you from a shipping novice to a parcel-sending ninja in control of what’s going on. So, let's dive into the world of shipping with a short guide that you can enjoy sitting down, and sipping a nice cup of coffee.
I like to imagine FedEx, UPS, and USPS as the Hogwarts houses of the shipping world, each with its strengths, quirks, and house colors. Also, because sometimes what they do seems like magic to the outside observer (and when things go awry, I can’t help to think there is an inhumane curse that has fallen upon me) So with that in mind, here's a quick overview to help you understand their quirks and strengths, and while doing this understand why Airpals comes as the most powerful wizard of them all:
UPS: Simple and effective
United Parcel Service (UPS) is one of the largest and most well-known courier services globally, offering a wide range of logistics services. They have been around since 1907, and they began their operations riding horseback and simple bicycles.
A lot has changed since then, so here is an objective approach to picking them as your choice for delivering your parcels:
Key features of UPS:
1. Global Reach: UPS operates in over 220 countries and territories, ensuring global reach for shipments across five continents. This extensive network makes it an excellent option for both domestic and international shipping needs, with offices and drop boxes worldwide.
2. Variety of Services: UPS offers a wide range of shipping options, from standard ground shipping to overnight and express delivery. This flexibility allows customers to choose a service that fits their budget and timing needs.
3. Reliability: UPS is known for its reliability and efficiency in delivering packages. They have a high delivery success rate, such as over 97% on-time during the peak holiday season in 2022, ensuring shipments arrive on time globally.
4. Tracking Capabilities: UPS's advanced tracking capabilities allow customers to monitor shipments in real-time through their website. This feature adds transparency to the shipping process, enabling customers to stay informed about their package's status without needing to contact a representative.
5. Additional Services: Beyond shipping, UPS offers logistics and supply chain management, freight forwarding, and customs brokerage. These services help businesses streamline operations and reduce overhead costs, with most services accessible at any UPS location.
Now, there are a few things to consider when we talk about UPS...
Cons of UPS:
1. Cost: UPS can be more expensive than other courier services, especially for international shipping or expedited services. This cost factor may be a significant consideration for small businesses or individuals on a tight budget.
2. Handling of Packages: While UPS is generally reliable, there have been instances where customers have reported mishandling of packages, leading to damage or delays. This risk is a consideration when shipping fragile or valuable items abroad, and sometimes there is not much to do about it.
3. Customer Service: Some customers have reported challenges with UPS's customer service, including difficulty resolving issues or navigating the claims process for lost or damaged shipments, especially when those shipments have to cross half the world to get to their destination.
4. Surcharge Fees: UPS applies various surcharge fees, such as for residential delivery, extended area delivery, or fuel. All of these additional costs are marked, so there are no surprises or hidden fees, but they can add up, making the total shipping cost higher than initially expected.
USPS: The one that has been there since the very beginning
The origins of USPS date back to the origins of this country, during the Second Continental Congress in 1775, when Benjamin Franklin was appointed the first postmaster general. This act was pivotal in the formation of a national postal system that facilitated communication across the expanding territories and would become the blueprint for all the service providers that came afterward. Later, in 1789, the congress authorized them "To establish Post Offices and post Roads," laying the groundwork for a federally operated postal service. This led to the creation of the Post Office Department, the predecessor of the USPS.
A long time has passed since its inception and many things (ranging from its first vehicles to its many recognizable and iconic uniforms, to the adoption of new technologies such as USPS tracking from its website). When it comes to the USPS, there are many pros to consider:
Key features of USPS:
1. Affordability: USPS offers competitive pricing, especially for domestic shipments and standard-sized parcels. It often has lower rates than private courier services, making it attractive for minimizing shipping costs. You can access their package tracking features for free by logging into their website.
2. Extensive Domestic Reach: USPS serves all Americans, reaching every U.S. address, including remote areas. This ensures parcels and letters are delivered to locations that might be less accessible for private carriers. USPS Informed Delivery provides preview images and status updates for your incoming and outgoing packages.
3. No Surcharges for Residential or Rural Delivery: USPS does not add surcharges for residential or remote deliveries, leading to significant savings, especially for businesses shipping to customers' homes. USPS package pickup is another free service, allowing you to have parcels picked up from your door.
4. PO Boxes and Military Mail: USPS is the only courier service that delivers to Post Office Boxes and APO/FPO (military) addresses, providing a vital link for individuals and businesses that rely on these services for receiving mail and parcels.
5. Free Saturday Delivery: USPS offers free Saturday delivery for many services, including Priority Mail and First-Class Mail. This can be a significant advantage for time-sensitive shipments without the added cost associated with weekend delivery by other carriers. When you opt for this service, you can still use the USPS track package features on their website.
On the other hand, there are a couple of aspects to consider that might affect your willingness to select them as your provider…
Cons of USPS:
1. Slower Delivery Times for Some Services: While USPS offers express shipping options like Priority Mail Express, its standard services such as First-Class Mail and Media Mail can be slower compared to the expedited services provided by private couriers. This might be a drawback for time-sensitive shipments.
2. Inconsistent Service Quality: Some users report variability in service quality, including delays, lost mail, and issues with package handling. While these problems are not unique to USPS, inconsistent service can be a concern for those needing high reliability.
3. Limited Tracking Capabilities: Although USPS offers tracking on many of its services, the detail and accuracy of tracking information can sometimes lag behind that provided by private carriers. This can be a drawback for businesses and individuals needing precise, real-time tracking data.
4. Financial Stability Concerns: USPS has faced financial challenges and operational constraints, leading to concerns about its long-term viability and potential impacts on service quality. These issues can affect the perception of reliability and future service adjustments.
5. Queue Times and Accessibility: Customers may experience long queue times at USPS facilities, especially during peak periods. While this is also true for private carriers, the widespread use of USPS can lead to crowded post offices and slower service.
For an interesting fact about USPS, did you know they offer fixed-rate boxes? That means if it fits, it ships, regardless of weight—like a buffet for your items. And for those pondering between services, remember: that size, weight, urgency, and budget are your guiding stars.
FedEx: A lot more than just a cool logo
FedEx, originally known as Federal Express, began its operations on April 17, 1973. It was founded by Frederick W. Smith in Little Rock, Arkansas, before moving its operations to Memphis, Tennessee. The idea for FedEx came to Smith while he was an undergraduate at Yale University. There, he wrote a term paper that outlined a system for overnight delivery of time-sensitive goods, a concept that was innovative at the time due to the inefficiencies in the logistics and freight industries.
On its first night of operations, FedEx used 14 small aircraft to deliver 186 packages to 25 U.S. cities. The choice of Memphis as its hub was strategic due to its central location within the United States, minimal weather-related closures, and the presence of a major airport that was willing to facilitate the company's operations. This allowed FedEx to guarantee overnight delivery, a revolutionary service at the time.
Key features of FedEx:
1. Global Coverage: FedEx operates worldwide, offering services in more than 220 countries and territories. This extensive network makes it a reliable option for both domestic and international shipments, ensuring that packages can reach virtually any destination.
2. Speed and Reliability: FedEx is renowned for its express delivery services, offering overnight, next-day, and two-day delivery. It's a go-to courier for urgent shipments due to its timely delivery and high reliability.
3. Tracking Services: FedEx offers advanced tracking options, allowing customers to monitor their shipment's status in real time. These services provide peace of mind and transparency, keeping customers informed about their package's journey and expected delivery time.
4. Variety of Services: Beyond standard parcel delivery, FedEx offers a wide range of services, including freight shipping, supply chain solutions, and e-commerce business services. This versatility makes FedEx a one-stop shop for various shipping and logistics needs, including high-quality printing at their FedEx office print & ship center.
5. Customer Service: FedEx is known for its customer service, providing support through multiple channels, including phone, email, and live chat. Their commitment to customer satisfaction helps in resolving issues efficiently and providing necessary shipping advice.
But no service is perfect, and these are some of the features that make people reconsider this provider…
Cons of FedEx:
1. Expenses: FedEx shipping rates can be higher than some competitors, especially for international shipments or expedited services. Small businesses and individuals may find these costs prohibitive, especially if shipping is a frequent necessity.
2. Rural and Remote Area Limitations: FedEx offers broad coverage, but shipping to remote or rural areas can be more expensive and take longer, disadvantaging customers in those locations.
3. Package Handling Concerns: FedEx occasionally faces complaints about package handling, with reports of packages being damaged or lost during transit. This is a consideration when shipping valuable or fragile items.
4. Surcharge Fees: FedEx applies various surcharges and fees, such as for oversized packages, residential deliveries, and fuel. These additional costs can increase the overall price of shipping, making it important to understand the full cost upfront.
5. Complexity of Services: The wide range of services and options offered by FedEx, while advantageous, can also be overwhelming for some customers. Navigating the best shipping solutions and understanding the differences between services may require more effort and research.
No matter what service provider you select, now we want to show you a few do’s and don'ts you want to consider when sending your packages:
Do’s Shipping Tips:
1. Use a Box That Fits: Choose a box that's slightly larger than the item you're shipping. This allows room for adequate cushioning materials around the contents, ensuring they're snug and secure during transit.
2. Protect With Padding: Use bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or crumpled paper to protect the items inside the box. Ensure there's enough padding to prevent movement and absorb shocks.
3. Seal Securely: Use strong, pressure-sensitive packing tape to seal your package. Tape all seams and flaps carefully, both on the top and bottom of the box.
4. Label Clearly: As we have talked about in a previous post, writing the delivery and return addresses clearly will make a difference. Use a permanent marker or print the labels to ensure they're legible and durable against the elements. Place a duplicate label inside the package as an extra precaution.
5. Fragile Items: If sending fragile items, wrap them individually and mark the box as "Fragile" on all sides. Use a special fragile item label if possible.
6. Check Restricted Items List: Before you send, make sure your item is not on the carrier's restricted or prohibited list. This can include hazardous materials, perishables, or certain electronics.
7. Use New Packaging: Whenever possible, use new boxes. Reused boxes can be weakened and might not provide adequate protection.
8. Waterproofing: Consider waterproofing your package, especially if you're shipping internationally or during rainy seasons. Plastic wraps or bags can protect the contents from moisture.
9. Insurance and Tracking: For valuable items, purchase insurance and tracking services. This gives you peace of mind and helps in case the package is lost or damaged.
10. Review Shipping Guidelines: Every carrier has its own set of guidelines. Review these carefully to ensure your package complies with size, weight, and material regulations.
Don'ts Shipping Tips:
1. Don't Overload: Avoid overpacking a box. This can strain the seams and potentially cause the box to break open during handling.
2. Don't Skimp on Padding: Insufficient cushioning can lead to damaged items. Always err on the side of more padding.
3. Don't Use String or Rope: These can get caught in conveyor belts and other equipment, damaging the package or causing it to get lost.
4. Don't Ignore Size and Weight Restrictions: Each carrier has specific limits. Exceeding these could result in extra charges or the refusal of your package.
5. Don't Seal With Duct Tape or Masking Tape: These types of tape don't adhere well to cardboard and can easily come undone.
6. Don't Forget About Customs Forms: For international shipments, failing to properly complete customs documentation can cause delays or confiscation.
7. Don't Use Old Labels: Remove or completely cover any old shipping labels or barcodes to avoid confusion during the shipping process.
8. Don't Ship Restricted Items Unknowingly: Double-check that you're not sending items that are restricted or require special handling without the appropriate precautions and documentation.
9. Don't Leave Space for Items to Move: Items should not be able to move inside the package. Movement can cause damage to the items and the package.
10. Don't Ignore Weather Conditions: Consider the current weather conditions and the destination's climate. This might affect the choice of packaging materials and precautions.
Having mentioned these do's and dont's for a good shipping experience, we’ve now created a short list of the most popular services each company provides:
UPS vs USPS vs FedEx: Popular Services Overview
UPS Services:
1. UPS Ground: Known for reliability and cost-effectiveness, UPS Ground is a popular choice for domestic shipments that don't require expedited delivery. These services are preferred by companies that need their stuff delivered, but time is not an urgent matter (I’m talking to you, amazon.com)
2. UPS Next Day Air: For urgent shipments that require a reliable provider, UPS Next Day Air ensures next-business-day delivery, often by 10:30 a.m. or 12:00 noon to most U.S. addresses. These deliveries might take a little longer if they are done in rural areas, but the next-day delivery is almost guaranteed, even if we are talking about a house on the outskirts of Smallville.
3. UPS Worldwide Express: This service offers guaranteed time-definite delivery to over 220 countries and territories, making it a preferred option for international shipments that require speedy delivery, even to the far corners of the planet.
4. UPS SurePost: In partnership with the USPS, UPS SurePost is designed for residential shipments, offering cost savings for less urgent packages by utilizing the extensive delivery network of the USPS for final delivery. This service may take a bit longer than their other choices, but by far is a much pocket-friendlier option.
USPS Services:
1. Priority Mail: Offering delivery within 1-3 business days, Priority Mail is a widely used service for both domestic and international shipments, providing a cost-effective yet speedy option.
2. First-Class Mail: Ideal for lightweight, standard-size letters and parcels, First-Class Mail is a popular choice for everyday mailing needs, offering reliable delivery at an economical price.
3. USPS Retail Ground: Formerly known as Standard Post, this service provides an affordable option for shipping non-urgent and oversized packages.
4. Priority Mail Express: This is the USPS's fastest shipping service, offering overnight to 2-day delivery guarantees, including Sundays and holidays for many locations.
FedEx Services:
1. FedEx Express: Known for its speed and reliability, FedEx Express offers overnight, next-day delivery, and time-definite shipping options both domestically and internationally. You’ve seen their vehicles around your home at odd hours, and now you know why.
2. FedEx Ground: This service is favored for cost-effective, ground shipping within North America. It's ideal for less urgent shipments and offers guaranteed day-definite delivery. A lot of your online shopping gets delivered this way. Check your recycling bin boxes, you might find their logo over there.
3. FedEx Freight: For larger, heavier shipments, FedEx Freight provides less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping solutions. It's a go-to for businesses needing to transport palletized shipments efficiently. These services are not used by regular customers, but rather by companies in need of a fast and reliable way to move tons of materials.
4. FedEx International: Catering to global shipping needs, FedEx International offers a range of options from economy to priority shipping, ensuring businesses and individuals can navigate international logistics effectively even when their recipients are half a world away.
FAQs: Your Shipping Lifelines
Can USPS deliver on Sunday?
Yes, for certain services like Priority Mail Express. Go to their website or check with your local office, but there is a very high chance that for an extra charge, you will be covered.
Will USPS deliver on Saturday?
Absolutely, across most services, just be aware of their operation hours.
Can FedEx deliver to a PO Box?
Generally, no, but FedEx SmartPost can. This is an extra service you can access on their website or any of their offices.
Can UPS deliver to a PO Box?
Not directly, but they offer workarounds. Talk to one of their representatives for a more detailed explanation that suits your specific case.
Can UPS print my label?
Yes, visit a UPS Store, and they'll help you out. You can even buy special adhesive labels that will allow you to print the labels at home from their website.
How much is FedEx overnight?
It varies by package size and destination, so check their website for a more detailed calculation.
Where is the FedEx tracking number on the label?
It's usually located near the barcode. You’ll notice it since it’s the biggest element in the label.
Can FedEx ship internationally?
Yes, FedEx offers extensive international shipping options, be sure to check about the time it will take to get there because each case will be a tad different…
Will FedEx call me for a signature?
For certain deliveries, yes, they might call to ensure receipt. In other cases, you might place special instructions for the moment of the delivery.
Which is cheaper: UPS, USPS, or FedEx?
USPS generally offers more competitive pricing, particularly for domestic shipments and smaller packages. UPS and FedEx may be more expensive, especially for expedited services or international deliveries. However, the exact cost of a shipment can vary depending on package size, weight, destination, and service speed. We recommend looking for a carrier that fits your shipping needs and budget.
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