Did you know that nearly 5.4 million new business applications were filed last year?
If you’re pursuing your entrepreneurial spirit and becoming a small business owner, it’s essential to take advantage of every resource available to you. One of the most important is figuring out cost-effective ways to ship your products out to customers. Without a game plan, your business could end up failing before it ever gets off the ground.
Are you wondering what the best options are? Keep reading to learn about the five types of business shipping services your business can utilize.
1. USPS (United States Postal Service)
The post office is the only shipping service operated by the United States government. The United States Postal Service offers both domestic and international options. The prices vary based on the package size and weight but many customers take advantage of their flat-rate boxes.
The flat rate boxes come in various sizes and are available for free from any USPS location. They tend to be the more expensive option if you’re shipping something particularly heavy. USPS offers first-class shipping for items under 1 lb at a highly discounted rate, so it’s the best option for shipping out many small and cheap items.
Another great shipping service USPS offers is expedited shipping. Although this shipping method is more expensive, many customers may be willing to pay extra to get their package sooner.
If you want deliveries on Sunday or on major holidays, then you should expect to pay extra.
2. UPS (United Postal Service)
When it comes to small business shipping services, you may be surprised to know that UPS is the preferred company for shipping out larger packages. Their rates for small packages aren’t very competitive but you can often get the best rates for anything that’s in the large category or above.
Although the rates can fluctuate, their large flat-rate box is currently less than $20. If you’re ever in a time crunch, then you can also rely on their same-day delivery. Keep in mind that this fast option is not available in every instance.
Another aspect that makes UPS stand out is the software tools that are specifically designed for small businesses. Instead of crunching numbers on your own and doing guesswork, you can input information into their software to figure out accurate price quotes and much more.
As if that wasn’t helpful enough, they even have interfaces that are tailored to e-commerce businesses. This makes it easy to calculate, forecast, and fulfill your customers’ orders fast. When processing hundreds of orders, software that streamlines the entire process can be a lifesaver.
3. FedEx (Federal Express)
While the movie Castaway may have been an exaggeration, the shipping services at FedEx are still quite reliable. One reason why customers love this option is that they never take a day off. They even deliver on Sunday.
This 24/7 dedication results in quicker delivery times all year round. The prices may be slightly higher than the competition, but this often evens out due to quicker delivery speed.
However, they’re not ideal for shipping out smaller packages. Currently, it costs almost $13 to ship out a small box with an estimated delivery time of three days. This is much quicker than USPS’s standard service (especially on the weekend) but also more expensive.
Despite this downside, FedEx offers a wide range of discounts on their services so you can save money over time.
Like UPS, FedEx also offers business-related tools that can save you both time and money. Depending on your needs, you may prefer Fedex’s software.
4. DHL
If you’re in need of international shipping services, then DHL is the way to go. The company’s Express headquarters may be in Florida, but they have a logistics company in Germany and can ship packages worldwide.
If you’re new to international shipping, don’t worry. DHL offers great resources that can get you up to speed on all things relating to importing, exporting, and even customs requirements.
The speed of delivery can vary depending on certain factors, including the destination and the size of the item. If you’re willing to pay more, then the company can do its best to meet your expectations for a timely delivery. The extra charges and service fees are often seen as the downside of this shipping option, so you’ll usually only want to stick with DHL only for international shipping solutions.
5. Goin’ Postal
When you choose a business shipping service like Goin’ Postal, you don’t have to worry about which shipping companies are the best fit.
Goin’ Postal works with all of these shipping services and compares their rates for each package to provide you with the most affordable price possible.
Our dedicated employees can make sure you’re never taken advantage of by over-priced services. We can compare rates in real-time, so there’s no question that you’re getting the best deal possible.
If you go to either of our two convenient locations, you can have full confidence that you won’t have to wait in a long line or feel mistreated. We put customers first so you can count on us for the most positive shipping experience.
Are You Ready to Take Advantage of Business Shipping Services?
Now that you’ve learned all about the five types of business shipping services, you can ensure you get your products to customers in record time while also keeping the contents safe. Some of these options are great for your personal shipping needs as well.
Whether you’re shipping things out for business, personal, or both, Goin’ Postal is here to help. We also have reliable printing services and shipping supplies like boxes, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts.
Do you have questions you’d like to ask us? Don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always happy to help!