The ways how to save money on shipping shared here could be known to you already. They could also be something new you were unaware of. Generally, saving money is saving with reduced cost in packing supplies, the choice of shipper and the price variations. Also, online shipping option can save both time and effort. Comparison shopping methods and rates can be easier than expected with online assistance. Options; Lower cost supplies can also be located online.
Tips to reduce costs
These tips may apply to individuals or small businesses as the case may be. Typically shipping cheaper means shipping slow and in plenty of time. Recycling supplies and packages will reduce cost. Cut expenses buying supplies on sales or discounted with bulk purchases or through discount office supply stores. Wholesale or business rates will be discounted rates. Your shipper can also be a source of free supplies.
Look at your purchase of a scale as an investment that saves time and allows taking advantages of discounts offered for those who go online to ship. Those who are ebay sellers know that Paypal shipping offers convenience and savings. But, you can also use Paypal even if you do not sell on ebay.
Common shipping methods pros and cons
Generally, the US Postal Service, United Postal Service or Federal Express are commonly used shippers. FedEx Ground or UPS Ground will usually be cheaper than Priority Mail for packages that weigh 2 pounds and more. But, if use of flat rate boxes are taken into account this option can be cheaper. Size is more determinative than weight with the Priority Mail flat rate.
For packages below 2 lbs USPS will always be cheaper than FedEx or UPS hands down. This includes the dirt cheap media mail rate. The cheapest next day service is USPS Express Mail. You will have to remember however to check online or ask at the post office because sometimes the delivery window is 2 days and not overnight. Also, USPS also does not guarantee offer a morning delivery time, so if this is what is needed, it may not be the optimal choice. No system is hundred percent reliable.
When using USPS, save time and money by printing postage online and use click-n-ship facility or USPS shipping assistant if not purchasing postage. Free delivery confirmation saving 60 cents from post office charge and discounts off postage are available online. Media mail and first class mailing postage is not available through this USPS online facility; but, Paypal shipping does support it. If you would like international first class postage facility, you can try Endicia, Pitney Bowes and Paypal for online shipping convenience. You can also immediately track every package through the shipping software.
Freight savings
Sometime you may need to ship material that falls in the over 70 pound freight category. This may not mean it will cost you an arm and a leg. Moving companies may help shippers save on freight shipping. Save yourself the effort of having to contacting individual companies for quotes on price. Use a freight quote service, which you can find online. Bids can come up to a week after your submission for a bid. So do not expect instant replies.
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