What Causes Delivery Delays?

delayed shipping

They said Tuesday.

You called them Tuesday. Then they said Wednesday. You called them Wednesday. You got it on Friday.

Delivery delays can be a serious headache. Not just causing frustration, but delays in fulfilling promises to your customers.

If it’s a personal order you waste time and productivity sitting around while things don’t come.

Understanding some of the most common reasons for delays can be the first step in combatting them and keeping your productivity where it needs to be.

Here’s our guide to the top 5 reasons for delays, and how to overcome them.

1. Peak Time Deliveries

In many businesses, the time before and around the holidays is nuts. Delivery companies are no exception.

With more and more consumers buying their gifts, and everything else, online, couriers have never been busier. Companies do try to factor this in and make arrangements to deal with it.

However, as was seen last year with Amazon’s shipping partner around Christmas, many delivery centers are simply overwhelmed with the volume of packages they have to process.

Solution

It’s a headache, it takes forethought, but as much as possible, plan well ahead to avoid peak times.

Although an occasional last-minute order may be inevitable, try to think a few months ahead and highlight peak times on your calendar when deliveries may slow. This will keep productivity high and disappointment low.

2. Incorrect Customs Paperwork

With international shipping, if the vendor misses a detail or two off the customs declaration you’ll face major delays.

The value and type of the goods are the most common issues, as the receiving country needs to ensure that all relevant taxes and duties have been paid.

Be careful with deals from abroad that seem too good to be true – the dream may turn into a nightmare if you are stuck with a hefty bill from customs.

Solution

Check with the vendor before placing the order what they will be declaring to customs and whether it’s in line with your expectations.

Supply them with any additional details needed ahead of time and ensure that they put an accurate value and description on the goods.

Also, check locally and with the vendor for who is liable to pay any taxes and duties that may be levied when your good finally get to you.

Everybody along the chain needs to buy into this chain of accurate information, so follow up to make sure that your information will be passed on to the next link in the supply chain.

3. Manage the Supply Chain

If you are a business dealing in bulk shipments, then there can be a disconnect between your requirements and the capacity of every link in the supply chain.

Imagine you order a large shipment of t-shirts from a supplier in New York to be air freighted to LA. Clearly, there needs to be capacity at both ends of the journey for the order to be stored while awaiting transit.

A communication breakdown could occur between customer and supplier if these factors are not taken into consideration when agreeing on delivery timescales.

Especially with relatively small and medium-sized orders, priority may not be given to them. This can lead to a temporary breakdown in the logistical chain and delay occurring.

Solution

Build relationships with your suppliers.

When placing orders, talk through the logistics of the delivery with them. They may feel that that is their concern, but if it’s going to affect delivery timeframes, it’s very much your concern as well.

Work together to identify potential hold-ups and discuss how to overcome them. It may be that once likely hold-ups are factored in, a supposedly slower method of transport becomes the faster option.

The key is communication and lots of it. Never be afraid to ask awkward questions early in the process – it can save a lot of grief down the line when delivery delays kick in.

4. Monitor the Climate

By climate, we’re talking political, not meteorological here.

Trade union standoffs, strikes and unrest can quickly cause delivery delays to mount up, leaving you not knowing when you’ll receive your merchandise, if ever.

Solution

Whilst no one can see the future, it can pay to keep your ear to the ground and listen out for potential rumblings.

Monitor industry specific websites and news feeds to keep up to date with the latest threats of action. If you’re worried that they will result in delivery delays for your company, be prepared to make alternative arrangements.

5. The Actual Weather

Goods being shipped from overseas can be particularly prone to delays due to seasonal weather conditions.

Certain shipping lanes and ports are affected by typhoons and tropical storms which can add considerable time to journeys, or delay them from setting off.

Within the country, it might be sunny in Arizona, but your supplier in Wisconsin might be knee deep in snow. Road hold-ups can mean that your shipment gets stuck before it even gets started.

Solution

If you’re considering placing a priority order, check the weather.

If there are weather warnings out that might impact on delivery times and logistics, take the safe route and either hold off or choose a supplier who is more likely to deliver the goods on time.

Also, make sure that you are using a quality nationwide courier service who can handle your requirements.

The Takeaway – How to Avoid Delivery Delays

It might not be foolproof, but trying a few of these suggestions could help you to cut down on the number of deliver delays you experience.

Especially when you have crucial orders that are time sensitive, it pays to do some extra homework on the weather sites, trade union boards and shipping lanes to make sure that your goods will arrive when you need them.

For peace of mind, make sure you work with a courier company you can trust and have great logistics.

Need it Now Delivers are specialists in all aspects of shipping from air freight to warehousing and last mile home delivery.

Click here to check out the great services we have for you and your business.

5 Reasons to Use a Courier Service For Shipping Large Items

If there’s one thing that business owners from across all industries can agree on, it’s that sending large packages can be a pain. Shipping large items is more expensive, they’re not easy to handle, and they’re an overall pain to deal with.

Luckily, there’s something business owners can use to make shipping easier for items of all sizes. A courier service makes shipping and delivering items simple. Curious about how a courier can help your business? Read on to learn more!

Reasons to Use Courier Services for Shipping Large Items

The small amount of money you spend to hire a courier service to help when you’re shipping large items will be well worth the benefits. There’s a reason why so many big-name retailers rely on couriers for their most important shipping needs.

Are you not convinced that your business could benefit from courier services on your biggest deliveries? After you read this post, you’ll be wondering why you haven’t used courier services in the past.

1. Be Timely

It’s a slow day, but a big order just came through. One of your sales representatives is taking down the customer’s information, but they take a moment to pause and ask you a question. “This client needs a big order, but they need it in 24 hours.” In the blink of an eye, one of your biggest sales just disappeared into thin air because you can’t get them what they need on time.

Nearly every business owner has found themselves facing the problem we just mentioned. Luckily, a courier service can help ensure that your customers get the items they crave in a timely manner. Courier services will help you 24/7. It doesn’t matter if your customer needs something in 24 days or 24 hours, a courier will get them what they need.

2. Save Money

If you’re a business owner, you don’t have to be told how expensive overnight shipping is. If you’ve been shipping large items without a courier, you’ve been losing money. In most cases, businesses that use traditional mailing services end up paying a lot of money for overnight shipping. In some cases, the price for shipping may exceed the overall price of the product being shipped.

Think about how much shipping large items cost when you’re doing regular shipping. The weight can add a lot of money to the original price. When you factor in weight and overnight costs, it can get very expensive. There’s also the issue that the average customer expects a lot from the companies they’re buying from.

Thanks to a world where people can purchase items with the click of a button, a lot of your customers aren’t going to want to wait an extra day or two to get their goods. If you want to retain customers, many business owners have no choice but to eat the extra cost of overnight shipping to keep their customers happy.

A courier service is on average more affordable than traditional shipping options. Aside from the fact that you save on the overall cost of shipping, you get better service and overall nice “extras.”

3. Pay For Safety

When you pay for overnight shipping the traditional way, you’re really only paying for the package to get to a location in one day. You don’t pay to ensure that the package and goods are well taken care of. You don’t put any money towards making sure it’ll get there at a certain time. You just pay to ensure that someone drops the goods off.

We’ve all received packages that seemed like they were carelessly tossed on porches or lawns. Now imagine one of your trusted customers getting damaged or broken merchandise because the delivery person was careless. When you use a courier service for shipping large items, you know that your cargo is in good hands.

They’ll treat everything they’re delivering with the utmost respect and care. You won’t have to worry about things being carelessly left in the wrong place and you’ll be guaranteed that your items will arrive on time.

This may come as a shock, but even reputable services like the United States Postal Services have admitted to having issues with internal package theft. You may think it’s difficult to steal large items, but with the right knowledge and equipment, it’s easier than you realize.

4. Pay for Options

What do you know about the USPS or FedEx worker that’s delivering packages to your customer? Can their workers do much else aside from making sure your packages get to where they need to go? If you’re shipping large items with a courier service, you’re going to have a lot of options at your disposal.

One of the best benefits of working with a courier service is the sheer amount of options you have for your delivery. If you need any kind of specialized shipping service, you should go with a courier.

Do you want a white glove delivery service that can make sure your packages arrive with style and class? A courier service can easily do that, but a postal worker can’t. Do you cater to legal clients and need packages delivered with legal process servicing? You couldn’t get that with a traditional shipping service.

5. Guarantee Deliveries

Standard shipping services have gotten better when it comes to making deliveries, but that doesn’t mean you can rely on these companies 24/7. What if you need to ship something during a major holiday, or a government holiday? Would they be able to fulfill and make a delivery that comes in at 6 pm on a Saturday evening?

A courier service is great for shipping large items at all times. It doesn’t matter if you need something sent out on Christmas Day or the weekend, a courier service has you covered.

Your Turn

Now that you know how beneficial a courier service can be, it’s time to start using one for your business! Contact us today so we can talk about your shipping needs and determine which of our services is right for you.

While you’re waiting to talk to us, check out our blog to find ways to improve your shipping. Our post about top 5 shipping problems can help ensure that you’re shipping your goods in the best way possible.

What To Expect From Courier Delivery In Bad Weather

During the winter time more than all other seasons, customers have grown to expect shipping delays. When there are snowstorms, airport shutdowns, and major storms coming through, there is little that a delivery service can do to keep the delivery flow going. Still, you might be wondering what to expect from a courier delivery you’ve scheduled in the case of bad weather conditions. Will the package still be delivered on time? Where is it? Will it be protected from the elements? How bad does the weather have to be before courier service is interrupted? Where can you find courier delivery services you can trust?

All of these questions and more are sure to spring to your head if you have hired a courier service to deliver an important item but nasty weather has moved in. Not to fear — in this article, we’ll answer all your weather-related delivery questions and leave you feeling assured that you know the drill when it comes to bad weather and package deliveries.

What Will Happen to My Delivery in Bad Weather?

If the weather along a courier’s delivery route is inclement, expect a natural delay. Couriers are devoted to their mission, but some things cannot be prevented. Expect to receive a call or some form of contact from the delivery company if there will be an interruption in your service. They will reach out as soon as possible to notify you of any delays or cancellations. Trust that they are working around the clock and doing the best they can to get your package to you.

Couriers understand the importance of their services, and they will not wait a moment longer than absolutely necessary to ensure that the delivery happens on time and as expected. You can also rest assured that your package or item will be well protected in the event of bad weather. It will not be left outside, exposed to the elements. It will be well protected as it is transported to its ultimate destination.

Couriers often put their delivery items in plastic bags or other sorts of cases when the weather is wet or dangerous. Despite bad weather, couriers are committed to getting their packages to satisfied customers on time. There may be a delay or a new estimated delivery time, but don’t worry! If your package is entrusted to a reputable courier service, it is in good hands. Your satisfaction is the ultimate goal.

Protections Against Delays

One of the best parts of hiring a courier delivery service is that you will be provided with up to date notifications regarding the status of your delivery. If your package is going to be delayed, you will know about it. Maybe you’re sitting at home waiting for your delivery and you see bad weather rolling in. Instead of simply wondering what will happen and hoping your package will arrive, you’ll be able to know the exact status and find out where it is at all times.

Tracking options and delivery notifications are provided so that you can be sure not to miss anything. Remember: a courier’s goal is to get your items delivered as quickly as possible, no matter what. Still, when safety or health is at risk, it’s important to show patience and compassion and trust that the courier is only delayed because it’s absolutely vital that they avoid the weather.

How Bad Is Bad Enough?

Maybe you expect your courier to trek through snow, sleet, and hail to get your package delivered to you on time. And maybe they will! However, how bad does weather have to get before you should assume that your delivery will be delayed? Usually, couriers will brave even the worst conditions to get your items delivered to you. Snowstorms, stormy days, and even heat waves won’t hold them back.

But what about natural disasters like hurricanes or wildfires? Recent years have proven to us that the forces of nature are nothing to be mocked. Serious weather conditions can present extreme danger and even cause death. In cases like this, you should expect that your package probably won’t arrive at you on time.

Nothing is more important to a delivery service than getting your items delivered to you when you expect them, but when there are human lives at risk, that’s where companies have to draw the line. If a courier is at risk of serious bodily harm, expect to experience a delay in your delivery. It is simply natural human compassion to have patience in situations like that. Couriers will do what they can, but they are not super humans!

Still, you’ll be amazed at the harsh conditions your courier will endure to get your item to you as promised! Rain, winds, and the hot summer sun are no match for your mighty courier.

Quality Courier Delivery Services

Looking for courier delivery you can count on? Need It Now employs the kind of couriers who will stop at nothing to get your items delivered on time. When you need a delivery service you can trust with the timely and careful delivery of your most important packages, you know who to call. Plus, the Need It Now website has tracking capabilities built in, so you’ll never have to wonder where your package is or what time you should expect it. Simply plug in your tracking number and you’ll be able to check in on your package every step of the way.

From final mile home delivery to luggage drop-offs, our courier delivery services can do it all. We can locally deliver your packages using our fast and dependable walking couriers. For deliveries over fifty pounds, you can rely on our delivery vans to get the job done. Our couriers are prepared to handle any situation that may arise, from bad traffic to bad weather!

Contact us today for a free quote or to hear more about the wide range of courier and delivery services we offer. We’re excited for you to experience our delivery services.

Why You Need an On Demand Courier Service On Speed Dial

From small businesses to large corporations, companies need guaranteed shipping solutions to function properly. But there are so many choices available in the shipping venue that it can be difficult to know where to begin. Depending on the exact needs of a business, a business owner can determine which shipping options will work best for their company.

Some companies have strict shipping schedules. Others may not even use shipping that often. That’s why it’s important to know all the options, especially when it comes to on demand service. It could mean the difference between getting something there on time or not.

In this article, we’re discussing how on demand service can fit the needs of any business, large or small, with daily pickups or even once a month. Keep reading to learn more.

Rush Courier & On Demand

Companies can expect time-definite delivery of their important packages with rush courier and on demand service.

Super rush service and rush service is picked up within one hour of request. Super rush service delivers packages directly to their destination. Rush service guarantees delivery within 3 hours in the same county.

When a pickup gets ordered by 10:30 am, on demand service guarantees same delivery by 5 pm. Next day orders will get delivered by 5 pm the following day.

Businesses can also benefit from pre-scheduled delivery which ensures delivery at an exact requested time. With scheduled service, a company can have packages picked up as late as midnight. Packages will then be delivered by 9 am the following morning.

This service may be available in 50 major cities throughout the United States.

Pre-Scheduled Routed Delivery

Whether a company is delivering envelopes or pallets, pre-scheduled delivery can help. Get something across town or across the country with an on demand service from a local courier. Service fleets include cars, vans, and trucks, so anything will fit.

Express STAT service provides pickup within sixty minutes. Then, the courier drives it directly to the delivery location. Express service usually guarantees delivery within three hours of the original pickup.

Businesses can also op for Standard service. Orders only need to be placed by noon to have guaranteed delivery by 5:30 pm the same day.

On demand service couriers focus on retrieving packages from local area airports for single and large-scale delivery.

Warehousing

Effective product distribution is available through warehousing services provided by a local courier. They understand that each business has specific needs and requirements related to supply chain challenges.

Facilities are located near major ports to cater to the immediacy of any shipping needs. Couriers will store and ship freight that is required to be on-hand ready for shipping at any time. They can also use cross-docking for shipments that need transferring for the most expedient delivery in a local area.

Store, ship, and fulfillment services are also available with a warehousing contract. Couriers work non-stop to ensure delivery of shipments anytime, anywhere.

Air Freight & Freight Services

With air freight service, a company can ask for same day delivery anywhere in the United States. The courier picks up the requested package immediately ensuring that it gets on the next flight out of town. The company also has a choice to get the package picked up and specify when it must get delivered.

Couriers base freight costs on weight and distance for pickups and deliveries. This can save companies money on other domestic shipping options.

Freight services include rush and pre-scheduled delivery. Light and heavy trucking, and line hauling from pickup locations to airports for packages destined overseas are also available. Some companies may benefit from late night delivery available anytime.

Freight services include international shipping to overseas destinations. Sea freight forwarding and time specific shipping is also available with a courier service.

Baggage Delivery

Businesses and individuals alike can benefit from baggage delivery with a local courier.

Pick up service includes baggage pick up from a specified location. The courier then ships the luggage to the traveler’s destination. Not to mention sending the baggage back when the trip is over.

Wrapping services include wrapping items for shipment in protective coverings. They’ll also label everything to ensure accurate and timely delivery. Simply call the courier service with a pickup and they’ll take it from there.

Domestic and International services include pick up and drop off at any location in the United States.

And, rest assured that deliveries come complete with electronic notifications. These send alerts via email when items arrive at their destination.

Last Mile Home Delivery

Courier services really go the extra mile with last mile or final mile delivery. Last mile delivery guarantees on-time delivery. Couriers use both planes and ground transportation for this method of delivery.

Businesses can rely on last mile delivery to get packages to recipients quickly and efficiently. Instantaneous tracking is available and signatures are required upon delivery.

In some cases, a driver may even stay on premises while recipients open their packages. This helps to confirm the items and ensure they were received as expected.

Refrigerated Services

Refrigerated transport and refrigerated courier services are just another reason to keep an on demand service courier on speed dial. With cutting-edge temperature technology, courier services can drive almost anything, anywhere.

Couriers Provide On Demand Service

A courier can get the goods delivered on time, every time, without the hassle and headache of some other shipping options. Companies can rely on a courier to pick up shipments within a moment’s notice and deliver materials across the street or across the globe.

On demand service is a specialty held by couriers to provide the best service possible. Companies can expect friendly, professional service with each and every transaction. Couriers are licensed and insured so there is never doubt or concern for trouble.

If you need on demand courier service for your business, you’ve come to the right place. Contact us today.

How a Professional Courier Service Can Help Construction Companies

Are you beyond frustrated waiting for your building supplies to arrive? It certainly doesn’t help when you have deadlines to meet or stress piling up in relation to pleasing your client or meeting your budget.

In fact, according to the National Association of Home Builders, the cost of building materials, including lumber, gypsum and readymade concrete has risen substantially since April 2017.

With this in mind, you don’t want to have to mess around with terrible delivery services who lose your materials or take an eternity to arrive at the correct location.

When you’re a construction company, you don’t just need a delivery truck. You need a company who can provide you with well thought out on-time services that don’t have any delays. A professional courier service is what you need to help you make your projects run smoother.

Provides You with on Time Deliveries Every Single Time

A professional courier service can locally deliver any packages you need on time, every time. Not only can they get their reliable workers to locally deliver any packages you need, they also have a fleet of vans on hand for packages over 50 pounds in weight.

This is a perfect service to use for those steel poles or support beams that may be difficult to get delivered any other way.

Offers You Prescheduled Deliveries

Do you want to stay on top of your onsite time management? What better way to do this than through planning a prescheduled delivery with a reliable and professional courier service?

Thanks to advancements in technology over the years, outbound shipments can easily be pre-made. Not only that, you can expect your delivery to arrive at the optimal time of the day for you and your crew. That means that your materials won’t get stuck in traffic and it’ll come at the exact moment it’s expected!

What if you need to include an extra load at the last second? The delivery experts can easily fit that in with your already pre-scheduled delivery.

All you need to do is schedule your next important delivery.

The Courier Service Includes Warehousing Options

Do you have a project that’s taking a while to get off the ground? You probably have materials floating around everywhere and you need somewhere safe to store them?

Luckily, a professional courier service is here to help you out. They can help provide you with shipping and storing services which are all ready to be accessed the moment you need it.

But that is not all that they offer.

They can also transfer your supplies by cross docking shipments, so even if your materials are stored on the other side of the state or country, you can receive them without delay.

Reliable Trucking Shipping Services

If you need a reliable service that delivers to your worksite any timeframe the day, you can rely on a professional courier service.

Their trucking services should provide you with both local and long-distance services all across the United States. It doesn’t matter the size or the volume of your shipments or whether it’s a regular or rushed delivery, they have a fleet of vans and trucks ready to deliver your supplies.

They can also drive your deliveries at any time of the day and night, including late night deliveries for every single day of the year. From small suburbs to huge highways, a high-quality delivery fleet will go anywhere to give you your goods.

Includes Air Freight Services

Along with a reliable trucking service, your friendly professional courier service should also provide you with a quality air freight service. This is especially helpful if you have supplies being delivered from overseas.

If you have a worksite in America or Canada, you should expect same-day delivery in any part of the country from a courier service you can trust.

Offers You Last Mile Home Delivery

Did you order some emergency supplies to finish a project? You may be worried that they won’t arrive in time to complete the project before the deadline. Luckily for you, a professional delivery service can help save you in this predicament.

They can reliably and quickly ship your emergency supplies to any part of the country, right to the doorstep of where they are required. With this in mind, you can be sure to trust their services with your goods!

Prevents Interruption of Work

There’s nothing worse about the timeline of a worksite than delayed construction. This can happen when you have to pull some of your workers off of the job site to pick up a delivery or send something in-between two worksites.

With the help of a professional delivery service, you don’t need to worry about wasting your manpower. They can not only pick up and deliver supplies for you, they can assist you in shipping materials between two worksites.

Now you can ensure that your worksite remains busy, and all of your projects get completed on time!

Helps You Avoid Paying Overtime

Do you hate having to pay more overtime than you need to? It’s frustrating having to send employees to pick up and send deliveries to other job sites for this exact reason.

It gets worse when they have to drive a long distance or they get stuck in a traffic jam because it means you have to pay even more. Therefore, this can have quite an effect on your wallet too.

In Canada, you have to pay workers one and a half times their regular wage rate for any overtime. So imagine how much it’s going to cost you weekly to send two or three employees on an hour’s drive during rush hour?

Thankfully, a professional delivery service will mean you never have to pay overtime again for deliveries. You can keep your employees on their respective worksites and ensure that the project stays on track and your expenses are considerably reduced.

Closing: A Professional Courier Service Can Help Improve Your Worksite’s Productivity!

Never worry again about late deliveries or unexpected delays!

A professional courier service has a variety of services readily available for you, so take advantage of them today for the sake of your construction company!

For more information or to get a professional quote, click here.

How You Know You’ve Hired the Best City Couriers

Using a courier service is a smart idea for both individuals and businesses. You’ll save time, money, and it’s terribly convenient. You’ll also probably save your sanity because you won’t have to stress about your package getting to its destination on time. But not all city couriers are the same. Before you pick up the phone or go online to give them your business, read this. You’ll want to make sure you’ve hired the best for your needs.

Here’s what to look for.

Make Sure the City Couriers Are Licensed, Bonded, and Insured

Make sure the city couriers are licensed to do business in your city. It’s requirement for every courier service to have one. Next, see if they are bonded and insured. You don’t have to be held responsible if something happens to the courier while they’re handling your business. If they lose or damage the package they’re handling, you also don’t want to be held responsible for replacing it. They should.

Your packages are precious to you. Work with a company you can trust. Don’t forget to hire a company whose couriers require IDs. They should also stay with your package until it’s delivered. See if their delivery vehicles are clearly marked and that their employees are wearing clean, professional looking uniforms.

Ask to ensure they’ll wait for a signature before leaving so your documents and equipment are guaranteed to be delivered to the right person, at the right time, at the right location.

Determine If They Can Handle Your Type of Needs

Everyone has different needs. Some companies may have large packages that need to be delivered. Other companies may only need the occasional delivered. But that document needs to be delivered as soon as possible. The needs of individuals will also differ. Maybe you’ll only need to use those city couriers once or twice a year.

Choose a delivery service that can handle your needs as economically as possible. The fees will be dependent on three things.

  • The size of the packages or documents being sent
  • The number of packages being delivered
  • How far you’re shipping them

For large volumes over long distances, look to a regional or national freight carrier. If your packages need to be delivered same day and are also locally based, try a local courier or messenger service.

Sometimes, your needs don’t fit into one category. You might have multiple types of deliveries. Some may even require warehousing. That’s when an integrated transportation company will be the right choice.

Try to find one company that can meet all your needs.It will make your billing process easier. It will also make it easier to train employees the shipping procedures.

Check to See If They’re Reliable

Whether you’re sending equipment, medical packages, or vital documents, find a service that can reach you as soon as possible. Especially if your needs are often during an emergency situation.

By you promising delivery to wherever you’re sending your package to, you’re putting your own reputation on the line. Choose the city couriers who won’t let you down.

Make sure they provide proof of delivery and offer online tracking. Go one step further and check out Yelp and other review sites to see what others are saying about the city couriers you’re thinking of using. The Better Business Bureau is also a great place to look for complaints.

But you can also head over to social media. Most companies are on one or more social media sites like Facebook. Take a look at what they’re posting and what visitors to their social media page are saying about them. Lastly, check out their website. Make sure it looks professional and clearly states what services they offer.

Ask If They Can Handle Special Requests

When you’re in a crunch for time, it’s easy to forget about small, but really important matters. Ask if they can handle special requests before you actually need one. That way, should it ever arise, you’ll know your city couriers will be able to go the extra mile. Make sure you ask if they can handle an oversized package. If the answer is yes, ask if they’ll provide help with loading and unloading. Another good question to ask is if they are properly equipped to handle special needs like delivering perishable items or hazardous goods.

Figure Out If They Have a Fast Turnover

If you need to send packages through a courier service, you’ll need to think of this process as if you’re hiring an employee. The city couriers will actually be an extension of your business, so choose a company you know you can depend on when it really matters. Ask if they have same day services or emergency delivery services. Make sure they’re focused on the logistics of your business and can handle all your needs. They should be able and willing to provide you with superior service each and every time.

Ease of Business

Before making your final decision, check out a few more things. It should be easy for you to place an order online or by phone, depending on your preference and needs. Ask what their invoicing procedure is. Then ask about any hidden costs that might raise up the price of a delivery. You should know exactly what the final cost of delivery will be before you give the go ahead.

Choose a company dedicated to making your life and business easier, not more difficult. If they aren’t interested in answering your questions, don’t work with them. Even worse, if they can’t answer your questions in an easy to comprehend way, then keep searching.

Why You Should Choose Us

We have options because we know how busy you are. So place an order by phone, app, or online. We’ll e-mail you when the package has been picked up. We’ll also notify you when the package has been delivered to its destination. We also provide local and nationwide delivery services. We even provide same-day delivery for those rush items that can’t wait. Like those important deliveries, you shouldn’t wait to hire us. Set up a new account today.

Understanding Different Types of Shipping

When it comes to shipping, there is a multitude of choices for any business. But how does anyone know where to start?

Shipping involves various rules and regulations depending on the materials being shipped and it’s not free. Businesses need to weigh their options to decide which type of shipping they need and vary in the associated costs. Different shipping solutions may work better for one company over the next.

There are different types of shipping available depending on what a company requires to ship their packages, locally, throughout the United States, and abroad. Some companies have other special requirements and instructions for their packages that require special handling and care. Others may just need basic shipping services.

In this article, we’re discussing different types of shipping and how courier services might be the best option for busy companies. Keep reading to learn more.

Different Types of Shipping

Most people know about the various shipping solutions available through nationwide providers like UPS, FedEx, and the United States Postal Service. Courier services are generally available at a localized level.

Here, we’re discussing the different types of shipping available to compare to courier services.

UPS

The United Parcel Service, otherwise known as UPS was founded on August 28, 1907, and delivers an estimated 15.8 million packages daily. They have various shipping solutions available to the average consumer and businesses alike. Here are just a few.

UPS Internet Shipping

Internet Shipping allows customers to create shipments from a desktop with an internet connection. Create shipping or return labels and cancel shipments anytime.

Freight Services

Shipping heavy or large packages over 150 pounds can be done via land, air or sea using the same familiar tools that UPS offers to process all of their shipments. Track pallets and containers with ease.

Main Innovations

UPS has partnered with the USPS and other worldwide organizations to ensure faster and accurate delivery options. This service is typically used for lightweight parcels and flat mail.

International Services

UPS promises three to five day delivery with morning or end of day delivery options for international shipments. They also offer economical shipping options and fast service for urgent deliveries.

FedEx

Federal Express, or FedEx delivers or handles an estimated 3.4 million packages daily. The company officially began operations on April 17, 1973, and quickly became a premier carrier of high-priority materials. They have just a few shipping options available both to average consumers and businesses.

United States Package Shipments

FedEx offers same-day, next business day or other time, and definite day options for United States package shipments. Shipping costs vary depending on the size and weight of the package.

International Package Shipments

FedEx ships to more than 220 countries and territories worldwide. Services range from fastest possible delivery, delivery within 5 business days and customs brokerage.

United States Freight Shipments

This delivery company can provide urgent delivery, time-definite delivery, day-definite delivery, and additional freight services. In some cases, they’ll promise delivery the next morning.

International Freight Shipments

FedEx offers an entire menu of international freight shipping options. They have different categories of shipment solutions per each type of delivery.

USPS

The United States Parcel Service has been going strong since July 26, 1775, delivering mail and parcels across the country. They can also ship internationally and sometimes for less than other services.

There are five different types of shipping available through USPS.

First Class Mail

First class mail is an inexpensive way to send any item that weighs 13 ounces or less. This includes mail such as greeting cards and regular stamped mail.

Express Mail

Express mail is not frequently used because it is more expensive but may be used for urgent deliveries. This option offers overnight and flat rate envelopes.

Parcel Post

Parcel post is less expensive but it takes a little while to get anywhere. Anything can be shipped with parcel post.

Media Mail

Media mail is strictly for sending books, videos, CDs, and records. This shipping option has many restrictions that include no padding in the shipping material.

Priority Mail

The starting rate for Priority mail is no less than five dollars. Any item can be shipped this way to ensure fast delivery, generally within 2-3 days.

Courier Services

Courier services are sometimes less well known than the other types of shipping services available on the market today. But a courier service can mean the difference between a satisfactory transaction and one that isn’t so comfortable. They can provide sufficient resources and quality customer service with easy to use shipping platforms that fit the needs of each individual company.

Here are some services one can find with a local courier delivery service.

Rush Courier & On Demand

A courier service can offer the following:

  • Super Rush – pickup within one hour, directly delivered
  • Rush Service – pickup within one hour, delivered within 3 hours
  • Same Day – order by 10:30 am, delivery by 5 pm
  • Next Day – guaranteed delivery next day by 5 pm
  • Pre-Scheduled Delivery – delivery at a specified time.

Pre Scheduled Routed Delivery

Delivering everything from envelopes to pallets, a courier service can outperform the competition:

  • Express STAT Delivery – picked up in one hour, taken directly to delivery location
  • Express – picked up in one hour, delivered in three hours
  • Standard – place an order by noon, guaranteed delivery by 5:30 pm

Air Freight

Air Freight services can include same day delivery to anywhere in the United States. A courier will pick up a package immediately and ensure it goes out on the next flight. The deliveries can also be time specific.

Baggage Delivery

A courier service makes traveling less stressful.

  • Pickup Service – couriers pick up luggage from location, ship to destination, send back
  • Wrapping Services – wrapping items in protective covering
  • Domestic and International Service
  • Electronic Notifications – alerts and proof of delivery

Final Thoughts

No matter what one is trying to get delivered, there’s a delivery service that will accommodate those needs. And, a courier service is second to none. They offer top-notch service and delivery on time.

With a courier service, nobody has to worry about whether a package is being properly cared for. It’s being handled by professionals that care about individuals and their business and getting packages delivered on time. Couriers make the difference.

If you’re looking for different types of shipping options, contact us. We provide professional courier service each step of the way.

7 Reasons to Hire a National Courier Service

National courier service

National courier service

Did you know a whopping 96 percent of Americans shop online? Some of the primary reasons they turn to the internet instead of walking into physical stores is to avoid crowds and save time. You heard that right. Online shoppers want to save time. If you sell products online, you don’t want to keep your online shoppers waiting. And you also don’t want to turn down a customer because they are in a different state. As your business grows and expands its delivery boundaries, you need to embrace the growth by outsourcing deliveries to a national courier. In this article, we’re discussing 7 top reasons why you must hire a national courier service. Keep reading.

1. Fuel Business Growth

You do everything to give your business the best chance of growth. You stock the best quality products, provide excellent customer services, reinvest most of your profits back into the business, and hire the most talented employees. Another way to fuel business growth? Hiring a national courier service to handle your shipping.

You see, e-commerce enables businesses to expand their customer base. From the moment you set up your e-store, customers from all over the country will be able to buy your products.

What do you do when orders from far away states start rolling in? You’ll either cancel the orders (much to the disappointment of the customers) or use the postal service to ship the products. As you know, using the postal service isn’t the best way to impress your customers.

Outsourcing the work to a national courier is the best way to make your customers happy and keep them ordering from you.

2. Build Your Reputation

The modern customer wants to shop at reputable brands. Branding encompasses everything from your site design to your delivery experience. If you choose to use a local courier with no national delivery experience, your reputation will take a hit. Customers will certainly think you’re not ready to invest in a good courier in a bid to increase your bottom line, and they won’t invest in you either.

Hiring a national courier service with a solid reputation also improves your business’ reputation. Experienced couriers know what it takes to make your customers happy. Customers won’t care that the delivery service is a completely different company. All that matters is your business is working with a reputable delivery service.

3. Your Competitors Are Probably Already Using National Couriers

As much as e-commerce opens up your business to a global customer base, competition for customers is still fierce. Large e-retailers like Amazon and eBay already control much of the market. To stay steps ahead of your direct competition, you must do all you can to gain a competitive advantage. Chances are, if you haven’t already hired a national carrier, some of your competitors have beat you to it!

But worry not. You can still catch them, especially if you’re smart about your courier choice. How so? Even though there are many national couriers to choose from, they are not created equal. Some have a reputation for making late deliveries, and others mishandle packages.

Hiring a national courier like Need It Now Delivers will give you the best chance of catching and beating competitors who’re already working with national couriers.

4. Going International? A National Courier Service Got Your Back

You didn’t see it coming, but somehow, international customers (probably from Canada or Mexico) have been enquiring about your products. After debating whether to go global or not, you’re finally ready to accept international orders. Do you start looking for an international courier?

Probably! But if you already have a competent national courier service on your side, you may be saved the hassle of hunting for an international courier.

An established national courier also offers international shipping, so when you are ready to accept international orders, the courier will readily offer you the service. And since you already have an existing business relationship, you could get a decent discount!

5. White Glove Delivery

Businesses are going to great lengths to please their customers. Some of the newest services include in-home delivery and light assembly of some products (together known as white glove delivery).

Think about this: what happens when a customer is not at home to receive a delivery? In the past, the delivery man would have to re-deliver the package. But with in-home delivery, the courier can deliver the package even in the customer’s absence!

When you hire a national courier, you’ll also get a white glove delivery service. This will lead to an even greater satisfaction among your customers.

6. Warehousing

It’s very expensive to ship out products from a single location. As a national business, it makes more economic sense to have warehouses in several locations across the country. Such that when a customer in Michigan places an order, you don’t have to ship the products from your business headquarters in Texas. But with a warehouse in Michigan, it will be way cheaper and quicker to fulfill the order.

The challenge, though, is it can be expensive to lease warehouses across the country. This is where a national courier comes in. At Need It Now Delivers, we have warehouses where you can store products ready to ship to nearby locations. This way, you’ll ensure your products are on hand in multiple locations across the country without incurring a lot of money in warehousing costs.

7. Same Day Delivery

Many online shoppers are willing to dig deeper into their pockets if it means receiving their orders on the same day of purchase. However, same day deliveries aren’t always feasible when you’re shipping nationwide. Hiring a national courier enhances your chances of making same day deliveries, even to customers in far-flung areas. A good courier has the resources to make this happen.

Your Search for a Reliable National Courier Service Ends Here!

Now that you know the benefits of hiring a national courier, you’re probably hunting for one already. Stop! At Need It Now Delivers, we are national delivery experts with over 70 years of experience. We offer a variety of shipping services, and our couriers are fitted with tracking technology.

Read to try us? Get a quick quote. Or contact us with any questions.

10 Benefits of Using Air Freight Services

Air freight

Air freight

With the price of shipping being so affordable domestically, we automatically look for that savings internationally. This is partly why air freight services can appear stark in contrast. That would be a missed opportunity for many shipping scenarios dealing with lower volumes. The advantages for shipping air freight are many, not just with the speed of delivery. Air freight is the preferred choice for many industries, like automotive, interior design, electronics, construction, and more. As much as six trillion dollars worth of goods are transported around the world via air freight. This makes up over 35% of all trade, in fact.

To help you understand just how valuable air freight services can be for both personal and business needs, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten benefits.

1. Unmatched Speed

When speed is paramount, you can’t afford to settle for less than air freight services. Sea and land freight will always be significantly slower and unreliable in that respect.

Sure, some freight services may advertise comparable delivery rates, but there is no guarantee.

2. Arrival and Departure Consistency

With air freight services, tracking your package and following its promised delivery times is easy. You see what flight it’s on, when it takes off, and when it lands. With land or sea freight, your package could be anywhere until it arrives at a major hub.

A missed flight doesn’t mean waiting an additional day for air freight services. Planes run every hour, on average.

In addition to the fewer hops involved with air transport, the customs fees can be minimized.

With shipping smaller volumes of packages, customs, harbor fees, and other taxes can add up. You could be paying air freight rates while getting your packages weeks later.

3. Global Shipping Flexibility

When shipping via air freight, you’re open to more locations for delivery. Relying on sea and land freight means going through major transportation networks. This often leaves out smaller countries of the world.

Opening more doors to more parts of the world means a wider reach and more customers served.

4. Low Insurance Premiums

Because of quicker transit times, air freight premiums are lower, on average, when compared to other forms of shipping. The less time your package is in-route, the lower the risk of it being lost/stolen.

Having your package pass through fewer hands is also a bit more reassuring for both parties.

5. Higher Standards of Security

Not only is your package making fewer stops on average, air freight services take security and tracking seriously. Airport safety and security is a top priority, so by proxy, your package will be handled with care.

It’s much less likely that your packages will be stolen out of an airport, rather than a port or postal hub.

6. Reduced Dependence on Warehousing

Faster delivery of packages means small businesses will be relying less on storing local inventory. The ebb and flow of business forces businesses to stock up in anticipation.

When cargo is able to arrive and depart without delay, inventory management becomes more natural. This is a huge advantage when it comes to adapting to buyer trends, seasons, and etc.

7. Reduced Packing Materials

Shipping via land or sea means packaging must be bulky and thorough to absorb bumps and drops. Air freight allows lighter packing, further expediting the process of shipping by manufacturers.

As a result, your shipments will be lighter and you’ll save even more on freight costs.

8. Outsourcing Experience

When dealing with air freight services, you’ll find their expertise with outsourcing options invaluable. Sea freight is often impersonal and unnerving. Having a strong relationship with your carrier is important for long-term success.

A lot of shipping logistics get lost in the sea of customs arrangements, contractual fine print, and more. Air freight is a comparatively simple and transparent process, thanks to experienced managers.

9. End-to-end Services

The international network of air transport provides a wide scope of services to cover a variety of client needs. This includes a great relationship with freight forwarders, carriers, operators, customs agents, and GPS logistics. This ensures your package arrives safely and securely.

Fragile and sensitive packages are simply safer in the hands of air freight services.

10. Legal Compliance

One major benefit of air freight that is overlooked is the boring, administrative side. Having all documentation squared away and taken care of on your behalf is huge. Mistakes carry financial penalties on top of inconveniences, so it’s important to employ a company with experience.

When dealing with sea freight, this is especially true. It’s very difficult to follow all the legal and regulatory fulfillments needed to pass over international borders.

Trusted Air Freight Services

Don’t forget to remember the intangibles when deciding on how your goods will be shipped. You should always choose well-qualified, personable, and experienced transporters over the cheapest available.

Know that your cargo is being handled by professionals who already have the connections and knowledge to ship anywhere. Leave nothing to chance and get your shipment correct the first time.

Port fees, penalties, and lost inventory can end up costing you more over time. Businesses might call this “calculated risk”, but that leaves out the emotional stress caused by uncertainty.

Choose ASAP Courier and see how we can change the way you think about shipping logistics. We’ll help you decide on what method of shipping is best for your business.

Get a quick quote and start saving time and money right now.

Last Mile Delivery: Facts and Trends

last mile delivery

last mile delivery

As the e-commerce market continues to expand, it’s becoming more important than ever for businesses to provide superior shopping (and logistics) experiences in order to win customers over. Many businesses are doing this by offering shipping options like 2-day delivery and same day delivery, as well as last mile delivery.

Last mile delivery is a huge opportunity for both e-commerce companies and logistics businesses. In fact, last mile delivery is believed to be a $3 billion market for transportation companies, as customers continue to demand this service as part of their overall e-commerce experience.

Investing in last mile delivery is a no-brainer for your business. But before you do, it’s important to know how it works and what the current and future business landscape for it looks like. Keep reading to learn facts and trends about last mile delivery so you can seamlessly incorporate it into your business.

What is Last Mile Delivery Exactly?

Last mile delivery is the process of moving goods from a transportation hub to the final delivery location, which is usually the customer’s home. The purpose of this delivery option is to deliver items to a customer in the fastest and most effective way possible.

A lot of companies are investing in it because it serves as a key differentiator for retailers, many of whom are selling products that are similar or identical to that of their competitors. It’s a logistic method many companies are using, from shopping marketplaces like Amazon to food and clothing companies.

Setting up a last mile delivery system can be tricky and time-consuming, but it’s incredibly important to do. Why would a customer buy your product when they can buy the same one from a different business and get it delivered the same day?

Last Mile Delivery: Facts and Trends

Now that you know what last mile delivery is, here are some facts and trends to keep in mind before building out your own system.

1. Customers Expect Immediate Delivery for Certain Products

Today, there’s an increased demand for 2-day and same day delivery. While customers may be willing to wait a few days for large parcel items like furniture, they’re unwilling to wait that amount of time for smaller goods.

This poses a challenge when it comes to planning logistics, as items need to know be fulfilled in only a matter of minutes. By the time the order you receive the order, you have to immediately process it and have it ready for delivery. This trend is greatly affecting pharmaceuticals and food delivery services where customers have an immediate need and want their product right away.

2. Customers Want to Know Where There Package Is

Now more than ever, customers want to know where their packages are, and when they’ll get to their address. This is an important technology for last mile delivery because it helps keep track of when a package is late or get lost. Many businesses and logistics companies are creating websites for tracking packages or letting customers keep track of the delivery with their GPS and smartphone apps.

Local last-mile delivery organizations may not have the technology to create this technology, but they should try to invest it in nonetheless. Customers want this kind of technology and will shop with businesses who can help them keep track of their packages.

3. Companies are Creating City Warehouses

As more customers expect and demand same-day instant delivery, companies are investing in delivery hubs. This trend involves companies building and using urban warehouses so they can easily access and deliver products to their customers.

Investing in these warehouses is essential for reducing transit time for deliveries, and makes it possible for companies like Amazon to offer 2-day delivery. Most retailers do not yet offer this delivery option, so those that can have a big advantage in the marketplace.

4. Companies are Using Delivery to Upsell Customers

Thanks to data, companies can now predict what other products a customer might want, even if they haven’t ordered it. Companies are now loading non-committed inventory into their truck, which allows couriers the chance to convince customers to buy it during last-mile delivery.

This technology lets companies like Amazon keep items on the truck that customers may want, like items they’ve previously ordered and may need again, such as toilet paper or household essentials. This lets companies make even more money in the long run.

5. Customers are Willing to Pay More for Better Delivery Options

Most shoppers have a habit of abandoning their shopping cart due to unexpected shipping costs. But 25% of shoppers say they were to pay significant shipping costs for same-day delivery or features like in-home delivery or being able to schedule their delivery date and time at checkout.

This number will grow even higher as millennials become the largest share of the market. Thanks to companies like Amazon, customers are used to 2-day or same day shipping, and they’re willing to pay more for that delivery benefit.

6. Delivery Technology is Only Becoming More Advanced

While this trend isn’t in full-force yet, companies have already started investing in advanced delivery technology. The most expensive part of delivery is labor like drivers, so it makes sense that companies are investing in technology like self-driving cars, drones, and robots.

Companies like Yelp are already testing out robotic delivery, which is a service that could be offered 24 hours a day. The only downside is that it requires a human agent to accompany them in case something goes wrong. But it’s believed that as technology continues to rapidly evolve that there will be less of a need for human delivery agents.

Final Thoughts

As e-commerce and shopping behaviors evolve, companies and their logistics need to grow to keep up with consumer demands. By investing in last-mile delivery, you can provide a superior shipping and delivery experience for your customers and convince them to shop with you over your competitors. As a business, you should be actively working to perfect your last mile to keep costumers satisfied and coming back for more.

Have you started building out your last mile network? Or are you looking to partner with a last mile courier to assist you? Let us know in the comments!