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.