Are The Extra Tracking Options Worth It When Shipping?

Answer 1

The holiday season can stress out the most organized person, from purchasing gifts to shipping them in time for Christmas. Some of the most common shipping methods are through USPS, UPS and FedEx. Their basic services vary between carriers, but all of them have some form of tracking and extra shipment options. Sorting through the valuable options depends on your particular needs. USPS The postal service uses basic first class mail for most letter or envelope mailings, but there is no tracking method for these items. Priority mail for letters, envelopes and packages offers tracking between locations. Although relatively inexpensive, the tracking information only updates once a day, leaving you wondering about your package until the next update period. Other services, such as insurance, are a good value if you ship a particularly expensive item. You must declare the item's value at the post office to insure it properly. You can even request signature confirmation at the destination to ensure that the package is actually received by a person rather than being placed by a potted plant. UPS UPS is known for its widespread use during the holidays, especially with popular online shopping. Every package has a tracking number, even the smallest items. They are constantly scanned through their journey. You access this information almost instantaneously online. Choose among the many transit times, from Next Day Air to Ground. You have the option of selecting a Saturday delivery, if necessary, but it is an expensive option. Insurance is also available if you're concerned about loss or theft of an expensive item. FedEx Operating similar to UPS, FedEx tracks each package with real-time access to the information online. For extremely urgent packages shipped locally, they even have a same-day shipment option. If you do not want your package dropped off with no one at home, for example, request a hold at a local FedEx office. This option works well for valuable packages shipped to urban areas where they may be stolen off a front porch. The receiver picks up the package at the FedEx office with proper identification. With the holidays approaching, you want to plan your shipment options early. To avoid expensive shipping fees, ship your packages early, especially if they must reach other countries for delivery. Clearly label your packages with the destination and return addresses. Save any tracking numbers until you are certain they have been delivered properly. Your holidays run smoothly when you ship early and correctly with a favorite carrier.