In 2021 USPS shipped a whopping 7.6 billion packages.
Shipping packages is one of the easiest ways to get items from A to B without having to transport them yourself or hire private services to courier them for you.
But since the post office is such a huge network to ship your package through, it means you’ve got to make sure you’re doing it properly. If you make a mistake, it means the package might get lost, or delay the delivery process.
Keep reading for some tips for when you want to send a parcel!
1. Use a Shipping Calculator
When you’re sending a package, the distance is usually the determining factor for how much it will cost.
There are also premium shipping options like priority or certified shipping that cost more for the same delivery distance. This extra cost goes towards speeding up the delivery and ensuring more checks to keep it from getting lost in the mail.
For example, the certified mail USPS cost has increased in the last few months. It’s important to factor this in to ensure you’re paying the right amount for your delivery.
If you don’t pay the right amount, your package will not be delivered. It will be returned to you or sit in transit.
2. Be Smart About Packaging
Packaging parcels is an important step. Even more so if it’s a fragile package.
You need to ensure the packaging is big enough to securely close around the package, while also being tight enough that the item isn’t rolling around loosely inside the packaging.
The best option is a sturdy cardboard box which you can fill with paper to cushion the object inside.
3. Triple Check Details
When you ship a package you need to be checking the details to make sure they’re correct. Both the information for the receiver (who the package is going to) and the sender (you) need to be correct.
Names, contact details, and the delivery and return address are the most important details.
This way you ensure the package doesn’t get sent to the wrong person, and that USPS can contact you or the receiver to get the package where it needs to be.
4. Track Your Parcel
Shipping a parcel far away can be a stressful waiting game. Luckily, most shipping companies and USPS offer tracking services. This means you can log into an online portal and track where your package is in the delivery process.
When you send your package you’ll be given a shipping reference number. This is usually the key information needed to track the package status. This way you can see when it arrives with the receiver or if there are any delays.
Send a Parcel With Ease
Now that you know these five tips, you can send a parcel anywhere you need to!
By using shipping calculators, the correct packaging, and triple checking your details, you can rest assured that your packages are going to get when you’re sending them without any issues.
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