In 2022, FedEx shipped 4.1 billion packages, UPS shipped 5.2 billion, and the United States Postal Service (USPS) shipped 6.7 billion. During the holiday peak, which fell between Black Friday and New Year’s Day, the volumes were at their highest. The following advice can help you prevent your parcels from being misdirected, broken, confiscated, delivered late, or lost if you want to mail gifts this holiday season.
KNOW WHAT CAN BE SENT.
Generally speaking, carriers will not permit the mailing of anything that could injure others or cause damage (such as lithium batteries). Ammunition, explosives, pyrotechnics, products containing liquid mercury, and alcoholic beverages are among the items that USPS will not send. For large and/or heavy things like furniture and sports equipment, you might need to use a specialty carrier because the maximum weight and length for a USPS box is 70 pounds and 130 inches, respectively. (UPS packages have a 150-pound weight limit and a 108-inch maximum length).
Are you planning to use UPS to send your packages? Check the UPS website for a full list of items that are prohibited (completely forbidden) as well as for those that are restricted (can be sent under certain conditions).
GET YOUR ITEM(S) READY FOR SHIPPING.
1. Whether you plan to use a tube, padded envelope, or box, be sure the packaging is big enough to provide for padding if you are sending sensitive things and sturdy enough to pass through automated processing machines.
2. If you are recycling a box, erase or cover up all previous addresses, mailing labels, barcodes, and trademarks.
3. Stuffing the box, envelope, or tube with a packing slip or a piece of paper bearing the recipient’s name and address is a smart option.
4. If you have the necessary supplies, pack your belongings at home. However, bear in mind that, depending on the mail class you choose, the shipping firm may provide boxes at no cost to you. For consumers utilizing Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express services, for instance, USPS offers boxes and envelopes.
5. Use enough packing tape with a 2-inch width to seal and tighten all seams. The majority of carriers advise against tying twine, string, or cord around boxes as these materials may snag on sorting machinery.
HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?
Take precise measurements of the package’s dimensions and weight, then use these online tools to evaluate shipping companies and determine the price.
USPS: www.usps.com/postcalc
USP: https://ctc.request.ups.com/apps?loc=en_US
FedEx: https://fedex.com/en-us/online/rating.html#
SELECT FROM SHIPPING SERVICES
For mailing a parcel, each shipping company will provide you with a range of options. Choose your option depending on the following factors: destination, cost, delivery time, and necessity for tracking and insurance. Here are some products and choices to think about:
UPS Hold for Pickup allows the recipient to select a time that works best for them to pick up the box at a safe UPS Customer Center.
UPS Next Day Air shipping offers all 50 states and Puerto Rico a time-definite, guaranteed next day delivery service.
Signature Services which ask the recipient to sign a document, can increase security. Choices include adult signature required, USPS Restricted Delivery are your options (where you choose who is authorized to sign for and get your item), and USP Collect on Delivery (to allow your recipient to make payment at time of delivery)
As your package makes its way to its destination, tracking gives you information on its progress, including the precise delivery date and time. Tracking might be free of charge, depending on the mail class.
If your package is lost or damaged, declared value may be able to compensate you. The declared value of the item will determine the insurance costs.
With Informed Delivery, you can monitor your parcels and preview letter-sized mail and parcels from the USPS via an online dashboard, email notifications or a mobile app. Informeddelivery,usps.com.