Find the Best Shipping Quotes
Finding the best available price to ship items can be difficult. Factors such as weight, size, shape, contents, origin and destination must be taken into account when shopping for price quotes. Estimated delivery time and whether or not the shipping company packages the item(s) can also affect the shipping cost.
Shipping via Freight Companies
When shipping large and/or heavy items a freight company may offer the best price. Most companies offer an online shipping calculator. You will need to know the zip codes of the package origin and destination, the shipping dates and the freight class. Some companies require additional information as to the amount or type of items being shipped.
Freight class is a calculation that uses the package length, width and height measurements, as well as the weight, to determine a class code.
Shipping via Package Companies
The most well known package shipper is the United States Postal Service. Smaller packages can be shipped economically via your local post office. Mailing franchises offer shipping through a variety of companies at one location. The benefit of this service is that the clerk will compare the cost of shipping companies for you.
Finding the Best Price
- Many freight companies offer online shipping calculators so you can compare prices.
- Online freight comparison websites provide a shipping calculator and then recommend the company that offers the best price based on your data. The recommendation may or may not be with a well-known company. Always be sure to investigate the satisfaction rate of the shipper you choose.
- FedEx, UPS and DHL are all nationally known companies that offer freight services and provide online calculators. The added benefit to using one of these companies is that they also offer package shipping so you can compare the prices associated with each option.
- The flat rate package option offered by the USPS is great for heavy (up to 70 lbs), but smaller packages. There are several flat rate box options available. If the item fits in the box it ships for the advertised price, regardless of destination.
- The USPS also offers an online shipping calculator that provides pricing levels. Parcel post, priority and book rate options all affect the cost of shipping.