Shipping Tips
When it comes to Shipping, we've been there, done that, now serving 115 tips in 8 categories ranging from Automotive and Vehicle Transport to Shipping Services.
Shipping a Large or Unusual Item
Although it may be hard to find a provider to ship your large or unusual item, such as a car, piano, or livestock through a shipping chain, you do have additional options.
There are many small business shipping companies or individual providers who are equipped to take on such shipments and they can usually to it at a reasonable cost.
To find such providers, try putting your listing up in an open marketplace where potential providers can give you a quote for your shipment and you can check their feedback rating. This will allow you to pick a trustworthy provider who has experience shipping related items and that will do it at a price you can afford.
This can be a cost effective and safe way to get your large or unusual item shipped to the location you need.
Using a Shipping Company to Help Run Your Small Business
If you are running your own small business or selling items through eBay, using a shipping company that you find online can be a cost-effective way to send your shipments. These companies offer a good discount compared to shipping chains, and can also be a safe option.
You can even get quotes from several of these companies and choose the one that fits best with your needs. This will allow you to read the feedback and reviews of a shipping company before you set up a transaction and, if you mention in your request that you plan on shipping multiple items on a regular basis, you may be able to get an even larger discount.
Finding a provider that you can work closely with you to handle all of your shipments will take a weight off of your shoulders.
Placing a Deposit on Your Shipment
Placing a deposit on your shipment may be required to get qualified quotes from the best individual providers that you can find. Unlike shipping chains, individual providers or small business shipping companies need to keep every scheduled shipment on their route to ensure that they make a profit out of the trip. If you cancel your shipment at the last minute, it could hurt the company. For this reason, many will not take shipments that do not include deposits.
If you let providers know that you are willing to make a deposit, this will help you to receive better quotes from qualified and experienced shipping companies. Otherwise, you may be limited to quotes from new providers with no feedback or those who have less-than-perfect feedback, which can both be risky. If you know that you will definitely ship your item, then your safest choice is to offer a small deposit.
Protect Yourself When Using an Online Shipping Company
Using a small business shipping company or individual provider that you find online can save you money. But, how can you be sure that the chosen provider won't run off with your deposit and your item?
If you found your shipping company through an open market place Web site, you have several protection options to ensure that the shipping company you are working with is honest and trustworthy.
The Web site itself may offer their own protection policy for shippers. Certain restrictions may apply, so make sure you read the fine print.
Web sites usually have a rating system for their shipping providers. The rating systems allow you to read reviews from past users before making a decision.
These protections are in place so that you have peace of mind when using a small business shipping company or individual who you find through an online marketplace.
Rating Reputation & Price
When hiring a shipping company, you should consider the company's reputation, along with their price. It's important to rate the value of your items, and interview shipping companies for their bids.
In most situations, reputation supercedes price. Some items are expensive, and some are priceless, so using a moving company with an excellent customer satisfaction record will guarantee your item is safe in transit. Consider purchasing insurance for your shipped items, too. It is advisable to read the shipping company's terms and conditions carefully before committing to one insurance option. In the end, trying to save money may end up costing you.
The Benefits of Using a Shipping Model
If you are concerned about shipping valueable items, or are unclear as to the best way to package your items, ask your shipping company for a shipping model. A shipping model offers tips and advice for packaging your item the same way a shipping company would. This is essential to making sure your items arrive safely, even if the company offers insurance coverage.
A shipping model will guide you in using the packaging materials correctly. The quality of box that you buy can help to protect your items since some are made of heavier material than others. This will protect your wallet, as well as give you peace of mind.
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