Guide to Selecting the Right Shipping Method

Shipping can cost your company a bundle if you don't investigate your options

By Judy Artunian, Freelance Writer

Fundamental steps that will take you in the right direction:

1. Keep in mind that shipping rates depend on the weight of your package, where it's going and how fast you want it to arrive. If your package is an irregular shape, hazardous or perishable you can expect a surcharge.
2. Many businesses automatically send items via overnight delivery. Ask yourself if that's really necessary. You can reap big savings by opting for two- or three-day service.
3. If you're a frequent shipper, talk to the major shipping companies about volume discounts or other deals that may be available to your company.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Compare rates and services easily online, and save your business money

Compare prices and services from local and national carriers all in one place.

I recommend: RedRoller is a terrific shipping services supercenter for small business owners. It's fast, free and easy to use. You can compare real-time rates and delivery options from top carriers, print labels, view reports and ship directly from your business.Great way to save time and money on shipping. Check out RedRoller's special services for eBay shippers. Other online services include Freightquote and iShip.

See what the major shipping companies have to offer

Arrange to meet with a sales rep to get more insight into how the top shipping firms can meet your needs.

I recommend: Check an overview of services at DHL Small Business Center, FedEX Small Business Center and UPS/Small Business Owners,

Don't forget the post office

The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) can be a bargain if you don't have large shipments or require regular pick-up and delivery.

I recommend: Look into the slate of business services offered by USPS. Many small businesses also swear by Stamps.com, a USPS approved vendor that lets you apply postage to your letters and packages without having to stand in line at the post office. With a digital scale and software provided by Stamps.com, you can weigh your mail (packages included) and print your own postage.

Look into full-service shipping solutions

No time to package or crate your shipment, let alone find the right carrier?

I recommend: Contact a service such as Craters and Freighters and Pak Mail. They'll handle the process, from packing to delivery.

Pack your cargo with care

Learn how to pack your products to protect them from damage in transit.

I recommend: UPS provides tips on how to package the items you're sending. You can buy everything from boxes to bubble wrap to multiple varieties of packing tape from Uline and PackagePrice.com.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Before shipping overseas, check the regulations of the country you are shipping to. Some items that are acceptable in the United States can't be sent to other countries.
• •  If you charge customers for shipping, offer them the option of paying less for slower delivery.
• •  You can boost customer loyalty by providing free shipping as standard service or a special promotion.
• •  When sending a valuable or business-critical package, use a shipping service that provides delivery confirmation.