The United States Postal Service was founded in 1775; one year before the country won it’s independence from Great Brittan. For over 200 years, individuals and businesses have become familiar with this federal department of the government. Because it delivers over 40 percent of the country’s non-critical mail, it is the method most people think of when they have a package that needs to be mailed. However, with raising competitors, it is important to understand that alternative carrier’s rates differ from standard USPS shipping rates.
Mailing a package via the United States Postal Service has been one of the most common ways to ship small products by individuals or by businesses. While the USPS shipping rates are generally thought of as fixed rates, there are many variables. The rate is determined by the weight, dimensions and the distance that the package is traveling. There are incremental rates based on the size of the package. The weight of a package can either be its actual weight or its dimensional (DIM) weight. Dimensional rate is calculated by adding the length and girth of the box. The USPS will only ship items up to 70 pounds and a maximum overall size of 130 inches.
A similar shipping company that specializes more in business and global shipping is the United Parcel Service or UPS. UPS shipping rates are very competitive and offer some additional advantages. UPS does not have additional charges for delivery confirmation, which confirms to the shipper that a package has been successfully delivered to the proper person. Many believe that they also ship their ground or regular packages faster than the USPS. Another advantage is that they will ship heavier, larger packages. Their shipping maximums are 150 pounds and 165 inches. This is nearly double what the USPS will ship.
Because UPS ships larger packaging, 중국배대지 they also offer cheaper cost-per-delivery mile and cost-per-dollar rates. UPS shipping rates can be calculated from the comfort of one’s home or office. An account can be established which will help manage the cost and track the money spent on shipping. The United States Postal Service also has a system to figure the USPS shipping rates as well, however they do not offer account billing. They also charge additional money for many of the additional services that are offered.
One other factor that affects USPS shipping rates is that the USPS is a regulated government run establishment. They are controlled by the Post Master General. Because increased competition has started to chip away at the business that the USPS does, they have been forced to raise their rates.
UPS shipping rates have also fluctuated; however, competition has helped to keep their rates reasonable. It is important to check the rates a company charges because they do vary. A company or individual must also consider if the shipping organization offers additional services for little or no additional charge. Because the cost of shipping has an overwhelming strong influence on a business’ success, it is imperative that each company reviews their shipping needs to determine that they are getting the best rate possible. Individuals also should use rate calculators to compare the cost to ship using various carriers.