The current world is big on e-commerce operations, and there are many businesses out there that are in the e-commerce line. However, being a part of the e-commerce dynamics also means that you have customers from around the globe who would need their packages delivered safely and on time. If you recently stepped into the dynamics of the e-commerce world, we are sure that finding the best shipping carriers can make or break your business.
This aspect is vital in improving your operational efficiency and significantly elevating your customer experience and satisfaction, providing a positive image to your brand’s reputation. Want to know what the best shipping carriers for your business are? We have a guide covered for you below.
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Part 1. What are Shipping Carriers?
A shipping carrier is a company responsible for getting your packages delivered from one point—your warehouse or shipment area—to another point—your customer’s delivery address. There are many shipping carriers currently in business; however, a few of the top names are USPS, UPS, DHL, FedEx, and Amazon Logistics, among many others.
With the advancement of technology, as more businesses have continued to rely on the internet to sell their products to customers on a larger scale, shipping carriers have become an essential source to ensure efficient delivery of products to them with ease.
Part 2. Top 5 Shipping Carriers in the US
There are multiple shipping carriers in the United States market; however, five have made a significant name for themselves over the years. If you want to affiliate your e-commerce business with one delivery carrier, then we are sure you’d like to read up on a few of the best ones. If that is the case, then hop on below:
1- USPS
Being the United States national postal service, USPS has had to be the first on our list of the most popular shipping companies. The company stands out because of its affordable rates, which are great for sending out small, lightweight packages.
The company offers its users same-day, one-day, and two-day delivery for those who need their parcels shipped urgently. The best part about the company is that they provide address validation services, which help avoid dispatching the parcels to the wrong addresses. So, if you are looking into sending delivery options that are lightweight and need to be shipped urgently, USPS might be your best bet.
When to choose: For lightweight packages less than 2 pounds at the best prices.
2- UPS
Operating for over a century, UPS has established itself as one of the largest and most trusted names in the shipping carrier world. The company provides services like same-day delivery, international shipping, and freight services, among other wide range of shipping needs.
Apart from its quick and efficient delivery, the company’s impressive on-time delivery KPI is backed up by an advanced real-time tracking option, allowing the shippers to keep track of their shipped products. The company also has a broad selection of delivery time frames, which gives many e-commerce businesses flexibility and convenience. If all this isn’t great, we don’t know what is.
When to choose: It is economical to ship packages exceeding three pounds and offer a delivery guarantee.
3- FedEx
FedEx is known globally for its speed and reliability, making it one of the best shipping carriers for e-commerce fulfillment. The company offers vast options for shipping solutions like Express to Ground and even Freight Services. The best part about FedEx is that it has an extensive logistics network globally.
However, despite this, the company has very reliable delivery timing like same day or next day delivery. The company was founded in 1971, and since then, it has effectively delivered its critical services like express transportation, supply chain management, ground transportation, and freight services, among many others. Moreover, for delicate products that must be kept at a specific temperature, FedEx also offers temperature-controlled shipping options, which sets it apart from the rest of its competitors.
When to choose: This option is excellent for large and heavy packages and temperature-controlled shipping.
4- DHL
DHL has maintained a strong international presence in the world of shipping carriers and courier services, maintaining a global customer base. The company provides a reliable and cost-efficient delivery option for all those who are looking into means of shipping and delivering their products, elevating its extensive logistics network.
Apart from its efficient delivery, the company also provides comprehensive tracking updates so that shippers can feel at ease and know where their deliveries have reached by that time. The company is also known for its customs clearance and dedicated customer support, ultimately offering users a seamless and stress-free international shipping experience. Hence, if there is one of the many delivery carriers you can blindly trust based on their name alone, it is definitely DHL.
When to choose: perfect for cheap and fast shipping solutions for international customers.
5- Amazon Logistics
Amazon Logistics is another excellent name when it comes to shipping carriers. The company offers a robust delivery network, which makes it one of the best shipping carriers in the United States. Moreover, Amazon Logistics provides a seamless integration with quick and reliable delivery, but do you think this is where the company limits itself?
No! Amazon’s extensive locker system is another excellent feature of this service. Through the extensive locker system, companies provide security, convenient pick-ups, and returns. The company’s advanced data analytics also provides businesses with valuable insights, which help them improve their shipping strategies. So, if you were inclined toward Amazon Logistics, take this as your sign to go for it.
When to choose: When searching for cheap but reliable delivery options.
Part 3. How to Choose a Shipping Carrier?
Now that you know some of the best shipping carriers in the United States, we are sure it will be time for you to narrow down one, right? Well, if you are still having difficulty choosing the best shipping carrier, then consider the following factors before making your pick:
Reputation
The reputation of the delivery carriers is generally a great way to determine if it is worth it for your business. If the company’s reputation doesn’t sit well with you, or you find comments that may not align with your mode of operations, it will be great to look into other alternative options.
Cost and Services
In order to choose the best shipping carrier for your business, you will have to consider both cost and services. Understand the price you are willing to pay per shipment and then cross-check it with the cost the shipper is offering you. However, do not always incline towards lower costs alone. Sometimes, a shipping company offers cheap rates but doesn’t provide quality services in return. Hence, looking into both cost and services side by side is essential.
Shipping Destination
Considering your shipping destination is another essential aspect when choosing a shipping carrier. This is because not all companies deliver internationally or to specific locations. Hence, it is essential to look into carriers that offer global delivery and check off your shipping destination from the list.
Type of Product
Your delivery service choice will also depend on the type of product which you need to ship. Sometimes, your product type can be hazardous and fragile, and hence, not every delivery company may be willing to ship it. Therefore, always look into this aspect and confirm whether your goods will be safely shipped.
Delivery Times
Delivery time is another crucial aspect before choosing shipping carriers. With a delivery service that provides safe and efficient delivery, your products will reach their end destination in perfect condition. This will leave your customers satisfied and also elevate your brand’s reputation.
Part 4. Get the Best Shipping Rates with NextSmartShip
While all the above shipping carriers are unique, there is another one that we’d like to talk about. What is it? Well, NextSmartShip, of course! The NextSmart ship is the answer to all your fulfillment solutions. The company has partnerships with a variety of international carriers. Hence, it can quickly deliver your goods from one place to another throughout the globe, and that too at the best prices. Therefore, if you are searching for a high-quality fulfillment center that can make your e-commerce business operations so much easier, it is time to look into this one.
FAQs
Who is the best shipping carrier?
There are many great shipping carriers, and some of the best names in business are UPS, USPS, FedEx, and DHL.
Is it a shipping carrier or courier?
Carriers typically transport large quantities of packages, while couriers transport smaller shipments.
What does OTP mean in shipping?
OTP refers to On-Time Pick Up, which is the percentage of shipments that are picked up by the carrier within an agreed-upon time frame.
Conclusion
As a new operating business in the e-commerce industry, choosing the best shipping carriers for your delivery services is essential. We hope this article helped you shed light on what the best pick in this domain might be for you. Moreover, we suggest that you take a look at NextSmartShip as well. The delivery service is exceptional and provides excellent prices.
