Shipping for any business, large or small, can be a huge expense each year. No business should be spending more than they have to, so here are a few tips to help you save money on your shipping expenses and cut shipping costs.

1. Talk to Your Shipping Provider

Once you’ve chosen your shipping provider (FedEx, UPS, DHL, USPS), contact their business department where you will be able to speak with a specialist. Discuss with them what you will be shipping for your business and what requirements you have, so they can help you formulate the best possible solutions at the best prices.

2. Establish Shipping Policies & Inform Your Customers

Determine what shipping costs you will pay for your customers. For example, standard ground shipping may be what you provide for your customers. If they want 2-day or overnight shipping, will they be required to pay the difference or all of it? Set your policies, inform your staff, and make it clear to your customers both on your website and within your business location.

 

3. When You Can, Consolidate Shipping Costs

If you’re shipping large loads that would fall into the freight category, but you don’t have enough to fill a full truckload on your own, shipping can become expensive. When you find yourself in this situation, you should consider working with a freight consolidation company. They will combine your freight with other shipments in order to create a full truckload, which will reduce your shipping expenses.

4. Track Carrier Performance

Keep track of how your shipping provider performed. Did they pick up and deliver your package on time? Did they charge you for the correct weight and dimensions? Did they provide you proof of delivery as requested? This and a whole list of other things should be audited, but this is a task that can be somewhat time-consuming and frustrating if you don’t know what you’re looking for. This is where we come in. We can provide this service for you at no additional cost to you.

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