The Mailbox Ballard

The end of the holiday season not only brings a new year, but also new shipping guidelines! All the carriers adjust their pricing annually to reflect inflation, as well as in the effort to expand their service areas and options.

Though these increases may seem daunting, don’t forget that we are a multi-carrier facility. This allows us to compare and contrast all of the carriers and possible service options, ensuring that your package arrives on time at the lowest price (going straight through a carrier limits these options!).

Here are some quick facts about the increases:

UPS and FEDEX

You may have already seen an increase in cost: UPS rates have been higher as of December 28th, and FedEx increases have been in effect since January 4th. Here are the basics:

• Both FedEx and UPS Ground rates have increased by 4.9%
• FedEx Express rates will increase and average of 4.9%, whereas UPS Air and International will increase an average of 5.2%.
• Dimensional weight pricing is still in effect, meaning that large packages get charged more despite their weight.
• UPS Direct Delivery Only: If a UPS driver finds that the recipient of a package is not at home, they are now given the discretion to deliver the package to a lock box located somewhere in the home’s vicinity. You are now able to choose “UPS Direct Delivery Only” as a service option to ensure that this does not happen. Therefore, it is important to specify if you’re shipping to someone who is unable or unwilling to leave their home to pick up a delivery.  UPS in their infinite wisdom has decided to add a fee for delivering if they have to deliver to the address you specified.  More on that in a later post.

DHL International

• DHL’s rates have increased as of January 2nd by an average of 4.9%.

USPS

USPS shipping rates increase an average of 9.5% on January 17th. The January increase does not impact letters, First-Class flats and cards.

• First-Class Package Service (a.k.a. First-Class Mail Parcel) rises an average of 12.8%.
• Priority Mail Express Flat Rate boxes will be discontinued, both domestic and international.
• “Standard Post” has been renamed “Retail Ground,” with an average increase of 10%.
• “Parcel Select“has been renamed “Parcel Select Ground.”
• Benefit: The maximum weight for First-Class Package increases from 12.99 oz to 15.99 oz.

SHIPPING TIPS

Here are some tips for getting the most out of your shipping in 2016:

• Consider flat rate options with USPS when possible – they will often cost less than regular rates with other carriers if your item can fit in their Medium or Large Flat Rate boxes.  They are smaller than how they look on TV.
• Buy gifts or other items far in advance to when you need them delivered, allowing time for the less expensive ground options. USPS is often the least expensive option for packages under 5 pounds, but delivery takes 3-5 days longer than other carriers depending on distance.
• Pack as efficiently as possible – because of UPS and FedEx’s use of Dimensional Pricing, large packages that are light will be billed at a higher weight based on size.
• If you have a budget in mind, shop based on size and weight restrictions (we can help you figure this out- just ask for a quote!).
• Remember: Most of this information is given in averages, meaning that distance and size still factor largely into your unique shipment. This is especially significant for business owners trying to create a budget for shipping; there are many shippers that will see a small increase below the average, while others may see a increase above average depending on what is being shipped.
• Ask an expert! We are happy to help you find the least expensive option available, with often a trick or two up our sleeves.  There is definitely a benefit with shipping with an organization that has 20 years experience in the field.