4 Cheapest Ways to Ship a Package (2024)

Shipping plays a pivotal role in the fabric of numerous businesses, particularly within the dynamic landscape of eCommerce. Whether you navigate the realms of small business ownership, operate as an eCommerce retailer, or simply ship as an individual, uncovering the most economical means to ship a package is a constant pursuit.

As shipping costs continue to rise and the demand for swift, reliable delivery surges, staying informed about cost-effective shipping options has become imperative.

This comprehensive guide explores diverse shipping avenues, dissects the factors influencing shipping prices, and equips you with practical insights to secure budget-friendly shipping rates. Doing this can help you find the cheapest way to ship a package.

Shipping Services Table to Compare Carrier Rates: The Cheapest Way to Ship a Package

Unveiling the Motivation Behind Ship Packages

A Dual Endeavor for Individuals and Businesses

Shipping packages encapsulate a myriad of motives for both individuals and businesses. For businesses, the art of shipping is an intrinsic facet of operations, particularly for eCommerce entities relying on seamless and punctual product deliveries to customers from international shipping.

On a personal front, individuals ship for many reasons, ranging from sending heartfelt gifts to close ones, facilitating the return of online purchases, and orchestrating the transportation of belongings during relocation.

Navigating the Labyrinth: Strategies for The Cheapest Way to Ship a Package

Securing the cheapest way to ship demands a harmonious blend of strategies. This comprehensive guide is a compass through diverse shipping options and unravels the intricate factors that sway shipping prices.

Moreover, it furnishes practical tips on navigating affordable shipping options and leveraging shipping discounts provided by various shipping service providers.

Insider Tips for Attaining Pocket-Friendly Shipping Fees

Here are a few insider tips to ensure you secure the most affordable shipping option:

• Compare Shipping Services:
  • Each shipping service is accompanied by its distinct price point. Standard ground shipping is often the most cost-effective, whereas expedited delivery options like overnight or two-day shipping incur higher expenses. Utilize comparison tools or shipping software to juxtapose rates among various shipping carriers, including shipping discounts available.
• Understand Factors Affecting Shipping Prices:
  • Critical determinants of shipping carriers’ costs include package size, weight, delivery timeframe, and distance. A profound understanding of these factors empowers you to make informed decisions and discover avenues to mitigate shipping expenses.
• Leverage Shipping Discounts:
  • Many shipping service providers extend shipping discounts to businesses based on shipping volume. Establishing a business account with these providers unlocks exclusive deals, offering a gateway to substantial savings on shipping costs.

Decoding the Elements Impacting Shipping Prices

Understanding the intricate factors influencing shipping carriers’ costs is paramount to uncovering the cheapest shipping costs. Let’s delve into these factors:

• Package Size and Weight:
  • The shipping cost is intricately linked to the dimensions and weight of the package. Generally, more extensive and heavier packages command higher shipping costs compared to smaller, lightweight counterparts.
• Delivery Timeframe:
  • The urgency of delivery directly impacts the price. Expedited options such as overnight or two-day shipping typically incur higher expenses than the more time-flexible standard ground shipping.
• Distance and Location:
  • The geographical span a package needs to traverse influences shipping costs. International shipping generally carries a heftier price tag than domestic shipping, with additional fees for shipping to remote areas.
• Seasonal Factors:
  • The shipping rate fluctuates based on the time of year. Notably, many services heighten their shipping rate during peak seasons like the holidays due to the escalated demand for timely deliveries.

Unearthing the Most Economical Shipping Options in 2023

Several shipping providers extend a competitive shipping rate to cater to diverse shipping needs, including international shipping. Here’s an in-depth exploration of some of the most affordable shipping options available in 2023:

Cheapest Shipping Options Based on Delivery Time

Delivery time is a critical factor when choosing a shipping service. Here, we explore the cheapest shipping options based on different delivery timeframes.

Standard and 3-Day Shipping Options

Standard shipping options can vary based on several factors. For parcels weighing under 16 ounces, USPS First Class Mail is usually the most affordable option.

For packages weighing over 16 ounces, UPS Ground and USPS Priority Mail are two commonly used services that offer good ground shipping options. Depending on the destination, these services may even deliver the package in as little as 24 hours.

Two-Day Shipping Costs

For two-day shipping, USPS Priority Mail is often the most economical choice. However, for parcels weighing over 10 pounds, UPS and FedEx’s two-day services may be more cost-effective.

Overnight Shipping

Overnight shipping is a premium service and typically comes at a higher cost. However, USPS Priority Mail Express offers competitive rates for overnight delivery. UPS Next Day Air and FedEx Priority Overnight are reliable options for guaranteed next-day delivery.

How do you ship a package based on size?

The size of a package significantly impacts the shipping rate. Larger packages typically cost more to ship because they take up more space in the delivery vehicle. However, there are ways to navigate this and find the cheapest shipping options based on the package size.

Small Packages

USPS First Class Mail is often the most affordable option for small packages. However, UPS Ground and USPS Priority Mail also offer competitive rates for small packages.

Medium Packages

For medium-sized packages, USPS Priority Mail is usually the cheapest option. However, UPS Ground and FedEx Ground also offer competitive rates for medium packages.

Large Packages

For large packages, USPS Priority Mail is often the cheaper shipping option. However, UPS Ground or FedEx Ground may provide more competitive rates for heavier or bigger packages.

The Cheapest Way to Ship Internationally

Shipping internationally is typically more expensive than domestic shipping, but there are ways to find affordable international shipping options. USPS First Class International is the cheapest option for packages weighing up to 4 lbs. UPS Worldwide Expedited or FedEx International Economy are good options for larger parcels.

Cheapest Shipping Options Based on Weight

The weight of a package significantly impacts the shipping cost. Here, we’ll look at the cheapest shipping options based on weight categories.

Packages Under 1 LB

For packages weighing under 1 lb, USPS First Class Mail is usually the cheapest shipping method.

Packages Under 5 LBs

For packages weighing between 1 lb and 5 lbs, USPS Priority Mail is often the cheapest way to ship.

Packages Under 10 LBs

For packages weighing between 5 lbs and 10 lbs, UPS Ground and FedEx Ground are usually the cheapest way to ship.

Packages Under 20 LBs

For packages weighing between 10 lbs and 20 lbs, UPS Ground and FedEx Ground are typically the cheapest option.

Packages 50+ Pounds

For heavy packages weighing 50 lbs or more, UPS Ground and FedEx Ground are often the cheapest way to ship.

How to Offer Customers the Cheapest Shipping Rates

Offering your customers the cheapest shipping rates can significantly improve your customer experience and boost your sales. Here are some strategies:

Offer Free Shipping

Offering free shipping is a powerful way to attract customers. However, it’s essential to consider the costs associated with this strategy. One way to offset free shipping costs is to incorporate the shipping costs into the product’s price.

Offer Flat-Fee Shipping

Offering flat-fee shipping is another effective strategy. This approach involves charging a single fixed fee for shipping, regardless of the size or weight of the package.

Offer Free Shipping Above a Certain Threshold

Another strategy is to offer free shipping for orders that exceed a certain amount. This approach encourages customers to spend more to qualify for free shipping.

Use a Shipping Calculator

A shipping calculator can help you accurately estimate shipping costs and avoid undercharging or overcharging your customers.

Understanding Dimensional Weight

Dimensional or DIM weight is a pricing method shipping carriers use to account for the space a package occupies relative to its actual weight. It plays a significant role in shipping, especially for larger, lightweight packages.

Here’s how it works and its implications:

1. Calculation :
   • DIM is calculated by multiplying a package’s length, width, and height in inches and then dividing the result by a carrier’s specific dimensional factor (often called the DIM factor).
   • The formula looks like (Length x Width x Height) / DIM Factor.
   • The result is then compared to the package’s actual weight, and the higher of the two values is used to calculate shipping costs.
2. Purpose:
   • The goal is to ensure that carriers are fairly compensated for the space a package occupies in their vehicles, especially when dealing with more oversized but lightweight items, helping carriers optimize their cargo space and maintain cost efficiency.
3. Cost Implications Dimensional Weight:
   • If the DIM is higher than the actual weight, the shipping cost is calculated based on the DIM, which means that a lightweight, bulky package may cost more to ship than a denser, heavier package.
   • This pricing strategy encourages shippers to use efficient packaging and reduce unnecessary void space in packages, ultimately contributing to more efficient use of transportation resources.
4. Applicability:
   • Many major shipping carriers, including FedEx, UPS, and DHL, use this metric in their pricing, especially for domestic and international shipments. Companies usually apply this to ground and air shipments.
5. Considerations for Shippers:
   • Shippers should be mindful of the DIM factor when packaging their items, as inefficient or oversized packaging can result in higher shipping costs.
   • Understanding the Dimensional Weight rules of the chosen carrier is essential for accurate cost predictions and efficient shipping practices.

Where to Find the Best Shipping Rates and Carrier Discounts

Shipping software platforms offer discounted shipping rates for various carriers. These platforms provide tools for comparing prices of shipping companies, automating shipping tasks, and managing shipping operations, making finding the most affordable shipping rates easier.

How Can I Make Shipping Cheaper?

Compare Shipping Rates:

Start your cost-saving journey by researching and comparing shipping rates across various carriers. This step is crucial for identifying the most economical option that caters to the specific requirements of your shipping needs.

Negotiate with Carriers:

Direct negotiation with carriers, mainly if you maintain a consistent shipping volume, can lead to securing favorable rates and terms. Establishing a collaborative relationship with carriers may open avenues for cost-saving opportunities and optimized shipping expenses.

Optimize Packaging:

Efficient packaging is a crucial strategy for minimizing dimensional weight charges. Ensuring that your packages are appropriately sized and avoiding unnecessary void space can mitigate additional costs associated with dimensional weight pricing, contributing to overall shipping cost reduction.

Explore Alternative Shipping Solutions:

Broaden your horizons by exploring alternative shipping solutions. Consider regional or local carriers for potentially competitive rates, engage with third-party logistics (3PL) providers for discounted rates and streamlined logistics services, and investigate hybrid shipping services that combine ground and air transportation.

These alternatives may present opportunities for significant cost savings and increased operational efficiency in your shipping processes.

Offer Multiple Shipping Options:

Diversifying your shipping options is a strategic move to cater to varying customer preferences. By providing customers with choices such as standard and expedited shipping, you enhance their experience and enable them to select shipping methods based on their budget and delivery time preferences.

Offering flexibility in shipping options can contribute to customer satisfaction while allowing you to manage and control shipping costs effectively.

Use Online Shipping Platforms:

Leverage the capabilities of online shipping platforms to streamline your shipping processes. Many carriers offer online tools that allow you to generate shipping labels, track packages, and access discounted rates.

Utilizing these platforms, mainly if you operate an e-commerce business, can save time and cost. Online shipping platforms provide a convenient way to manage shipments, compare rates, and access valuable shipping-related features, contributing to an efficient and cost-effective shipping strategy.

Leverage Batch Shipments:

Consolidating multiple orders into a single shipment, commonly known as batch shipping, can be cost-effective. This approach allows you to benefit from volume discounts provided by carriers. By optimizing the packing and shipping process for multiple orders simultaneously, you reduce per-unit shipping costs and enhance the overall efficiency of your shipping operations.

Batch shipments are particularly beneficial for businesses with a high order volume, offering a practical solution to minimize expenses and improve cost-effectiveness in the shipping process.

Regularly Review and Optimize Carrier Contracts:

Keeping a close eye on your carrier contracts is essential for maintaining cost-effectiveness in shipping. Regularly review your agreements with shipping carriers to ensure they align with your evolving business needs.

Look for opportunities to renegotiate terms, take advantage of new services or promotions offered by carriers, and stay informed about changes in shipping industry trends. Optimizing carrier contracts is an ongoing process that can lead to continuous cost savings and improved efficiency in your overall shipping strategy.

The Best Options for Global Shipping

DHL Express

Regarding global shipping, DHL Express stands out with its expansive global network, offering fast and reliable express shipping services to over 220 countries and territories. Known for its efficiency, DHL is a preferred choice for businesses and individuals seeking timely and secure worldwide shipping.

FedEx International

FedEx International is a significant player in the international shipping arena, providing a comprehensive range of services that cater to businesses of all sizes. With options for express and economy worldwide shipments, FedEx is recognized for its reliability and flexibility in meeting diverse shipping needs.

UPS Worldwide

UPS Worldwide is a well-established international shipping carrier known for its broad range of services. From express to standard and economy shipping options, UPS caters to businesses seeking reliable and efficient shipping solutions on a global scale.

USPS International and Other Options

The USPS offers international shipping for businesses and individuals in the United States, including Priority Mail International and First-Class Package Worldwide Service. Other notable carriers like TNT Express, Aramex, and EMS (Express Mail Service) also contribute to the array of options for worldwide shipping, each with its own strengths and global reach.

Global Shipping Platforms

In the e-commerce and global trade era, businesses can leverage online shipping platforms like ShipStation, Shippo, and Easyship. These platforms provide access to multiple carriers, enabling companies to compare rates and choose the best shipping options for each international shipment.

Global shipping platforms offer convenience and flexibility, streamlining the shipping process for businesses operating on a worldwide scale.

When selecting an international shipping option, businesses should consider shipping speed, reliability, tracking capabilities, and cost. Additionally, staying informed about specific customs regulations and import/export restrictions for the countries involved is crucial.

As shipping offerings can evolve, you should check directly with the chosen carrier for the most up-to-date information on services and rates.

The Best Hybrid Shipping Options

In the realm of shipping, several carriers offer hybrid services that seamlessly integrate ground and air transportation to strike a balance between speed and cost. These services are designed to optimize the shipping process by leveraging each transportation mode’s strengths. Let’s explore some notable examples and considerations.

UPS SurePost and FedEx SmartPost

UPS SurePost and FedEx SmartPost are examples of hybrid services that major carriers like UPS and FedEx provide. These services predominantly rely on ground transportation for most of the shipping journey but switch to the postal service for the final delivery leg. This approach proves to be a cost-effective solution, particularly for non-urgent residential deliveries.

FedEx Express Saver

FedEx Express Saver is another hybrid service combining air and ground transportation. Positioned as a more economical option than pure express air services, FedEx Express Saver is suitable for time-sensitive shipments that don’t necessitate overnight delivery.

DHL eCommerce

DHL eCommerce is tailored for international shipping and employs a combination of air and ground transportation. This hybrid approach optimizes delivery routes and reduces costs for cross-border shipments, making it an attractive choice for businesses engaged in global trade.

Regional Carrier Networks and UPS Ground Freight

In addition to significant carriers, regional carrier networks often operate hybrid services, combining ground transportation within specific regions with strategic air movement for longer distances.

This regional focus helps optimize delivery times and shipment costs within a designated geographical area. Moreover, UPS Ground Freight is a hybrid option designed for larger shipments, employing a combination of truck transportation and strategic air movement for more extensive deliveries.

These hybrid shipping services offer various choices for businesses and individuals, catering to diverse shipping needs. By strategically integrating ground and air transportation, carriers provide services that align with different priorities, whether cost savings or accelerated delivery.

When selecting a shipping service, it’s crucial to evaluate the specific requirements of your shipments, including delivery speed, destination, and budget constraints, to make an informed decision that aligns with your needs.

Bottom Line

Finding the cheapest ways to ship a package requires research, comparison, and, sometimes, haggling over pre-negotiated discounts. By understanding the factors affecting shipping costs and exploring different options, you can find the cheapest shipping option for your needs.

Whether you’re a small business owner, an eCommerce retailer, or an individual, knowing how to find the cheapest shipping rates can save you money and improve your shipping experience.