Best Shipping Company For Small Business

Introduction

Being a small business owner, you have a lot on your plate. You must wear many hats, juggle a million tasks, and still find time to grow your business. It's no wonder that shipping is often one of the last things on your mind.

But if you're not careful, shipping can be a big drain on your resources in terms of time and money. That's why choosing a shipping company that can help take some of the burden off your shoulders is important.

This article will review the best shipping companies for small businesses. We'll also cover tips on choosing the right shipping company for your business and anything else you need to know.

Top shipping companies for small businesses

There are multiple shipping companies out there, and it can be tough to know which is right for your business. Many of these shipping companies provide a wide range of differing services. To make things easier, we've compiled a list of the best shipping companies for small businesses and the services they offer.

1) FedEx

FedEx is one of the prominent international shipping companies that offer various services for businesses of all sizes. They have a wide range of shipping options, including overnight, ground, and international shipping. They also offer a money-back guarantee on all of their services.

Pros of using FedEx for small businesses:

• A wide range of shipping options
• Money-back guarantee
• Online tracking and reporting
• Delivery within 1-3 days

Cons of using FedEx for small businesses:

• Not the most cost effective

2) UPS

UPS is a US-based multinational package delivery and supply chain management company. It is one of the world's largest package delivery companies. UPS offers various shipping services for businesses of all sizes, including ground, air, and international shipping. They also offer tracking and reporting tools to help businesses keep track of their shipments.

Pros of using UPS for small business

• Tracking and reporting tools
• A wide range of shipping options
• Shipping takes 1-3 days
• International Shipping

Cons of using UPS for small business

• Can be expensive

3) USPS

The United States Postal Service, also commonly known as USPS, is a national service provider. It is one of the largest postal services in the world, with over 617,000 employees and more than 200 million customers. USPS is well-known for its shipping services, including First-Class Mail, Priority Mail, and Express Mail.

Advantages of using USPS for small business

• One of the most affordable shipping options for small businesses.
• Offers a variety of shipping services to choose from, depending on your needs.
• Packages can be tracked using USPS tracking tools.
• Provides free packaging for some shipments.

Disadvantages of using USPS for small business

• Some areas have limited USPS service options.
• Packages can sometimes take longer to arrive than with other shipping methods

4) DHL

DHL is a German-based international courier, parcel, and express mail service. It is one of the largest logistics companies in the world, with over 467,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories. DHL offers various shipping services, including Express, Air Freight, Ocean Freight, and Road/Rail Freight.

Advantages of using DHL for small business

• Offers a variety of shipping services to choose from.
• Has a strong international presence.
• Packages can be tracked using DHL tracking tools.
• Customs clearance is included with some shipments.

Disadvantages of using DHL for small business

• It can be more expensive than other shipping methods.
• Limited service option.

5) Blue Dart

Blue Dart is considered one of India's leading Courier and express package distribution companies. It offers various services, including next-day delivery, time-specific delivery, and door-to-door service.

• Advantages of using Blue Dart for small business
• Offers a variety of shipping services to choose from.
• Has a strong presence in India with over 10,000 employees.
• Packages can be tracked using Blue Dart tracking tools.
• Customs clearance is included with some shipments.

Disadvantages of using Blue Dart for small business

• Can be more expensive than other shipping methods.
• Limited service options outside of India.

6) Delhivery 

Delhivery is considered one of the most reliable and efficient courier companies. It has a large network of couriers and delivery personnel and offers various services, including next-day delivery, same-day delivery, and door-to-door service.

Advantages of using Delhivery for small business

• It offers a wide range of delivery options to choose from.
• It has an extensive network of couriers and delivery personnel, making it one of the most reliable courier companies.
• Customs clearance is included with some shipments.

Disadvantages of using Delhivery for small business

• Some service options are only available in major cities.
• The company has been known to have delays in shipments.

7) Ekart

Ekart is the logistics arm of Flipkart, one of the largest online retailers in India. Ekart offers various services, including next-day delivery, same-day delivery, door-to-door service, and pick-up from select Flipkart locations.

Advantages of using Ekart for small business

• Ekart has a wide reach, with over 10,000 pin codes covered.
• Ekart offers a variety of service options to choose from.

Disadvantages of using Ekart for small business

• The company is often known for providing delayed shipments. 

8) DTDC

Door-To-Door Courier, commonly known as DTDC, is one of the most popular and largest courier companies in India, with a strong presence in over 10,000 towns and cities across the country. The company offers various services like express delivery, e-commerce logistics, warehousing, and freight forwarding.

Advantages of using DTDC for small business

• DTDC provides an online tracking facility to its customers.
• It has a large network of franchisees and delivery agents.
• The company offers value-added services like reverse logistics and warehousing.

Disadvantages of using DTDC for small business

• The company is often criticized for its slow and delayed deliveries.

9) Ecom Express 

Ecom Express is a leading end-to-end logistics solution provider. The company was founded in 2012 to provide efficient and reliable logistics services to the e-commerce industry. Ecom Express has a network of over 10,000 delivery agents and serves over 25,000 pin codes across the country.

Advantages of using Ecom Express

• The shipping rates offered by Ecom Express are very competitive.
• The company has an excellent track record of delivering orders on time.
• Ecom Express offers value-added services such as reverse logistics and warehousing.

Disadvantages of using Ecom Express

• International shipping might be expensive with Ecom Express.

10) Aramex 

Aramex is considered one of the leading global providers of comprehensive logistics and transportation solutions. It was established in 1982; Aramex now operates in over 500 locations across the globe, with a team of over 30,000 employees.

Advantages of using Aramex

• The company has a vast global network, which can benefit businesses shipping internationally.
• Aramex offers a wide range of services, including e-commerce fulfillment, warehousing, and last-mile delivery.
• The company has a strong reputation for reliability and customer service.

Disadvantages of using Aramex

• Aramex might be more expensive than some of its competitors.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Shipping Service For Your Small Business

1) Shipping rates

Regarding small businesses, shipping rates are always a big concern. You want to find a shipping service that offers the best rates for your particular needs. So while choosing the shipping service, always keep in mind to check the rates they are offering.

2) Shipping options

Finding a shipping service that can provide you with the flexibility you need is important. The shipping service you choose should offer a variety of shipping options to choose from. This way, you can find the option that best suits your needs.

3) Delivery time

Another important factor to consider when choosing a shipping service is the delivery time. You want to ensure that the shipping service you choose can promptly deliver your products. This is especially important if you sell products that must be delivered on time.

4) Customer service

You want to ensure that the shipping service you choose has good customer service. Good customer service is essential when it comes to small businesses. To ensure that you're getting good customer service, you can read online reviews of shipping services. This way, you can get help if there are any problems with your order.

5) Package Insurance 

You also want to ensure that the shipping service you choose offers package insurance. This way, you can ensure that your products will be covered if they are damaged in transit. Package insurance in eCommerce shipping is especially important if you are shipping fragile items.

6) Tracking 

Tracking is another important feature to look for in shipping service. With tracking, you can see your package and when it will be delivered. It is helpful if you need to track down a lost package. Tracking is helpful if you want to know when your package will arrive so you can plan accordingly.

7) Company's Reputation 

When choosing a shipping service, it is important to consider the company's reputation. Make sure to research the company and read reviews from other customers. It will help you choose a reputable company that will provide good customer service.

8) Discounts and Promotions 

Many shipping companies offer discounts and promotions. These can be helpful if you are looking to save money on shipping costs. Be sure to check for these when choosing a shipping service.

9) Flexibility and Scalability 

When choosing a shipping service, it is important to consider the company's flexibility and scalability. Make sure that the company can accommodate your shipping needs as they change. It will help you avoid any problems down the road.

The most notable services provided by shipping companies for small business

1) Shipping fragile or dangerous items 

When it comes to shipping fragile or dangerous items, it is important to choose a shipping company with experience handling these items. Otherwise, you risk your items being damaged or lost in transit.

2) International shipping

For any small business that ships internationally, it is crucial to choose a shipping company with experience with this type of shipping. Otherwise, you may run into issues with customs or other problems. Various companies offer international shipping services, so it's a good idea to do research before deciding which one to use.

3) Shipping heavy items

If you need to ship heavy items, it is important to choose a shipping company with experience with this type of shipping. Otherwise, you may have problems with the item being damaged or lost in transit. Various companies offer this service, so it's a good idea to do research before deciding which one to use.

4) Door-To-Door shipping 

This type of shipping is becoming increasingly popular as it is seen as a more convenient option. The shipping company will pick up the item from your door and deliver it to the destination. It can save you time and effort, especially if you are shipping something heavy or large.

5) Express shipping 

It is the fastest type of shipping and is often used for urgently needed items. It is more expensive than other shipping methods, but it is worth it if you need the item quickly. For small businesses who want to keep their customers happy, we recommend using this type of shipping.

6) White glove service

This type of shipping is used for items that are delicate or need special care. The shipping company will take extra care to pack the item carefully and ensure it arrives safely. This service is more expensive than other shipping methods, but it is worth it if you are shipping something valuable or fragile.

7) Packaging and labeling 

When shipping something, it is important to package it correctly and label it clearly. If you do not do this, the item could be damaged in transit or delivered to the wrong address.

There are many different types of packaging material, and you should choose the one that is best for your particular item. You can also buy pre-printed labels from the shipping company, or you can print your own.

Conclusion 

As a small business owner, choosing the right shipping method for your products is important. From choosing the right packaging to finding the most economical shipping option, there are many things to consider. But if you take the time to do your research, you will be able to find the best solution for your business.

FAQs

1) What are some of the most common shipping mistakes?

The most common shipping mistakes include using the wrong packaging, not considering shipping costs, and not properly labeling the package.

2) How can I avoid making these mistakes?

You can avoid making these mistakes by taking the time to do your research and choosing the right shipping method for your products.

3) What are some of the best shipping methods for small businesses?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best shipping method for a small business will vary depending on the products being shipped and the business's budget.

However, some popular shipping methods for small businesses include USPS flat rate shipping, UPS ground shipping, and FedEx ground shipping. You can also choose to use a shipping service like BlueDart or Ecom-Express, which offers discounts on shipping rates for small businesses.

4) What are some tips for packaging products for shipping?

When packaging products for shipping, it is important to choose the right size box or envelope for the product and use adequate padding to protect the product. You should also include a packing slip with your contact information if the package is lost or damaged in transit.