Information Needed for Shipping Cost Estimates

If you are interested in getting an estimate for shipping a package, the following information will be needed:

1. The approximate weight of the package. Weight is an important component of the shipping cost calculation. Weights are usually measured to the hundredth of a pound. Rounding is up from the hundredth of a pound; therefore, a 10.01 pound package is rated at 11 pounds.
2. The approximate size of the packaging. Measure the length, width, and height of the package to the quarter of an inch. In most cases, round up to the next inch if the dimension you are measuring exceeds the inch marker on your tape measure; therefore, a dimension of 13.25 inches is generally rounded up to 14 inches.
3. The destination zip code. Knowing the destination zip code helps rate the package since the country is generally broken down into zones by the shipping companies. The further the origin zone is from the destination zone, the more the package will cost to ship.
4. Commercial versus Residential. It is easier for shipping companies to locate businesses. Businesses generally display their address on the building, whereas many residences do not. Businesses are generally located in the center of town, while residences can be situated out in the "boon docks," or remote areas. Shipping companies generally charge more for residential deliveries than commercial destinations. A home-based business is considered a residence if the owner sleeps at that location. The same holds true for shipping items to a hotel/motel guest. Shipping to a guest classifies the shipment as residential; shipping to the hotel staff (e.g., hotel manager) in the office classifies the shipment as commercial.
5. How quickly you need the package delivered. Since shipping companies have divided the country, and even the world, into various zones, the guaranteed delivery days and times vary by zone. Be prepared to pay a hefty premium for an overnight delivery to a far-away destination.

There are various on-line tools that can be utilized to estimate the cost of shipping a package. At www.theupsstore.com, www.ups.com, and www.usps.com there are cost calculators that utilize the information detailed above to estimate the cost of shipping your package. You can also utilize the services of your friendly, local The UPS Store location via a quick telephone call. Have the listed information available for a fast estimate for your shipment.

Fred Savio is a multiple center owner of The UPS Store franchise in southern New Jersey. You can email him at fredsinfo2006@yahoo.com.