It is possible to ship heavy packages from home.The US Postal Service offers free pickup for packages, and the process is relatively simple.It might be more economical to use a private company.You can save money by using special rates or sending package media mail.
Step 1: Pack your item in a box you choose.
You should be able to fit your item in your box.There should be space for padding on all sides of the item.Newspaper, packing peanuts, bubble wrap, and so on are used for padding.If you don't have a box, you can get one for free from your workplace.Ask your manager if you can take a used box home.The previous addresses should be blacked out.You can get free Priority shipping boxes at the post office.Ask the attendant for priority boxes.
Step 2: The cost of shipping should be calculated.
They will calculate the cost for you if you take your box to the post office.To find the box's length, width, and height, use a tape measure.Then use a scale to weigh it.Go to the USPS website in your browser after that.Click on theCalculate Postage link and input your package information.You can choose the services you want from the pages.Next day shipping or package insurance is an example of a service.
Step 3: Pay for shipping.
You should reach a screen asking you to confirm the information after you input your package information.Check the address of the recipient and the return address.You can pay for the postage with a credit or debit card.
Step 4: Attach the label.
You can print out your shipping label once you've paid for shipping.It's a good idea to tape this firmly on a part of the package.Avoid the bar codes on the label when taping.The bar code reader could be affected by tape.
Step 5: Don't open your box.
Duct tape will work in a pinch if you want to seal your box with packing tape.If you want your box to be firmly fastened shut, you need to tape the flaps closed.If the tape feels loose, use another layer to reinforce it.For recycled boxes to be used again, you might want some stability.To prevent it from falling apart or spilling open in transit, tape the edges and seams of the box.
Step 6: You can schedule the pickup.
You can go to the home page of the post office.There is a link that says "schedule a pickup."Follow the directions to pick up your package.Many private shipping providers do not offer free pickup.The shipping cost can be increased by these additional expenses.When scheduling, you can choose a location for pickup.Some examples are at your mailbox or front door.Instructions can be left to knock on the door or ring the bell.
Step 7: Your box should be ready to ship.
Normally, you would send a box from home to the post office.Pack peanuts, bubble wrap, and newspaper with your item in a suitable box.Take the measurement of your box.The information you give for your package may be different depending on the company.Shipping a package depends on length, width, height, and weight.
Step 8: You can input information and schedule a pickup.
Go to the company's website to find out how you can ship your package.To calculate postage and shipping details, you need to input the necessary information.Double check the shipping and return addresses.The label policy needs to be verified.You may be able to pay with a card and print the label, or you may have to order it by mail or pick it up from a brick and mortar location.Pick a time for pickup.
Step 9: The package should be delivered.
Use tape to seal your package.Put the label in place where you can see it.Don't use tape to cover the bar codes.If the company you are using requires a special label, you may have to fill out shipping documents before the driver can take the package.When picking up the package, the driver usually brings these.You may have to be present at the package pickup.You may be required to choose a pickup location, like your mailbox, at your front/back door.
Step 10: Economizes on shipping materials.
It can be expensive to pack peanuts, bubble wrap, and boxes.You can save money by using items around your house to pack your parcel.Use crumpled newspaper, old blankets, clean rags, and fabric stuffing to keep your packaged items from getting damaged.You can get salvaged boxes from local businesses like grocery stores and big box stores.Use a permanent marker to black out previous addresses.
Step 11: You can shop around with shipping providers.
The least expensive option is your home country's national postal service.For regular shipping or high volume shipping, you can often negotiate a better rate than the ones offered by competitors.Mention the company that gave you a better quote to your competitors.They might be able to beat that cost.
Step 12: You can inquire about special rates.
Private shipping companies may have special rates for those who are shipping for the first time.Special rates may be offered during the slow season to encourage more shipping.I'm planning on shipping a medium sized, 20 pound (9 kilogram) package from my home.Is there any special rates being offered right now for that type of shipping?
Step 13: If possible, ship your package media mail.
The cheapest way to ship packages under 70 lbs is media mail.Media mail is not preferred for time sensitive packages because it takes much longer than regular shipping.Print material must be at least 8 pages in length and include sheet music, play scripts, manuscripts, guides, periodicals, and so on.CDs and DVDs have sound and video recordings.The computer material is readable.The film has educational materials like test materials and accessories.