The Ship.com FAQ for Small Business

Everything You Need to Know About Discounted Shipping Labels

Shipping Software Frequently Asked Questions Index
  1. How to Pick the Right Discount Shipping Labels and Conquer Shipping Software Confusion with Ship.com
  2. What are My Shipping Labels Options at Ship.com? Ship.com Connects You to Top Carriers UPS & USPS
  3. How to Go Global with Ease: UPS International Shipping & USPS International Shipping with Ship.com!
  4. How to use Ship.com Shipping Software Your Way with Your Own Packaging!
  5. How to Weigh Like a Pro: Avoid Shipping Labels Surprises!
  6. How to Master Package Measuring: Conquer Shipping Labels Postage Like a Pro!
  7. How do I Use Flat Rate & Regional Rate Boxes: Level Up Your Shipping Labels Game!
  8. How do I Unlock Soft Pack Cubic Savings?
  9. How to Avoid Surprise Fees: Understanding UPS Chargebacks on Shipping Labels
  10. When Does USPS Priority Mail Outshine USPS Ground Advantage?
  11. How do I Process Return Shipping Labels?

Scroll down for answers!

1. How to Pick the Right Discount Shipping Labels and Conquer Shipping Software Confusion with Ship.com


Feeling lost in the maze of postage options? It happens to the best of us. But hold on – Ship.com is here to guide you! We'll help you choose the perfect postage for your package.

Mastering postage is all about strategy. You need to be quick, efficient, and know your options. Let's break it down:

  • Package Weight: Is it a lightweight letter or a heavyweight box? Knowing the weight is key to finding the most affordable option.
  • Dimensions Matter: Size matters in shipping costs. Measure your package accurately (length, width and height) to avoid surprises.
  • Packaging Power: Cardboard box or bubble wrap champion? Different packaging types have different postage options. Ship.com helps you choose the right one to keep your package safe on its journey.
  • Insurance: Consider adding insurance for extra peace of mind.
  • Speed it Up: Does your package need to get there ASAP? Expedited shipping is available, but it'll cost a bit more.

Ship.com is your secret weapon against postage confusion!  We compare all the options based on your needs and find the perfect balance between speed, cost, and protection.  Just enter your package details, and we'll reveal all the awesome choices available through our exclusive agreements and discounted rates with UPS and USPS – like a trusted advisor laying out a winning strategy.

Ditch the frustration and conquer postage with Ship.com! We'll help you choose the perfect option and get your package on its way, faster than you can say "Shipped!"

2. What are My Shipping Labels Options at Ship.com? Ship.com Connects You to Top Carriers UPS & USPS


Ship.com puts USPS and UPS at your fingertips, with all the postage options you need laid out on one easy-to-navigate page. Find the perfect fit for your package in seconds, no more hopping between carriers.  

Streamline Your Shipping: USPS vs. UPS with Ship.com

Choosing the right shipping carrier is crucial for any business. Ship.com helps you compare USPS and UPS to find the most efficient solution for your needs. Here's a breakdown of their key features:

USPS: Cost-Effective Champion

  • Budget-Friendly: Renowned for affordability, USPS is ideal for businesses prioritizing cost savings.
  • Ground Advantage: Perfect for lightweight packages, delivering in 2-5 business days.
  • Priority Power: Need faster delivery? Priority offers Flat Rate options for a fixed price or custom packaging for flexibility.
  • Focus on Affordability: Ideal for non-time-sensitive shipments.
  • Limited Insurance: Ship.com's Delivery Guarantee protects valuable items (USPS doesn't offer direct insurance).

UPS: Speed and Reliability

  • Discounted Rates: Ship.com unlocks deep discounts on UPS services, saving you up to 82% on Ground shipments!
  • Fast and Reliable: UPS® Ground offers domestic delivery within 1-5 business days.
  • Detailed Tracking: Keep tabs on your package with UPS's powerful tools.
  • Free Coverage: Packages are automatically covered for up to $100 in value.
  • Weekend Warrior: UPS offers Saturday pickups for uninterrupted business operations.

Ship.com: Your Efficiency Powerhouse

No matter which carrier you choose, Ship.com empowers you to streamline your shipping process:

  • Instant Rate Comparison: See pricing from both USPS and UPS side-by-side to find the optimal solution.
  • Simplified Workflow: Our user-friendly platform reduces complexity and saves you time.
  • Unlock Savings: Enjoy exclusive discounts on both USPS and UPS services through Ship.com.

Ready to Make an Informed Decision?

With Ship.com, the power is in your hands!  Enter your package details and we'll show you all the options from both USPS and UPS, along with estimated costs. Choose the carrier that best meets your budget and delivery needs, and get ready to experience efficient shipping!

3. How to Go Global with Ease: UPS International Shipping & USPS International Shipping with Ship.com!


Ship.com has you covered for conquering international shipping too. Here's your arsenal of awesome options:

  • First-Class Package International: Go global for less on lightweight packages.
  • Priority Mail International: Strike a balance between speed and affordability for international shipments.
  • Priority Mail Express International: Need it there faster than a speeding bullet train? This is your go-to.
  • UPS® Standard (to Canada & Mexico): Streamline shipping to our North American neighbors. 🇨🇦🇲🇽
  • UPS Worldwide Saver®: Get reliable international shipping at a competitive price.
  • UPS Worldwide Standard®: Take advantage of cost-effective options for international deliveries.
  • UPS Worldwide Expedited®: Get your package there quickly, across borders and continents.

No matter where your package needs to go, Ship.com has the perfect international shipping solution for you!

4. How to use Ship.com Shipping Software Your Way with Your Own Packaging!


No USPS branded box or envelope? No problem! Ship.com makes it easy to use your own packaging and purchase a label for your next shipment. Here's the deal:

  • Ground Advantage (Formerly First Class): Perfect for lightweight packages under 16 oz. Think documents or small gifts!
  • Custom Package: Got something bigger or heavier? Use this option for anything over 16 oz. or packages with unique shapes.

Just tell Ship.com what's inside, and we'll show you all the options that work for your awesome, self-packaged creation!

5. How to Weigh Like a Pro: Avoid Shipping Labels Surprises!


Before you send your shipment, make sure you know its exact dimensions and weight. Here's the scoop:

  • Measure and Weigh after packing: Once everything's tucked in tight, get those measurements (height, width, length) and weight.
  • Accurate weight matters: A mail scale is your best friend. Avoid any surprise postage charges at the post office!

Ship.com highly recommends you grab a scale for ultimate accuracy. Check out the Ship.com supplies page to get the best deal on a scale and other supplies.

6. How to Master Package Measuring: Conquer Shipping Labels Postage Like a Pro!


Before you send your package to your customer,  we need to know its exact measurements. Here's how:

  • Measure after packing: Once everything's tucked in tight, grab that tape measure.
  • Length, Width, Height: Get those dimensions down to the inch (round up).
  • Envelopes? Height Matters: For envelopes, the shortest side is the height. Don't forget this sneaky little measurement when picking your postage.

Ship.com recommends ultimate accuracy by grabbing a tape measure and becoming a measuring master!

7. How do I Use Flat Rate & Regional Rate Boxes: Level Up Your Shipping Labels Game!


Looking for a super convenient way to ship heavier items? Flat Rate and Regional Rate boxes might be your new best friends!

Here's the deal:

  • Flat Rate & Regional Rate: These boxes come in various sizes and offer a flat price for shipping, no matter the weight (within limits!).
  • Free Boxes: The best part? USPS offers them for free! You can order them directly from their website here.

But wait, there's more!  Ship.com can help you decide if a Flat Rate or Regional Rate box is the perfect fit for your package,  and even show you estimated costs for both options.

Skip the guesswork and level up your shipping game with Ship.com!

8. How do I Unlock Soft Pack Cubic Savings?


Need the shipping magic of USPS Cubic Soft Pack?  Ship.com has you covered!

Here's the deal:

  • Cubic Soft Pack: This option lets you pay based on your package's volume, not just weight - perfect for lightweight, bulky items.
  • Custom Package + Dimensions = Savings Power! Just select "Custom Package" under USPS, enter your package's dimensions and weight, then hit "Confirm Weight."
  • We Do the Math, You Save Big! Ship.com will crunch the numbers and show you the best price between Cubic Soft Pack and Priority Weight Based.

Stop wasting money on unnecessary postage! Ship.com helps you find the perfect fit and save on every shipment.

9. How to Avoid Surprise Fees: Understanding UPS Chargebacks on Shipping Labels


UPS is a great shipping partner, but sometimes unexpected charges can appear on your bill. These are called "chargebacks" and they can be a real headache. Let's break down what they are and how to avoid them:

What are UPS Chargebacks?

Think of a chargeback as UPS asking you to pay for something extra they had to do with your package. This could happen for a few reasons:

  • Package Weight or Size Surprise: If your package is heavier or bigger than you declared when you shipped it, UPS might charge you the difference. How does this happen?
    • Prices are determined based on the weights the dimension you enter; this data needs to be accurate to get accurate pricing.  It is a self reporting system. 
    • Ship.com relays this information to UPS which returns the best pricing for the weights and dimensions the customer enters.
    • Once a shipping label is purchased and the package is shipped, UPS individually weights and measures every package to see if they match the original data entered by you.  If you enter data incorrectly that is less than weight or dimension determined by UPS, then this could result in an overage amount being charged back to you.
    • Ship.com DOES NOT determine overage charges.  They come directly from UPS based on their own calculations.
  • Delivery Hiccups: Incorrect addresses, refused packages, or customs delays can lead to extra fees for figuring out where your package goes.
  • Declared Value vs. Real Value: If your package gets lost or damaged, UPS will only reimburse you for the value you declared when you shipped it. Saying your item is worth less than it is to save money can backfire if something happens.

How to Avoid UPS Chargebacks:

  • Be a Measuring Master: Weigh and measure your package once it’s fully packaged and using a package scale before you ship it. Round up if you're unsure – better safe than sorry! You can purchase a package scale from the supplies page on Ship.com.
  • Double-Check the Address: Make sure the recipient's address is 100% accurate, including the postal code.
  • Be Honest About Your Stuff: Declare the full value of your item so you're covered if it gets lost or damaged.

By following these simple steps, you can avoid those annoying UPS chargebacks and keep your shipping hassle free. Remember, clear communication with your recipient and accurate information are key!

10. When Does USPS Priority Mail Outshine USPS Ground Advantage?


USPS Ground Advantage
stands as a stalwart shipping option, promising reliable delivery within approximately 4 days. It's a choice embraced by those valuing cost-effectiveness and displaying patience in anticipation of their packages. 

Conversely, Priority Mail shines with its swift delivery, averaging just 2 days. While it entails a slightly higher shipping cost, the expeditiousness and efficiency it delivers are invaluable, particularly when time is of the essence.

Opting for Priority Mail extends beyond mere expedited delivery; it embodies your commitment to elevating customer satisfaction. We recognize the emotional significance of promptly delivering your packages, and through our expedited shipping services, we endeavor to make every one of your deliveries a moment of joy and reliability. Choosing Priority Mail means entrusting us with the assurance that your package will gracefully arrive at its destination, precisely when needed, devoid of any unnecessary delays.

Furthermore, the accelerated delivery times foster not only efficiency but also profound business outcomes. Satisfied customers are not just patrons; they are advocates, poised to return for future purchases and forge enduring relationships. With Priority Mail, you transcend mere shipping; you craft an experience, leaving an indelible imprint on your customers' hearts.

In essence, while Ground Advantage presents a pragmatic, cost-effective solution with a marginally longer delivery window, Priority Mail embodies the epitome of expedited service, ensuring your packages traverse the distance in a mere 2 days. We encourage you to select the option that resonates with the efficiency and satisfaction your customers expect.

Additionally, it's essential to note that Priority Mail packages experience fewer instances of being lost or misplaced compared to those sent via Ground Advantage. The shorter transit time significantly reduces the chances of any unforeseen issues, further solidifying Priority Mail as the premier choice for ensuring your packages reach their destination securely and on time.

11. How do I Process Return Shipping Labels?


Ship.com provides helpful tools for managing the return process for your business. Here's what you can do with Ship.com regarding returns:

Generate Return Shipping Labels for Delivered or Completed Orders

Here's how it works for orders with the status of “Delivered” or “Completed”.   

  1. Locate the Order: Look for the specific order in the orders page. When you click on the three dots next to your order, you will see a drop down menu that will allow you to process the return.
  2. Choose the return label option. After selecting "Process return" you will have the option to purchase a return label or select "No return label".
  3. Generate Return Label: Ship.com allows you to generate a pre-paid return label for your customer to use.

Additional Tips:

  • Clearly outline your return policy on your website or include it in your customer communications.
  • Communicate effectively with your customers throughout the return process.

By using Ship.com in conjunction with your own return policy, you can streamline the return process for your business and your customers.

We hope you found what you were looking for!


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