Master the Holiday Shipping Rush: Top 5 Insider Tips for Hassle-Free Deliveries
Sending and receiving packages around the holidays is always stressful. You have to worry about the transport, possible delays, deliveries and even losing your packages. On the other hand, shopping in stores is even more frustrating. Going to crowded malls, waiting in long lines, and spending hours running from store to store to find one particular thing. All of that, just to see that almost everything is sold out.
Whether you are a business trying to keep up with the Holiday rush, or an individual trying to send some Christmas presents, things can get a little tricky with deliveries.
So, what can you do? Luckily, we have some insider tips about deliveries that could help you get all the presents on time, with zero stress, from the comfort and warmth of your home!
Ship It Early
As an individual, the easiest, most simple way is just to ship things early. Everything is still in stock, the traffic is not overcrowded, and there should be no delays. However, you can miss out on all the great deals that come with the holidays – the sales with 50%, 60% off, or even more. That is something to take into account.
And let’s be honest, isn’t it a little more fun? Throw on your Christmas PJs, put on some Christmas music, and dive into present shopping with a cup of warm tea! That’s the spirit that will keep the loving and sharing atmosphere going, even if you’ve started earlier!
However, if you are unable to get into it early or are a business trying to keep up with the times, it can get a little bit more tricky. The traffic is way overwhelmed, and the requests just keep coming in. That’s where these 5 insider tips below come in really handy!
Follow These 5 Insider Tips For A Stress-Free Shipping
- Insurance Is Key
The best way to keep your packages safe is to get shipping insurance. Of course, there are multiple reasons to insure your packages. From crushed, damaged, and lost packages and even theft, many things could go wrong, especially since the traffic is way denser during this season.
Many top courier services include package insurance, which means that if something goes wrong during the holiday shipping rush, you may seek compensation from the company. It is the most convenient way of keeping your goods safe, but you can always find out if shipping insurance is necessary for your specific circumstances.
- Don’t Forget About Fees and Taxes
Another important tip is to not let fees and taxes slip your mind. Yes, it does seem obvious. But you must consider it when preparing to ship a package during the holiday frenzy. Make sure that you check for all the possible expenses and include them in your budget.
Otherwise, it can catch you off guard, and while you figure things out, your package might already be on its way back to you. Remember, it’s the most crowded time of the year when it comes to shipping items, so there is little to no tolerance by shipping companies.
- Use the Right Packaging
We are all guilty of poorly wrapped gifts. That is okay, as long as you give them in person.
However, this must not be the case when sending them during holidays. Every item must be well prepared for its trip.
Use the right boxes and wrap things tightly so that nothing moves during the transport and ensure everything arrives at its destination in the same condition as you’ve sent it.
Make sure that everything fits like a glove, and seal it up.
The second thing is to label your packages correctly. If something is delicate, put on the “fragile” sticker. This will let the couriers know how to handle your packages. It is crucial, especially when it comes to high-value items. This way, you are ensuring that the item gets to your recipient intact. And no crying over broken items in your deliveries.
- Pay Attention to DIM Weight
DIM weight is a postal service pricing method that estimates your shipping fee depending on how much space a shipment takes up.
That basically means that smaller, lightweight packages will cost less than bigger ones. On the other end, smaller packages are more likely to be sent than big, bulky ones, at least during the busy season. Now, how can you benefit from this? Well, it’s quite simple!
Since the parcels are overbooked and the packages are piled up, you get a better chance of your package being “squeezed in” in overcrowded trucks and containers. Bigger packages are usually left behind if there is no room for them. Not to mention that simply keeping them in line will cost you more.
So, if you’re sending multiple items to the same address, it’s better to send more small packages than just a large and heavy one. Plus if there are little kids at the address they will enjoy getting deliveries.
- Leave It To the Pros
After all, sometimes it’s best to leave the job to the professionals.
They deal with these problems on a daily basis, so they already know how to handle things.
Not to mention, they are aware of all the possible issues that may occur along the way.
Also, it’s nice just to sit back, relax, and let someone else do the legwork for you! All you have to do is to prepare the package correctly and let them handle the rest. This way, you can be sure that your package will be delivered safely and without delays.
Bonus Advice
Knowing where your packages are at all times is just the cherry on the cake regarding shipping safety. Since top-tier courier services want you to have the best experience, they usually have their own apps for tracking packages. How does it work? It’s easy!
Every package is assigned a tracking number. With just one click, you can find your packages by entering that number into the app! Tracking your packages is the easiest way to put your mind at ease. It decreases the likelihood of package loss and theft.
Because you have access to information at all times, you can immediately solve any problem as it occurs – you’re only a phone call away from dealing with anything unexpected with your deliveries.
Enjoy The Process!
No matter how stressful it can get, the holiday season is all about giving! Think of all the joy your packages will bring once they arrive at their destination. Now that you know these insider tips, holiday shipping will get a lot easier! So, put on your ugly Christmas sweater and enjoy your new, stress-free shipping experience. Good luck!