Use the Best Parcel Service – Not Always the Most Expensive

I have worked with many companies that need packages delivered within one to two days. Because of these timeframes, they often default to express shipping, which is more expensive than ground. It’s worth analyzing the data to see if a more cost-effective option can deliver packages on the same schedule. We always recommend using the Ground networks whenever possible and avoiding Express Early Overnight if it’s not necessary.

Express vs. Ground
FedEx and UPS are both excellent carriers, and all of their services are reliable. The Ground network can usually deliver packages within 400 miles in two days. Delivery times will vary depending on location and carrier hub, but shipping via ground often results in significant cost savings compared to express.

You can perform your own analysis using the data provided in carrier invoices. Ship a few additional packages to destinations within 400 miles and compare the delivery times to those of express shipments.

Express Overnight Early vs. Express Overnight Afternoon
Review your data to see when shipments actually arrive using these different services. They may reach their destination at the same time or within an acceptable window, allowing you to switch to the less expensive Express Overnight Afternoon service.

Overnight Early
I generally do not recommend using this service. While it is designed to arrive two hours earlier in theory, but it may reach the destination at the same time as other overnight options.

Use the data available to determine which services work best for your business.