ParcelPedia Podcast

Choosing the Best Shipping Carrier for Your Needs

• James Banks • Episode 4

Share episode

Can You Explain The Difference Between Shipping Through U.S. Mail, FedEx, And UPS? How Do Customers Decide Which Is Best?

Uncover the secrets of efficient shipping with insights from James Banks, the mastermind behind ParcelPedia, and co-host Sophia Yvette. Ever wondered how to navigate the complex world of shipping carriers? From the cost-effective solutions of USPS to the reliable and speedy options offered by FedEx and UPS, James shares expert tips on choosing the best service tailored to your needs. Whether it's a small letter or a bulky piece of furniture, grasp the nuances of each carrier's strengths to ensure your packages reach their destination safely and efficiently.

James also delves into unique scenarios where certain carriers come out on top, like the exclusive use of USPS for shipping to PO boxes. Learn how package size, weight, and destination play crucial roles in selecting the right shipping method. With these valuable insights, transform your shipping experience and make informed decisions that save time and money. Tune in for a comprehensive guide that promises to elevate your understanding of shipping services and help streamline your logistics like never before.

To learn more about ParcelPedia visit:
https://www.ParcelPedia.com
ParcelPedia
8992 Preston Road, Suite 110
Frisco, Texas
972- 335-1450

Speaker 1:

Welcome to the Parcelpedia podcast, the ultimate guide to all things shipping and business services in Frisco, texas, from US mail and FedEx to private mailboxes and packing supplies. We've got you covered. Stay tuned for a special discount code to save on your next order. And now delivering expert tips and insider insights with a smile, here's your host, james Banks. Owner of Parcelpedia.

Speaker 2:

Not all shipping services are created equal. James Banks outlines the key differences between US Mail, fedex and UPS, helping customers make informed choices based on cost, speed and reliability. Welcome back everyone. I'm Sophia Yvette, co-host, slash producer, back in the studio with James Banks. James, how's it going today?

Speaker 3:

Hey Sophia, I'm doing well. How are you?

Speaker 2:

I'm doing well also. So, james, can you explain the difference between shipping through US Mail, fedex and UPS? How do customers decide which is best?

Speaker 3:

Oh, for sure I can help you with that. Cost, reliability, speed those are three major factors between those three. So with the United States Postal Service, otherwise known as USPS, they're very affordable. It's like your everyday shipping, your letters, your mailers, for like invites, things of that nature. They don't get there super duper fast, but they're reliable in the sense that the US postal system is the most developed postal system in the whole world actually and they're great for your pocket because it's always going to be the most affordable option.

Speaker 3:

I would say FedEx is best for your larger packages, things that need to get there a little bit quicker, more higher priority or fragile. They do a good job of protecting your shipments and they offer higher limits of insurance for you as well. And then UPS is very similar to FedEx, but they do a great job with freight. So if you already ship something big pieces of furniture, doing a big move cross-country UPS is really great in that department. But of course, when you come by Parcelpedia, we have all the different options laid out for you. You just come by, tell us what you need.

Speaker 2:

We'll run them all down for you and you get to pick which one fits for you. Do you have a favorite that you like to use?

Speaker 3:

Oh man, I'm going to get in trouble with anyone else if I say a favorite, but to be honest I will say FedEx has been very good to Parcelpedia. We had a very strong has been very good to Parcelpedia. We had a very strong long-running relationship with them. They're great with any issues that may pop up. They're very responsive. They're great with the insurance payouts if it's ever needed to be, and they're great with their shipping. In most places in state and Texas you can get in there one day without any extra cost.

Speaker 2:

So what are the primary factors that distinguish these services, such as delivery times and costs?

Speaker 3:

So, yes, us mail, you can kind of expect them to be on the slower side, unless you do pick an expedite option. You have Priority Mail, priority Mail Express. But if you're not in any hurry and you just want to save some money, then I would definitely recommend USPS. For FedEx and UPS, they always have some quicker in-state options. Most are one day. Texas is a big state, though, so once you get closer to Galveston and things of that nature, it can take up to two days. But they both offer great insurance options and speed. And then, when you're looking at the most reliable and cost-effective, I would say FedEx is probably the best mix of both.

Speaker 2:

Are there specific situations where one carrier is better suited than the others?

Speaker 3:

Yes, and there's actually situations where one carrier is the only suitable option. So whenever you're shipping to a PO box, that stands for post office box and you are only allowed to use post office services. So you cannot FedEx to a PO box, you cannot UPS to a PO Box, you can only use US Mail. A lot of companies insurance companies, doctor's offices they like to receive mail through a PO Box and so that does limit your services. But of course you have an open array of services through US Mail you can use, again, certified, regular, priority, different options.

Speaker 2:

What about factors like package size, weight and destination? Do these influence the decision?

Speaker 3:

US Mail has a lower limit as far as heavy or oversized packages. I want to say, once it gets past 24 inches all around, then you want to look at FedEx or UPS. They have a much better cost ratio for price per pound and price per inch and they also will take up to 150 pounds per box.

Speaker 2:

Well, since it's the holiday times, if I'm shipping cookies, which service is least likely to turn them into crumbs by delivery?

Speaker 3:

Oh well, I'll say that comes down to your recipe, because the cookie crumbs can be good, it tastes good enough. But with the different carriers I would say FedEx or UPS they are private carriers. Again, their drivers are taught a bit more to respect the insurance that goes with those packages. So if you do it through a service like that, you're more than likely to get a better result. Us mail is a good option, especially affordability. However, a lot of the US mail process is through conveyor belts and machines, which you can't tell a machine, to be gentle.

Speaker 2:

Right, so can you settle this for me? Is FedEx really faster, or is it just good branding?

Speaker 3:

I will say it like this you get what you pay for. So if you do choose an expedited option, it is pretty good they have a money back guarantee. So if they do fail to miss that deadline, it is pretty good they have a money-back guarantee. So if they do fail to miss that deadline, you at least get your money back. And they don't really like to pay people out, so they're pretty good about getting it there on time. So I would say FedEx, they're good to their word.

Speaker 2:

Love it, James. We'll catch you in the next episode. Have a fantastic rest of your day.

Speaker 3:

Thank you, Sophia.

Speaker 1:

Same to you. Thanks for joining us on the Parcelpedia podcast. Don't forget mention podcast at our store to snag 10% off select shipping services. Stop by at 8992 Preston Road, Suite 110, Frisco, Texas, or give us a ring at 972-335-1450. We're here to make your shipping a breeze. Until next time, keep shipping and smiling.