10 SHIPPING SECRETS USPS, Fedex & UPS Don't Want You to Know!

[@thedealguy]

If you enjoyed this video, please give it a THUMBS UP and SHARE the video with a friend as it helps me in KZbin algorithm! 😀 Do you ship a lot of gifts over the holiday period? 👇 COMMENT BELOW 👇

[@troyhicks062283]

Don't forget about our Flat Rate boxes

[@awhalestale623]

This was so helpful, appreciate the tips!🌟

[@junebuggy0071]

Pirateship.com is amazing. I find they are almost the same rate breaks you would get using ebay's shipping discount. There are a few secrets to use for pirate ship like shipping your box in a large poly bag.

[@bilibenat9428]

You have perfect timing on posting this, I plan to move from Co to Ca next month and have been looking up prices to ship my things. Cheaper then using a moving truck for what I'm taking. So I found this video very helpful. Thank you!

[@leika67]

Love PirateShip! I ship custom tumblers to customers. I did buy boxes that fit my product better... those flat rates are too narrow. Still saving money though.

[@tymiller789]

I work for Fedex Express. An additional bit of information I’d like to add is that people that work or are retired from specific jobs can qualify for discounts. Examples include if you are in the military, worked for any kind of airlines, or any mail services along with a lot more. Next time you need to ship something ask the person at the front counter if you are eligable for any discounts from your job. There is a list of like 200 or more jobs that can get discounts👍🏽

[@sarathornburgh8880]

@Ty Miller-- This is good to know. Thank you. What about Veteran's and their families? Also, what about those of us who have a home based business?

[@DanielJimenez-tc3xp]

I use my employee discount. Saves like 75% on overnight shipping. I love it

[@madee6502]

@@DanielJimenez-tc3xp Where are you an employee of?

[@frag_g]

😮

[@DanielJimenez-tc3xp]

@@madee6502 I work at Fedex express ship center in nj

[@johnwettroth4060]

One of my favorite shipping secrets is to take your priority mail shipping to the big mail distribution center in your city. Its usually in an industrial area close to the Airport- here in Raleigh, its a huge building at 1 Floretta Drive about a mile north of RDU Airport. Luckily, this isn't terribly far from my home. I noticed when I track my packages online that that they spend a day or two making their way from the local post office to these big distribution centers and then zip off to near their destination- its sort of a hub and spoke system. If you drop your express packages directly in the parcel drop at the distribution center, you can often shave two days off of your shipping.

[@suzannemiller993]

This was a tip I learned from a fabric store that shipped fabric. Use the USPS cardboard envelopes and "box" the bottom corners. Generally, a good finger press is all that is necessary to shape the corners. Makes it easier to get bulkier items into the envelope and avoid the more expensive priority boxes.

[@thedealguy]

Suzanne Miller wow smart tip 😂

[@vaderladyl]

Yes a very well known trick of the trade by all experienced Ebay sellers and such.

[@cheddarcheese]

Or use the padded flat rate envelopes (they are now ~50 cents more expensive). They load on the short end, which makes it easier.

[@angelarthrasher]

Just note that SOME of the clerks will not take them if the paper ones are bulky. Not sure if I just got the "Karen" of clerks but when i put a pair of jeans or shirt in them and they were bulky the clerk refused them so i took it out and dropped it into the blue mailbox and it went out!

[@mikeyj7990]

@@angelarthrasher I have heard about that also, but USPS clearly states that if it fits it ships. And yes you are allowed to use tape. Just sent out a pair of jeans today myself in the flat rate envelope for $7.10 eBay rate. But i wish the padded flat rate envelopes that i ordered over a month ago from USPS would arrive. I would quickly pay the extra $.60 to save time. Word of advice, you cannot get the padded flat rate envelope at the post office. It is only available by online supply order and it is taking extra time to get them. You can waste a lot of money and profit by not researching different shipping options. It is to your advantage to watch various videos about shipping to save money as a small business. Thanks

[@toycoma98]

You can print your own usps shipping label with customs form and just drop it off at the post office. If people knew this, the lines wouldn't be so long. I love it when they look at me dropping off a package while they are standing in line.

[@PlantPusher]

Sooo true, I get the stares too (when I actually have to step foot into the post office). Save money purchasing labels online and less than a minute to just drop off the packages….yeah , I’m going with that! Or even better, if using USPS, not having to go to the post office period….scheduling a pickup is the best!

[@lordfrz9339]

I live rural, and usos comes an picks up packages for me. Might not be safe leaving oackages at your door in town though.

[@susanhutson2128]

@@PlantPusher or even better using their free pick up service at your home (you determine a pick up location on the form, no personal contact required) which you can request on line for the next day or any delivery date in the next year.

[@gardensofthegods]

@@PlantPusher I'm new to all this and I have to send a rather large and have you package to my sister up in Philadelphia but I'm 1,500 miles away in Dallas . I just got a shock when FedEx said it would cost me $75 for her to get it in about 3 to 4 days . It's about 18 lb and maybe two and a half feet by 2 feet and about 8 inches deep . I don't have internet service right now so I won't be printing off my own labels and I'm not sure how to do that anyway to be honest with you . Is somebody here please advise me this is just a one-time thing for now of what I'm sending to my sister

[@lmvicente1]

Who else just reads the comments when you should be listening😂🤣🤷‍♀️🤷‍♀️🤷‍♀️

[@thedealguy]

I LOVE THE COMMENTS!!!

[@LWilliamsss]

Me tooooo 😂😂😂 I end up getting distracted and start rewinding. Forcing myself to pay attention 😂

[@maryharris73020]

@@LWilliamsss same

[@maryjane-ly7yh]

🙋🏻‍♀️🤣

[@DragonProtector]

Me sadly lol

[@justinstuder7703]

As someone who works at ups (handling packages at a distribution hub), I want everyone to know how to properly package items. Particular if you are shipping many small items in one package please line the box in some sort of bag and secure the edges of the box to ensure they do not come loose. Every day there is at least 2 or more packages the burst open on a conveyor spreading the contents all over the facility basically. Then not only does this increase the risk of losing or damaging the goods, but the entire system must be shut down until it is cleared up. Even just a few extra pieces of tape are usually enough to prevent disaster👍

[@carenurse]

This is a GREAT TIP!

[@CherylAnnRose]

Big box stores, especially Walmart, do a horrible job taping the shipping boxes. So many boxes have arrived popping open.

[@justinstuder7703]

@@CherylAnnRose the most common problem I find with the big box stores is that they have one size of box and it's basically made to fit the largest thing they ship. So there usually ends up being a big package with a small item inside. Then the package gets crushed under other packages and won't sit right. Plus it basically does nothing to protect the item at that point. But I agree, they can be pretty lazy on taping.

[@redcrowngaming9388]

Good rule of thumb is use at least 3 layers of protection. item in a bag surrounded in bubble rap with the box sealed with tape on all edges.

[@MadisonFalcoFoods]

I like that you don’t demonize the workers and you say “they may not realize” I used to work at FedEx Office and sometimes people were very rude to us when they thought we were overcharging them on purpose or even at all

[@jimthomas777]

Hey Madison , I want some oatmeal raisin cookies , With milk or ice cream

[@MadisonFalcoFoods]

@@jimthomas777 sounds delicious

[@kcvinwehoLA]

Wow, what a GREAT tip re Pirate Ship! I had 2 things to ship, just jumped on their site & got that cubic rate! HUGE savings! Thanks!!!

[@lesliecruzado2793]

The Deal Guy, I actually worked for the USPS postal office within the military. Media mail is not restricted to only educational material. Media mail is considered exactly that; newspapers, books, printed music, recorded music, cds, dvds, blu-rays, etc. There's one catch. Everything sent as media mail is sent in a ship (boat), therefore, you're gonna have to be patient to receive your package.

[@lcampbell6470]

And it can be opened for inspection. If the contents do not qualify as media mail, the recipient will be charged postage due.

[@lisa9867]

Newpapers are not media mail. Anything with advertising is not media mail. Magazines are not media mail. Video games are not media mail. Also, mail does not go by ship. In the US media mail will go by truck but everything else goes by air.

[@TotalMusicJunkie]

@@lisa9867 Thanks! You beat me to making this comment. 😉🙂

[@KRoseCarol]

Glad you mentioned Pirate Ship. I've been using them, as I work from home, for my small business (direct sales) since COVID-19 hit the Boston, MA area in February. It was reassuring to hear you felt they were good for shipping small packages. My husband is a US Postal letter carrier & is happy to bring my packages with him to work for processing.

[@sherylslaney7736]

USPS also has 1 price ships all on med size and large boxes. You can go to their website and order boxes, labels, and custom forms at no charge. The one price ships all boxes it doesn’t matter how much it weighs as long as it fits in the boxes. You have to use those boxes though. Also, if you are shipping to military overseas or deployed, it’s a great way to pack a bunch of goodies in a box, fill out the customs forms, and USPS will give you a small discount. You can only ship to military addresses through USPS.

[@TomMarvan]

Great tip! Shipping overseas to APO addresses using USPS Priority flat rate boxes is a great way to go!

[@sherylslaney7736]

Tom, you explained it much better than I did! 😊

[@TomMarvan]

@@sherylslaney7736 No worries, you did all the hard work, I just placed the cherry on top. Have a good one!

[@racheluhlig5642]

The flat rate applies to up to 70 lbs (most of us can't fit the 70 lbs we want to ship in a flat rate box)

[@vakhbod100]

There have been times, when I actually lost money selling stuff on line , because of shipping rates. Thanks for this video

[@resarm5007]

Same...sadly...and I've been selling online since 2002. The rates and rules keep changing. Like the rate at the window for First Class mail you can only mail up to 13 oz. (And during this holiday season I have heard some offices charging more for anything over 10 oz...idk how they can get away with it. Not consistent.) And online it seems first class can go up to 16 oz. Anything 16 oz or more needs to go different way. Typically Priority. Cuz most stuff doesn't go Media or Parcel post. Too slow. Great if they don't need it and are very patient. Most customers want it last week. Even during CV, Christmas rush, and snowmegeddon. They could cre less! No patience!

[@AnneluvsKatz]

😱☹️😤 terrible!

[@Annie261.]

@@resarm5007 Use Pirate Ship.Very easy, they integrate with eBay and Etsy. Cheapest rates.

[@ShotokunWulf]

You should have known the shipping cost when you listed it for sale

[@save2rave61]

@@ShotokunWulf not necessarily... unless you packed up item prior to listing.... further more location also ups the price. Example I sold a vintage uno deluxe game for 19.95. But since it was going to Alaska. I had to pack well , adding weight. Then the distance. Cost me 14$ to ship 1.9 lbs.....

[@pattywalker6935]

Can u do a video on PayPal, vimeo, Facebook ways people can pay someone or small business with the least amount of fees, which one is best to use. THESE WAS A GREAT VIDEO, THANK YOU FOR ALL UR RESEARCH AND PASSING IT ON TO US.

[@thedealguy]

Great idea Patty!

[@HalfAssHomestead]

I can help you out here. PayPal is not worth your time. They got involved in a fraud scheme on Memorial day 2 years ago, which cost us and thousands of others with Commercial accounts thousands in losses, and they let it happen by leaving the store unattended. We have since switched to Authorize.net which is much more security oriented, and nobody has access to your money, as it gets forwarded to your regular bank account where active security teams monitor every transaction from the account.

[@bcfriardoyle7697]

And Plastique even though it’s a different category?

[@irenemarquez7582]

I need this!

[@DragonProtector]

I agree

[@boopeep9670]

Great content. You seem like a genuinely nice guy. I don’t know why but your videos are relaxing and soothing despite all the information and need to pay attention to lots of details. Wish you made videos more often. Congratulations on your baby!

[@redcrowngaming9388]

kinda weird he called them secrets and things the companies didnt want you to know when they tell you all these things on their websites.

[@nancylovitz8557]

Please do a video on how to save on a long distance move!! I'm moving soon. Love your information...

[@thechrononautswife-dorothy]

Yes!! I have 88 miles and 2 households to move, and I am at a loss. I have 4 vehicles, a piano, a grandfather clock, gun safes (plural) and infinite glass/porcelain pieces. Not to mention the dog and one half dozen cats. 🐈🐈🐈🐈🐈🐈 where do I even begin?!

[@ToddTinley]

@@thechrononautswife-dorothy Massive Garage sale.

[@The-Grateful-Hippie]

1. Book your truck in advance. 2 clear your cookies between price comparing ( similar to booking airline tickets) 3. Try to book your move mid week and mid month for the best pricing. 4 if your move has a lot of miles involved go for the lower cost per mile even though the per day cost is a little higher. If your driving a lot and several trips then you will save money in the long run. 5. Lowe's has the best deal on boxes. Try to get all the same size for easier loading. 6. If you know someone who has an eBay store 😁 we can get eBay branded shipping tape essentially for free each quarter. See if they can give you a few rolls of tape. I've moved a lot. Can you tell? 😂

[@nancylovitz8557]

@@The-Grateful-Hippie Thanks for the tips. Not sure I understand the free packing tape from an EBAY store......is that you?

[@The-Grateful-Hippie]

@@nancylovitz8557 I do have a eBay store. If you know of someone in your community it couldn't hurt to ask. 😁

[@cphine]

I am a full time eBay reseller, so I ship a LOT. Pirateship rates are not only great for Cubic Priority pricing, but their general Priority rates will always be less than USPS Retail rate. You concentrated on the Cubic, but their service is amazing for any normal priority postage as well. They also have a service for International shipments which are a huge cost savings versus retail for items up to 4 pounds, but you have to request it via their chat. It's called Simple Export Rate. Also, FedEx and UPS can both save you money versus USPS even for items under 10 pounds. It depends on the actual size, weight, and destination, but I frequently ship from SC to CA and even many 2 or 3 pound boxes go FedEx/UPS versus USPS. Of course, that's using our eBay rates, not retail. That said, even if you don't sell on eBay, you can access discounted FedEx and UPS rates on sites like Shippo. It's sort of the "Pirateship" for FedEx/UPS with special bulk commercial rates they pass on to consumers at no charge.

[@stephendall2329]

They should make a college course that shows your videos. The education that a person gets watching your presentations is more valuable and useful than most of the college classes I was required to take. Thank you.

[@jllrue]

Why not? They're only political indoctrination centers anyway!

[@winebox]

Another tip: If you reuse a box shipped to you, mark out the bar codes if you can’t strip off the label, or put your label over the old one. But do look for the bar codes printed on the box. Used to work at a bookstore and we would give our boxes to a local company that made gift baskets. They didn’t pay attention to the bar codes and on occasion we would get their shipments. Also, when putting your label on a package, after you make sure everything is correct cover it all with clear packing tape. This makes sure that if it gets wet the thing is still readable.

[@kingmccoy9526]

I work at the ups store and everything you have said to me isn't secrets I tell my customers all of this because I want them to get the best price possible

[@jpotter2086]

Got to call them "sekrits" to get the clicks.

[@justtrina3700]

I work at Fedex , and we also tell our customers everything 🤣 because I understand being a customer first

[@jpotter2086]

@@justtrina3700 Good! And IME so do all employees at all carriers. I had a UPS rep call out of the blue yesterday, trying to be helpful and offer ways to save. His suggestions weren't advantageous, but hey, he tried, and was being proactively transparent. No "secrets" he "didn't want me to know". :D

[@MonroesArtStudio]

true. I'm a Fedex kid and these are indeed things that are told, but mostly people don't bother once they're at the counter though. Even with the 3rd party insurance. We suggest people who are shipping highly valuable things to get their own third party insurance. It's not a secret at all :P

[@danishalockhart-moore7772]

I work @ usps and I feel the same way

[@spd6147]

All the major carriers like to drop their "last mile" delivery to USPS. When it comes to multiple parcel delivery to a parcel locker USPS takes priority. Any other carrier boxes designated last mile will be secondary and if the parcel lockers are used up then the recipient(s) will have to come to the post office to pick up parcel. Additionally, USPS will only deliver a parcel if it is 1/4 mile or less to your home from the designated mail box or CBU (central box unit). UPS and to a lessor extent FedEx are notorious for dumping last mile parcels to USPS that are beyond the 1/4 mile USPS delivery range. Those parcels will be automatically held at the post office for pick up.

[@shirleykibler-pace1047]

I have been a seller on eBay since 2003. shipping takes most of my money on the sales that I have. I will try these shipping secrets from The Deal Guy. I will let you know what I find out about saving on shipping. thanks Deal Guy!

[@tracybasile2416]

Me too.I feel your pain.They kill us in fees

[@amandagarthe6416]

Same here 😭

[@Bonnie815100]

I make the buyer pay for shipping costs!

[@StevenVillman]

@@Bonnie815100 That just turns away a lot of potential buyers, and so you can lose *_a lot_* of potential customers in that way.

[@kayradebaugh2760]

Ship through Pirate Ship- they always save me money on shipping costs. Add your shipping costs into your price. Know what your shipping costs are going to be BEFORE you list the item. Try "calculated-buyer pays shipping" on some of your listings. I think you might be surprised at your results.

[@StaceNyourFace]

Pirate Ship is great! Especially for Ebay sellers, because you can connect your Ebay account to your Pirate Ship account which will automatically populate labels based on your unshipped orders.

[@gailmariage5318]

Excellent video. I wish I had known about the shipping of large heavy packages. We wanted to ship a piece of furniture from my father-in-law's house when he passed away, but decided to let it stay and be sold at the estate auction. Turns out that wold have been a great option. Thank you for all the extensive research you do. Your channel is great.

[@briescobar893]

You are correct, FedEx was awesome for me shipping to South Dakota, Vegas and Australia this year. Gifts arrived earlier then FedEx told me they would. I was very happy. Over the years I have had problems with DHL, will never use them again. Great advice.

[@pantherpride117]

I have had two claims through USPS with their insurance and they were actually helpful and responsive. Claims were settled with checks in my hand within two weeks both times.

[@eyesellfunstuff4067]

I sold SIX items on ebay on Nov. 22, 2020. My postal carrier does not scan them when he picks up the packages. It isn't a big deal until the package gets lost. Then I have no proof that the package was actually mailed. Now, 3 of the six packages do not have any information related to the tracking number. If you look at the tracking number it appears that I never shipped them. One of my buyers wants his money back. The two other have been patient and said they will wait it out. If none of the 3 ever show up, how do i go about filing a claim with USPS? I have looked at the USPS website but can't find any info. Then i ready your comment. I thought perhaps you could assist me L Goot. Any advise?

[@lisagalliher9933]

I just saw this. It is as always good advice. I’m a small business owner with a couple of e-commerce businesses as well and use Pirate ship all the time. There is a trick that I thought you’d appreciate. If when you are shipping a small box check the rate if you put it in a poly mailer or pouch. You can save a dollar or two sometimes. With the same dimensions and weight. Try it! Thanks for the 3rd party insurance info. I hadn’t considered that before.

[@RichardAFPV]

Greyhound shipping is an interesting option as well. About 10 years ago it was the only carrier that would accept an oversized box that was 3'x4'x4'.

[@melaniecrochets]

When shut downs began, I started crocheting items & mailing them to family in plastic mailers using my kitchen scale & the usps site. When I enter zip, weight & shape, the list of charges comes up. If I change to retail charges I could in most cases mail item with stamps ($.10-$2 denominations) this way, I didn’t have to leave the house. It’s been nice surprising family & friends with items & not worrying about going to the post office once a week.

[@queenmakesamess473]

Don’t forget the free priority packaging, bubble envelopes, and boxes from USPS. Order on their website under shipping supplies.

[@danneumann3274]

this is no doubt true, I might add though, Ive been using usps to ship my product, They have never lost a package. I package carefully using flat rate priority boxes. Many time 3 boxes sent to the same customer on the same day and one shows up, then the other 2 seem to be missing. They always seem to shop up two days later. Ive ships several hundred boxes.

[@harrietcraig7817]

I ordered their stuff online and nothing ever showed up. I didn’t lose any sleep over it, but still....

[@aaronkirvan3015]

I use PirateShip with my Auction company and I ship 150+packages a month. It has been the best service by far that I have used... I’m so glad you mentioned it!!! ❤️

[@aladanu4484]

I've been using Pirate Ship for a couple years now, and you're right - their customer service can't be beat!

[@johnher2009]

Ok

[@gardensofthegods]

Yeah but can you tell us anything at all more about them ? I am overwhelmed and have to send books to my sister . I'm down here in Dallas and she , in Philadelphia Pennsylvania . It comes to about maybe 18 lb and the box is fairly large about two-and-a-half feet by 2 feet and maybe 8 in high . My local FedEx just told me it would be about $75 to send it where she would get it in 3 to 4 days . That just sounds too high to me and I have never had to send anything recently other than my cell phone to get repaired .

[@jworth7203]

I have a home business creating and shipping custom care packages. Discovered Pirate Ship last year and it has saved me quite a bit.

[@christina6770]

To add to the kohl's tip. You don't have to order from the kiosk, or even have to enter the store.. You can pull into their parking lot and order from their app and it will automatically give you free shipping. (Make sure your location in.your phone is turned on). I've done this many times for clearance items that I don't want to pay shipping for.

[@flippin889]

I do this too! My boyfriend thinks I'm crazy, but look who's saving $10+ on shipping for a rug that's only sold online! Plus it really helps out when during the holidays when I don't want to spend hours in line when the stuff I'm buying is also available online.

[@christina6770]

@@flippin889 my hubby laughs at me but appreciates that I save us money-someone has to, he literally never checks a price and never knows what something costs until the cashier tells him his total🤦‍♀️😁

[@carismith7945]

One thing to keep in mind also is that many carriers use USPS for their last mile deliveries, so even if they say they guarantee a certain timeline, you might be getting Postal timelines instead. Also, and this is a biggie...know who your shipper is. If you paid for UPS or FedEx to ship something, don't give the parcel to your mail carrier. USPS offers free pick-up on parcels being shipped by us, while FedEx and UPS charge a fee to pick up at your home, but I can't count how many times I've gotten another carrier's shipment handed to me (mail carrier). All this does is delay your shipment, because it will sit at your local post office until the next FedEx or other carrier's driver comes by to pick it up. We (USPS) do not schedule pick-ups with other carriers!!!

[@SouthernCharmaine]

Matt you rock‼️ I'm literally getting ready to send some stuff to a loved one n have been dreading the shipping rates. Your video is SO timely. Thank you!

[@thedealguy]

Glad I could help Charmaine!!

[@damarisd.marrero-chacon4482]

I always paid a lot on shipping until I found Pirate Ship. I really love Pirate Ship and I always use a box in bag method to ship a majority of my small business items and get a great discount in shipping using Pirate Ship with USPS. Thanks for the other ideas posted here about UPS , DHL, and FEDEX 😊 that I wasn’t aware of

[@gilmerpuckett5727]

What is the box in a bag method?

[@DerMannII]

All great tips, but a few caveats as someone in the industry: UPS and FedEx (probably DHL as well) have suspended their guarantees since late first/early second quarter of 2020. So if you pay extra to have something delivered by a certain time, whether it's Next Day Air or Overnight across the nation or Ground across town, you will get $0 back if it shows up an hour late or a day late. Secondly, UPS and FedEx free supplies are only for express services. They get special rates for those services, but you cannot use them for Ground or you will be billed extra (if they catch it). Same for USPS, and they're very particular about it. If the box has the word Priority or Express printed on it, and you send it First Class or Media Mail, they will send it back or hold it for ransom very nearly 100% of the time. Lastly, the carriers have seen volume comparable to peak season for most of year because of the Pandemic. If there was ever a time to send stuff with plenty of time to spare, it would be this holiday season.

[@astepbeyondhealing9772]

DerM ann UPS always delivers a day early whether choose 2 or 3 day select. Peace of mind is worth it to me.

[@DerMannII]

@@astepbeyondhealing9772 UPS will never delivery early. Unless people misuse air service for local delivery. Time in transit is determined by distance. If the shipper is located within a few hundred miles of you, then paying for faster services is idiotic. Most of the time, if you're within a couple hundred miles from the shipper, you will receive your package next day, even if you choose 3 day select. However, if you are receiving a package via ground from Washington to oklahoma, is going to take at least 4 days. I can't tell you how often I see people drop off second day air to downtown houston and we're just outside of Houston. The website literally tells you transit times, just pay attention and don't pay for redundant services

[@astepbeyondhealing9772]

DerM ann it did three times during the last month, and yes was air product (came in 2 with 3 day select,) across country.. Generally speaking, UPS is my favorite for sending/receiving packages. I can’t tell u the problems in my subdivision with Prime and USPS, but that’s for another day. Well I’ll tell u latest, Prime delivered a mattress to my front door blocking my a utility to open it and let dog out. Oh and a storm was coming! It was roughly 8pm when I looked outside and saw it, knowing instantly wasn’t for me, mom with Alzheimer’s was in bed in front room with wide opening to the front door. I have back problems, was worried about package getting wet, as could tell was likely mattress. Long story short went out on Next Door and sent out message trying had to track down the neighbor (had no idea who she was.) Thank Goodness she was on Next Door, came to get it in the rain. Every carrier makes mistakes. I wish Amazon would give an option to select carrier, as it was much better delivery before started their own. 😇

[@mr.w1008]

This is true, do you work for Fedex?

[@foxwolft9332]

I work for USPS. If I pick up a package from a customer or collection box and it's in an Express envelope or box but has a printed priority label on it (or first class, media mail ect.) we give it to our supervisor. They send it out that night but they treat it like an Express. Because it is in an Express package. Once it gets to the customer's door (before noon) we charge them (postage due for the full amount) like it's an Express. So that's been my experience, just a heads up if you want to send something in an Express packaging that isn't express you will end up paying for it. And I don't blame the USPS for doing this. People assume that we'll see the blue Express packaging and that will make their package go through the system faster without having to pay full price for the service.

[@ronkellam8184]

I stopped using USPS to ship packages altogether. I sell online and have used them in the past, but what they did to me was criminal. I shipped three small flat rate boxes across country. The box says "One rate, any weight". I got a backcharge from USPS on my account for extra posrage on these boxes for a total of abot $63 in addition to what I alreay paid. There is no recourse for any problem you have with USPS. They are a Government agency and get paid whether they do their job or not. You cannot reach a person on the phone to explain your problem. The second thing they did was, I sent two other small flat rate packages to a customer and thay destroyed the packages and lost the merchandise. I re- sent the identical merchandise to the customer and insured it for $200 they lost the package and then refused to pay me even with insurance. I then sent a third package to the customer and they finally delivered that, The total loss to me for this debacle was about $600. I switched to UPS, and have had two packages damaged, and UPS sent me a letter with a claim form to fill out and rhen after I filled it out and sent it back, received a check for the missing items. They are much more honorable then the thieves at USPS. You also did not mention that UPS has a Simple Rate program where you can use your own packaging and are charged a flat rate for shipping boxes of a certain size. There are four sizes you can choose form depending on the cubic inches of the packege.

[@occonnerwilderness8923]

Time stamps, there's bonus mini tips if you watch the whole vid 1. 0:42 Minor/local company 2. 1:28 USPS cheap 10lbs under 3. 1:58 3rd party ship insurance 4. 2:50 Media Mail (books/movie) 5. 4:34 Size matters (bigger better) 6. 5:34 2 day shipping (not USPS) 7. 6:35 FedEx best for Large 8. 7:24 Use their packages

[@donaldduck9233]

Another tip for holiday shipping for ups : if you're shipping a package 2 days prior to your desired destination, do ups ground. 1 day saver, 1 day, 2 day and 3 day packages are sorted and shipped all the same way.

[@radicalrick9587]

I've been using Pirate Ship for years. I love them.

[@SatisfyingChicken]

Yes! So easy and much cheaper.

[@kathleenbeauchemin8146]

I love Pirate Ship! I have a Mary Kay business and especially now during the pandemic I have been holding Facebook and other virtual parties from all over the country...which, in turn, results in much more shipping than I would normally do. Pirate Ship has saved me a bundle! I used to use another shipping service and when I added up the monthly fee at the end of the year...I was paying more for shipping than if I had gone to the post office! I can weigh my parcel, print the label and arrange pick up in less than 5 minutes and it’s so much more convenient and less expensive. I highly recommend Pirate Ship...glad you mentioned it as I was going to mention it in the comments if you didn’t...but then, you are the Deal Guy...how could you not know about it 🤦🏻‍♀️😊😂

[@MacMoney20]

My mom double shipped one of my brother’s presents and it was almost as much as the gift itself! Definitely a good idea to ship direct.

[@romuloromero2268]

I did not know what he meant until my wife explained it. Unless you are adding something to the gift (like my wife bought a recipe book and wanted to also send some spices), totally drop ship it directly!

[@sticks29pgm29]

A couple of comments , I am a retired UPS driver. So I know UPS. I have also worked for the post office in there large mailing facility in eastern Pa. one fact I can tell you is any time you have a package over 50 Ilbs it’s likely hood of getting damaged increases A lot no matter what mailing services you use . So try and break down your packages into smaller parcels will increase the likely hood of it arriving at its destination. If it’s time sensitive only use UPS or Fedx. US mail will get there when it Gets there.

[@buffalobluecheese]

Really happy to have found you here on KZbin dishing out savings to help everyone save $ on things of necessity & everyday life items, daily functions, etc... Missed watching your segments on the morning show of the NBC affiliate in Buffalo, NY but very pleased to find you here on a more accessible platform!! Good luck with growing the channel towards that 1M & beyond 👍

[@marshamazzei]

I was told that if you are returning items to a business tell the UPS clerk that. Business prices are less than regular mail.

[@ronaldperkins4222]

USPS Flat rate Priority is the way to for smaller but heavy packages. Medium box is 11"x8.5"x5.5" for $15.05 & up to 70#. Customers shipped boxes full of coins, rocks for artists, lead weights, bullets for reloaders, etc. Our local bullet maker routinely shipped 12-25 boxes per day weighing 50-65 lbs. each. Great deal for him.

[@judywgee]

Thanks for the shipping tips!!! I was wondering what would be the best way to figure out which place is cheapest for a larger package that doesn't weigh a lot? Tip #10 covers the cheapest way to shop for small items that don't weigh a lot but not something with a larger volume

[@snorky4153]

What a great video! Could you do a video updating us on shipping rate changes since last year?

[@logicalblueberry]

Another good tip is to always print your shipping label online, especially if you are shipping from a third-party private post office. If you let them print the label for you, they will probably charge you twice as much as the post office or Fedex because they add their own fees.

[@terryrodriguez6209]

I shipped a package a week before Xmas with two day shipping (TX to NY). It took twenty three days to arrive.

[@melissarocha9072]

Once again thanks for looking out for us Matt.

[@MommeeMadre1]

I love love love the way you do those side-rambles.

[@opiejim2896]

I’m surprised you didn’t mention regional box a and b with USPS. I USED TO SHIP MOSTLY FLAT RATE but those Regional boxes have saved me a BUNCH of $$$.

[@40belowful]

I was going too say same thing living here in Alaska and up too 20lbs

[@deborahkelley3341]

Listen to the whole video. He does address those services then dismisses them as a more-expensive option.

[@whatsupdate]

Here’s a kind of ghetto trick: if you can fit a box in the priority mail envelope it ships at the envelope price. You can fit a lot larger size box in those things than you would think.

[@valerieedwards923]

YOU ARE FREAKING AWESOME. 🤟 I love your energy and attitude, and I can’t wait to tell all my friends and family about your channel!!!!

[@suzrosk82]

I so going to try to use Pirate Ship to ship back my returns for online retailers. I sent a pair of sneakers back two months ago that were $40, return shipping took me for $14 at USPS...I almost kept the sneakers to donate them. Thank you for the tips!

[@romeoslover817]

I almost all my rejects to give to charity, unless I need an exchange.

[@faithk3872]

Hi, could you do a video on international shipping?

[@caps741]

For USPS next day and 2 day delivery are guaranteed with express and priority shipping. Express is a big one with them because if the item isn't delivered by the selected time, the sender gets a refund. Same with priority shipping. The part that isn't guaranteed for next day and 2 day shipping is with regular shipping. That clause is on the website because people think if someone is in the same state they'll get it the next day and don't do express shipping. Since it's not express or priority, it gets handled like normal and a delay window should be expected. Express and priority shipping get handled differently and get much more focus to make sure they get to the destination on time.

[@missasakurai4564]

I would really be interested in comparison video about international shipping.

[@HalfAssHomestead]

USPS to Canada is a $19.95 minimum right now for packages weighing less than a pound. I too would love to see that video produced.

[@eponymousIme]

@@HalfAssHomestead Yes! As others have said, you should always ask what the different rates/delivery promises are. I found that FedEx to a residential address in Japan was cheaper if I selected 2-day delivery instead of 3-day delivery. Go figure!?!

[@carenurse]

Stuck overseas and using STACKRY. AWESOME service for everything EXCEPT prescription meds.

[@paranoidhumanoid]

Has anyone had any luck shipping care packages to Europe? I have friends in Spain and France who I tried shipping birthday gifts to and they were returned because their postal service marked the boxes "unclaimed". The recipient was notified to complete a questionnaire, submit passport/ID, address, description of good, etc. and it was like applying for a high security job interview only to be told that the information provided was insufficient. On top of that, the courier held the package hostage until a tariff was paid (almost 30% of the total value + shipping)! How on earth do I get a card or t-shirt to my friends in Europe? It's so barbaric!

[@chuckredd9131]

When we were flying we would ship our luggage by UPS/Fed X. It saved the airline charges and NEVER got lost, didn't have to chase in airports, and went straight to our sons home and was there before we were. Did the same on return flights. Also saved the security checks. If airline looses luggage you have to give a detailed description, age, receipts, color, etc. then you MIGHT get a partial check. They will furnish you with a tooth brush, paste as a "complementary" token for your lose.

[@galebender1210]

I use Pirate Ship as my main shipping supplier for my Ebay store. You can easily set up an account to automatically withdraw a certain amount from your credit or debit cards as a one time payment. When that amount is used, it withdraws again. Love the app

[@The-Grateful-Hippie]

Yeah! Love pirate ship ♥️ When I have to print a label off eBay or other platform pirate ship is the way to go. One of the biggest tips is the box in a bag cubic pricing.

[@teeteeree3540]

I was really happy after learning that trick

[@marydaisy2000]

Can you elaborate more I don’t get it please

[@athenalong]

@the grateful hippie @teetee ree What is this trick?? 😭

[@LGordon123able]

Priority shipping is no longer priority. It has taken three weeks at time for my packages to get to where i sent them here in the usa. 2 to 3 day now takes two to 3 weeks, They also hord my packages and send them to the wrong places when they are only an hour away from here, instead of putting them on the truck for my town, they send it to Iowa or Arizona. The Kansas City Ks post office is a good place to leave your package in the back of a post office for weeks.

[@NicksStuff]

I've personnally switched to teleportation for all my shipments

[@nataliaaahhhh]

Same idk why everyone won’t just do that instead 💁‍♂️💁‍♂️🤷🏽‍♀️🤷🏽‍♀️🤷🏽‍♀️🤷🏽‍♀️

[@ShotokunWulf]

Much faster

[@ladonnamontalto917]

It’s the only way to go 👍

[@riverraisin1]

God, I'm so stupid! Why didn't I think of that?!?!

[@jimthomas777]

I just use time travel and it arrives before you are born , So it's on time every time

[@TheGeekPub]

1) Media mail is only for educational materials. Video games are not allowed, it even says so right on the USPS site! 2) Using prime to dropship to your customer is against the Amazon ToS and they WILL cancel your account.

[@melindaduncan3073]

I use pirate ship. I’ve used PayPal shipping too. You can save money through pay pal also.

[@PlantPusher]

Yes! And one of the only places online that I’ve found where you can purchase Media Mail labels…unless shipping through eBay, etc.

[@logicalblueberry]

You forgot to mention that USPS is the cheapest way to ship very heavy items that fit into the flat rate boxes. Our son used to sell lead items on eBay. His packages weighed about 25 pounds. He shipped in the small flat rate boxes for $6.98. The ladies at the post office were always shocked when they tried to pick up the little box after he set it on the counter:) Thank you for the awesome video. I subscribed. I ship a lot of items that I sell on eBay. Can you use the smaller shipping companies for eBay items even though they aren't listed on eBay's shipping tool?

[@zizibressa4251]

Thank you so much for your tips and advise. I use to ship a lot and pirate ship and cube package are amazing !

[@gardensofthegods]

I never heard of cube package I guess I have some homework to do

[@teresahaven9222]

I clicked on your video just because it brought back memories from years ago. At my sis and several of her friends were trying to convince a network to keep a fairly popular drama series on. They managed to mail a boot they had written "(this show) kicks a**) and a bra and a jock strap (separately) and they each said (we support keeping (this show) on the air. The local post office added postage to each thing and sent it on its way, no boxes or anything. Just made me laugh

[@drescherjm]

At work I always am amused at the pricing on shipping we get. I mean at the end of creating a label the price for a 2lb box to ship across the country ends up being around $22 but then at the end you see it has an actual negotiated price of around $8. I wish I could get that rate at home..

[@gardensofthegods]

I'm really exhausted and I think I'm having trouble following you . So you're saying that they were able to negotiate it down from $22 to only $8 ... ? If so that sounds very typical that businesses or bigger businesses get all the breaks .

[@gardensofthegods]

I don't have my laptop or computer so I'm not sure how to print out a label ... so are you saying it's cheaper if you print it out yourself ?

[@drescherjm]

@@gardensofthegods When you price the shipping and compare options at the beginning of the web form order you get one price after you complete everything you finally get a receipt of what was actually charged.

[@Crybaybee]

I am so happy you explained usps media mail on here, now my customers will be paying half the shipping costs they were before!

[@sarahshelburne1542]

You should now, that if a media mail package is returned or forwarded you will pay the shipping costs again.

[@rexxster1]

And also know that usps can open your "media mail" to confirm that it qualifies for that rate, as opposed to the protections first class mail receives.

[@ajmuehleman4690]

I use pirate ship, you need to have a mail scale,ruler if some kind, and a printer. They do save you money.

[@maryharris73020]

never met a reseller that didnt have those already lol

[@mattparker7287]

Pirate Ship gives the lowest commercial rates and it’s completely free. Same as PayPal’s secret commercial link but way easier with better interface and reports.

[@princesslane2009]

Matt Parker what us this? Please explain PayPal’s Secret Commercial Link?

[@mattparker7287]

princesslane2009 Search for the YT account “Pirate Ship” as they have a bunch of tutorials. Also check out PirateShip.com and they have a great instruction video on the main page before you sign up. 🍻

[@64smiles42]

@@mattparker7287 I love using pirateship.com but they aren't always the cheapest. I always check out all my options because the USPS regional and flat rate boxes are sometimes cheaper. There are other factors besides the cubic size.

[@gennafer]

Paypal has shipping comparable to Pirate Ship so if you use them to sell things they will also automatically send the tracking number to the buyer. Paypal also offers free return shipping if you purchased something through them, you have to activate the service but it doesn't cost anything and if you have to return a purchase you file a claim through them and they reimburse you up to $30. U-PIC offers 3rd party shipping insurance that runs around $1 for every $100. You can ship through anyone and then purchase the insurance through the U-PIC site, it's very good when you send very expensive small items where the insurance through the shipper might cost more than the postage on the package, like cell phones. Mercari offers discounted rates (corporate rates) with Fedex and UPS so if you are shipping something very very big and heavy, make 2 accounts and "sell" the item to the other account for a low price and you lose out on 10% of that price for commission but then you can save around 60% on the shipping cost, bear in mind it is sometimes the absolute slowest but it can save you a lot if you aren't in a hurry. Never use the small flat rate boxes, they hold nothing and are as much as a padded flat rate envelope that can hold 4x's as much.

[@MrFrogman812]

As mentioned a few times already, I'd love any ideas for international shipping to Europe. Thanks for all you do!

[@SteveFrenchWoodNStuff]

Pirate ship. You have to chat them and request access to "simple export rate". Then you'll be able to ship to a lot of International destinations at - often - a LOT better rate. Also USPS 1st Class International, which goes up to several pounds.

[@baseballquilter8984]

Thank you very much for all the info. I appreciate it. I am an avid user of USPS! The clerks know my face/mask. ;0) They are great people and they also try to help save me money too. Thanks for acknowledging your subscribers etc. You are good at what you do-I enjoy your videos! All my best.

[@jag2944]

Great useful tips. Christmas is coming up and these tips will come in handy. 👍🏽

[@thedealguy]

That’s what I thought! Thanks for the comment!

[@mikeyj7990]

Clark Howard says to ship Xmas early this year. October and November, bc all the shipping sites are going to charge extra fees for shipping in December.

[@alexnguyen742]

If it’s small, I use the post office, if it’s big, FedEx ground. Rarely is Ups the cheapest or the fastest.

[@debbiewright1149]

I don't ship items frequently, but appreciate all the research you did to save us money. I love watching you, you have a ton of energy, a ton of good ideas to save money, and a beautiful family! Your baby girl has grown a lot!! Oh and CONGRATULATIONS on your marriage, I have been wondering when you were going to marry the love of your life. I have to purchase an electric dryer, a refrigerator/freezer with built-in water and ice dispenser, an electric stove, and a wall mounted microwave. Any hints or tricks you can give me to save some money?

[@retroreviews1278]

I love Pirate Ship! The best use though isn't for the price, it's so I can just walk in, drop my stuff off, and leave without waiting in line!!!!

[@hgib3]

You can do this at UPS also if you already have a printed label. I saw people do it right before Christmas.

[@ItsSusieQue96]

@@hgib3 that’s what Pirate Ship IS-a service that lets you print your labels at home...at a discounted rate

[@Bella_KG]

Thank you so much for putting together this video! You’ve no idea how badly I needed to know the tips you shared!

[@theoriginalkaro]

Thank you for this helpful video. Btw the Amazon gift wrapping is pretty and high quality.

[@ContagionStudios]

Awesome video! You forgot to mention printing labels online for USPS are cheaper than standing in line for the past master to process.

[@dianeherrick6477]

Just (like just last week!) shipped everything I own from OH to AZ and used UPS and USPS! I had a great experience but see now I could have saved money!! 😣

[@thedealguy]

Whoops!! I was 1 week too late!

[@dianeherrick6477]

The Deal Guy I forgive you!! Will still share your videos with AZ people! We’ll get you to 1M in no time!!

[@fredbecker607]

I remember a customer that moved from Hawaii to Kansas about 20 years ago.. Shipped everything by mail. It was cheaper than moving company. They had a spread sheet with each box, ship date, and contents. Inured some and didn't on the cheaper stuff. Delivered packages for about 3 weeks as they mailed them. Got to know the family real well.

[@ImpARTation2013]

How about a video on Online Selling Shipping (ie: eBay, Poshmark, etc)

[@everyone2975]

I've moved more times than I want to share. The biggest tip I have for a long distance move is to place a tracker in one of your boxes. After moving over a 1000 miles, we had no idea where our stuff was and it took them 5 weeks to deliver. We had to sleep on the floor that whole time. If I could of tracked it I would have gotten our belongings myself!

[@veronicamolina6124]

THANKS so much this is so helpful I really needed someone to break it down more so I could understand shipping and shipping hacks ! Have an amazing day and stay safe 😃

[@oliviafox3310]

I been buying discounted postage (older stamps) and sticking them on USPS packages. Some folks sell larger denominations thus reducing the number of stamps you stick. It's usually costs about 20 percent off.

[@dawnbenner2897]

Can you do a video on international shipping.

[@elenarynkevic1954]

Excellent episode!

[@Ivorygarden1]

The free shipping sometimes works if you connect to their wifi from the parking lot.

[@Ivorygarden1]

@Rick G how is Kohls the gov't?

[@tootall5559]

I use Pirate ship for personal shipping, tho for my ebay sales, it's often better to use the Ebay shipping, they give a discount on many forms of shipping. Sometimes the way to beat USPS regular rates is to use the flat rate boxes when it will fit. "if it fits, it ships" and they mean it, at least in the US. There are weight limits for global shipping. I've got so I check all the available shippers even on Ebay's shipping sometimes Fed EX home or ground is still the cheapest for larger items, regardless of weight. When your dimensions go over 12 inches, USPS charges triple the usual cost for that amount of weight. they've always had a surcharge for longer items, but now it's at 12 inches, which often means you can't ship with USPS at all.

[@c.wallacehume5625]

@ too tall I check all the various options on eBay as well. I'm finding very good rates at FedEx Ground / Home delivery, for items that won't fit into a small flat rate box or padded flat rate envelope that are under 10 lb. Thank you for the tips.

[@lindacurtis589]

Do you have any secrets on international shipping? Most times when I pay to send my brother in England a pkg., the shipping cost more than the item!

[@LynsAlteredArts]

Linda Curtis check Pirateship , you can do international first class, priority, and priority express with pirateship.

[@jordanwilliamson3902]

I used to live in scotland and shipped alot of thing globaly ( car parts ) since moving to america ive found that DHL and Fedex have been the best for speed and price. Others are cheaper but take much longer for some reason. My brother sent me a parcel for my birthday and it cost him the equivellent of 35 dollars to send from the uk to usa. The same box sent back was a 121 dollars. I feel like if its something you send once in a while then just bite the bulit with theextortionate costs if you send lots of items look to setting up an account with a shipping company. For bigger items i look to find shipping comapnies who have spare space on containers. Ive often found it significantly cheaper than using a fedex account. It really just depends on how you value ypur time vs convenience. And if you want to put time into calling and emailing these people and companies.

[@windycitykitty]

International shipping costs have increased drastically in the past few years. It is prohibitive these days. Not to be rude or forward, but how about sending your brother an amazon gift card - - all the money you spend on postage could be added to the card balance instead.

[@dawnbenner2897]

I just sent a package to wales and it cost me 138.00 and took 17 days to get there with USPS. Never again

[@fannym-n6423]

Try to look for an international agency. Much cheaper than using DHL or any other carrier. I ship boxes to Colombia , Ecuador , and sometimes it cost only $.99 cents per pound depending of the season. Christmas too expensive but still cheaper than regular carriers. Research on line and I’m pretty sure you will find something cheaper, also ask around, that is how I found out about this agency. Hope you can find a good agency. They usually are insured and delivery window is within 10 days max, depending of the country. Good luck. Keep looking ☀️

[@cptJAD]

Great video. I use PayPal Multiorder Shipping and have for years I was recommended Pirateship, I recommended Pirateship to people who don’t have the PayPal Multiorder Shipping since they have the same prices, for some reason the link has to be put in manually or copy and pasted if it doesn’t not appear on your main PayPal page when you’re logged in. Also for Etsy sellers, Etsy,PayPal and Pirateship offer the same prices and they are cheaper than going to the post office.

[@sdirvin1]

USPS is going to be your best option. Maybe I should give you all the correct info to make your experience and services better. Yes I work there 😁

[@soonermel91]

My dad's a retired Postmaster and every time he heard that I've mailed something he says "Keep those letters and packages going!" USPS gets a lot of flak but they really are the best. 👍

[@lisa9867]

@@dcwatashi Priority mail has tracking to Canada. First class does not but if you send it registered mail it will require a signature and have tracking.

[@lindapearson3926]

@@lisa9867 Adding Registered to first class mail is not Tracking!!!!!!! It might get scanned but it is not tracking. In the states it travels seperate, big canvas sack, locked with a huge brass lock or a seal. Signed for EVERY time it changes hands. You do not see it move. In order for it to be considered "tracking" they need to be parcels that are processed using our automated system. In the US, Registered mail is scanned upon delivery and signed for. Just because it has a barcode doesn't mean it's being tracked.

[@cristyablad]

I JUST found out about Ready Post items (WHY did I just find out about these?!) and I think overall it probably won't save me money (maybe) but it saves time and guessing! I don't have a postal scale and don't ship enough to get one so last time I shipped a bubble envelope I put like 7 stamps which is what the internet recommended. The $1.60 I paid for a Ready Post bubble mailer of the same size definitely saved me money in that case but I'm also glad to just know it's paid and ready to go and going to get there and not have to worry about how many stamps!

[@scottmarinello3797]

Regarding #3, I DID have a good experience with USPS when making a claim. I filed a damage claim online, for an item that got broken in transit. Since I sent it Priority Mail, that service provided enough insurance coverage to cover the value of the item. USPS honored my claim QUICKLY and I had their reimbursement check in my hand in about 3 days.

[@Omni92]

Thank you so much this was so valuable especially for media mail tip. I can now help my little brother with his distant learning.

[@banjoyBoy]

A few comments: #1) USPS Media Mail is the only class of mail that can be opened and inspected at any point along the line by any USPS worker. If the contents are not defined media, then the recipient will pay the cost difference on receipt. #2) You seem to have overlooked USPS flat-rate options. The maximum weight allowed within ANY flat rate option is 70 lbs provided it fits in the package supplied by USPS. So you can ship lead bricks pretty cheaply this way. Used wisely, USPS flat rate can be the best deal in town (if it fits).

[@klo9380]

Great info, thank you. What about shipping internationally? I live in England but my family lives in NJ and often send me things I can’t get here.

[@John-gv2hg]

Don't ever use ups if you want your stuff

[@tscovel]

If you ship heavy small items look into USPS region A or B boxes.