Courier Services: What You Should Know
Courier services can be particularly beneficial when you have packages that need to be picked up and delivered in a timely and safe manner. These services can be convenient due to the fact that they save you from having to make a special trip to the dreaded post office. Keep reading to learn a few things that you need to know about these types of services to ensure that your experience is optimal.
Different Types of Services Are Available
While you may be able to save money by choosing to ship your packages through the post office, it will likely take longer for your package to reach its final destination than if you choose to have your package shipped and delivered with a local courier service. With a courier service, you often have express delivery options available, which include same-day and overnight delivery services. These options can come in handy when you have last-minute supplies that need to be shipped swiftly.
There Is a List of Prohibited Items That Cannot Be Shipped
Similar to the post office, there are certain items that cannot be shipped via a courier service. Each courier service will have their own individual list of prohibited items, but as a general rule, these prohibited items include flammable, explosive, and corrosive materials. Some specific items that typically cannot be shipped via a courier service include illegal substances, alcohol-containing products, tobacco products, medications, plants and flowers, weapons, and perishable foods.
Pickup Dates and Times Are Flexible
One of the greatest things about courier services is that you can choose a date that works for you and your schedule for the package to be picked up. In fact, for most courier services, you can choose both the date and time of the pickup and the delivery. Make sure that someone is going to be at home or at the place of business to meet the driver at the specified time, or if a specific time is not given, during regular business hours.
Packaging Will Not Be Included
It is important that your items are appropriately packaged and ready to go as soon as the driver arrives to pick up the package, as courier services do not typically offer packaging supplies or assistance with the packaging process. You should make sure to weigh and measure your packages well enough in advance to make sure that you can make the necessary adjustments if your packages do not meet the service's rules and regulations. If you're shipping something delicate, make sure to include some additional packing material for safety.
If you would like to learn more, contact a courier service in your area.