Whatever service you need to use these days for most people the first concern is cost. It is important to get good value for money, but also a first class service. Sometimes if you have bought a large piece of furniture or need to send a letter it is likely you will have to look at your delivery options. Delivery services range from courier companies to major freight transport and shipping companies. But, whichever service you are looking for you still will want the best possible service for your money. Here are some useful points to consider when needing to get an item from one place to another.
Get quotes! Yes like all services you need don’t just settle for one companies price, look at several. It is a good idea to stay local, or you could pay more for travel costs. Try to get a minimum of at least two quotes one from a small courier company and the other from a major company, then you can weigh up offers the best service. A larger company can be more expensive but might offer more guarantees.
A local smaller courier maybe cheaper but might not be as reliable. It is a matter of trying them first.
Space can make the difference to courier costs. If you have time call several courier companies ask if there are any deliveries booked on a certain day, that may be going a similar area or returning with an empty van. This can reduce the cost of a delivery as well being good for the planet in using less fuel!
Prepare a parcel. Yes when it comes to sending a letter or parcel delivery then make sure it is packed well. If it is not fragile make sure what you are sending is packed and labeled clearly this will make the delivery easier, as a courier doesn’t have to be concerned about damage. If unsure ask when making a booking. The customer service may be able to suggest how they want it packed properly for the shipment.
Having patience can help significantly in courier costs. If you are not in a rush for a parcel delivery or collection and able to wait until the courier is booked for the same area then this will make the cost cheaper. Many couriers have regular trips on certain days of the week and this can certainly help cut prices if you don’t need a same day or express delivery service.
If you are not happy with the quote you get given, then ask for discounts or advice on how you can reduce the price. Though it can seem outdated bartering for a better price it’s worth it. With so much competition you can even inform the company of a quote you may already have been given by another company. With the comparing other firms rates it may prompt them to drop a price.
Courier services come all in shapes and sizes from one man band firms to larger corporate shipping companies, but the basis of the job is to get a dispatch from one location to another safely, on time and at a reasonable cost. You do have to bear many factors in mind when you want to send a document or package. Costs will vary on size, weight, speed and distance so there is a lot to consider. Big or small businesses they both have advantages and disadvantages but it depends on what type of service you want. Get together as much information as you can and then make your mind up.
