Do you need to start shipping packages with a courier? Not sure what types of services couriers actually provide?
Aside from post office delivery options, there are many couriers who will deliver a package for you in a variety of different ways. However, it’s important to understand all of the different service options if you’re thinking about using a courier.
In this guide, we’ll tell you about the different types of services that couriers provide.
- Standard Delivery
Standard delivery services are, as you would expect, one of the most common types of services that couriers will offer.
These services will typically deliver a package in about 2-3 days, so this is a good option to consider if you’re not in too big of a rush. Standard delivery service is not very different from postal service delivery and will offer you the best bang for your buck if you have patience.
Standard delivery services will have standardized specifications for packages. Packages will usually be restricted to a maximum weight, which will often be between 100-150 pounds. This means that standard delivery is often best suited for smaller and medium-sized packages.
Remember that there are advantages and disadvantages to all types of courier services. Be sure to click here if you want to learn more about the pros and cons of couriers.
- Same-Day Delivery
Same-day delivery is another service that’s often offered by courier services. In the case of same-day delivery, packages will be delivered on the same day that it’s sent.
With same-day delivery, you can get a package delivered quickly if needed. However, there are limitations to same-day delivery and it won’t work like magic.
You’ll usually be required to request delivery before noon of the same day. In many cases, you can request a delivery from couriers online. Deliveries will also usually need the be to a local address to ensure that a courier will be able to deliver them on the same day.
- Overnight Delivery
While most courier services operate from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and will only take packages during this time, overnight shipping services can help you to get packages delivered outside of this time frame. Overnight shipping services are also known as next-day delivery and can help you to get a package delivered outside of normal daytime hours.
This service can be useful in a variety of situations and may be necessary for some types of items. For items that can suffer damage while sitting in traffic in heat during the daytime, for example, overnight delivery services can be helpful.
- Rush and On-Demand Delivery
Rush and on-demand delivery service is another option to be aware of. This is an even faster delivery option than same-day delivery. Often with this service, a courier will offer guaranteed delivery within 4 hours.
Rush orders often begin transit as soon as the order has been placed instead of waiting for business hours or for other deliveries to be loaded onto a truck. A bike messenger service, for example, is a type of rush delivery that may be used to quickly get a package from Point A to Point B.
- Scheduled and Routed Delivery
Scheduled or routed delivery is another option that you may want to consider using when hiring courier services. These services offer extra convenience since the courier will be going on a specific route regularly.
By requesting deliveries within this couriers mile and standard route, you can affordably and conveniently get goods delivered in a reliable way.
- Parcel Services
Parcel services are another type of service offered by couriers. These services are currently becoming more popular and more common.
Parcel services typically include next-day or same-day delivery and will only be available for local deliveries. These deliveries will be affordable, quick, and convenient but the parcel will usually be very small. Parcel packages will usually weigh 100 pounds or less and should be able to be moved easily by a courier.
- International Delivery
International delivery is another type of delivery service that will be offered by some couriers.
International courier services can be very beneficial when shipping an item abroad and can be more reliable than shipping items through the postal service alone. When shipping through postal service, you’ll be relying on the postal service of your own country as well as the country you’re shipping to. A courier service that operates in both countries will be able to complete the journey all on their own.
International couriers may ship items through air, freight, rail, or road. They’ll handle all of the difficult aspects of shipping internationally for you such as permits and customs clearance. They’ll also understand all international laws. The costs can vary a lot, however, depending on the size of your package and the speed of delivery, so keep this in mind.
- On-Board Courier Service
On-board courier delivery is another type of service that you can get from a courier.
With this type of service, your package will be accompanied at all times as it’s delivered long-distance from Point A to Point B. An on-board courier will book a flight and will hand-deliver the package to a location of your choosing.
Because a trusted courier will have your package at all times, this can be one of the most secure ways to transport an item. It can also be very fast as well.
Understanding the Many Types of Couriers
If you want to get a package delivered, it’s important that you understand what couriers do. Be sure to consider all of the above services if you need to hire a courier service soon.
In search of more tips and advice for your business? Browse our blog now to discover more helpful guides.