Understanding Media Mail Shipping Rates for UPS in 2019

If you own a small business that frequently ships media items such as books, CDs, or DVDs, you know how important it is to find affordable and reliable shipping options. One such option is Media Mail Shipping, which is offered by both UPS and USPS. In this article, we will focus specifically on UPS Media Mail Shipping rates and everything you need to know about this service.

What is Media Mail Shipping and How Does it Work?

Media Mail is a cost-effective shipping service that is available to send educational materials, books, sound recordings, and media-related items. This service is offered by both UPS and USPS, but the prices for shipping may vary depending on the weight and destination of the package. Media Mail shipments may take longer to reach their destination than other shipping options, but the cost-effectiveness of the service makes it an ideal option for many people.

One important thing to note about Media Mail is that it has specific restrictions on what can be shipped. For example, items such as video games, computer drives, and digital drives are not eligible for Media Mail shipping. Additionally, any non-media items included in a Media Mail package may result in the package being returned to the sender or charged at a higher rate.

Another benefit of using Media Mail is that it includes free USPS tracking, which allows you to monitor the progress of your shipment. This can be especially helpful if you are sending valuable or time-sensitive items. However, it’s important to note that Media Mail tracking may not be as detailed as other shipping options, and may not update as frequently.

Benefits of Using Media Mail Shipping for Your Business

Media Mail Shipping has several benefits that can help small business owners save money on shipping costs. First and foremost, Media Mail rates are typically lower than other shipping services for qualifying items. Media Mail Shipping is also an ideal option for small businesses that have lighter-weight items to ship, as the cost-effectiveness of the service can be maximized for these smaller items. Although the service may take longer to deliver, it is still a reliable option for businesses that have non-urgent shipments to make.

Another benefit of using Media Mail Shipping is that it allows for a wide range of items to be shipped, including books, CDs, DVDs, and other media-related items. This makes it a great option for businesses that specialize in selling these types of products. Additionally, Media Mail Shipping offers free tracking and delivery confirmation, which can provide peace of mind for both the business owner and the customer.

Finally, Media Mail Shipping is a great option for businesses that are looking to reduce their environmental impact. The service is designed to be more eco-friendly than other shipping options, as it uses ground transportation instead of air transportation. This can help to reduce carbon emissions and minimize the business’s overall carbon footprint.

Media Mail Shipping Rates Comparison: UPS vs USPS

If you’re trying to figure out which shipping provider to use for Media Mail Shipping, it’s important to compare the rates and services of both UPS and USPS. Generally speaking, UPS Media Mail Shipping rates are slightly higher than those of USPS, but that doesn’t mean one service is better than the other. The best option for your business will depend on several factors, such as the weight and destination of the package, the time frame for delivery, and the cost-effectiveness of the service.

It’s also important to note that both UPS and USPS offer tracking services for Media Mail shipments, which can provide peace of mind for both the sender and recipient. Additionally, USPS offers free package pickup services for Media Mail shipments, which can save time and money for businesses that have a high volume of shipments. On the other hand, UPS offers a wider range of delivery options, including guaranteed delivery times and international shipping, which may be beneficial for businesses with specific shipping needs.

How to Calculate Media Mail Shipping Rates for UPS

Calculating Media Mail Shipping rates for UPS is relatively straightforward. The UPS website offers a shipping calculator that allows you to enter the weight and destination of your package to determine the cost of shipping. To qualify for Media Mail rates, your package must contain qualifying materials, such as books, CDs, or DVDs. The weight of the package will also determine the cost of shipping.

It is important to note that Media Mail rates are only available for packages that are being shipped within the United States. If you are shipping internationally, you will need to use a different shipping method and may not be able to take advantage of Media Mail rates.

Additionally, it is important to properly package your items when using Media Mail. The USPS has specific guidelines for packaging Media Mail items, including using sturdy packaging materials and properly labeling the package as Media Mail. Failure to follow these guidelines could result in additional fees or even the package being returned to you.

Factors That Affect Media Mail Shipping Rates

Several factors can affect the cost of Media Mail Shipping rates with UPS. These factors can include the weight and size of the package, the destination of the package, and the time frame for delivery. Additionally, the type and quality of packaging used to protect the items being shipped can also affect the final cost of shipping.

Another factor that can affect Media Mail Shipping rates is the content of the package. Certain items, such as books, CDs, and DVDs, are eligible for Media Mail rates, while other items may not be. It is important to check with UPS to ensure that the items being shipped qualify for Media Mail rates, as using the wrong shipping method can result in additional fees and delays in delivery.

Top Tips for Saving Money on Media Mail Shipping with UPS

If you’re looking to save money on Media Mail Shipping rates with UPS, several tips can help you. First, make sure to pack your items in lightweight packaging materials to avoid additional weight charges. Also, consider consolidating multiple shipments into a single package to take advantage of bulk shipping discounts. Finally, try to plan your shipping in advance, so you can take advantage of lower rates for slower delivery times.

Another way to save money on Media Mail Shipping with UPS is to use their online shipping tools. By using their online platform, you can save up to 18% on your shipping costs. Additionally, you can schedule a pickup for your package, which saves you time and money on transportation costs.

It’s also important to note that UPS offers discounts to certain groups, such as non-profit organizations and small businesses. If you fall into one of these categories, make sure to inquire about any available discounts that you can take advantage of.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Media Mail Shipping with UPS

When using Media Mail Shipping with UPS, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can lead to additional charges or delivery delays. One of the most common mistakes is failing to pack items securely, which can result in damaged items and additional fees. Additionally, failing to properly weigh and measure packages can lead to additional fees and charges.

Another common mistake to avoid when using Media Mail Shipping with UPS is not properly labeling your packages. It’s important to clearly label your packages with the correct shipping address and return address to ensure they are delivered to the correct recipient. Failure to do so can result in lost or delayed packages.

It’s also important to be aware of the restrictions on what can be shipped using Media Mail. This shipping option is only available for certain types of media, such as books, CDs, and DVDs. Shipping items that do not qualify as media using Media Mail can result in additional fees and charges, as well as delays in delivery.

How to Track Your Media Mail Shipments with UPS

If you’ve shipped a package using Media Mail with UPS, you can easily track your shipment by using the UPS website. Simply enter the tracking number on the website, and you’ll be provided with an estimated delivery date as well as real-time updates on the location and status of your package.

It’s important to note that Media Mail shipments may take longer to arrive than other types of shipments, as they are subject to inspection by the USPS to ensure that they meet the requirements for Media Mail. This can sometimes result in delays, so it’s a good idea to track your shipment regularly to stay informed about its progress.

If you’re shipping a large number of Media Mail packages, you may want to consider using UPS’s bulk shipping tools, which allow you to upload a spreadsheet of tracking numbers and receive updates on all of your shipments at once. This can save you time and make it easier to manage your shipments.

Conclusion

Media Mail Shipping with UPS can be an excellent choice for small businesses that frequently ship media items. With cost-effective rates and reliable service, it’s a great way to save money on shipping costs while still meeting the needs of your customers. By taking advantage of the tips and information provided in this article, you can use Media Mail Shipping with UPS to improve the efficiency and profitability of your business.

However, it’s important to note that Media Mail Shipping with UPS may not be the best option for businesses that require fast delivery times or need to ship items that do not qualify for media mail rates. In these cases, it may be worth considering other shipping options that better meet your needs.

Additionally, it’s important to properly package your media items to ensure they arrive at their destination in good condition. This may include using sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and other protective materials. By taking the time to package your items carefully, you can reduce the risk of damage during shipping and improve customer satisfaction.