COVID-19 Shipping Updates: The Best Shipping Companies for Your Business

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant changes to the shipping industry. There have been significant delays in deliveries, and businesses have had to find ways to cope with the new challenges. Nonetheless, the need for reliable shipping solutions remains essential for commerce to continue seamlessly. In this article, we share insights on the best shipping companies that can help your business navigate the pandemic successfully.

Top Shipping Companies for Your Business

A Comprehensive Guide to FedEx Corporation

FedEx Corporation is one of the best shipping companies when it comes to timely deliveries. They have a vast network of couriers, and their services extend to over 220 countries. FedEx also offers a range of shipping solutions, including standard, express, and ground shipping. With the pandemic in mind, the company has implemented safety measures for personnel, such as contactless delivery and mandatory wearing of masks. Therefore, if you are looking for a reliable shipping partner to help sustain your business operations during the pandemic, FedEx is an excellent option.

United Parcel Service (UPS): Everything You Need to Know

UPS is another essential shipping partner for your business during these COVID times. They have over a century of experience in the industry and offer a range of shipping solutions, including international express, domestic, and ground shipping. Similar to FedEx, they have also implemented safety measures such as ‘no-touch’ deliveries, ensuring the safety of their clients and couriers alike. With a 24/7 online tracking system, your business can also monitor its deliveries in real-time, reducing the need for extra expenses on delivery management.

Navigating the United States Postal Service (USPS)

The United States Postal Service (USPS) remains a top competitor in the shipping industry, and its services have been invaluable to businesses during the pandemic. Although their standard shipping process has experienced delays post-COVID, the shipping company has been working tirelessly to maintain timely deliveries. They have also implemented safety measures for their personnel and, as a result, boast of having one of the lowest COVID-19 infection rates in the shipping industry. USPS offers a range of shipping solutions, including Priority Mail®, First-Class Mail, and International Shipping, all with different delivery speeds and prices. However, Priority Mail® remains the fastest option with a 1-3 day delivery time in the United States.

DHL International GmbH: A Global Shipping Giant

DHL International GmbH is an industry-leading shipping company with operations in over 220 countries. They offer a range of shipping solutions, including express, freight, and eCommerce shipping. The company has also implemented safety measures to ensure the uninterrupted flow of business operations, such as hygiene protocols in their facilities and touchless deliveries. DHL’s eCommerce shipping solutions have been especially useful for businesses transitioning to online commerce amid closures and lockdowns. Their services include same-day delivery, multi-carrier shipping options, and hassle-free cross-border shipping.

Canada Post Corp.: Shipping Solutions for Canadian Businesses

Canada Post Corp. is the perfect shipping partner for businesses operating in Canada. They offer a range of shipping solutions, including same-day, express, and international shipping. The shipping company has also been working diligently to manage the pandemic while ensuring timely deliveries. They have implemented touchless delivery, increased cleaning in their facilities, and have a tracking system that informs clients of any delays in delivery. Canada Post Corp.’s e-commerce solutions have also been invaluable for small businesses transitioning to online commerce during COVID-19, with services ranging from fast shipping options, cost-effective shipping rates, and a variety of multi-carrier choices.

Aside from the shipping companies mentioned above, there are other notable players in the industry that businesses can consider partnering with. One such company is Amazon Shipping, which offers a range of shipping solutions, including same-day, next-day, and two-day shipping. The company has also implemented safety measures for its personnel, such as mandatory wearing of masks and social distancing protocols. Amazon Shipping’s services are especially useful for businesses that sell their products on Amazon, as they can take advantage of the company’s vast network of fulfillment centers and warehouses.

Another shipping company that businesses can consider partnering with is ShipBob. The company offers a range of shipping solutions, including same-day, two-day, and international shipping. ShipBob’s services are especially useful for small businesses that are transitioning to online commerce, as the company offers a range of eCommerce solutions, including inventory management, order fulfillment, and shipping analytics. ShipBob has also implemented safety measures for its personnel, such as regular temperature checks and mandatory wearing of masks.

How to Prepare Your Business for Shipping Success

Essential Shipping Tips for Small Business Owners

As a small business owner, shipping is an essential aspect of running your business. It can also be challenging to manage, especially during a pandemic. To help you navigate these times successfully, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

• Always use reliable shipping companies with a proven track record.
• Look for shipping companies with touchless delivery and other safety measures.
• Ensure that packaging is secure, durable, and meet shipping regulations to avoid damages and retourning.
• Optimize shipping costs via flat-rate shipping and discounted rates for high-volume orders.
• Automate shipping processes and track packages online for faster and easier management.

Streamlining Your Shipping Process for Maximum Efficiency

Efficient shipping processes are essential for successful businesses, especially during COVID-19. Here are some tips for streamlining your shipping process:

• Utilize multi-carrier shipping solutions to secure the best rates, based on your package size and destination.
• Utilize automated shipping software to create shipping labels and customs forms, making quick work of high-volume orders.
• Integrate shipping solutions with your existing eCommerce platforms for faster workflows and easier order processing.
• Partner with third-party logistics (3PL) service providers to take advantage of their physical distribution networks, reducing shipping times and costs altogether.

In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought some challenges to the shipping industry, and businesses have had to adapt to meet the new changes. However, with a reliable shipping partner, efficient shipping processes, and an understanding of the essential COVID-19 precautions to take, businesses can continue to thrive. Consider using the shipping companies listed here when looking for shipping solutions for your business during these unprecedented times.

Another essential aspect of preparing your business for shipping success is to have a clear and concise return policy. This policy should be easily accessible to your customers and should outline the steps they need to take to return a product. Having a clear return policy can help reduce the number of returns and make the process smoother for both you and your customers.

It’s also important to communicate with your customers throughout the shipping process. Send them tracking information and updates on their package’s status. This can help build trust with your customers and reduce the number of inquiries you receive about shipping times and delivery dates.