How to Use FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost Shipping

FedEx Ship Manager is a powerful platform for managing your shipping needs, and SmartPost is one of the services offered by FedEx. In this article, we will take a deep dive into how to use FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost Shipping. We will cover everything from setting up an account to printing labels and tracking shipments. So buckle up, and let’s get started.

Understanding FedEx SmartPost Shipping

FedEx SmartPost is a service specially designed for high-volume shippers. It is ideal for those looking for a cost-effective way to ship large volumes of lightweight, low-value packages to residential addresses. FedEx SmartPost shipping is a collaboration between FedEx and the United States Postal Service (USPS). The service is tailored to offer delivery within 1-5 business days, with delivery made through the USPS.

One of the benefits of using FedEx SmartPost is that it offers package tracking. This means that you can track your package from the moment it is picked up by FedEx until it is delivered to its final destination. Additionally, FedEx SmartPost offers a range of delivery options, including home delivery, delivery to a post office, or delivery to a FedEx location for pickup. This flexibility makes it easy for customers to receive their packages in a way that is most convenient for them.

Features of the FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost Shipping

The FedEx Ship Manager 2018 comes packed with several features that make SmartPost shipping a breeze. The platform is designed to handle small and large shipping tasks and includes features such as shipping quotes, label printing, and package tracking. With the Ship Manager 2018 platform, you can manage all your SmartPost shipping needs from one location, saving you time and money.

In addition to the basic features, the FedEx Ship Manager 2018 also offers advanced features such as batch shipping, which allows you to process multiple shipments at once, and address book management, which lets you store frequently used addresses for quick access. The platform also integrates with popular e-commerce platforms such as Shopify and WooCommerce, making it easy to manage your online orders and shipments.

Another great feature of the FedEx Ship Manager 2018 is its reporting capabilities. The platform provides detailed reports on your shipping activity, including shipping costs, delivery times, and package tracking information. This data can help you identify areas for improvement and optimize your shipping processes for maximum efficiency.

Benefits of using FedEx Ship Manager for SmartPost Shipping

The benefits of using FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost shipping are many. Firstly, it offers customers a seamless experience by allowing them to create and manage shipping labels easily. With the platform, you can access and manage your shipments from anywhere, even on the go using the mobile app. Additionally, the platform provides users with extensive reporting capabilities to help track expenses and budgets efficiently.

Another benefit of using FedEx Ship Manager for SmartPost shipping is the ability to customize your shipping options. You can choose from a variety of delivery options, including residential, commercial, and even Saturday delivery. This flexibility allows you to tailor your shipping to meet the specific needs of your business and customers.

Finally, using FedEx Ship Manager for SmartPost shipping can help you save time and money. The platform offers discounted shipping rates, and you can easily compare rates from different carriers to find the best deal. Additionally, the platform streamlines the shipping process, reducing the time and effort required to manage your shipments.

Setting up a FedEx account for SmartPost Shipping

To use FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost Shipping, you’ll need to create a FedEx account. Simply go to the FedEx website and follow the instructions provided. You will need to provide some basic information such as your name, email address, business name, and phone number. Once you have created an account, you’ll need to activate it, and you’ll be ready to access the platform.

After activating your FedEx account, you can start using the SmartPost Shipping feature. This service is ideal for businesses that need to ship lightweight packages to residential addresses. SmartPost Shipping is a cost-effective solution that combines the speed of FedEx with the convenience of the US Postal Service.

When using SmartPost Shipping, you’ll need to follow some guidelines to ensure that your packages are delivered on time and in good condition. For example, you’ll need to use specific labels and packaging materials, and you’ll need to meet certain weight and size restrictions. You can find all the details on the FedEx website, or by contacting their customer service team.

How to install and configure FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost Shipping

To install and configure FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost Shipping, you’ll first need to download the software from the FedEx website. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation and configuration process. Once installed, you can access the platform by logging into your account.

After logging in, you’ll be prompted to enter your shipping information, including the recipient’s address, package weight, and shipping method. You can also select additional services, such as signature confirmation or insurance, if needed.

Once you’ve entered all the necessary information, you can generate a shipping label and schedule a pickup or drop off at a FedEx location. You can also track your shipment and receive notifications about its status through the platform.

Creating a shipment in FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost Shipping

Creating a shipment in FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost Shipping is a straightforward process. First, login to your account and select “Create Shipment” option. Enter the recipient’s details, including their name, address, and contact information. Then, select the package type and weight, as well as the shipping method. Once you have confirmed the details, you can print your shipping label and attach it to your package.

It is important to note that when creating a shipment for SmartPost Shipping, the package weight cannot exceed 70 pounds. Additionally, SmartPost Shipping is a cost-effective option for shipping lightweight packages that are not time-sensitive. The delivery time for SmartPost Shipping can take up to 7-10 business days, so it is important to plan accordingly when selecting this shipping method.

Choosing the right shipping service level with FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost Shipping

Choosing the right shipping level with FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost shipping depends on your specific needs. Consider factors such as the weight and value of your package, your budget, and the destination of the package. FedEx SmartPost offers different service levels to cater to the needs of its customers, including 2-day delivery, economy shipping, and standard shipping.

When choosing a shipping service level, it’s important to also consider the delivery time frame. If you need your package to arrive quickly, then 2-day delivery may be the best option for you. However, if you’re not in a rush and want to save money, then economy shipping may be a better choice.

Another factor to consider is the level of tracking and visibility you require for your package. Some service levels may offer more detailed tracking information than others, which can be important if you’re shipping valuable or time-sensitive items. Make sure to review the tracking options available for each service level before making your decision.

Printing labels with FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost Shipping

To print labels with FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost Shipping, first, log in to your account, select “Create Shipment,” and provide the necessary details. After confirming the shipment details, select “Print Label” from the menu and choose your label format. Once you have selected your format and made other necessary adjustments, print out the label, and attach it to your package.

It is important to note that when printing labels with FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost Shipping, you should ensure that your printer settings are correct. This will help to avoid any issues with the label printing process, such as labels being printed too small or too large. Additionally, if you encounter any issues with the label printing process, FedEx provides customer support to assist you in resolving the issue.

Tracking and managing your shipments with FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost Shipping

FedEx Ship Manager 2018 provides you with several tools to track and manage your shipments. You can track your packages’ progress through your account dashboard or the mobile app. Additionally, you can set up email notifications to receive updates on your shipment status, helping you stay informed and empowered.

Another useful feature of FedEx Ship Manager 2018 is the ability to manage your shipments. You can easily edit shipping information, such as the recipient’s address or delivery date, and even cancel a shipment if necessary. This can save you time and hassle, especially if you need to make changes to multiple shipments at once. With FedEx Ship Manager 2018, you have the tools you need to stay on top of your shipping needs.

Troubleshooting common issues with using FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost Shipping

If you encounter any issues when using FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost Shipping, there are several resources available. First, consult the platform’s user guide, which provides in-depth support and instructions. Additionally, you can contact FedEx support via live chat, email, or phone to get assistance with any problems you may encounter.

Another common issue that users may encounter when using FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost Shipping is related to incorrect or incomplete address information. To avoid this issue, make sure to double-check all address fields before submitting your shipment. FedEx also offers an address validation tool that can help ensure accurate delivery.

Finally, if you are experiencing slow or delayed shipments, it may be due to factors outside of FedEx’s control, such as weather conditions or transportation disruptions. In these cases, FedEx will work to minimize any delays and keep you updated on the status of your shipment.

Tips and tricks for optimizing your SmartPost shipping experience with FedEx Ship Manager 2018

To optimize your SmartPost shipping experience with FedEx Ship Manager 2018, consider making use of various features provided by the platform, such as bulk shipping, automation, and batch processing. These tools enable you to streamline and automate your shipping workflows, saving you time and effort. Additionally, by regularly reviewing your shipping processes and needs, you can continually refine your approach and improve your overall performance.

Comparing the costs and benefits of different shipping methods offered by FedEx, including SmartPost

Before settling on SmartPost, it’s essential to compare the costs and benefits of various shipping methods offered by FedEx. SmartPost offers a cost-effective solution for shipping lightweight packages to residential addresses, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. Consider other options such as Priority Overnight, Standard Overnight, and 2Day, among others, to find the one that meets your needs best.

Conclusion

Using FedEx Ship Manager 2018 for SmartPost Shipping provides a robust platform for managing your shipping needs. With its extensive features, easy-to-use tools, and support resources, you can manage your shipping operations efficiently and effectively, saving you both time and money. Remember to regularly review your shipping workflows and needs, optimize your operations and take full advantage of the platform’s features to ensure a seamless and successful shipping experience.