OnTrac vs Pitney Bowes

In today’s fast-paced world, package delivery has become an integral part of businesses and personal lives. Choosing the right package delivery service can be a challenge, especially with so many options available. Two of the most popular options are OnTrac and Pitney Bowes. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two delivery services, and help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Introduction to OnTrac and Pitney Bowes

OnTrac and Pitney Bowes are both package delivery service providers that specialize in delivering packages across the United States. OnTrac is a regional postal carrier that offers overnight and two-day delivery services in California, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Utah, and Colorado. Pitney Bowes, on the other hand, is a global technology company that offers both domestic and international package delivery services.

OnTrac has been in business since 1991 and has grown to become one of the largest regional package delivery companies in the United States. They offer a variety of shipping options, including ground, overnight, and two-day delivery, as well as same-day delivery in some areas. OnTrac also provides real-time tracking and delivery notifications to keep customers informed about the status of their packages.

Pitney Bowes has a long history dating back to 1920 when it was founded as a manufacturer of postage meters. Today, the company has expanded its services to include global e-commerce solutions, shipping and mailing services, and software solutions for businesses. Pitney Bowes also offers a range of shipping options, including ground, air, and international delivery, as well as customs clearance and fulfillment services.

History and background of OnTrac and Pitney Bowes

OnTrac was founded in 1991, and its headquarters are located in Chandler, Arizona. Initially, the company was known as California Overnight Inc. and offered delivery services in California. Later on, the company expanded its services to other states. Pitney Bowes was founded in 1920, and its headquarters are located in Stamford, Connecticut. The company started as a producer of postage meters and then expanded into package delivery and other areas of business. Today, Pitney Bowes is a leading provider of mailing and shipping solutions.

OnTrac and Pitney Bowes have both faced challenges and changes throughout their histories. In 2017, OnTrac faced a lawsuit over misclassification of drivers as independent contractors instead of employees. The case was settled for $1.25 million. Pitney Bowes has also undergone significant changes, including the sale of its software solutions business in 2019 to Syncsort. Despite these challenges, both companies continue to provide reliable and efficient delivery and shipping services to their customers.

Service offerings of OnTrac and Pitney Bowes

OnTrac offers several delivery services, including overnight, two-day, and ground shipping. Additionally, OnTrac provides custom-tailored logistics solutions for businesses. Pitney Bowes offers a wide range of delivery services, including physical mail delivery, package delivery, and e-commerce solutions. The company also specializes in cross-border shipping and provides services to more than 200 countries worldwide.

Both OnTrac and Pitney Bowes offer tracking services for their deliveries, allowing customers to monitor the progress of their shipments in real-time. OnTrac’s tracking system provides detailed information on the status of a package, including its location and estimated delivery time. Pitney Bowes’ tracking system offers similar features, as well as the ability to track multiple packages at once and receive notifications when a package has been delivered.

Delivery options provided by OnTrac and Pitney Bowes

OnTrac offers several delivery options, including ground, express, and deferred delivery services. The company also provides customized delivery options for businesses to meet their specific needs. Pitney Bowes offers standard, priority, and express delivery services, as well as same-day and next-day delivery options for critical shipments.

In addition to their standard delivery options, both OnTrac and Pitney Bowes offer additional services to enhance the delivery experience. OnTrac provides real-time tracking and notifications, allowing customers to stay up-to-date on the status of their shipments. Pitney Bowes offers a global shipping program, allowing businesses to easily ship their products internationally. Both companies also offer insurance options to protect shipments in case of damage or loss during transit.

Pricing comparison between OnTrac and Pitney Bowes

When it comes to pricing, both OnTrac and Pitney Bowes offer competitive rates for their services. However, the actual price of delivery can vary depending on the size, weight, and distance of the package. It is recommended to get a quote from both service providers based on your shipping needs.

In addition to pricing, there are other factors to consider when choosing between OnTrac and Pitney Bowes. One of these factors is delivery speed. OnTrac offers next-day delivery within their service area, while Pitney Bowes offers a range of delivery speeds depending on the service selected.

Another factor to consider is the level of customer service provided by each company. OnTrac has a reputation for excellent customer service, with a dedicated team available to answer any questions or concerns. Pitney Bowes also offers customer support, but some customers have reported longer wait times and difficulty reaching a representative.

Quality of service comparison between OnTrac and Pitney Bowes

OnTrac and Pitney Bowes both have high-quality service standards that they uphold. However, the quality of service can vary depending on the specific delivery service chosen. For instance, Pitney Bowes offers a tracking feature that allows customers to track their package in real-time, which provides more visibility and control. OnTrac, on the other hand, is known for its speed and reliability, providing same-day delivery for many markets.

Another factor to consider when comparing the quality of service between OnTrac and Pitney Bowes is their customer support. Pitney Bowes has a dedicated customer support team that is available 24/7 to assist customers with any issues or concerns they may have. OnTrac also has a customer support team, but their availability may vary depending on the region and service chosen.

Additionally, both OnTrac and Pitney Bowes offer customized shipping solutions for businesses. Pitney Bowes has a range of solutions for businesses of all sizes, including international shipping and fulfillment services. OnTrac also offers customized solutions, such as scheduled pickups and delivery options tailored to specific business needs.

Technology used by OnTrac and Pitney Bowes for package tracking

Both OnTrac and Pitney Bowes use advanced tracking technology to manage delivery operations. OnTrac offers a tracking service that provides up-to-date information on package location and delivery status. The company also offers a mobile app that allows customers to track their packages on-the-go. Pitney Bowes uses a cloud-based technology platform called SendSuite® Tracking Online, which allows customers to track their packages from multiple carriers in one place.

In addition to their tracking technology, OnTrac and Pitney Bowes also utilize other advanced technologies to improve their delivery operations. OnTrac uses a proprietary routing algorithm that optimizes delivery routes for their drivers, reducing delivery times and improving efficiency. Pitney Bowes has also implemented machine learning algorithms to predict delivery times and optimize delivery routes.

Both companies are also exploring the use of emerging technologies such as drones and autonomous vehicles for package delivery. OnTrac has already begun testing drone deliveries in select areas, while Pitney Bowes is partnering with autonomous vehicle companies to explore the use of self-driving vehicles for package delivery.

Customer support provided by OnTrac and Pitney Bowes

OnTrac and Pitney Bowes both provide excellent customer support to their customers. OnTrac offers phone and email support for customer inquiries and tracking information. Additionally, the company provides an online chat feature for customers who prefer to communicate through messaging. Pitney Bowes offers a 24/7 customer support hotline, as well as email and online chat support for customers with inquiries or issues.

Furthermore, OnTrac has a dedicated team of customer service representatives who are trained to handle complex issues and provide personalized solutions to customers. They also have a comprehensive FAQ section on their website that addresses common questions and concerns.

Similarly, Pitney Bowes has a reputation for going above and beyond to assist their customers. They offer a range of support services, including technical support, training, and consulting. Their customer support team is knowledgeable and responsive, ensuring that customers receive timely and effective assistance.

User reviews of OnTrac and Pitney Bowes services

Customer reviews are an excellent way to gauge the quality of services provided by OnTrac and Pitney Bowes. Based on user reviews, both companies receive high praise for their service levels. Customers praise OnTrac for its speedy delivery times, while Pitney Bowes customers are impressed with the company’s tracking features and cross-border shipping options.

However, some users have reported issues with OnTrac’s customer service, citing long wait times and difficulty resolving issues. On the other hand, Pitney Bowes customers have noted occasional delays in delivery times, particularly for international shipments. Despite these minor drawbacks, overall, both companies have received positive reviews from their customers.

Pros and cons of using OnTrac or Pitney Bowes for package delivery

Each package delivery service has its pros and cons. OnTrac is an ideal choice for businesses and individuals in California, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Utah, and Colorado who need speedy delivery services. On the other hand, Pitney Bowes is a better option for those with cross-border shipping needs and those who require same-day or next-day delivery.

Comparison between regional coverage of OnTrac vs national coverage of Pitney Bowes

OnTrac is a regional delivery service provider that covers seven US states, while Pitney Bowes provides national coverage. Those needing delivery services in states other than California, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Utah, and Colorado would need to explore alternative delivery options.

Impact of pandemic on the delivery services offered by both companies

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on package delivery services around the world. Both OnTrac and Pitney Bowes implemented measures to ensure the safety of their employees and customers. The companies increased their sanitization and disinfection protocols and implemented contactless delivery options. Additionally, both companies experienced delays and disruptions in their delivery services due to the pandemic.

Future plans of expansion for both companies

OnTrac plans to continue expanding its services to other markets outside of its current regional areas of coverage, while Pitney Bowes intends to invest more resources into its e-commerce and technology solutions. Both companies are striving to innovate and improve their services to meet the changing demands of the package delivery industry.

Conclusion – Which service provider is better suited to meet your needs?

Choosing the right package delivery service will largely depend on your specific shipping needs. If you need speedy delivery services in California, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Utah, and Colorado, OnTrac is a great option. On the other hand, if you require national coverage, cross-border shipping, or same-day or next-day delivery, Pitney Bowes is likely to be the best choice. Consider all the factors discussed in this article when weighing your options and making a decision.