10 Shipping Mistakes to Avoid with a Courier Service

If you’re new to shipping with a courier service or looking to improve your current process, it’s important to understand the common mistakes that can be made along the way. From incorrect packaging to choosing the wrong service level, these errors can lead to delays, damaged packages, and extra costs. To help you avoid these pitfalls, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 common mistakes to avoid when shipping with a courier service.

1. Inaccurate or Incomplete Addresses: Always double-check that the shipping address is accurate and complete, including the recipient’s name, street address, city, state, and postal code. An incomplete or inaccurate address can cause delays or even result in the package being returned to the sender.
2. Incorrect Packaging: Improper packaging can cause damage to your shipment during transit. Use sturdy boxes or envelopes and ensure that fragile items are properly padded and marked as such.
3. Inadequate Insurance: Insufficient insurance coverage can leave you unprotected if your package is lost or damaged during shipping. Be sure to purchase enough insurance to cover the full value of your shipment.
4. Choosing the Wrong Service Level: Choosing the wrong service level can result in longer transit times or extra costs. Consider the urgency of your shipment and select the appropriate service level accordingly.
5. Prohibited Items: Make sure that you are not shipping any prohibited items, such as hazardous materials, weapons, or illegal substances. Check with your courier service for a list of prohibited items.
6. Missed Cut-Off Times: Missing cut-off times for pickup or drop-off can delay your shipment. Be sure to check the courier service’s schedule and plan accordingly.
7. Not Providing Tracking Information: Providing tracking information can help you and your recipient stay informed about the status of the shipment. Make sure to provide the tracking number to your recipient as soon as possible.
8. Failure to Declare the Value: Failing to declare the value of your shipment can lead to extra fees or the loss of insurance coverage. Always declare the full value of your shipment to avoid any issues.
9. Not Verifying Shipment Costs: Before finalizing your shipment, make sure to verify the shipping costs, including any additional fees or surcharges. This can help you avoid unexpected costs and budget accordingly.
10. Ignoring the Courier’s Terms and Conditions: Each courier service has its own terms and conditions. Be sure to read and understand these terms before shipping to avoid any issues or disputes.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a smooth shipping experience and avoid extra costs and delays. At Bluorbit Logistics, we offer a wide range of courier services to meet your shipping needs. Contact us today to learn more.