Solved: New to shipping

theflowerchef · ‎07-16-2023

Hi. I've just finished my website and want to start shipping, but have no idea where to start. There are so many options. It is overwhelming. How do you know what boxes to get? How do you know what to get to vill the void space in a box? How do you know which shipping rate to charge? Anyone with any advice would be so greatly appreciated in helping this very novice shipper get started. Thank you so much for your time and knowledge!

JK_Fiber_Art · ‎07-17-2023

Hi Theflowerchef,

Since we don't know what you're shipping or your volume, the answers are basically generic. Start simple and do some experimenting. For example, USPS has a postage price calculator. (Very easy to use.) You can also get boxes for free - either based on Flat Rate or regular. For our items, we always use "Priority Mail" via Flat Rate or Regular - depends on size and/or weight and/or destination. You'll get tracking details and if necessary extra insurance. We don't ship international - only lower 48 states. If your business picks up, of course there's UPS and FedEx. As for packing materials - think "green" for starters - there's lots of options - just for ideas, go here. Last, how to figure out what to charge - that's another challenge - you first have to know what actual expenses are including tape, labels, printing, time, etc. No different from figuring out what it costs you for the items you sell. Just some thoughts of course.

jk

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JK_Fiber_Art · ‎07-17-2023

Hi Theflowerchef,

Since we don't know what you're shipping or your volume, the answers are basically generic. Start simple and do some experimenting. For example, USPS has a postage price calculator. (Very easy to use.) You can also get boxes for free - either based on Flat Rate or regular. For our items, we always use "Priority Mail" via Flat Rate or Regular - depends on size and/or weight and/or destination. You'll get tracking details and if necessary extra insurance. We don't ship international - only lower 48 states. If your business picks up, of course there's UPS and FedEx. As for packing materials - think "green" for starters - there's lots of options - just for ideas, go here. Last, how to figure out what to charge - that's another challenge - you first have to know what actual expenses are including tape, labels, printing, time, etc. No different from figuring out what it costs you for the items you sell. Just some thoughts of course.

jk