Hi guys,
After reading the thread on brokerage fees, I decided to add my 2 cents on the + side of shipping with these companies.
If you haven't done so, go to each of the big 3,(Fed Ex,
UPS, and USPS), online.
There, you can set up an account, which entitles you to some perks.(Just remember not to sign up for daily pick up, which results in a monthly fee, unless you'll use it.)
All three offer free shipping supplies, from various size boxes to self adhesive shipping labels, forms, etc.
(You may be out of luck on a guitar sized shipping box though!) Your customers will appreciate the little extra of receiving a package that doesn't have 16 old labels and a pound of old packing tape on it!
You can schedule a pick up from your home or shop with minimal fee,(see each ones instructions). Most allow you to pay for the shipment online with a credit card, and add insurance, signature,etc.
You will also be able to save every address in a directory for future use.
It's a nice tool for me, especially since most of my shipping is no larger than a neck blank. It sure beats taking an hour to go to the nearest shipping center and stand in line.
I hope this helps.
Paul
