You’re tracking a package. Everything looks normal—until it doesn’t. You refresh the page and see a new status: Shipment Exception.
Now what?
Whether you’re a customer trying to understand a delivery hiccup or an e-commerce brand managing your own outbound shipping, a shipment exception can be confusing and stressful. But the good news is: it doesn’t always mean a package is lost, and in most cases, the issue can be resolved quickly.
Let’s break down what a shipment exception actually means, what causes it, and what you can do to fix or prevent it.
What Is a Shipment Exception?
A shipment exception is a carrier update that indicates something unexpected has delayed or interrupted the delivery process. It doesn’t necessarily mean the package is lost or undeliverable—it just means there’s been a deviation from the original delivery plan.
In many cases, shipment exceptions are temporary and resolve themselves without any intervention. But occasionally, they require input from the sender, receiver, or carrier to keep things moving.
Common Causes of Shipment Exceptions
Here are some of the most frequent reasons you might see a shipment exception:
📍 Incorrect or incomplete address
🌧️ Weather delays (storms, floods, natural disasters, and especially snow)
🏠 Delivery attempt failed (no one home, gated property, etc.)
🌐 Customs issues (for international shipments)
🔍 Label damage or scanning errors
📦 Package held or rerouted by the carrier
In short, anything that prevents the carrier from delivering the shipment as planned may trigger an exception.
What Should You Do When a Shipment Exception Happens?
If you’re a merchant or fulfillment operator, here’s how to respond:
✅ Check the Tracking Page
Carriers like USPS, UPS, and FedEx often provide additional notes when exceptions occur. Read carefully for clues—sometimes the fix is as simple as a missing apartment number.
✅ Verify the Address
If the issue is address-related, cross-check the shipping information from your store or platform. Make sure street numbers, zip codes, and apartment or suite numbers are accurate.
✅ Notify the Customer
It’s always better to be proactive. A quick email or message explaining the delay (and what’s being done about it) can go a long way toward preserving trust.
✅ Contact the Carrier
If the tracking page doesn’t offer clear instructions, contact the carrier directly with the tracking number and shipment details.
✅ File a Claim if Necessary
If the package is confirmed lost or damaged, depending on the carrier’s policies and your coverage, you may be eligible to file a claim.
How to Prevent Shipment Exceptions Before They Happen
You can’t control the weather, but there are several things you can do to reduce the chance of exceptions:
🧠 Validate addresses automatically before label generation
🏷️ Ensure labels are printed cleanly and securely affixed
📞 Include a valid customer phone number for delivery teams
🚚 Choose the right carrier and service level for the destination
📦 Avoid handwriting shipping labels or editing them manually
📊 Monitor exception trends and escalate recurring issues with your carrier or fulfillment provider
How eHub Helps You Minimize Shipping Exceptions
At eHub, we help e-commerce brands simplify and streamline their shipping operations, so exceptions are the exception, not the norm.
With eHub, you can:
🧭 Validate every address before label generation
📦 Automate label creation across multiple carriers
🚨 Get visibility into tracking and exception updates
Exceptions will happen—but with better data, automation, and flexibility, you can stay ahead of them.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Panic—Just Be Proactive
A shipment exception is frustrating, but it’s not the end of the road. Most issues are solvable, and the faster you identify them, the quicker you can get the order back on track.
As your brand grows, so does the complexity of your operations. More SKUs, more bundles, more packaging—what once felt manageable quickly turns into a fulfillment headache.
That’s where the kitting process comes in.
Whether you’re shipping curated product bundles, prepping inventory for Amazon FBA, or building influencer kits with branded inserts, kitting helps streamline your warehouse operations and improve the customer experience. Let’s break down what kitting is, how it works, and when it makes sense to build it into your fulfillment strategy.
What Is the Kitting Process?
Kitting is the process of pre-assembling multiple products into a single ready-to-ship unit. Instead of picking and packing each item individually every time an order comes in, kits are built ahead of time—either as made-to-stock or on-demand—so they can be fulfilled faster and more consistently.
For Example:
A skincare brand sells a “Glow Starter Kit” with a cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturizer. Rather than picking those four SKUs for every order, the fulfillment team builds the kits in advance and stores them as a single unit.
The result? Less complexity, faster shipping, and a better unboxing experience for the customer.
How the Kitting Process Works
The process will vary slightly depending on the fulfillment setup, but here’s how it generally flows:
Inventory Arrival All individual SKUs are received and stored in the fulfillment center.
Kit Assembly Warehouse staff assemble kits based on predefined instructions. This can include:
Specific item combinations
Branded packaging or boxes
Inserts, promo materials, or instructions
Labeling and Storage Each kit is labeled with a unique SKU and stored as its own unit in the warehouse.
Order Fulfillment When an order for the kit comes in, it’s picked and shipped as a single item—no last-minute bundling required.
Some fulfillment providers also offer on-demand kitting, where kits are built as orders come in, useful for dynamic bundles or low-volume SKUs.
Why Kitting Matters in E-Commerce Fulfillment
Whether you’re shipping subscription boxes or prepping bulk kits for retail, a streamlined kitting process offers several benefits:
✅ Faster Fulfillment Pre-assembled kits reduce time spent on order assembly and packing.
✅ Lower Labor and Shipping Costs Fewer touches = less time, fewer mistakes, and often smaller packaging.
✅ Improved Customer Experience Consistent, branded unboxing = better retention and more word-of-mouth.
✅ Better Inventory Management Kitted SKUs are easier to track and forecast than ad-hoc bundles.
✅ Scalable Operations As order volume grows, having kits pre-built prevents fulfillment bottlenecks.
When to Use Kitting in Your Business
You might be ready for kitting services if:
You regularly ship bundles, kits, or multi-item orders
You include branded packaging or inserts in your orders
You need to prep products for Amazon FBA, retail, or wholesale
You want to speed up order processing and reduce manual touches
You’re scaling and need more consistent customer experiences
How eHub Helps With Kitting and Fulfillment
At eHub, we connect e-commerce brands with 3PLs that do more than just pick and pack. Many of our fulfillment partners specialize in kitting services, from branded assembly to retail-ready prep.
We help you:
🤝 Find the right kitting provider for your industry and volume
📦 Support branded experiences, promo inserts, and packaging customization
🔄 Centralize inventory, shipping, and tracking on one platform
📈 Scale your fulfillment without scaling your headaches
Whether you’re prepping influencer kits or bundling for retail, we’ll help you get it built, packed, and shipped—your way.
Final Thoughts: Kitting Is How Brands Scale Smart
As you grow, the little details—assembly, inserts, bundles—start to add up. A reliable kitting process takes that complexity off your plate so you can focus on what matters most: your product, your customer, and your growth.
If your team ships dozens—or even hundreds—of packages a day, manually handling each one isn’t just slow; it’s risky.
Delays. Missed pickups. Disorganized handoffs to the carrier.
That’s where batch delivery to carrier becomes essential. Whether you’re operating a warehouse or partnering with a 3PL, batching streamlines your outbound flow and ensures packages move efficiently from your dock to the carrier.
Let’s break down what batch delivery actually means, why it matters, and how platforms like eHub simplify it.
What Is Batch Delivery to Carrier?
Batch delivery to carrier refers to the process of grouping multiple outbound packages into a single organized handoff—typically paired with batch label generation and coordinated pickup or drop-off scheduling.
Instead of treating every package as its own isolated task, batch delivery allows fulfillment teams to:
Print shipping labels in bulk
Sort packages by carrier and service level
Organize pickups and drop-offs more efficiently
Think of it as streamlining the “shipment of shipments.”
Why Batch Delivery Matters
If you’re still processing outbound packages one label at a time—or handing them off in small, uncoordinated groups—it’s easy to fall behind. Especially when:
Batching addresses these bottlenecks and keeps fulfillment moving smoothly.
Key Benefits:
Faster pickups and handoffs
Less manual sorting and handling
More organized outbound flow
Easier end-of-day closure for your shipping team
How Batch Delivery Works in Practice
Here’s what a typical batch delivery workflow might look like:
Group Orders Orders are filtered by carrier, service level, or client.
Print Labels in Bulk A shipping platform generates all labels for the group in one workflow.
Sort and Stage Packages Boxes are physically grouped by carrier and staged for pickup or delivery.
Carrier Handoff Packages are delivered to or picked up by the appropriate carrier in an organized batch.
Common Use Cases for Batch Delivery
DTC Brands: Running a product drop or promotion with high daily volume.
3PL Warehouses: Fulfilling orders for multiple clients across different carriers and time zones.
Carrier-Scheduled Pickups: Streamlining handoffs to minimize driver wait times and shipping disruptions.
Same-Day Shipping Cutoffs: Relying on speed and precision to meet end-of-day fulfillment goals.
How eHub Makes Batch Delivery Easier
Batching is only as efficient as the tools you use—and we built Ship to simplify high-volume fulfillment at every step.
Bulk Label Generation
Generate shipping labels across all major carriers in organized groups—saving time and reducing errors.
Organized Carrier Routing
Sort orders by carrier and service level automatically so your team doesn’t have to manually triage packages.
Multi-Carrier Support
eHub gives you access to top carriers like USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL—so you can ship smarter from one place.
Tracking Visibility
Easily monitor which batches have gone out and what’s still pending—especially helpful for growing ops teams.
Batching brings structure to shipping—and eHub helps you scale it without friction.
Final Thoughts: Batch Better, Ship Smarter
In high-volume ecommerce or 3PL environments, outbound shipping can quickly become chaotic without a clear system. Batch delivery to carrier creates a smoother handoff, reduces mistakes, and helps your fulfillment team keep pace with growing demand.
At eHub, we help brands and fulfillment partners automate batch processing, centralize label creation, and move faster every day.
Running a successful e-commerce business means more than just generating orders—you also need to get those orders out the door accurately, quickly, and at scale. That’s where pick and pack services come in.
Whether you’re a growing DTC brand or a seasoned seller juggling multiple channels, outsourcing fulfillment can help you stay focused on growth while ensuring your customers get the fast, consistent experience they expect.
In this post, we’ll break down what pick and pack services actually include, when it makes sense to outsource them, and how platforms like eHub help you find the right fulfillment partner—without the trial and error.
What Are Pick and Pack Services?
Pick and pack services are a core part of third-party logistics (3PL) operations. They cover the hands-on steps between order placement and shipment, including:
1. Inventory Storage
Your products are received and stored in a fulfillment center, organized for fast picking.
2. Order Picking
When a customer places an order, warehouse staff pick the correct SKUs from inventory.
3. Packing & Inserts
Items are packed into boxes or mailers, with padding, inserts, or branded touches as needed.
4. Labeling & Shipping
Shipping labels are generated, tracking numbers are assigned, and packages are handed off to the selected carrier.
5. Optional Returns Handling
Some 3PLs also manage reverse logistics, making returns and exchanges easier for customers and merchants.
At its best, pick and pack fulfillment feels invisible to your customer—and effortless for your brand.
When Does It Make Sense to Outsource Pick and Pack Services?
If you’re still packing boxes in your living room or managing a small warehouse team in-house, you may be wondering when it’s time to let go.
Here are a few signs it might be time to outsource:
You’re spending more time packing than growing the business
Your error rate is starting to rise
You’ve run out of storage space
Shipping costs are unpredictable
You’re preparing for a product launch, promotion, or seasonal surge
You need faster turnaround or tracking updates to meet customer expectations
What to Look for in a Pick and Pack Provider
Choosing the right fulfillment partner is a big decision. Here’s what to evaluate when comparing pick and pack providers:
Accuracy & Speed
Look for providers with service-level guarantees (SLAs) around order accuracy and ship times.
Integrations
Your 3PL should integrate with your e-commerce platform (Shopify, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, etc.) to automate order flow.
Flexible Packaging
Need branded inserts or kitting? Make sure they can support your customer experience needs.
Transparent Pricing
Understand how you’re billed: per pick, per order, per SKU, or per box. Watch for hidden storage or material fees.
Strategic Locations
Multi-warehouse providers can help you cut shipping times and costs by fulfilling closer to your customer base.
How eHub Helps You Find the Right Pick and Pack Partner
At eHub, we simplify the entire fulfillment process by connecting you with vetted 3PLs that specialize in fast, accurate, and scalable pick and pack services.
But we don’t stop there.
Fulfillment Matchmaking
We help you find a 3PL that fits your business model, product type, order volume, and growth goals.
Shipping Automation
Our platform integrates with your order sources and automates carrier selection, label creation, and tracking.
Optimized Shipping Costs
eHub helps you access shipping rates through top carriers (USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL, and more), without forcing you into long-term contracts.
Stress-Free Scalability
As your volume grows, we make it easy to layer on additional warehouses, returns support, or carrier options—so you can grow without fulfillment becoming a bottleneck.
We make sure you’re not just getting orders out—we’re helping you get them out smarter.
Final Thoughts: Pick and Pack Is the Core of E-Commerce Fulfillment
If you’re scaling your ecommerce business, you can’t afford fulfillment delays, packing errors, or overpaying for shipping.
Outsourcing pick and pack services to the right 3PL can give you back time, reduce operational risk, and improve customer satisfaction—and eHub makes it easy to get started.
In ecommerce and logistics, a lot of terms sound similar—but that doesn’t mean they mean the same thing.
“Backorder” vs “backlog” are two terms that often get used interchangeably. But while they both relate to delays in fulfillment, they refer to very different supply chain problems—and solving them requires two very different approaches.
If you’re looking to streamline operations, improve delivery times, or just communicate more clearly with your customers, it’s worth understanding the difference.
What Is a Backorder?
A backorder occurs when a product is out of stock when an order is placed, but the order is still accepted, with the intention of being fulfilled later.
This is a customer-facing issue, and it usually stems from:
Example: A customer places an order for a product that’s currently sold out but is expected to restock in two weeks. The order is accepted, and the customer is notified that it’s on backorder.
Backorders are common in e-commerce, especially when managing limited inventory or pre-launch product drops. However, they can be managed with clear communication and accurate ETAs.
What Is a Backlog?
A backlog refers to a buildup of unfulfilled orders that could be shipped, but aren’t—usually due to internal processing delays.
This is an operational issue, and it’s often caused by:
Labor shortages in the warehouse
Technology bottlenecks
Seasonal volume spikes
Inefficient picking, packing, or label generation
Example: Your warehouse has inventory available, but it’s falling behind in order processing because your team can’t keep up with the daily volume.
Backlogs don’t always impact customers immediately—but if left unchecked, they can quickly snowball into missed delivery windows and support headaches.
Why the Difference Matters: Backorder vs Backlog
Understanding whether you’re facing a backorder vs backlog helps you:
Pinpoint where delays are happening
Improve internal processes or reorder cadence
Communicate more accurately with customers
Choose the right solution (tech, staffing, partners)
Both problems affect the customer experience—but solving them requires different strategies.
How eHub Helps Brands Reduce Backorders and Backlogs
At eHub, we help ecommerce brands and 3PLs simplify fulfillment from checkout to delivery—and that includes reducing both backorders and backlogs.
Here’s how we help:
Streamlined Fulfillment Partner Matching
If your current warehouse can’t keep up with volume, we help connect you to vetted 3PLs with the capacity and systems to scale—so backlogs don’t pile up.
Shipping Automation
eHub automates label generation, carrier selection, and tracking to eliminate manual steps that slow down order processing.
Fulfillment Visibility
By centralizing carrier and shipping activity, eHub gives your ops team better visibility into what’s moving—and what’s stuck—before problems escalate.
Support for Scalable Growth
When brands grow faster than their fulfillment can handle, both backorders and backlogs become more likely. We help ensure your backend is ready before it breaks.
Backorders are about inventory. Backlogs are about throughput. eHub helps you plan for both.
Final Thoughts: Fix the Right Problem, Not Just the Symptom
Backorders and backlogs may both slow down fulfillment—but they stem from entirely different causes. Knowing the difference helps you ask better questions, make smarter decisions, and keep your operations moving smoothly.
Whether you’re navigating a supply issue or struggling with fulfillment speed, eHub is here to help you simplify the process and find a better way forward.
When it comes to e-commerce fulfillment, the “last mile” is often the hardest—and most expensive—part of the journey. It’s also the most visible to customers.
Today’s shoppers expect fast, affordable, and transparent delivery. Meeting those expectations without breaking the bank is one of the biggest challenges brands and 3PLs face.
If you’re exploring 3PL last mile delivery solutions, understanding how third-party logistics providers approach this critical phase—and how technology like eHub can make it even better—is key to building a fulfillment strategy that scales.
What Is Last Mile Delivery in a 3PL Context?
Last mile delivery refers to the final step of the shipping journey: moving a package from a fulfillment center to the customer’s doorstep.
When you work with a 3PL (third-party logistics provider), they typically manage:
Order fulfillment: picking, packing, and preparing orders
Carrier handoff: generating shipping labels and passing packages to carriers like USPS, UPS, FedEx, or regional providers
Tracking and communication: ensuring the shipment can be monitored in real time
Some 3PLs also offer additional last-mile options through local couriers, regional carriers, or hybrid delivery models to balance cost and speed.
Key Challenges in 3PL Last Mile Delivery
Delivering that final mile isn’t as simple as slapping on a label. 3PLs—and the brands they serve—face a number of challenges:
Cost Pressures
The last mile can represent over 50% of total shipping costs. Residential deliveries, fuel surcharges, and accessorial fees add up quickly.
Speed vs. Affordability
Consumers want two-day (or even same-day) delivery, but expedited options drive costs higher. Striking the right balance between speed and affordability is critical.
Visibility Gaps
Customers expect real-time tracking and proactive updates. Gaps in tracking or communication can create a poor delivery experience.
Returns Complexity
Reverse logistics—handling returns—is a growing challenge, especially for 3PLs managing high-volume ecommerce operations.
How eHub Supports 3PL Last Mile Delivery
At eHub, we make last-mile delivery more innovative and more cost-effective for both 3PLs and the brands they serve.
Here’s how:
Multi-Carrier Access
Through eHub Ship, users can access USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL, and regional carriers from a single platform. This gives 3PLs and merchants greater flexibility in managing last-mile delivery strategies.
Shipping Automation
Our platform automatically selects the best carrier and service level based on order parameters, helping reduce manual decision-making and optimize costs.
Cost-Effective Parcel Solutions
eHub makes it easier for fulfillment providers to access competitive shipping options for affordable residential delivery.
Simplified Returns Management
With eHub, merchants and 3PLs can better manage return labels and workflows, closing the loop on the post-purchase experience.
Scalable Fulfillment Partnerships
Through our network of vetted 3PLs, eHub helps brands expand into new fulfillment centers and markets, shortening delivery distances and supporting faster, more affordable last-mile solutions.
From checkout to final delivery, eHub helps fulfillment teams optimize speed, cost, and visibility across the last mile.
Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just About Speed—It’s About the Customer Experience
Winning in e-commerce isn’t just about offering faster shipping—it’s about delivering a consistent, reliable experience that keeps customers coming back.
A strong 3PL partner combined with innovative last-mile optimization tools can help you achieve both.
And that’s where eHub fits in.
Whether you’re growing your brand, expanding into new regions, or looking to simplify complex logistics challenges, we’re here to help you build a fulfillment strategy that delivers on every promise you make.
Shipping costs can quickly eat into your profit margins, but with the right strategies, you can effectively lower these expenses without sacrificing service quality. This guide outlines ten actionable methods to help your business save money on shipping. Learn how to reduce shipping costs right away.
Key Takeaways
– Negotiate carrier rates: Use your shipping volume and service needs to secure better pricing.
– Optimize packaging: Minimize weight and dimensions to avoid unnecessary fees.
– Stay informed: Regular shipment audits and awareness of rate changes can uncover savings opportunities.
1. Negotiate Competitive Carrier Rates
Carriers play a significant role in your shipping expenses, and negotiating favorable rates can make a big difference. Leverage your shipping volume, compare multiple carriers, and consider bundling services for better terms.
– Volume Discounts: Commit to higher shipping volumes to access lower per-shipment rates.
– Carrier Comparison: Use your existing contract as leverage to shop for better offers.
– Service Bundling: Combine shipping and warehousing services for potential discounts—though this approach may limit future flexibility.
Pro Tip: Negotiating with carriers can be complex. A third-party expert, like eHub, can help you secure the best terms by analyzing your shipping data and carrier contracts.
2. Optimize Package Weight and Dimensions
Shipping costs often depend on the size and weight of your packages. Optimizing packaging can significantly reduce costs.
– Custom Packaging: Use the right-sized packaging to minimize wasted space.
– Lightweight Materials: Swap heavy materials for lighter options like poly mailers or air pillows.
– Accurate Reporting: Ensure your shipments’ dimensional weight and size are correct to avoid overcharges.
3. Use Carrier-Provided Packaging
Take advantage of free or discounted packaging from carriers like USPS, UPS, or FedEx. Using their standardized options can reduce dimensional fees and save up to 20% on costs.
4. Source Discounted Shipping Supplies
Buying shipping materials in bulk can lead to substantial savings. Check with wholesalers, local suppliers, and online marketplaces for discounted boxes, bubble wrap, and mailers.
5. Adopt Prepaid Shipping
Prepaid shipping labels allow you to lock in discounted rates for consistent shipment sizes. Many carriers and eCommerce platforms offer prepaid options that can save up to 20%.
– Simplified Pricing: Prepaid labels make it easier to calculate shipping costs and offer flat-rate shipping to customers.
– Predictable Costs: Ideal for businesses with uniform shipment sizes.
6. Utilize Third-Party Insurance
Third-party insurance is often more affordable than carrier-provided options. For example, insuring $100 through a carrier might cost $0.90, while third-party providers charge around $0.55.
Switching to third-party insurance can reduce expenses while protecting against shipping risks.
7. Explore Hybrid Shipping Solutions
Hybrid shipping services combine the strengths of multiple carriers to cut costs. For instance, UPS can handle initial transit, while USPS manages last-mile delivery.
– Cost Savings: Save up to 50% compared to a single carrier.
– Tradeoffs: This may result in slightly longer delivery times.
8. Audit Your Shipping Processes
Regular audits can help you uncover cost-saving opportunities. By reviewing invoices and shipment details, you can:
– Identify overcharges.
– Verify package dimensions.
– Optimize routes and shipping speeds.
At eHub, we provide tools to help you stay on top of your shipping data, ensuring maximum efficiency and savings.
9. Leverage Technology for Rate Comparison
Shipping rate comparison tools simplify finding the most affordable options for each shipment. eHub’s platform lets you compare rates across carriers and integrate seamlessly with your systems to streamline the entire process.
10. Partner with a 3PL Provider
Third-party logistics (3PL) providers like those in eHub’s exclusive network can help optimize your entire fulfillment process. With services like inventory management, kitting, and shipping optimization, 3PLs ensure your products reach customers efficiently and affordably.
Save More with eHub
At eHub, we specialize in helping businesses reduce shipping costs through tailored solutions, expert negotiation, and access to discounted rates. Whether you’re looking for carrier comparisons, 3PL matching, or advanced shipping analytics, we’re here to help your business thrive.
Introduction
On January 19, 2025, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) will implement a series of rate increases for its shipping services, including a significant rise in Parcel Select rates. These changes are part of USPS’s ongoing efforts to bolster its financial health and compete in an increasingly competitive delivery market. For eCommerce businesses, understanding the details of these USPS 2025 rate hikes is crucial for maintaining cost-effective shipping strategies.
Breaking Down the Rate Hikes
The planned increases span several services, with Parcel Select seeing the steepest hike:
Parcel Select: 9.2%
Ground Advantage (retail): 4.9%
Priority Mail: 3.2%
Priority Mail Express: 3.2%
The Parcel Select increases are particularly noteworthy, with entry at last-mile delivery units experiencing a jump of 10.3%. In contrast, some entries, such as hub-level injections, will not increase, reflecting USPS’s strategy to encourage earlier package integration into its network.
Why Is USPS Raising Rates?
USPS faces significant financial challenges, posting a $9.5 billion net loss in fiscal year 2024 despite a slight revenue increase to $79.5 billion. These rate hikes are designed to:
1. Support Network Investments: USPS is modernizing its infrastructure to improve efficiency and service reliability.
2. Align Pricing with Goals: The agency aims to incentivize volume entry further upstream in its network, optimizing its operational model.
3. Compete with FedEx and UPS: By implementing rate hikes lower than those of its competitors, USPS seeks to remain an attractive option for merchants.
Key Impacts on Merchants
1. Higher Parcel Select Costs
Parcel Select is popular among eCommerce businesses relying on USPS for last-mile delivery. However, a 9.2% average increase—following a 25% jump earlier this year—raises concerns about cost sustainability for high-volume shippers.
2. Live Animals and Perishables Fees
USPS is introducing new fees for shipping live animals and perishable goods. These include:
– $7.50 per shipment for Ground Advantage and Priority Mail Express.
– $15 per shipment for Priority Mail.
While the fees aim to offset handling costs, they could impact businesses in specialized sectors, such as pet supplies or food delivery services.
3. Competitive Pricing Strategy
Although the increases are significant, USPS’s rate hikes remain more modest compared to FedEx and UPS. This strategic pricing could make USPS a viable alternative for merchants looking to mitigate rising shipping costs.
How eHub Can Help You Navigate These Changes
At eHub, we understand how sudden rate changes can disrupt your shipping operations. Our advanced tools and access to pre-vetted 3PL partners can help you:
– Find Cost-Effective Shipping Solutions: Leverage our network to secure competitive rates and reduce your shipping expenses.
– Adapt to New Challenges: Our technology enables seamless integration with USPS and other carriers, ensuring you can pivot quickly to new cost structures.
– Maximize Efficiency: Optimize your fulfillment strategy with data-driven insights, saving both time and money.
Conclusion
The USPS 2025 rate hikes underscore the importance of staying informed and proactive in managing shipping costs. Whether you’re navigating Parcel Select increases or new fees for specialized shipments, eHub is here to help. Our industry experts can help ensure your business remains competitive and resilient in the face of these changes.
When you’re expecting a new piece of furniture, whether it’s a sleek new sofa or a much-needed dining table, there’s more to consider than just the excitement of getting your new item. One common question that pops up is, “Do you tip furniture delivery drivers?” It’s a fair question, and like many aspects of service, the answer isn’t always straightforward. Let’s break it down and explore the etiquette of tipping for furniture delivery.
The Short Answer: It Depends
Tipping is a way to show appreciation for good service, but it’s not always expected. In some industries, like dining or ride-sharing, tipping is almost second nature. But when it comes to furniture delivery, the practice isn’t as clear-cut. Whether you should tip—and how much—depends on several factors, including the level of service provided, local customs, and your own discretion.
Factors to Consider When Tipping Furniture Delivery
1. The Complexity of the Delivery
If your delivery involves more than just dropping a box at your door, tipping becomes more relevant. Did the delivery team navigate tight spaces, stairs, or tricky turns? Did they assemble the furniture or take extra care to place it exactly where you wanted it? These added services can merit a tip as a way of saying thank you for the extra effort.
2. The Condition of Your Delivery
If the furniture arrives in perfect condition, without a scratch or dent in sight, that’s a good sign that the delivery team handled it with care. However, if there are issues with the delivery, like damage to the furniture or your home, you might want to address these concerns before considering a tip.
3. The Weather and Timing
Sometimes, the conditions under which the delivery takes place can play a role in tipping. Did the delivery team show up during a rainstorm or in the sweltering heat? Were they punctual, or did they go out of their way to accommodate your schedule? Tipping can be a way to acknowledge their effort in less-than-ideal circumstances.
4. Company Policy
It’s also worth checking if the delivery company has a tipping policy. Some companies include a service charge or delivery fee in the total cost, which may cover the workers’ compensation. Others may have policies that discourage or prohibit tipping, so it’s always good to know what’s expected.
Delivery Drivers and Specialized Equipment: Lift Gates and Beyond
When it comes to large or heavy furniture, delivery drivers often rely on specialized equipment to safely transport your items. One common piece of equipment is the liftgate—a hydraulic platform attached to the back of the delivery truck that allows heavy items to be lowered from the truck bed to the ground with ease. If your furniture delivery requires the use of a lift gate or other specialized tools, this can add to the complexity of the job.
Here’s why this matters:
Safety and Care: Using a lift gate ensures that your heavy or oversized furniture is handled with care, minimizing the risk of damage during unloading. This equipment allows delivery teams to work more safely and efficiently, especially when dealing with cumbersome or delicate items.
Extra Effort: While lift gates and similar tools help with the heavy lifting, they also require skill and experience to operate correctly. Drivers who use this equipment are taking extra steps to ensure your furniture arrives in perfect condition, often under challenging circumstances like tight driveways or uneven terrain.
If your delivery involves the use of a lift gate or other specialized equipment, it’s a good idea to consider tipping on the higher end of the scale. This acknowledges the added effort and skill required to deliver your items safely.
How Much Should You Tip?
If you decide to tip, the next question is how much. The general rule of thumb for tipping furniture delivery is between $5 and $20 per person, depending on the complexity and quality of the service. Here’s a quick guide:
– $5-$10 per person: For a straightforward delivery where the team just brings the furniture inside.
– $10-$20 per person: For deliveries involving multiple flights of stairs, tight spaces, or if they help with assembly.
– Above $20 per person: For exceptional service where the delivery team goes above and beyond, such as navigating challenging conditions or providing outstanding care and professionalism.
When Tipping Isn’t Necessary
While tipping is appreciated, it’s not mandatory. If the service didn’t meet your expectations, or if the delivery was part of a white-glove service that already includes a tip, you might decide to forgo it. Similarly, if the company discourages tipping or if you’re on a tight budget, it’s okay to skip it.
The important thing is that tipping should be a gesture of gratitude, not an obligation.
In the rapidly evolving landscape of e-commerce and logistics, efficiency isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the cornerstone of success. One of the unsung heroes in this efficiency quest is the humble pallet storage warehouse. At first glance, it might seem like just another facility with rows of neatly stacked pallets, but in reality, it’s a critical player in ensuring that your products move seamlessly from point A to point B—and ultimately to your customers’ doorsteps.
What Is a Pallet Storage Warehouse?
Let’s start with the basics. A pallet storage warehouse is a specialized facility designed to store goods on pallets, which are typically wooden or plastic platforms that hold large quantities of products. These pallets can be stacked vertically, maximizing the use of space in a warehouse. This vertical storage method allows businesses to store more products in less space, reducing the need for expansive facilities and cutting down on overhead costs.
But a pallet storage warehouse isn’t just about stacking products high and hoping for the best. It’s a well-oiled machine that requires careful planning, sophisticated management systems, and a keen understanding of supply chain dynamics.
Why Pallet Storage Warehouses Matter
In today’s world, where customers expect next-day delivery and businesses need to keep their inventory moving, having a reliable pallet storage warehouse is non-negotiable. Here’s why:
1. Space Optimization: As mentioned earlier, pallet storage warehouses make the most of available space. By going vertical, these warehouses can store significantly more products than traditional shelving units. This space efficiency translates into cost savings and the ability to scale operations without constantly expanding the physical footprint.
2. Efficient Inventory Management: Modern pallet storage warehouses are equipped with state-of-the-art Warehouse Management Systems (WMS). These systems track every pallet, ensuring that products are stored in optimal locations and can be retrieved quickly when needed. This level of organization minimizes errors and speeds up the picking and packing process, leading to faster order fulfillment.
3. Cost-Effective Solutions: By storing products on pallets, businesses can reduce labor costs. Moving large quantities of goods all at once is easier, reducing the need for manual handling. This efficiency lowers the overall cost per unit, which is crucial in industries where margins are razor-thin.
4. Scalability: As your business grows, so does the need for storage space. Pallet storage warehouses offer the flexibility to scale up without significant upfront investments. Whether you’re handling seasonal peaks or experiencing steady growth, these warehouses can adapt to your needs.
Choosing the Right Pallet Storage Warehouse
Not all pallet storage warehouses are created equal. When selecting a partner, there are a few key factors to consider:
– Location: Proximity to major transportation hubs is critical. A well-located warehouse can reduce shipping times and costs, which directly impacts customer satisfaction.
– Technology: Look for a warehouse that uses advanced WMS and automation tools. These technologies ensure accuracy, speed, and efficiency—three things that every successful business needs.
– Capacity: Ensure that the warehouse has the capacity to handle your current needs and the flexibility to grow with you. The last thing you want is to outgrow your warehouse partner just as your business starts to take off.
– Service Level Agreements (SLAs): Make sure that your warehouse partner offers clear SLAs so you know exactly what to expect in terms of service quality, turnaround times, and responsiveness.
How eHub Can Help
At eHub, we understand that choosing the right pallet storage warehouse is crucial to your business’s success. That’s why we’ve built a network of pre-vetted 3PL partners who excel in pallet storage and beyond. We match you with a warehouse that not only meets your current needs but also has the capacity and technology to support your growth.
With our advanced matching technology, you can rest easy knowing that your products are in good hands—stored efficiently, managed with precision, and ready to ship at a moment’s notice. Whether you’re a small business just starting out or an established brand looking to optimize your supply chain, we’ve got the expertise and resources to help you succeed.
