Top 20 Shipping Mistakes

Avoid these common errors. Each one costs you time and money.

  1. Paying retail rates — Use PirateShip or stamps.com for 20-40% off.
  2. Wrong box size — Too big = higher DIM weight = higher cost. Fix it
  3. Ignoring dimensional weight — Carriers charge whichever is higher. Calculate
  4. Incomplete address — Missing apt/unit causes ~35% of failed deliveries.
  5. No insurance on valuable items — Claims denied without declared value.
  6. Shipping to PO Box via UPS/FedEx — Only USPS delivers to PO Boxes.
  7. Not marking fragile items correctly — Use double-box method for breakables.
  8. Using old or damaged boxes — Reused boxes have 2x higher damage rate.
  9. Under-declaring customs value — Customs inspects random packages. Fines are expensive.
  10. Forgetting customs forms for intl — Package gets stuck at border for weeks.
  11. Shipping on Friday — Package sits in warehouse all weekend. Ship Mon-Wed.
  12. Not using flat rate when heavy — 70 lbs for .30 in USPS large flat rate.
  13. Ignoring carrier surcharges — Residential, fuel, extended area add up fast.
  14. Not comparing carriers — USPS cheapest for small, UPS/FedEx for heavy. Compare
  15. Skipping signature for expensive items — No proof of delivery = no claim.
  16. Using wrong tape — Use packing tape, not masking or duct tape.
  17. Not getting tracking — Always get tracking. Free with most services.
  18. Forgetting return address — Package becomes undeliverable and discarded.
  19. Shipping prohibited items internationally — Research country rules first. Check here
  20. Not filing claims — You have 60 days to file. Don't leave money on the table.

Official Carrier Resources

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