Parcel Shipping: Definition
Shipping lighter, smaller packed objects is referred to as parcel shipping. Parcel often refers to shipments weighing 100 pounds or less that may be transported without help. If you need to transport a few small things at a time, parcel shipping is a cost-effective option.
A parcel shipper may generally carry any parcel weighing less than 150 pounds. However, most parcel shipments weigh less than 70 pounds.
Size, weight, and object type are crucial elements to consider when determining how to transport a package. For small, lightweight items, parcel shipping is the most common and cost-effective method of transport.
However, to maximize the benefits of parcel shipping, you must use the correct protective packing to guarantee that your items reach their destination safely.
Here’s an overview of parcel shipping and how it’s packaged, handled, transported, and delivered.
If your organization frequently transports tiny things, package shipping is a cost-effective freight alternative. Parceled goods are lightweight and have modest, conventional dimensions, making them easier to deliver with a single driver. A package must be a single cargo weighing less than 150 pounds.
Four package transportation facts:
- Parcel shipment refers to tiny, lightweight objects weighing less than 150 pounds transported by vehicle or airline.
- For small enterprises, parcel delivery is cost-effective, quick, and efficient.
- Parcels are haphazardly put onto cars and need specific packing.
- Perishable commodities require insulating and cooling packaging to be delivered successfully.
Perishable Item Parcel Shipping:
Parcel shipping is a fast and effective mode of transportation suitable for transporting perishable items. Perishable foods are dangerous to consume unless chilled at 40°F or below or frozen. Perishable commodities might be exposed to various temperatures and humidity levels during transportation. Therefore, adequate packing is crucial.
You can keep perishables from rotting by using the right balance of insulation and refrigeration. Insulation materials often used include expanded polystyrene foam and reflective foil box liners. Both gel coolants and dry ice are commonly utilized for refrigeration. To avoid contamination, use gel coolants instead of dry ice when transporting live seafood such as crabs or lobsters.
Method of Preparing Packages:
An examination of international air package shipment revealed that single parcels are subjected to frequent velocity changes and rapid height dips, causing objects to be damaged. Similarly, courier vehicles frequently travel at fast speeds and must make abrupt stops, causing cargo to move during transportation.
While LTL goods are stacked on pallets or in boxes, parcel items are placed carelessly in vehicles. As a result, parcel packing is essential for safe transit. It is advisable to package shipping products in new or strong boxes. Choose a large carton enough to hold the item you’re delivering and protective elements such as bubble wrap or recyclable materials. Place your cargo in fresh or strong shipping box containers that are large enough to accommodate the package and bubble wrap, styrofoam packing peanuts, or other protective materials. After securing the package within the box, seal it using 2″ wide packing tape.
It is hard to keep heat and moisture out and cold temperatures while shipping perishables. Perishable items include fruits, meat, frozen goods, medications, and fresh flowers. Styrofoam packaging is perfect for seafood and ice cream since it serves as an insulator and a protective barrier.
You must weigh and measure your shipment after it has been appropriately packed and taped. Each package must be measured in length, breadth, and height. You’ll also need to address each box the same way you would an envelope.
Add the sender’s address to the top left, followed by the recipient’s address in the middle beneath the sender’s address. Include a 24-hour contact phone number for the recipient and the shipper for perishable parcel shipments.
Transporting parcel shipments:
Parcels are tiny shipments picked up straight from drop-off sites and auto-sorted by machines. Once sorted, the items are put into trucks and often delivered to the site or moved before reaching the final destination.
How does parcel shipping work:
Because parcel packages are tiny, they are picked up from your preferred pick-up or drop-off location. They are then put on conveyor belts and automatically sorted by machines. Individuals put them into trucks after they have been sorted. Typically, parcel carriers deliver straight to a site or move the items several times before ultimate delivery.
We will manage the remainder of the shipping procedure once you have booked your package shipment online. Packages are delivered to both business and residential addresses. Package deliveries are often terminated at a location’s front door.
Benefits of Parcel Shipping:
Small companies can profit highly from parcel shipment. Here are four reasons why package shipment is preferable to LTL freight:
- Ideal for sending little individual parcels.
- Rapid overnight delivery
- Drop-off sites for shipping
- Delivery to private residences
Advantages of Parcel Shipping with Custom Crating and Logistics:
Parcel shipment might be complex to handle, but Custom Crating and Logistics will save you time and money.
We make shipping easier by providing reasonable estimates. Select your desired pricing and book your shipment online. Furthermore, you may quickly track your shipments online using a single tool.
Because there are several checkpoints between collection and delivery, parcel packages are easier to trace.
You don’t have to wait for a carrier to come to you with the parcel. You may either arrange for a pick-up or bring your box to one of the various drop-off sites at your leisure.
Parcel shipment is typically less expensive than LTL freight transportation.
LTL shipping vs. parcel shipping:
While parcel shipping is appropriate for little products, LTL shipping is sometimes the superior option for your shipping needs. If your shipment is oddly shaped, weighs more than 100 pounds, or must be carried on a pallet, LTL shipping may be the best option for your company.
LTL, as opposed to parcels, often deals with huge items. LTL shipments are palletized, whereas packages are put straight onto a vehicle.
Here are some crucial distinctions between package and LTL shipping:
Loss and Damage Prevention:
Parcel shipping is more likely to go lost or damaged than LTL packages. On the other hand, packages are smaller and may be packaged in larger quantities.
Checkpoints and tracking:
Because parcel packages pass through many inspections, carriers are kept more up to date.
The parcel is tracked more frequently than LTL shipments. However, fewer inspections boost the odds of a safe delivery with LTL shipping.
Cost:
LTL items are large, which results in increased shipping charges. There are several carriers.
Charges are added to the initial price, such as penalties for changing an address mid-delivery.
Shipping can be made even more affordable for high-volume orders by partnering with a 3PL company and taking advantage of their ability to secure bulk discounts.
Custom Crating and Logistics is one example of a 3PL provider having “economies of scale” agreements with major carriers.
Because Custom Crating and Logistics injects such a large quantity of tiny parcels into carriers’ networks, its clients benefit from exceptional discounted rates that they would not have otherwise.
What is the average time it takes to send a small package?
Ground package shipments in the United States mostly take 2-9 days to arrive at their destination. Many airlines, however, provide expedited and same-day shipping alternatives for an extra fee.
Is parcel shipping good for me?
Parcel shipping is used by both individuals and businesses.
Parcel shipping has its own set of best-use criteria.
Parcel shipping is the best option if:
- Your parcels fit in a standard box and weigh less than 150 pounds
- you are shipping to a residential area
- you have a high volume of outbound shipments, each with a different destination
- you want enhanced visibility and real-time tracking throughout the lifecycle of your shipment
- You want the option of dropping off your items rather than waiting for pick-up.
Here are a few of the advantages of using Custom Crating and Logistics:
- Without having to sign up, you can get instant prices.
- Compare high-quality carriers and low-cost options.
- Throughout the delivery process, you will receive proactive shipment warnings.
- A single tool for all of your shipping requirements, from truckload to LTL to package.
Parcel shipping is a cost-effective and quick way to send things to your consumers for a small firm that often distributes lightweight goods. However, to guarantee that your shipments reach securely, you must use the proper packaging materials.
We have a variety of protective packaging at Custom Crating and Logistics, including Styrofoam boxes, packing peanuts, and air cushions. Visit our online catalog or read our blog to learn more about selecting proper packing and delivery options for your business.
