How To Ship a Package: The Complete Guide [2025]

Introduction

Shipping a package may sound simple, but for businesses, it is a logistical decision that can impact profits, customer loyalty, and operational flow. With increasing pressure on delivery speed and accuracy, understanding how to ship a package is more than a technical checklist; it is a strategic necessity. One missed step or incorrect label could result in delayed shipments, dissatisfied customers, and loss of revenue. Whether you are a solo entrepreneur or managing a scaled operation, mastering the shipping process can significantly boost efficiency.

Despite the popularity of e-commerce and digital tools, many businesses still overlook key nuances in package shipping. From choosing the right shipping service to dealing with international paperwork or calculating shipping costs, the details matter. And in today’s competitive environment, poor shipping practices are often what separates an average business from an excellent one. This guide walks you through every essential stage, ensuring your shipment arrives safely, affordably, and on time.

Step-by-step guide: How to ship a package

Shipping a package requires more than tossing items in a box and slapping on a label. Each step plays a role in ensuring your parcel reaches its destination safely and on time. Here is a detailed breakdown:

Step 1: Preparing the package

Start by choosing a sturdy box or envelope that suits your item. Add cushioning like bubble wrap or foam for fragile contents. Avoid taping the product directly and ensure the box has no old shipping labels.

Step 2: Measuring and weighing the package

Use a scale to measure the package weight and a tape to capture its dimensions. These figures influence shipping costs and determine which flat rate or weight-based option to choose.

Step 3: Choosing the right shipping service

Select from USPS, FedEx, UPS, or others based on the delivery speed, package type, and cost. For valuable goods, consider options with adult signature or money-back guarantees.

Step 4: Addressing and labeling

Enter the full address of the recipient, including ZIP code and apartment or suite number. Print the shipping label with all necessary details and attach it securely with clear tape. Ensure the barcode is visible and not creased.

Step 5: Paying for the shipping

You can pay online through carrier portals or at the post office. Online payments often come with discounts and options to schedule a pickup.

Step 6: Drop-off or pick-up

You can drop off the package at a USPS post office, UPS Store, or FedEx Office location. Alternatively, schedule a carrier pickup from your location to save time and streamline your shipping process.

Understanding package shipping options

The shipping method you choose depends on the type of item, delivery timeline, and cost considerations. Here is how the major carriers stack up:

1. USPS shipping options

USPS offers a wide range of shipping services that are suitable for everything from documents to bulk packages.

• Priority Mail: 1–3 business days, includes tracking, flat rate options available.

• First-Class Mail: Best for lightweight packages under 13 oz, arrives in 1–5 business days.

• Priority Mail Express: Overnight delivery with money-back guarantee; ideal for urgent shipments.

USPS flat rate boxes simplify pricing, regardless of the weight within the continental United States. This makes it a solid option for small businesses shipping domestically.

2. FedEx and UPS shipping options

These two carriers provide comprehensive domestic and international services:

• FedEx Ground / UPS Ground: 1–5 business days across the US with tracking included.

• FedEx Express / UPS 2nd Day Air: 1–3 business days with guaranteed delivery.

• FedEx International Priority / UPS Worldwide Saver: Time-definite international shipments with customs support.

Both carriers offer package tracking, pickup services, and discounts for volume shippers. FedEx Express is ideal for urgent deliveries, while FedEx Ground and UPS are suitable for less time-sensitive shipments.

3. International shipping considerations

International shipping adds complexity due to customs regulations, duties, and varying delivery standards.

• Always complete a customs declaration form detailing the item, value, and country of origin.

• Factor in destination country-specific prohibited items and import restrictions.

• Choose carriers with reliable international tracking and delivery duty-paid (DDP) options.

Top shipping carriers compared for packaging with cost

Choosing the right shipping carrier is a crucial decision that directly impacts your delivery speed, customer satisfaction, and overall shipping costs. With multiple carriers offering a wide array of services, understanding their core strengths and pricing structures can help streamline your fulfillment strategy. Each carrier (USPS, FedEx, and UPS) brings unique advantages to the table, and the best fit often depends on what you are shipping, how fast it needs to arrive, and where it is going.

Below, we compare the top three carriers to help you identify which one aligns with your business’s shipping needs.

1. Package shipping with USPS services

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has long been the backbone of domestic mail and package delivery in the United States. Known for its affordability and accessibility, USPS offers unmatched reach, particularly for residential and rural deliveries. It is ideal for lightweight shipments and small parcels, making it a favorite for eCommerce sellers shipping items like apparel, books, and cosmetics.

Key features:

• Offers Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, Ground Advantage, and Priority Mail Express.

• Flat rate boxes and envelopes for consistent pricing regardless of weight.

• Delivers to every U.S. address, including P.O. boxes and military addresses.

• No added surcharges for residential delivery or Saturday service.

• Discounted services like Priority Mail Cubic are available for lightweight but dense packages.

USPS remains the most cost-effective solution for packages under 20 pounds, especially for domestic shipments within the continental United States. With regular rate updates, recent 2025 increases include a 5.4% hike in Priority Mail and a 3.9% increase in Ground Advantage. USPS is ideal for small businesses, home-based sellers, and anyone shipping to hard-to-reach areas. However, for heavier or high-value packages, USPS may not always be the best choice.

2. Package shipping with FedEx services

FedEx is widely recognized for its express services, making it the top choice for time-sensitive deliveries and specialty shipments. With a strong foothold in business-to-business logistics, FedEx provides advanced solutions for perishable goods, temperature-sensitive items, and important documents. It is particularly effective for scheduled pickups, tight delivery windows, and corporate shipping needs.

Key features:

• Services include FedEx Ground, FedEx Express, FedEx Overnight, and FedEx International Priority.

• Cold chain packaging options for temperature-controlled deliveries.

• Broad coverage for international shipments with customs support.

• Industry-leading on-time performance for express services.

• Premium tracking, alerts, and delivery confirmation options.

FedEx is the most premium-priced among the three carriers, with a 2025 General Rate Increase (GRI) averaging 5.9%. Express services have seen a 7.6% increase in specific zones. Residential delivery surcharges and additional fees apply. FedEx is best suited for businesses needing fast turnaround, international reach, or specialized shipping conditions, such as food, medical supplies, or high-priority documents. While costlier, it provides value through speed and security.

3. Package shipping with UPS services

UPS has built its reputation on reliability, ground service excellence, and its ability to handle large, heavy, or high-value shipments. Known for competitive express services and robust logistics support, UPS is often preferred by medium to large businesses shipping bulky goods or operating on tight schedules. Its network strength, especially in urban areas, makes it a reliable carrier for both standard and urgent deliveries.

Key features:

• Offers UPS Ground, UPS 2nd Day Air, Next Day Air, and Worldwide Saver.

• Capable of handling packages up to 150 pounds.

• Industry-best ground service with broad U.S. coverage.

• UPS Express Critical for emergency, same-day global delivery.

• Insurance options up to $50,000 for high-value items.

UPS has adopted a 5.9% GRI for 2025, along with increases in Address Correction Surcharges and Delivery Area Surcharges. While base rates may seem close to USPS, added fees can inflate total costs, particularly for rural deliveries or oversized items. Still, UPS is ideal for luxury goods, heavy packages, and customers who need guaranteed delivery timeframes. Its strength lies in reliability, scale, and secure transport.

International shipping package considerations

Shipping across borders involves additional paperwork, regulations, and risk. Unlike domestic shipments, international deliveries must comply with the import/export policies of both the origin and destination country. Every package requires customs forms, and some products may attract additional fees or restrictions.

Shippers must consider international taxes, duties, and whether the shipping service offers delivery duty paid. Choose shipping services that simplify customs clearance and offer transparent tracking for international shipments.

Key considerations:

• Complete accurate customs declarations.

• Confirm the item is not a prohibited item in the destination country.

• Account for additional fees, including VAT and handling costs.

• Use packaging that withstands longer transit times.

• Track all international shipments using a global tracking number.

Package tracking: How do I track my shipment?

Tracking is critical to both the sender and the recipient. Every major shipping service provides tracking numbers that allow real-time updates on the shipment journey. A visible tracking mechanism not only builds trust but also reduces support queries.

Most carriers offer online tracking through their website or mobile apps. Some services even allow email or SMS updates once the package arrives at key checkpoints.

How to track a package:

• Get your tracking number at the time of label creation.

• Use the carrier's website or tracking page to monitor status.

• Share the tracking number with the recipient.

• Use branded tracking for a better customer experience.

• Consider shipment insurance for high-value items.

How much does it cost to ship jewelry?

Shipping jewelry demands additional caution, both in packaging and in selecting the shipping service. Due to its high value, it will have an adult signature required, shipment insurance, and secure packaging. The cost varies based on weight, declared value, and delivery speed, but shipping jewelry within the US typically ranges from $15 to $50, depending on the service.

Key tips:

• Use padded envelopes or small rigid boxes.

• Add insurance for the full value.

• Avoid taping over labels or barcodes.

• Opt for FedEx Express or UPS with signature requirements.

• Always declare contents accurately to avoid issues.

Conclusion: The cheapest way to ship packages with ClickPost

Shipping is no longer just a backend operation; it is a vital customer-facing function. Every time a business ships a package, it sends a signal about its professionalism and reliability. Optimizing this process is the difference between scaling efficiently and drowning in shipping fees, delays, and customer complaints. Mastering how to ship a package is a must for all modern retailers and brands.

From choosing the right supplies to calculating shipping rates and creating labels, the process requires precision. But it also offers an opportunity to deliver a delightful unboxing experience, save time, and build customer trust. Each carrier provides strengths that can be aligned with different business goals, from saving on costs to impressing with delivery speed.

ClickPost simplifies this complexity. As a shipping aggregator, it helps you compare shipping services, manage shipping labels, handle international shipments, and ensure your packages arrive on time. With built-in automation, branded tracking, and integration with all major carriers, ClickPost gives you everything you need to ship smarter.

Ready to transform your shipping operations? Try ClickPost and make every shipment a success.