Guide to Selecting the Right Shipping Method

Compare rates and services easily online, and save your business money

Compare prices and services from local and national carriers all in one place.

I recommend: RedRoller is a terrific shipping services supercenter for small business owners. It's fast, free and easy to use. You can compare real-time rates and delivery options from top carriers, print labels, view reports and ship directly from your business.Great way to save time and money on shipping. Check out RedRoller's special services for eBay shippers. Other online services include Freightquote and iShip.

See what the major shipping companies have to offer

Arrange to meet with a sales rep to get more insight into how the top shipping firms can meet your needs.

I recommend: Check an overview of services at DHL Small Business Center, FedEX Small Business Center and UPS/Small Business Owners,

Don't forget the post office

The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) can be a bargain if you don't have large shipments or require regular pick-up and delivery.

I recommend: Look into the slate of business services offered by USPS. Many small businesses also swear by Stamps.com, a USPS approved vendor that lets you apply postage to your letters and packages without having to stand in line at the post office. With a digital scale and software provided by Stamps.com, you can weigh your mail (packages included) and print your own postage.

Look into full-service shipping solutions

No time to package or crate your shipment, let alone find the right carrier?

I recommend: Contact a service such as Craters and Freighters and Pak Mail. They'll handle the process, from packing to delivery.

Pack your cargo with care

Learn how to pack your products to protect them from damage in transit.

I recommend: UPS provides tips on how to package the items you're sending. You can buy everything from boxes to bubble wrap to multiple varieties of packing tape from Uline and PackagePrice.com.