Find US air couriers online

As you begin your search, look to the wide variety of carriers available to choose from on the web. Determine feasibility of their air courier service based on distance from you and price. Look to service providers like Direct Rush or National Air Cargo.

I recommend: Direct Rush specializes in direct air freight and trucking services. National Air Cargo has no size or weight restrictions, and they offer next day, 2-day and deferred services.

Look at big companies for air courier services

US based air courier services Fed-ex and UPS both offer services to hand carry your goods from sender to destination. Often times, this will keep your package out of the customs abyss as the courier can claim it as part of his or her luggage.

I recommend: FedEx offers a door-to-door service where 1 of their representatives will hand carry the package from point A to point B. UPS also offers you an express hand carried option.

Set up an account with your US courier

Work with your air courier service to set up an account with them, while at the same time negotiate your shipping rate. See what kinds of discounts apply based on the amount US national courier service you will need.

I recommend: N&S Messenger Services offer rush and same day deliveries, as well as a regular mail run. They also offer doctor and hospital runs, small to midsized trucking and international shipping. IES Express offers next day and 2-day courier service to the 48 continental states.

Seek a US courier that also offers international services

You never know when the need will arise that you need to ship an international package. If you work with a company that already offers you discounted rates, you don't have to ship a single international package at a higher rate through an untested company.

I recommend: Primac is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. With International Parcel Services, you can save up to 50% because of their high volume of shipments. Many Fortune 500 companies use World Courier Ground.