Shipping seems straightforward—pack, label, and send. But small missteps in the process can lead to extra fees, lost packages, and unhappy customers. Whether you’re shipping once a month or handling daily orders, avoiding common mistakes can save you both time and money.
Here are ten of the most frequent shipping errors and how to avoid them.
- Using the Wrong Box Size
Using a box that’s too large can trigger dimensional weight pricing, where carriers charge based on size rather than actual weight. Even if the item is light, you could end up overpaying for unnecessary space.
- Overpaying for Supplies
Buying shipping materials last-minute or in small quantities often means paying more per item. Tape, mailers, and bubble wrap can be significantly cheaper when bought in bulk or with rewards.
Tip: Purchase from discount retailers like Sam’s Club, and get rewards with a Sam’s Club gift card through Fluz to save on supply costs.
- Ignoring Shipping Rate Comparisons
Relying on a single carrier without checking rates across others can result in higher costs. USPS, UPS, and FedEx each have pricing advantages depending on package size, weight, and distance.
Tip: Use tools like Pirate Ship, Shippo, or EasyPost to compare real-time rates.
- Paying Retail Rates at the Counter
Buying postage in-store often means paying the highest available rate. Online platforms and shipping tools frequently offer commercial pricing, which is significantly lower.
Tip: Use USPS Click-N-Ship or a third-party platform to print labels at home.
- Not Insuring Valuable Shipments
Skipping insurance to save a few dollars can backfire if a package is lost or damaged. While most carriers include basic insurance (usually $100), it’s not always enough.
Tip: Consider third-party options like Shipsurance for affordable, scalable coverage.
- Forgetting to Track Shipments
Not using a trackable shipping method can lead to disputes or missed deliveries—especially with online orders. All major carriers offer tracking, and many third-party platforms provide email updates.
Tip: Always include tracking with any shipment of value or time sensitivity.
- Not Reusing Packaging Materials
Throwing out usable boxes and packing fillers adds to your costs and increases waste. Reused materials are free and often perfectly functional.
Tip: Save clean, undamaged materials from your own incoming shipments for reuse.
- Skipping Cashback and Rewards Opportunities
Many people forget that they can earn cashback on shipping-related purchases like tape, labels, and scales. Gift card platforms like Fluz allow you to earn cashback with an Office Depot gift card or get rewards with a Target gift card before buying supplies.
Tip: Visit the Fluz homepage to explore cashback gift card options before your next supply run.
- Ignoring Store Drop-Off Options
Waiting in long post office lines isn’t your only option. Many retailers like Staples, CVS, and Walgreens serve as UPS Access Points or FedEx drop-offs.
Tip: Use the UPS Access Point Locator or FedEx Drop-Off Finder to find nearby locations.
- Failing to Account for Delivery Times
Promising fast delivery without understanding carrier timelines can lead to missed deadlines or customer frustration. USPS, UPS, and FedEx all have cutoff times and varying delivery speeds.
Tip: Set realistic expectations and review estimated delivery windows for each service. Double-check them during peak seasons or holidays.
Avoiding these ten common shipping mistakes can improve your delivery process, reduce waste, and cut unnecessary costs—whether you’re shipping once or hundreds of times each month.
