Tips for Choosing the Right Courier

Just because we do everything in the office doesn't mean we can just pick up and go when something needs to get somewhere. We're often better utilized in the office rather than driving all over town trying to get documents from point A to point B. So who will do it? Obviously a courier comes to mind, but how do you choose one that is reputable and reliable? It requires a little effort, but it's easy with this guide.

First, consider your needs for the courier:

What are you shipping? Is it documents, an animal or biohazard material?

There are couriers for shipping all types of materials. But, you'll need to understand that all couriers don't ship animals and animal couriers probably don't ship documents.

What are you willing to spend?

Some couriers charge a flat fee while others charge you per mile.

Next, we'll look at the types of courier services and what types of jobs they're appropriate for:

Standard

We're probably all familiar with these. For the most part, these companies are the same. They pick up your package and deliver it. However, there are some things to look out for:

A reputable courier service will take down plenty of information. The name of the company and the person you're sending the package to, as well as the address and a tracking number are usually attached to your package. This ensures safe transport and the ability to follow the package from the minute it comes to the office to the moment it's delivered. The courier company should also document your information as well as the package weight and dimensions. The service will then charge you according to the weight of the package, where it's going and how fast you want it to get there. NOTE: Most courier services insure your package up to a certain amount, but be sure to ask before you use them if this is a priority for you.

Over-Nighters

This seems self-explanatory and it is. These services are designed to get your package from one place to another overnight. Naturally, the earlier you get the package there the cheaper it will be for you and the easier it will be for the company to get your package to its destination on time. Many standard couriers offer this service for an extra fee.

Messengers

These services are more for short distances in heavily populated cities. Bike messengers do an awesome job avoiding traffic (and in some cases, dodging traffic in death defying ways) and they get your package where it needs to be quickly. This is ideal for transferring documents or files between satellite offices in close proximity. Beware though, these companies are typically small and some are fly-by-night type of operations. However, many of them do a great job without incident.

International

You'll find that many of your standard couriers offer international services but others literally take your package to another country and hand deliver it. While you may be limited in how quickly they can get the package to your destination, there's much to be said for the quality and personal touch of such a service. You'll have to pay though, so be ready to shell out some serious cash.

Each courier is different in their practices and just because they are in business now doesn't mean they are reputable. Don't be afraid to ask for references. If they've been around long enough, it's likely that you know some of their clients. It never hurts to ask them how many years they've been in business either. Get quotes from several services to make sure you're getting the most bang for your buck and if they do a great job, consider using them again. It's always helpful to create a loyal relationship with these types of businesses as they regularly reward their customers with discounts or extras.