One of the most challenging components of running a business smoothly is logistics. It is especially tough for enterprises that send out orders to local, domestic, and international locations. When you get the logistics right, many other things fall into place. You will find third-party platforms that can handle end-to-end logistics for you, but they come at a price. Businesses have now discovered a simpler and more affordable way of handling the process. They use the Click-N-Ship service from the United States Postal Service (USPS).
What Is Click-N-Ship From The USPS?
Click-N-Ship from the United States Postal Service is a new, more efficient, and affordable way of sending deliveries. The service is aimed at helping businesses ship out packages of any size and type easily. One of the key benefits is the ability to choose the type of delivery they want for various types of packages.
Available options include:
- Priority Mail Service
- Express Mail Service
- Global Express Guaranteed Service
- Global Express Mail Service
- USPS Connect Local — Offers Same Day and Next Day delivery for businesses of all sizes at affordable rates for registered customers.
- Priority Mail International
- Priority Mail Express International
- Starting in July, Click-N-Ship will also offer USPS Ground Advantage — our new ground offering which combines First-Class Package Service for lightweight packages under 1lb, Parcel Select Ground, and Retail Ground for packages over 1lb for delivery in 2-5 days.
- Eligible customers now have access to Priority Mail and Parcel Select Ground Cubic
With Click-N-Ship, businesses can also print their own shipping labels from their location using a thermal laser inkjet printer. You must input the relevant details of the addressee and generate your postage label using the easy-to-use Click-N-Ship software. Apply the postage label and schedule a no-cost package pick-up, deposit it at a collection box, or drop-off at your nearest Post Office to start your package delivery journey.
Shipping Options
The rule of thumb for shipping services is that they charge by weight, package size, and delivery speed. The heavier the package, the more it will cost you.
USPS offers several options for shippers of all sizes that ship packages weighing up to 70 pounds. The Postal Service’s Priority Mail Flat Rate product offers several variations of Flat Rate boxes and envelopes. Priority Mail Flat Rate offers one rate for any weight and provides exceptional convenience.
Businesses prefer using USPS services because their rates are lower than other similar services. They also offer various rates for the delivery of your package. You can choose the best option for your needs and budget.
Click-N-Ship is one of the most popular and frequently-used services as it helps business owners save time and money on logistics.
Here are some of the features offered by USPS
1. PC Postage Labels Can Be Purchased From The Website
The USPS offers a service called PC Postage Labels. It allows users to print labels right from their computer and is ideal for businesses handling high volumes of shipping packages. All you need is a registered account with USPS to create a label and print it on your own system.
2. Purchase Labels With Credit Cards
USPS allows users to buy labels and postage using any leading credit card. If you check, you will find that most carriers do not allow the facility of using credit cards. They prefer an assured type of payment. By enabling the use of credit cards, USPS makes the whole process of buying postage and labels faster and smoother.
3. Compare Shipping Rates
Handling logistics in different areas is a nightmare for businesses as there are no standard or uniform rates. Every carrier charges different rates while shipping out in different areas.
USPS handles packages from acceptance to delivery, offering free pick-up from your home or business at the time of mail delivery on the carrier’s route, leveraging our vast processing and last-mile network. It is the only carrier that serves all of the nation’s 163 million business and residential addresses six, and often seven days per week.
As USPS works with different carriers, they can come up with different rates for various areas. You can choose the carrier that costs you less while ensuring quality service.
Click-N-Ship offers USPS competitive rates to provide customers with economical ways to ship. Customers with questions about their specific mailing or shipping needs can contact us at the phone number or address provided.
The Click-N-Ship service also offers a comparison tool to compare and calculate shipping rates. This service is available at no extra cost.
Click-N-Ship allows customers to compare products and rates offered by USPS based on the speed of service needed.
You can check various options and choose the best one for your business needs. You can also switch carriers if you are not happy with the service.
4. Standardize Your Addresses
If your business is in multiple states or has clients across the country, you may have to juggle hundreds of addresses. Entering them manually every time you send shipping can be extremely hassling.
Click-N-Ship understands the issue and aims to resolve the problem by offering a standardization service. You are offered an address book that can accommodate up to 1000 addresses. By adding the addresses of repeat customers to the book, you can navigate to the details quickly and prepare the label faster.
5. Find A Zip Code
Another essential feature of the Click-N-Ship service is that it helps you find a zip code. Finding the zip code of the addresses you want to ship your packages can be tedious and time-consuming. The USPS makes locating a zip code you want quick through the Click-N-Ship service.
Knowing the zip code makes it easy to calculate rates and get a general idea about shipping routes. It can also help determine shipping times.
Also, Click-N-Ship offers a USPS Connect Mapping Tool that allows users to identify participating Post Offices and Zip Codes serviced.
How to Use Click and Ship USPS
Using Click and Ship USPS is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Create a USPS Account
To begin using Click and Ship USPS, you need to register for a free USPS account. Simply visit the USPS website and click on the “Register/Sign In” option at the top right corner. Follow the instructions to create your account.
Step 2: Access Click and Ship
Once you have successfully registered, navigate to the USPS homepage and select the “Mail & Ship” tab. From the dropdown menu, choose “Click and Ship” to access the Click and Ship portal.
Step 3: Enter Shipping Details
In the Click and Ship portal, you will need to provide the necessary information for your shipment. This includes the destination address, package weight, and dimensions. You can also select additional services such as insurance, delivery confirmation, or signature confirmation.
Step 4: Choose a Shipping Service
Based on the information you entered, Click and Ship will display various USPS shipping services and their respective rates. You can choose the service that best suits your needs and budget, such as Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, or Priority Mail Express.
Step 5: Pay for Postage
After selecting your preferred shipping service, you will be prompted to pay for the postage using a credit or debit card. Enter your payment details and confirm the transaction.
Step 6: Print Your Shipping Label
Once your payment is processed, you can proceed to print your shipping label. Ensure that you have a printer connected to your computer and follow the on-screen instructions to print the label. If you don’t have a printer, you can save the label as a PDF and print it later.
Step 7: Attach the Label to Your Package
After printing the label, carefully cut it out and securely attach it to your package using clear packing tape. Make sure that the barcode and address are visible and not covered by tape or any obstructions.
Step 8: Drop Off Your Package
With the Click and Ship label attached, you can now drop off your package at any USPS post office, schedule a free package pickup, or leave it in your mailbox (if it fits) for your mail carrier to pick up.
Benefits of Using Click and Ship USPS
Click and Ship USPS offers several benefits that make it an attractive shipping option for businesses and individuals alike. Here are some of the key advantages:
1. Convenience
With Click and Ship USPS, you can easily print postage labels from the comfort of your home or office, eliminating the need to visit a post office. This convenience saves you time and effort, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business.
2. Cost Savings
One of the most significant advantages of using Click and Ship USPS is the potential for cost savings. The service itself is free, and you can take advantage of USPS Loyalty Program credits, which can help you save money on shipping costs. Additionally, you can order free shipping boxes directly from USPS, eliminating the need to purchase packaging materials.
3. Easy Tracking
Click and Ship USPS provides online tracking for your packages, allowing you to monitor their progress and know their whereabouts during transit. This feature gives you peace of mind and enables you to provide accurate information to your customers regarding the status of their shipments.
4. Access to Priority Mail Labels
With Click and Ship USPS, you can easily print Priority Mail labels without the need to wait in line at the post office. This convenience is especially beneficial for businesses that frequently ship items using Priority Mail services.
5. Streamlined Shipping Process
By using Click and Ship USPS, you can streamline your shipping process and eliminate the need for multiple trips to the post office. The online portal allows you to manage all your shipping needs in one place, from label creation to payment and package drop-off.
Why Click and Ship USPS is Important
Click and Ship USPS has gained significant importance and popularity among businesses and individuals looking for a convenient and efficient shipping solution. With over 400,000 customers already utilizing this service, its impact is evident. Here are some reasons why Click and Ship USPS is important:
1. Online Convenience
By bringing the post office experience online, Click and Ship USPS offers a level of convenience that was previously unavailable. Users can access all the necessary shipping services and tools from the comfort of their own homes or offices, saving time and resources.
2. Time and Cost Savings
Click and Ship USPS saves businesses valuable time by eliminating the need to physically visit a post office for shipping needs. Additionally, the potential cost savings, such as free shipping boxes and USPS Loyalty Program credits, make it an attractive option for businesses looking to reduce their shipping expenses.
3. Enhanced Tracking and Transparency
The online tracking feature provided by Click and Ship USPS ensures transparency and visibility throughout the shipping process. Users can easily track their packages and provide accurate updates to their customers, improving customer satisfaction and trust.
4. Increased Efficiency
By streamlining the shipping process, Click and Ship USPS enhances overall efficiency. Businesses can focus on core operations instead of spending valuable time on manual shipping tasks. This increased efficiency can translate into improved productivity and profitability.
Alternatives to Click and Ship USPS
While Click and Ship USPS offers many benefits, it’s essential to consider alternative shipping options that may better suit your specific needs. Here are a few alternatives to Click and Ship USPS:
1. Easyship
Easyship is a comprehensive shipping platform that offers a wide range of features and services. It integrates with various courier services, including USPS, and provides discounted shipping rates, advanced tracking, and automated label generation. Easyship’s platform is user-friendly and designed to streamline the shipping process for businesses of all sizes.
2. FedEx
FedEx is a well-known shipping carrier that offers a range of services tailored to different shipping needs. From overnight delivery to international shipping, FedEx provides reliable and efficient solutions. Their online platform allows you to create shipping labels, track packages, and access other useful tools.
3. UPS
UPS is another reputable shipping company that offers a comprehensive suite of services. With UPS, you can easily create shipping labels, schedule pickups, and track your packages. Their advanced tracking system provides real-time updates, ensuring visibility throughout the shipping process.
4. DHL
DHL is a global shipping company that specializes in international shipping. They offer a range of services, including express delivery, freight transportation, and e-commerce solutions. DHL’s online platform provides easy access to shipping tools and features, making it a viable alternative to Click and Ship USPS for international shipments.
Conclusion
In sum, USPS Click-N-Ship presents itself as an indispensable tool for businesses and individuals aiming to streamline their shipping processes in a cost-effective, efficient, and user-friendly manner. This service stands out as a testament to the United States Postal Service’s commitment to facilitating easier, more accessible logistics solutions for a diverse range of users—from small business owners to large enterprises.
The Click-N-Ship service is not just about shipping; it’s about providing a comprehensive, end-to-end solution that caters to the modern demands of logistics management. Its array of features, from daily payments to an extensive array of delivery options, underscores the adaptability and user-centric nature of the service. Whether it’s the simplicity of printing postage labels from the comfort of your office or the affordability of competitive shipping rates, Click-N-Ship addresses the multifaceted needs of today’s shippers.
Moreover, the ongoing enhancements and introductions of new features, such as USPS Ground Advantage and the integration with USPS Connect Local, reflect USPS’s dedication to innovation and improvement. These developments ensure that Click-N-Ship remains relevant and continues to provide value in the ever-evolving landscape of shipping and logistics.
The positive feedback from users further validates the effectiveness and reliability of Click-N-Ship. The convenience of features like PC Postage Labels, the flexibility offered by various payment options, and the practicality of tools like the address standardization service all contribute to a superior user experience. This satisfaction among users not only highlights the strengths of Click-N-Ship but also cements its reputation as a trusted partner in logistics.
Ultimately, Click-N-Ship by USPS emerges as a game-changer in the realm of logistics and shipping. It exemplifies how technology can transform traditional processes, making them more accessible, efficient, and adaptable to the needs of modern businesses and individuals. For those seeking a reliable, cost-effective, and user-friendly shipping solution, Click-N-Ship offers a compelling choice that promises to enhance your logistics operations and support your business’s growth and success.
As the world of e-commerce continues to expand and the need for reliable shipping solutions grows, Click-N-Ship stands ready to meet these challenges head-on, providing a seamless, integrated service that simplifies logistics and empowers users to focus on what matters most: growing their businesses and satisfying their customers. With Click-N-Ship, the complexities of logistics become more manageable, allowing users to navigate the world of shipping with confidence and ease.
USPS Click and Ship FAQs
How does the USPS Click and Ship work?
USPS Click and Ship is an online service that allows you to buy and print shipping labels from your home or office computer. After creating an account on the USPS website, you can enter your package details, pay for postage, and print out a shipping label. Then, attach the label to your package and drop it off at a USPS location or schedule a pickup.
Is it cheaper to use Click and Ship?
Yes, using Click and Ship can be cheaper than purchasing postage at a USPS office. Online users often receive discounts on postage rates and free tracking services, making it a cost-effective option for shipping packages.
Do I need a printer for Click and Ship?
Yes, you need a printer to use Click and Ship. You’ll need to print out the shipping label and attach it to your package. If you don’t have a printer, you may need to use a friend’s printer or visit a local library or print shop.
Can I use Click and Ship with my own envelope?
Yes, you can use Click and Ship with your own envelope or box. Ensure the packaging is sturdy and appropriate for the contents. However, if you’re using USPS Flat Rate services, you must use the specific USPS Flat Rate packaging.
What is the cheapest way to send a package?
The cheapest way to send a package often depends on the package’s size, weight, and destination. Generally, USPS offers competitive rates for smaller packages, especially if you can fit items into their Flat Rate boxes. Comparing rates between USPS, UPS, and FedEx using their online calculators is advisable to find the best rate.
Is it cheaper to buy USPS postage online?
Yes, buying USPS postage online is usually cheaper than buying at a post office. Online rates, particularly through Click and Ship, often include discounts that are not available for in-person purchases.
What supplies do I need for Click and Ship?
For Click and Ship, you’ll need a computer with internet access, a printer, shipping labels or paper (and tape if using paper), and a package or envelope. If you’re sending something fragile, you may also need bubble wrap or other cushioning materials.
Does Click and Ship provide a box?
Click and Ship does not provide physical boxes. However, if you’re using a USPS Flat Rate service, you can obtain Flat Rate boxes for free at your local USPS office or order them online from the USPS website.
How do you use Click and Ship?
To use Click and Ship, create an account or log in on the USPS website. Enter your package details, including weight, dimensions, and destination. Select your shipping service and pay for postage. Then, print your shipping label, attach it to your package, and drop off the package at a USPS location or schedule a pickup.
