Shipping can be a bit tricky when you’re a small business owner trying to balance cost and delivery speed. You want the best of both for your customers, of course.
Let’s break down some of the most common shipping options to help you decide what’s best for your small business, whether you’re sending out a few orders or shipping in bulk.
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Just keep in mind that the shipping options we talk about here might vary depending on the courier or carrier you use—each one offers different services and rates.
| Shipping Method | Best For | Delivery Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Shipping | Budget-friendly, non-urgent orders | 3–7 business days | Low |
| Expedited Shipping | Quicker delivery, not urgent | 2–3 business days | Moderate |
| Overnight Shipping | Urgent, high-priority orders | Next business day | High |
| Two-Day Shipping | Fast delivery, not overnight | 2 business days | Moderate/High |
| Same-Day Delivery | Local, urgent deliveries | Same day | High (varies) |
1. Standard Shipping
Best For: Non-urgent orders and budget-conscious shipping
- Delivery Time: 3–7 business days
- Cost: Low
What it is:
Standard shipping is the go-to option for most small businesses because it’s the most affordable. While it can take a bit longer to get to your customers, it’s perfect for items that aren’t time-sensitive.
2. Expedited Shipping
Best For: Customers who need items quickly but don’t require overnight delivery
- Delivery Time: 2–3 business days
- Cost: Moderate
What it is:
Expedited shipping offers faster delivery than standard, typically arriving within 2 to 3 business days. It’s the middle ground between budget-friendly and fast shipping, making it a great option for customers who need their orders soon, but aren’t in a huge rush.
3. Overnight Shipping
Best For: Time-sensitive, high-priority orders
- Delivery Time: Next business day
- Cost: High
What it is:
Overnight shipping gets your products to your customers the very next day. It's the fastest delivery option available but comes with a higher price tag. This method is perfect for customers who need their orders urgently.
4. Two-Day Shipping
Best For: Customers who want quick delivery but don’t want to pay for overnight shipping
- Delivery Time: 2 business days
- Cost: Moderate to high
What it is:
Two-day shipping offers fast delivery without the high cost of overnight shipping. It’s often offered by major carriers like UPS or FedEx and is now a common expectation for many customers.
5. Same-Day Delivery
Best For: Local deliveries for urgent customer needs
- Delivery Time: Same day
- Cost: High (varies by location)
What it is:
Same-day delivery is the fastest method, offering delivery within hours of the order. This is usually only available for local deliveries, so if you’re running a local business or have a local customer base, this could be a game-changer.
If you’re in a competitive local market, offering same-day delivery could set you apart from your competitors. This is especially great for businesses in cities or areas with high demand for fast delivery.
Packing for All Shipping Methods
No matter which shipping method you choose, the right packaging is key to ensuring your products reach their destination safely and securely. At Impack, we’ve got all the packaging and shipping supplies you need to make the process smooth AND stylish!
Shop now for all your shipping essentials and keep your business moving smoothly!
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