1. Prepare your packaging

Properly packaging your shipment reduces the risk of damage. All shipments should be protected with proper packaging. For your small package shipments, FedEx provides valuable packaging information. Go here for packaging guides, supplies and additional service offerings.

When shipping LTL (less-than-truckload) and TL (truckload) shipments, be sure to use proper packaging, which complies with the NMFC (National Motor Freight Classification). Click on the following YRC link for useful new shipper information. Go here for a “how to” checklist.

2. Label your shipment

Be sure to label every package in your shipment. The complete to/from names and addresses need to be visible on each piece. This will help to ensure your entire shipment arrives intact. Most online tools will print or provide the option for you to print your shipping labels.

3. Choose Service

Now that the shipment has been packaged and labeled it’s time to select a shipping method.

Things to know:

• Number of pieces
• Weight
• Dimensions
• Shipment value
• What is being shipped (do you have class number)
• Special services (time sensitive, hazardous, lift-gate, residential, etc.)

Knowing this information will allow you to rate your shipments properly and decide on the appropriate carrier for your service needs. Generally, your standard delivery shipments under 400 lbs are best served by FedEx Ground. Standard shipments over 400 lbs are generally better served by using an LTL or TL carrier like YRC. Please contact us if you questions or if you’re unsure which method is right for a particular shipment.

4. Complete Shipping Documents

Once you select a carrier for your shipment, you will need to complete the appropriate shipping documents. FedEx Express uses airway bills; FedEx Ground uses manifest books and labels, but a better option is to create a FedEx.com login account and take advantage of their online tools. To learn more go here or for online tutorials click here

If you are shipping LTL or TL shipments, you will need to complete the appropriate Bill of Lading (BOL) paperwork. Most LTL carriers provide access to preparing your documentation online. (If you need to ship internationally, please contact Siriani or the carrier to insure that you have completed all of the necessary shipping documentation).

5. Ship

After the carrier and shipment method have been selected, it’s time to ship. If you use daily pick-up service, simply add the shipment to your other outbound shipments for that day. If you do not utilize a daily pick-up service, contact the selected carrier, or Siriani, to schedule a pick-up. Remember, no matter which carrier you choose, they all have varied guidelines for pick-up. It is important to note that you may be subject to additional fees for pick-up service (please see the carrier service guides or tariffs). If you prefer, most carriers allow you to drop-off your package, which can often help you avoid service pick-up fees. If you use FedEx Ground and you always plan to drop-off your packages at a FedEx Office (formerly FedEx Kinko’s) location, or another FedEx staffed facility, please contact Siriani so that we can ensure that the proper fee waivers have been applied to your account. This means that you will always need to drop-off both your Express & Ground packages at a FedEx staffed facility but you will not incur any weekly service fees.

6. Last Step

Track your shipment. You will receive tracking/PRO numbers for every shipment you send. It is essential to store that information for tracking purposes in case an issue arises with your shipment. When using the carriers’ online tools this information is generally saved for you in your online profile. When you ship, you will have the option to be notified by email regarding the transit and delivery status of your shipment. You can also set it up so that your customer is emailed tracking and transit information for their shipment. By setting up email alerts, you, your customer or both of you will be notified if an issue arises during transit that needs to be addressed or that the shipment was delivered on-time to your customer as scheduled.

If you have questions or would like additional information regarding our services, please contact Siriani & Associates.