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Modeling in General: Advice on...
Need some general advice? Place it here.
Shipping kits
cmreds
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Texas, United States
Member Since: August 19, 2013
entire network: 122 Posts
KitMaker Network: 93 Posts
Posted: Saturday, April 09, 2016 - 12:31 AM UTC
I'm wondering what everyone has had luck with when it comes to shipping?

Specifically:
1. Shipping carriers (USPS, FedEx, UPS),
a. Who is more careful,
b. Which is more reasonable on rates
2. Best ways to ship two or more armor kits.

Thanks,
Chris
JClapp
#259
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Massachusetts, United States
Member Since: October 23, 2011
entire network: 2,265 Posts
KitMaker Network: 225 Posts
Posted: Saturday, April 09, 2016 - 04:13 PM UTC
I always use USPS. First class only goes up to 13 ounces, Priority mail is pretty much the only option for anything heavier.
USPS will always be cheaper than UPS, and don't even bother asking Fedex.
I dont think you can possibly conclude that one carrier is more careful than another. random anecdotes notwithstanding.
If you have a small scale that measures to ounces, you can do the whole thing at home at USPS.com, which gets you a 10% discount versus over the counter.
boxes should be wrapped in bubble wrap and taped. empty space should be filled with scraps of bubble wrap or styro peanuts to prevent rattling.



VintageRPM
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Texas, United States
Member Since: November 28, 2010
entire network: 300 Posts
KitMaker Network: 80 Posts
Posted: Saturday, April 09, 2016 - 06:07 PM UTC
I use USPS Retail Ground (Economy Shipping) for heavier kits. Cheaper than Priority Mail (although for some reason, not always available).
AFVFan
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North Carolina, United States
Member Since: May 17, 2012
entire network: 1,980 Posts
KitMaker Network: 409 Posts
Posted: Wednesday, April 13, 2016 - 09:56 AM UTC
I use USPS for all my shipping. FedEx and UPS have always proven to be more expensive. Just don't fall for the flat rate box scam. Most every kit out there can be shipped cheaper if you don't use one. If a kit can't go 1st class, I use priority mail. I figure the quicker the box can move through the system, the less chance for loss or damage. Plus, priority comes with $50 to $100 insurance included in the price.

Another way to save money is to go online to the Post Office's website ( USPS.com ) and order non-flat rate boxes from them. There's no charge for them. I use box numbers 1092, 1095, and 1097.

HTH
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