My UPS SHIPPING TIPS

[detrio]

I want to share my UPS shipping tips with my AGN brothers and sisters.

I have encountered issues with UPS losing packages that I shipped out.

Based on my experiences with UPS drivers, warehouse employees, and customer service, I've compiled some essential tips for shipping packages with UPS.

1. Use a sturdy box and strong shipping tape.
2. Pack items tightly inside the box to prevent movement during transit.
3. Shipping labels can easily get ripped off—especially when placed inside UPS clear plastic ziplock pouches—or sustain damage that makes them unreadable and undeliverable. In such cases, UPS may declare the package lost even though it's in their warehouse.

A UPS customer service agent recommended printing three copies of the shipping label when sending out packages to avoid lost items:
A. Tape one shipping label to the top of the package or box.
B. Tape a second copy to the side of the package or box.
C. Place a third copy of the shipping label inside the package as a backup in case the external labels become damaged.

Additionally, if you use a UPS Access Point, remember that these are third-party providers. UPS cannot access its computer database for tracking until it receives and scans the label. Therefore, it is essential to keep your receipt as proof of shipment.

UPS Stores are an improvement over UPS Access Points.

They have a direct partnership with UPS, which allows for better tracking information than what is available with UPS Access Points.

When I travel with my PB guns, I use an Apple Airtag placed inside the case as I don't trust TSA. That is another option to consider when shipping expensive air rifles, and it's cheap insurance.

 

[rc4fun]

#B. I've been told more than once that 2 lables is a no, no. ?

 

[detrio]

I ship almost daily with UPS and use two labels on the box and one label inside the box. No complaints from my local UPS store.

So far no more lost packages. I spoke with a UPS customer service rep in person at their UPS distribution center and these are the tips he told me to follow to minimize lost packages. I spoke with him for 45 minutes as UPS lost our package at that their distribution center. I had only one label on the box that it was inside a UPS clear ziplock style pouch. During our conversation, he alluded that internal theft happens too.

If you do not want to use two shipping labels on the package I suggest you place one inside the box in the event the other label is damaged or is removed.

 

[SilentSquirrel]

Thanks for your very good advice @detrio
May I add please?
By no means indicate the contents as an Air Gun on any label, shipping document, ,or anywhere on the box
And if sending to an airgun company use AG as an abbreviation.
Five fingered interlopers are alive and well every step along the way

just my too careful
Edward

 

[Buckeye68]

#B. I've been told more than once that 2 lables is a no, no. ?

I’ve never had an issue with 2 labels when I use UPS.

 

[Ezana4CE]

I ship almost daily with UPS and use two labels on the box and one label inside the box. No complaints from my local UPS store.

So far no more lost packages. I spoke with a UPS customer service rep in person at their UPS distribution center and these are the tips he told me to follow to minimize lost packages. I spoke with him for 45 minutes as UPS lost our package at that their distribution center. I had only one label on the box that it was inside a UPS clear ziplock style pouch. During our conversation, he alluded that internal theft happens too.

If you do not want to use two shipping labels on the package I suggest you place one inside the box in the event the other label is damaged or is removed.

@dertrio Worthwhile tips. Thanks for sharing. Will UPS open your package in the event that an outside label is removed or becomes illegible? If so, what prompts them to do so?

 

[detrio]

@dertrio Worthwhile tips. Thanks for sharing. Will UPS open your package in the event that an outside label is removed or becomes illegible? If so, what prompts them to do so?

I was told by UPS they will open the package to check for an inside shipping label if the exterior shipping label was removed or unreadable.

By the way, today my wife received two large boxes from UPS and two shipping labels were on each box.

 

[trapdoor2]

No matter what you do, sh..., um, stuff happens. I don't use the plastic label bags on the outside. I use a Sharpie marker, write all the info clear and legible...and then cover the area with clear packing tape. Packing label in the box taped to the item, if possible.

My experience with UPS has been great. They called me once to ask if I was expecting some rifle parts.
"Yes...?".
"Please come to the local shipping center..."
Gritting my teeth, I went. I had an action rebarelled and some custom work done.
The only thing left was a corner of the box, a partial address and the barreled action. The driver on my route knew I was a shooter and told them to call me. The rifle was fine...still have it.

 

[manabeknives]

If you do not want to use two shipping labels on the package I suggest you place one inside the box in the event the other label is damaged or is removed.

I have worked with UPS for 36yrs ... this is the best way ...longer boxes moving through the conveyor system have a greater chance to rub along other boxes and the conveyor dividers. Use some clear packaging tape over the lable. I have found that the pouches can get rubbed off while moving through the system. If there is a chance for friction to remove it ..it eventually will. Keep it as flat as possible

Also, to save the most you can, try to make the length as short as possible .. i.e. remove the action from the stock
the longer the box, the more you will be charged as a person who dooesn't have a shipping account with the company.

Getting to know the driver in your area has it's benefits. Drivers always remember those who have been kind/mean to them. We are much more likely to go the extra distance for those kind customers when things happen...i.e. needing an early delivery, or help with a claim