Relying on a single shipping carrier is riskier than ever. With postal strikes around the world, rising United States Postal Service (USPS) shipping rates, and changing routes due to political instability, businesses that fail to diversify their shipping services could face higher costs, delivery delays, and frustrated customers. Instead, savvy shippers are incorporating shipping alternatives into their strategy to gain greater flexibility, reliability, and cost control.
In this guide, we’ll explore additional delivery options that provide stability, cost savings, and improved customer satisfaction—no matter what disruptions arise.
The Cost of Shipping Instability
Shipping doesn’t operate in a vacuum. Global trade routes, labor negotiations, fuel prices, and international regulations all play a role in determining how quickly and cost-effectively packages reach their destinations. A single shipping disruption—a strike at the post office, a supply chain bottleneck, an economic downturn—can have ripple effects that impact businesses and consumers alike.
Why Do These Disruptions Happen?
At the core of many shipping challenges are external factors beyond any one company’s control:
- Geopolitical tensions. Trade disputes, new tariffs, and border restrictions can alter international shipping lanes overnight, causing unexpected delays and higher costs.
- Labor strikes and worker shortages. Postal and carrier unions across Canada and Europe have engaged in strikes demanding better wages and working conditions. These slowdowns create backlogs and leave businesses scrambling for last-minute solutions.
- Rising operational costs. Inflation and fuel price volatility mean major carriers frequently increase shipping rates to cover expenses.
- Regulatory changes. Governments and trade organizations impose new rules and environmental mandates that impact shipping operations. Stricter emissions standards, for example, can force carriers to shift to alternative routes or upgrade fleets, increasing costs in the process.
The True Cost of Relying on a Single Carrier
While it may seem convenient to rely on just one shipping provider, businesses that do so take on significant risks—especially when it comes to eCommerce shipping. When rate hikes or service slowdowns occur, companies without a diversified shipping strategy face:
- Unpredictable price increases. USPS rate hikes on Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, and international shipping, for instance, have made it more expensive for businesses to send small packages and manage logistics. Many sellers on platforms such as Amazon and eBay are seeing profit margins shrink as shipping costs climb.
- Slower delivery times. Service changes at major carriers affect delivery speed across shipping zones. A business that previously relied on two-day shipping might have to switch to the expensive overnight shipping or next-day delivery to maintain the same level of service.
- Supply chain disruptions. Carrier strikes and slowdowns create last-mile delivery challenges, leading to missed deadlines, increased customer complaints, and a decline in customer satisfaction.
- Lost sales and customer trust. Customers expect fast, reliable shipping options. If businesses can’t offer expedited, same-day, or cost-effective delivery, they risk losing sales to competitors with better logistics solutions.
Instead of waiting for the next disruption, businesses need to take control of their shipping strategy by working with shipping companies that provide flexible shipping solutions.
Shipping Alternatives: Breaking Free from Single-Provider Dependency
To stay competitive, companies are diversifying their shipping strategy, incorporating alternative delivery services that offer more stable pricing, faster transit times, and enhanced flexibility. While alternative carriers can help businesses avoid major disruptions, finding the cheapest way to ship while maintaining reliability requires carefully weighing the pros and cons of each option.
Key Alternative Shipping Solutions and Their Trade-Offs
1. Regional Carriers
Best for: Businesses shipping locally or within a specific region
- Pros:
- Faster delivery times in localized markets
- Lower shipping costs compared to major national carriers
- More personalized service and customer support
- Cons:
- Limited coverage—not suitable for nationwide or international shipments
- Less infrastructure for handling high package volumes
- May require multiple partnerships to cover broader shipping zones
Verdict: Regional carriers are a great solution for businesses with high local order volume, but companies shipping beyond a single region will need additional options to maintain coverage.
2. Hybrid Shipping Solutions (Private Carriers + USPS Final-Mile Delivery)
Best for: Cost-conscious businesses shipping to rural or hard-to-reach areas
- Pros:
- Lower overall costs compared to using only USPS or only a private carrier
- Efficient final-mile delivery without the full cost of a premium carrier
- More flexible pricing models than traditional shipping options
- Cons:
- Dependent on USPS final-mile delivery, which is still subject to postal delays
- Longer transit times in some cases compared with direct carrier options
- May lack real-time tracking integration for a seamless experience
Verdict: Hybrid shipping can be cost-effective, but since it relies on USPS for last-mile delivery, businesses still face some of the same delays and service slowdowns as those that depend exclusively on postal carriers.
3. Courier and Express Shipping
Best for: High-value, time-sensitive, or last-minute deliveries
- Pros:
- Faster delivery speeds—many offer same-day or next-day delivery
- Premium customer service and better handling of high-value packages
- Better tracking and security compared to standard shipping options
- Cons:
- High shipping costs—expedited shipping can be significantly more expensive
- Not ideal for bulk shipments or cost-sensitive businesses
- Not always scalable—may not support large shipping volumes efficiently
Verdict: Courier and express shipping are great for businesses that require fast, high-priority shipping, but the higher cost makes it unrealistic for everyday shipments.
4. Alternative Freight Solutions (Air, Sea, and Consolidated Freight)
Best for: Businesses shipping bulk orders, large packages, or international goods
- Pros:
- Lower per-unit shipping costs for large-volume orders
- More efficient international shipping for bulk imports/exports
- Flexible options for balancing cost and speed
- Cons:
- Longer transit times—ocean freight can take weeks compared with air shipping
- More-complex logistics
- Higher up-front costs—not ideal for small or low-volume shipments
Verdict: Freight solutions are cost-effective for large orders, but they require more planning and longer lead times, making them less practical for businesses that ship small packages frequently.
Partnering with a Shipping and Logistics Provider: A Streamlined Approach
While alternative shipping solutions can help businesses navigate disruptions, managing multiple carriers, contracts, and tracking systems quickly becomes complicated. Businesses looking for greater efficiency and flexibility are increasingly working with shipping and logistics providers that offer a centralized approach to shipping management.
Here’s how logistics providers can help simplify and optimize shipping operations:
- Access to multiple shipping carriers—not locked into one provider
- Volume discounts and lower shipping rates for businesses of all sizes
- Advanced tracking, shipping software, and automation for seamless logistics management
- Scalability, whether shipping a few orders or thousands per day
- Full-service support, including customs assistance for international shipping
By diversifying their shipping strategy and working with a trusted logistics partner, businesses can reduce costs, improve efficiency, and adapt to changing shipping demands, all while ensuring reliable service for their customers.
The Benefits of Partnering with a Shipping Logistics Provider: A Closer Look
Cost Savings and Budget Control
One of the biggest advantages of partnering with a logistics provider is predictable pricing and cost efficiency. Instead of dealing with frequent rate hikes from major carriers, businesses can benefit from:
- Avoiding unpredictable price increases. Logistics providers help businesses lock in negotiated carrier rates, shielding them from unexpected increases and surcharges.
- Bulk shipping discounts. Through carrier partnerships and volume-based pricing, logistics providers can offer lower rates per package, which is especially valuable for eCommerce businesses shipping high volumes.
- Optimized shipping routes and consolidation. Advanced routing technology and freight consolidation help reduce shipping costs, making operations more efficient.
Improved Reliability and Tracking
Package delays, lost shipments, and unreliable tracking can hurt customer satisfaction and brand reputation. Logistics providers help businesses stay ahead of disruptions with:
- End-to-end tracking and real-time updates. Customers get accurate delivery estimates and detailed tracking information, reducing the risk of lost or delayed shipments.
- Better insurance options. With improved package protection, businesses experience fewer financial losses due to damaged or misplaced shipments.
- Enhanced customer experience. More-accurate delivery windows and fewer disruptions improve customer trust and satisfaction.
Flexibility and Scalability
As businesses grow, their shipping needs change. Logistics providers offer scalable solutions that adjust to demand, whether during peak holiday shopping seasons or periods of lower volume. Benefits include:
- Customizable shipping solutions. Logistics partners tailor services to fit small businesses, midsize eCommerce brands, and large enterprises alike.
- Scalability during peak seasons. Businesses can increase shipping capacity without delays, ensuring they meet high demand without bottlenecks.
- Multimodal shipping options. Whether shipping by air, sea, or ground, logistics providers offer hybrid solutions that maximize speed and cost-effectiveness.
Better International Shipping Support
Expanding into global markets presents challenges, from customs delays to high international shipping costs. A logistics provider simplifies cross-border shipping by offering:
- Customs expertise. Experienced logistics partners ensure smooth border clearance and compliance with international shipping regulations.
- Local carrier partnerships. Businesses benefit from faster, more reliable last-mile delivery, leveraging regional carriers for optimized service.
- Duty and tax optimization. Logistics providers help reduce unnecessary fees, ensuring cost-effective global shipping for businesses and their customers.
How to Choose the Right Shipping Partner for Your Business
Diversifying your shipping strategy with the right logistics partner can provide flexibility, cost savings, and more reliable service. But how do you choose the best fit for your business? Here are key factors to evaluate:
- Pricing and contracts. Are there hidden fees, surcharges, or long-term commitments that could impact your bottom line? Compare pricing structures to ensure you’re getting the most cost-effective solution.
- Shipping speed and coverage. Does the provider offer expedited options such as next-day delivery? Does it offer delivery to the regions and countries you ship to?
- Customer support and claims handling. A shipping issue can quickly become a customer service nightmare. Make sure your provider has responsive customer support and an efficient claims process for lost or damaged packages.
- Technology and tracking capabilities. Does the provider offer real-time tracking, automation, and integrations with platforms such as Shopify or eBay? The ability to print labels, manage shipping zones, and optimize delivery routes is crucial for efficiency.
- Scalability. As your business grows, will your shipping partner be able to grow with you? Choose a provider that can handle small packages today and large shipments in the future.
Why Now Is the Time to Make the Switch
Between rising USPS shipping rates, supply chain disruptions, and unpredictable service delays, businesses that take proactive steps now will be better positioned for long-term success. Partnering with a flexible shipping provider means you can:
Maintain stability – Avoid sudden rate hikes and service slowdowns.
Reduce costs – Access more-competitive shipping rates and flat-rate options.
Improve customer satisfaction – Deliver orders on time and keep customers happy.
With the right shipping strategy in place, your business can thrive despite ongoing changes.
Adapting to the Future of Shipping
The shipping industry is at a crossroads. As strikes and rate hikes become more frequent, businesses that continue to rely on traditional carriers risk falling behind. Supply chain disruptions, fluctuating carrier rates, and evolving customer expectations demand a more flexible and strategic approach to logistics. The question isn’t if your business should adapt; it’s how quickly you can make the shift before delays and rising costs start affecting your bottom line.
Now is the time to rethink your approach. By diversifying your shipping methods, leveraging technology for automation, and working with a logistics partner that offers cost-effective solutions, you can build a more resilient supply chain. The right partner will help you navigate unexpected disruptions, secure the lowest rates, and streamline your entire shipping process, ensuring stability and growth in an unpredictable market.
Interested in learning how a logistics partner like ePost Global can help your business navigate shipping challenges? Contact us to explore tailored solutions for domestic and international shipping.
