Choosing a Shipping Carrier and Service

Choose a shipping carrier and service based on the packaged item, destination, tracking needs, delivery expectations, and carrier requirements.

Each Marketplace seller chooses the carrier and shipping service for their own orders. Select a service that fits the item you are shipping and the delivery expectations you have set in your listing.

Measure and Weigh the Finished Package

Package the item first, then measure the outside dimensions and weigh the complete shipment. Use those final details when comparing services or purchasing a label. The item’s size, weight, destination, and packaging can affect available services and shipping costs.

Compare the Right Details

Whether the carrier accepts the item’s final size and weight.
Estimated delivery timeframe.
Tracking availability.
Signature options, if appropriate for the order.
Domestic or international shipping requirements.
Restrictions, special handling, or documentation that may apply.

Set Clear Expectations

Make your shipping method, handling timeframe, and any delivery limitations clear in the listing. Do not promise a delivery date you cannot reasonably meet. Carrier delivery estimates can change because of weather, holidays, destination, customs, or other events outside the seller’s control.

Check What You Can Ship

Some items require special handling, labels, packaging, or approval. Before creating a shipment, review the carrier’s current rules, especially for batteries, liquids, aerosols, magnets, oversized gear, and international orders.

Last updated 2 months ago

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Estimating Shipping Costs and Setting Realistic Handling Times