Guys, I'm about to close my very first beer trade. Hope you guys can provide me your inputs on what is the best way to ship out beer. I know majority of the folks in here uses UPS or FEDEX. I want to know if it's ok to use USPS as well. Thanks in advance!
I've used UPS & USPS. I read a thread that FedEx seems to be cracking down on it now? I don't know. But USPS was cheaper by about $8 for me. UPS is crazy expensive. With that said, UPS does stay open longer than USPS so if you're a 9 to 5er nickle and dimer like myself, the extra open hours steer me towards UPS. Just my two cents.
Overall, FedEx is preferred, though this varies by locale, so get a feel for what's preferred in your area. It doesn't hurt to know if the destination has problems with a particular carrier, though I'd hope someone on the receiving end would give you a heads up if that's the case. If you haven't already, open an acct with both UPS & FedEx. I've used FedEx exclusively so far but UPS is available & ready if I need it. Prior to shipping be certain that: Your trade request has been accepted You have your trading partner's cell & email S/he has your cell & email You're both clear on what is being traded & in what quantities. Your trading partner isn't reluctant to make the trade. When shipping FedEx include your trading partner's email. They'll get automatic updates which is reassuring. If you're trading for rare or hard to obtain bottles do not drink what you receive until you're certain the beer you shipped arrived safely & without any problems. Keep communication open until you're certain the trade has been satisfactorily completed. Cheers!
Nailed it! I would just add that in a pinch - whether it be a time constraint or weight issue, occasionally I will use a USPS flat-rate box. If I do though, you better believe I pack that bad boy more secure than Fort Knox.
