Field Notes.
From the field.
Plain-English writing on shipping economics, USPS work-share, the air zone-skip model, and the operational stuff that actually moves the needle on shipping cost.
Latest
21 articles.
How USPS Shipping Zones Work (And Why They Determine Your Rate)
USPS zones 1–9 are the single biggest factor in your shipping cost. Here's how they're calculated, why they matter, and how to lower them.
Multi-Carrier vs. Single-Carrier Shipping: Which Saves More?
Single-carrier contracts are the default for mid-market shippers. When multi-carrier actually beats a UPS or FedEx contract, and when it doesn't.
What Is USPS Work-Share? A Deep Dive for Mid-Market Shippers
USPS work-share is the cheapest way to send mail and parcels in the US — but most mid-market shippers have no idea it exists. Here's how it works and when it pays off.
DDP vs. DDU: How to Choose the Right International Shipping Model
DDP or DDU? The difference can mean the difference between a happy customer and a furious one. Here's how to decide which model fits your international shipping operation.
Is Shipping Protection Worth It? What You Need to Know Before Paying
Shipping protection vs traditional insurance: how it works, costs, coverage, and when paying for it actually makes sense for buyers and sellers.
What Is the Intelligent Mail Barcode? A Complete Guide for Businesses
How the USPS Intelligent Mail Barcode (IMb) improves tracking, speeds processing, and unlocks workshare discounts for high-volume business mailers.
What Is Domestic Shipping? Everything You Need to Know
Domestic shipping explained: how it works, available options, key cost drivers, regulations, and how to optimize fulfillment within the United States.
How to Track Certified Mail Online and What to Do If It's Delayed
Step-by-step guide to tracking USPS certified mail online, decoding tracking statuses, and resolving delays so important documents arrive on time.
How Long Does Customs Take? Understanding the Clearance Process
How long customs clearance takes by shipping mode, what causes delays, the documents you need, and tips to keep international shipments moving.
Which Is Faster: Standard or Economy Shipping? A Guide to Delivery Options
Standard vs economy shipping compared on speed, cost, and reliability — plus how to pick the right option for time-sensitive or budget-conscious deliveries.
Certified or Registered Mail: What's the Difference and Which One to Use?
Certified vs registered mail compared: features, costs, security, tracking, and use cases to help you pick the right USPS option for important shipments.
How Insured Shipping Works: A Guide to Safe and Secure Deliveries
A complete look at insured shipping: how coverage works, what it costs, the claims process, and best practices to keep valuable shipments protected.
What Is Ground Shipping? Everything You Need to Know
Ground shipping explained: how it works, types, pros and cons, and tips to optimize cost and speed for domestic and bulk shipments by truck or rail.
How Insured Shipping Works: A Guide to Safe and Secure Deliveries
Insured shipping explained: coverage types, costs, claim process, and best practices for protecting valuable shipments from loss, theft, or damage.
What Is Flat Rate Shipping? Pros, Cons, and Cost-Saving Benefits
Flat rate shipping explained: how USPS, UPS, and FedEx flat rate boxes work, when to use them, and how predictable pricing can save businesses money.
What Is a Packing Slip? Purpose, Benefits, and How to Use It
Packing slips explained: what to include, how they differ from invoices and labels, and best practices for using them to prevent shipping errors.
Finding the Cheapest Way to Ship Internationally in 2025
Compare carriers, shipping methods, and cost-saving strategies to find the cheapest way to ship internationally in 2025 without sacrificing reliability.
What Is Last Mile Delivery? A Comprehensive Guide to Its Importance in E-Commerce
Why last mile delivery makes or breaks e-commerce: how it works, key challenges, cost drivers, and strategies to deliver faster while reducing failures.
What Is Reverse Logistics? A Guide to Returns, Recycling, and More
Reverse logistics explained: how returns, refurbishment, and recycling reduce costs, boost sustainability, and turn product flows into competitive advantage.
How to Send Certified Mail: Tips for Secure and Reliable Delivery
A practical guide to sending certified mail: how it works, common mistakes to avoid, key benefits, and how to streamline the process for businesses.
The Evolving Landscape of the Parcel and Delivery Business
Explore how e-commerce, automation, and sustainability are reshaping parcel and delivery, from last-mile innovation to cross-border logistics and AI.