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Which 'Shipping carrier provides the best overall

Now there's a question that ought to get some action. as important as it is to have a good one , or two, given the very nature of this venue in particular. For with but one exception, every deal I've personally done via Audiogon has been with the use of some carrier... and I don't see that changing anytime soon.

Is there truly a carrier out there that continually provides exemptlary service. Handles goods properly, facillitates providing informaiton quickly and accurately? ..or is it always a coin toss with shipping equipment, in terms of timeliness and handling?

Having gained some experience over the past few years, both here at audiogon, and in former businesses, I think it may well be just that, a coin toss.

My very first opportunity to transact business with another member was steeped in miscomunication and poor training on the part of several FED EX emplyees and took months to regain the difference in an overcharge.

Most recently FED EX again has shown to be lacking in attention to detail and training of it's individuals, as well as access to timely shipping info updates. Frustrating at the time, but now since all turned out well, a laughable, but most memorable event.

For those who have done this 'shipping' thing quite often, I ask what is yuoor assessment of carriers in general, and have you determined a prefferance?

I feel this is certainly an area in dire need of an assessment based upon some considerable experiences, both in shipping, and in claims.

Thanks a lot. This should be most benificial to all at Audiogon...
blindjim

Showing 1 response by rockvirgo

rockvirgo
587 posts
 
FedEx Ground at Kinkos gets all my business' business (around 3 boxes a week) because they have a counter nearby. Same prices as the FedEx counter that recently closed. The Kinkos staff seem alot friendlier than the FedEx staff. Twice over three years they've lost a box in a 20-box shipment - simply vanished. Every now and then one gets smashed. Two got smashed this week, but it really is the exception. Both boxes were light too, only six pounds each. The customer says one was pierced. Regardless, they've paid every claim though all of them have been under $100. With claims, respect their procedures, give them exactly what they ask for and they'll come thru.

Ole reliable USPS always delivers but not always on time. One Prioriity mail package took 45 days and arrived in a crumpled ball inside a preprinted USPS apology bag. In another instance, a seller tried to parcel post me a box of old Stereophiles. Some were still in their 15 year old mailers. Sure enough, the box cracked open and the PO delivered the unopened ones back to the seller. The rest never reappeared.

I never use UPS because their only service around here is through those Mark Up, Etc. outlets.

So yeah, it's always a crap shoot. Fortunately the odds are mostly in your favor. Pack well and always ship on Mondays!
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