Insight:
- Standard shipping is a popular and affordable delivery method balancing cost and speed.
- It typically takes 3-7 business days domestically, utilizing ground transportation, making it ideal for non-urgent shipments.
Would you mind imagining this scenario: “ordering a couple of shoes you’ve been eyeing for weeks”? As you finalize your purchase, you’re presented with shipping options – one of which is “standard shipping”. It’s a common choice, but what is standard shipping? What exactly does it mean?
Standard shipping is one of the most popular means of delivery. It enables you to balance both price and period for product delivery. But what is the mechanism behind this, and what is its significance for businesses and customers? This blog also unpacks the core parts of this concept that people commonly use and appreciate while using their goods and shopping.
Let us follow you on decoding standard shipping: What you need to know!
What is standard shipping?
Many business owners don’t know what standard shipping is, leading to difficulty when choosing a suitable shipping method. Below are some basic details about standard shipping: A cost-effective delivery method.
Have you ever asked yourself what happens after you click the “buy now” option and select the standard shipping method? It’s not so “standard” as it’s named. It’s a complex but effective system of logistics. Many assume this option is the most reliable and cost-saving way to deliver their orders to the final destination. But what exactly is standard shipping, and why is it so popular?
Standard shipping is the most-saving delivery method provided by almost all shipping carriers. Standard shipping would be ideal for customers or businesses seeking an efficient shipping method that charges the lowest fee. This method typically uses ground transportation, such as trucks or trains, to deliver packages within a country or region. This shipping method bears some key characteristics, including:
- Ground shipping: Relies on road or rail networks for delivery.
- Delivery time: It takes several business days, balancing speed and affordability.
- Cost-effective: Suitable for shoppers and businesses who would like to save additional costs.
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Standard shipping delivery time
Above is the definition of standard shipping; hence, how long does standard shipping take? You’ve selected the standard shipping method at checkout, and now you wonder how long standard shipping takes.
While standard shipping is a common option because of its cost-saving, delivery times can vary depending on different factors. You’d better understand these factors comprehensively to plan carefully for shipment. In the long run, these careful plans will help you avoid unexpected issues around the delivery process.
Factors affecting standard shipping delivery time include:
- The distance: The greater the distance between the sender and recipient, the longer the shipping time takes.
- Origin and destination: Urban areas typically enjoy quicker delivery times than rural locations.
- Carrier: Each carrier has its shipping networks and timelines. Sometimes, the visual images map ways your consignment will pass by. Normally, the shipping route tends to be farther from the sellers’ direct path to your house. It’s because your gadget has to go through a classification step within the total warehouse. Different carriers have different shipping networks, so that you can see UPS Ground, FedEx Ground, and USPS Ground Advantage may all offer varying speeds.
- Typical delivery timeframes: Standard shipping generally takes 3 – 7 business days if the shipment occurs within the contiguous US. Besides estimated departure dates, nowadays, most carriers provide customers with estimated arrival dates (ETA) during the checkout process so that the customers have clearer expectations and feel secure about their consignment.
Below are some standard shipping delivery times for 3 common carriers based in the US:
- Standard shipping time for UPS Ground: Typically delivers in 1–5 business days, depending on the distance.
- Standard shipping time for FedEx Ground: Offers delivery in 1–5 business days for commercial addresses.
- Standard shipping delivery time for USPS Ground Advantage: Typically takes 2–5 business days within the US.
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Standard shipping cost
Shipping cost is an essential factor affecting your total cost within the procurement process. Business owners and customers should understand standard shipping costs comprehensively to make reasonable decisions about shipping needs.
Understanding standard shipping costs: Factors to consider include these below; each plays an important role in leading to the final price:
- Package weight and dimensions: It’s easy to understand. If you need to deliver a heavier and larger package compared to others smaller, you’re inevitably charged a higher shipping cost. This cost is paid for additional handling and space your package requires.
- Shipping distance: The farther the final destination you would like your package delivered, the higher the shipping cost you have to pay. The cost is even higher if you must provide a consignment internationally because of increased logistical complexity.
- Carrier: Each carrier will have different pricing models based on delivery speed, service quality, and shipping networks. To save money, carefully research the most effective option that meets your shipping needs. Besides, businesses can negotiate bulk shipping rates with carriers so that you may have a firm beneficial shipping expense for a certain period.
Standard shipping vs. Expedited shipping
Standard vs. Expedited shipping: Which is right for you? The comparison below will give you the answer. Based on your needs and your preference, you can choose any of these two options:
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Criteria
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Standard shipping
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Expedited shipping
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Delivery time
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3 -7 business days
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1 – 3 business days
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Cost
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Cheaper
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More expensive
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Service level
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Include basic features, such as handling and informing estimated arrival date without any assurance
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Enhanced features: Detailed tracking, specialized handling
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General comparison of standard shipping vs expedited shipping
Standard shipping vs Expedited shipping brings lots of key differences revolving around 3 aspects: Delivery time, cost, and service level:
- Delivery time: If you choose the standard shipping option, your gadget may reach the final destination within typically 3 – 7 business days. In contrast, if you have urgent needs and prefer an expedited shipping option, it only requires 1 – 3 business days to handle your consignment.
- Cost: Because of faster processing and prioritization compared to standard basic shipping options, expedited shipping will charge you more.
- Service level: To help customers with urgent needs feel more secure, expedited shipping options nowadays provide additional features, such as detailed tracking, specialized handling, assured delivery time, comprehensive insurance, etc. These complementary services inevitably lead to higher final costs.
- When to choose each: From these 3 analyzed factors above, if you consider your need non-urgent and prefer saving cost maximally, the standard shipping option best suits you. On the other hand, if you’re in urgent need and would like your consignment handled as soon as possible, expedited shipping is the ideal option that can cater to you.
Standard international shipping
If you need shipping internationally? A guide to standard shipping options below is essential for you, explaining this method’s definition, delivery times, and carriers:
Standard international shipping is similar to domestic shipping. They’re just different regarding the final destination, foreign countries vs domestic areas. In detail, standard international delivery is the most cost-saving option for sending packages to other countries, balancing 2 aspects: affordability with reliability. If you’re not in urgent need, this method is ideal for you, providing a reasonable alternative to more expensive expedited services.
- Delivery times: Depending on the final destination, the delivery process may be completed within several weeks. Because of its standard characteristics, you should know that the handling time is not limited to any tight deadlines, and you cannot do anything other than wait for the consignment to be shipped.
- Carriers: If you want to deliver gadgets internationally, you can try shipping services of USPS, DHL standard shipping services, and FedEx international economy shipping. These 3 providers offer reliable standard shipping options. Hence, they may meet your requirements.
Advantages and disadvantages of standard shipping
Standard shipping is a common choice for many because of its balance of 2 factors: affordability and accessibility. However, like any shipping option, this method has its own set of advantages and disadvantages you should consider before choosing:
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Criteria
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Advantages of standard shipping
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Disadvantages of standard shipping
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Cost
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The most affordable shipping option
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Some offer cheap prices but are non-reliable services
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Availability
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Most carriers offer standard services
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Require longer delivery times compared to expedited options
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Service level
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Include basic handling services
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Limited tracking features with less detailed information
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General comparison pros and cons of standard shipping method
- Advantages:
- Cost-effective: Standard shipping is always the most affordable and reasonable option. Therefore, it’s recommended for cost-sensitive consumers. If you’re not in a hurry and you would like to save additional costs maximally, choosing the standard option is an ideal thing.
- Wide availability: The standard shipping method is offered by most carriers. Normally, it’s presented to customers at the top above other advanced options. This standard delivery package provides a reliable and accessible choice that suits almost all shipping needs.
- Disadvantages:
- Slower delivery: Standard shipping packages provide customers with standard services, leading to longer delivery times. Therefore, this option is completely unsuitable if you’re in an urgent need.
- Limited tracking: The standard option provides no more than basic features. Hence, the tracking system won’t allow you to check things thoroughly. Compared to more premium shipping methods, this normal option offers you fewer additional features.
Understanding standard shipping policies of major carriers
Every carrier has its standard shipping policies. You’d better understand these policies to meet your delivery needs and ship your consignment to the final destination on time. Suppose that’s your first time doing business, and you would like to investigate things related to logistics. In that case, you can compare standard shipping options from major carriers to have a general visualization.
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Criteria
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UPS standard shipping
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FedEx standard shipping
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USPS standard shipping
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Service name
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UPS Ground
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FedEx Ground
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Delivery time
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About 1 – 5 business days within the contiguous U.S
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About 2 – 8 business days within the U.S
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Coverage
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Across the contiguous U.S., Alaska, and Hawaii
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Internationally with nationwide service, including Alaska and Hawaii
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Cover all around U.S. states, including both territories and military addresses
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Features
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|
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Pricing
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Based on the package weight, its dimensions, and your desired destination zone
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Based on the package size, its weight, and the final destination
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Based on the package weight, its dimensions, and your desired destination zone
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General comparison of shipping policies 3 major carriers
Each ground carrier offers unique features, delivery timelines, and pricing structure, making it important to compare its services before choosing the final one. Understanding the standard shipping policies from these 3 major carriers below can help you choose the best option for your needs.
UPS standard shipping
- Service name: UPS Ground
- Delivery time: The typical delivery timeframe for UPS Ground is about 1 – 5 business days within the contiguous US.
- Coverage: This standard shipping package is available across the contiguous US, Alaska, and Hawaii.
- Features: UPS Ground provides additional features like tracking, delivery confirmation, and optional insurance.
- Pricing: UPS Ground charges your shipping cost based on the package weight, its dimensions, and your registered destination zone.
FedEx standard shipping
- Service name: FedEx Ground
- Delivery time: FedEx Ground generally handles the shipping process within 1 – 5 business days, depending on the shipping distance. It may take longer if you choose the international standard shipping package.
- Coverage: FedEx Ground can ship your gadgets internationally with nationwide service, including Alaska and Hawaii.
- Features: FedEx Ground provides customers comprehensive features, including general tracking, delivery notifications, and flexible delivery options.
- Pricing: FedEx Ground calculates the shipping cost based on the package size, weight, and the final destination you would like your consignment delivered.
USPS standard shipping
- Service name: USPS Retail Ground and USPS Ground Advantage
- Delivery time: USPS typically finalizes the shipping process between 2 – 8 business days within the US.
- Coverage: USPS ground services serve all US states, including territories and military addresses.
- Features: USPS ground services offer customers features like tracking, flat-rate options, and delivery to PO boxes. You can monitor the package’s journey, ensuring transparency and peace of mind. You can also predict the shipping cost regardless of exact weight or distance. This feature is kind of helpful for heavy or distant shipments. Additionally, USPS provides delivery packages to post office boxes suitable in rural areas, where physical address is unavailable.
- Pricing: USPS ground services generally offer the most saving cost, with rates based on weight and distance.
Conclusion
Via this article, you may now understand what is standard shipping. It is a cost-saving and commonly available option for sending packages. It offers reliable and accessible delivery within 3 – 7 business days for domestic shipping and several weeks for international shipping. Because of its longer delivery time and less detailed tracking features, standard shipping may not be ideal for you if you have an urgent need.
Before choosing any shipping method, you should consider your demand, carefully considering the cost, speed, and additional features such as tracking, insurance, etc. In general, standard delivery is ideal for non-urgent needs. However, expedited, premium one is better for time-sensitive shipments.
Remember this rule related to Ship Smart: Choose the best shipping option for your needs!
FAQs about standard shipping
What is standard shipping?
Standard shipping is a cost-saving and commonly available option for sending packages.
How long does standard shipping take?
If you would like to ship your gadget within your country, it normally takes 3 – 7 days and more than 1 week if you buy a shipping package to other countries.
How much does standard shipping cost?
In general, standard shipping cost is not as expensive as expected. Different carriers’ pricing structure is typically based on package size, distance, and additional services.
What is the difference between standard shipping and economy shipping?
These 2 shipping methods differ from each other by these factors:
- Delivery time: The former normally requires 3 – 7 business days, while the latter is longer, around 5 – 10 business days.
- Cost: The standard shipping cost is slightly higher than others.
- Use case: Customers who want to use a reliable shipping service may choose the standard option, while people who’re not in a rush and need to save on logistics costs may prefer the other.
