First, know the market. There are tons of shipping and mailing services out there, so do your research and find the one that best fits your needs. For example, certain companies might be cheaper when it comes to sending heavier packaging. To avoid racking up fees, make sure that you compare costs. Additionally, it's good to remember that you don't have to stay loyal to just one shipping provider. Costs vary a lot between companies depending on what you're shipping, so treat each shipping transaction on a case-by-case basis and you'll find yourself saving more money that way than if you simply stick to one provider. You can also always negotiate with shipping companies in order to get the best deal and use the competitor's prices to leverage the best deal for you.

Next,take a good look at your shipping supplies. There are many ways to save money on shipping by swapping out certain supplies for others. For example, instead of purchasing packing peanuts, use something that you already have on hand to cushion the inside of your package, such as newspaper. Check out flat rate boxes as well, and make sure that you're reusing your packing supplies such as boxes, packing peanuts, and bubble wrap multiple times. Investing in a label printer can also save you on costs in the long run by allowing you to print your labels at home, in addition to shipping your packages much faster. Purchasing a scale can also be beneficial so that you know exactly how much each of your packages weighs. Finally, make sure you know your boxes. Some are large and more expensive, which you don't always need depending on what you are shipping.

Here are some general tips to keep in mind as well. You can send your packages on a freight truck rather than utilizing a common shipping supplier, although you should probably save that for very large orders. Shipping through first class rather than priority can also save you a chunk of change, and really won't make a difference time wise in the long run. Also, look into shipping by cubic weight, as you may be able to get a discount after consulting with your local post office. Several websites also offer volume discounts, so be sure to peruse the web for those as well. Overall, just be smart when you put your package together. Pack items efficiently and put as many items together as possible. This way, you won't have to send several packages when you really only need to send one.

It's easy to save on shipping when you're well informed, so continue to do research and learn. Soon, you'll have reduced priced shipping down to a science!