What Is Expedited Shipping?

Posted On 3rd April 2019

There are a lot of different ways to send a parcel, and a common question we receive is “What is expedited shipping?” This is essential information for businesses that do a lot of shipping.

We've put together some essential information to help you learn everything you need to know about expedited delivery.

Expedited Shipping Meaning and Definition

What is an Expedited Shipping

So, just what is expedited shipping’s definition? Simply put, express delivery is when a package is delivered faster than normal. What’s considered expedited really depends on the company's practices.

Expedited shipping options vary widely between carriers. Some offer “express” or “priority” shipping options that are faster than their standard options. Others will let you pay extra for one-day, two-day, and three-day arrival times.

What Is Expedited Freight?

Expedited freight is a type of shipping that involves using faster methods to transport goods. This can include using a faster mode of transportation, such as an airplane instead of a boat, or it can involve shipping the goods directly to the customer instead of going through a retailer first.

Expedited freight can also involve special handling procedures to ensure that the goods arrive on time and in good condition.

The main advantage of expedited freight is that it can help to reduce shipping costs. By using a faster method of transportation, businesses can avoid paying for storage fees and other charges associated with traditional shipping methods. In addition, expedited freight can help to shorten the delivery time for goods, which can be beneficial for businesses that need to get their products to market quickly.

Expedited freight can be arranged through a number of different methods, including airfreight, truckload, and less than truckload (LTL) carriers.

When choosing an expedited shipping method, it is important to consider the specific needs of your shipment. Airfreight is typically the fastest shipping method, but it is also the most expensive. Truckload shipping is a good option for larger shipments, while LTL freight shipping services are a good choice for smaller shipments.

Expedited freight services can be customized to meet the specific needs of your shipment. For example, some carriers offer guaranteed delivery times, while others offer tracking and tracing services. When choosing an expedited shipping service, be sure to ask about the specific features and services that are available.

What Does Expedited Parcel Mean?

Expedited parcel is a shipping service that delivers parcels faster than regular mail. The service is available in many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Expedited parcel services typically offer delivery within two to three days.

There are several benefits of using an expedited parcel service. First, your parcel will arrive faster than if it were shipped via regular mail. This can be important if you need to receive your shipment quickly. Second, expedited parcel services often provide tracking information so you can see where your parcel is at all times. This can give you peace of mind knowing that your shipment is on its way and will arrive safely. Finally, many expedited parcel services offer insurance in case your shipment is lost or damaged in transit.

If you need to ship a parcel quickly, consider using an expedited parcel service. This type of shipping is fast, reliable, and offers tracking and insurance for your shipment.

Expedited vs. Standard Shipping

Basically, express delivery is a means of shipping a package that's faster than the usual shipping options. If it would usually take four days to receive a parcel through standard freight shipping services, anything less than that would be considered expedited.

In order to deliver packages faster, trucks will drive directly to the destination, using more than one driver to ensure there are no delays and to get the parcel there as soon as possible.

How Long Does Expedited Shipping Take

Another common question is “How fast is expedited delivery?” The amount of time it takes mostly depends on how far you’re sending the item.

Some large freight shipping companies offer same-day or overnight delivery services. However, this isn't possible if the package is being sent across multiple states or across the country. In this case, it could take longer.

So, how many days is expedited shipping? Usually, it's anywhere from one day to three days.

How Much is Expedited Shipping

People are always interested in how much expedited shipping costs. There are obvious benefits, but sometimes the cost doesn't make it worth it. Prices can vary, depending on the carrier you're using, where you're sending it to, and what the item is that you're sending.

However, here's an example that should give you an idea about expedited shipping costs. If you use a standard carrier, like UPS or FedEx, and send a 5 lbs package from California to New York, shipping will generally cost around $20.

When it comes to expedited options, three-day shipping will cost about $50, two-day shipping will cost $60, and one-day shipping will cost $110.

As you can see, expedited shipping means a sizable increase in costs depending on how fast you want your package to arrive. So, if you plan on selecting expedited delivery make sure it’s absolutely necessary, as standard shipping can be a lot cheaper.

Why Expedited Shipping Services Can Be Useful

So, you know how many days expedited delivery is and how much it costs. You’re now probably wondering why you should use it, given the price difference.

The definition of express delivery is to send something fast, so obviously the main reason you’d use this service is for time-sensitive items. If you or the person you’re sending the package to needs it as soon as possible then express delivery likely going to be necessary to make that happen.

However, there are a few other reasons why you might decide to use it.

Expedited delivery generally means less handling. Packages are loaded into one truck which drives non-stop to the destination. This means there’s a reduced chance that the package will be damaged.

If you’re having issues with a shipping diversion, express shippers can often help by taking your package the rest of the way to ensure you don't miss any deadlines. Finally, express delivery can be an excellent choice during natural disasters, since this can often delay standard shipping.

Useful Tips for Expedited Delivery

Now that you know what expedited shipping means, here are a few tips to help you use it correctly and cut costs:

Compare Expedited Delivery Options: Shipping companies will offer a number of different express shipping options. Make sure to choose the one that best fits your budget and timeline.
Compare Express Delivery Carriers: There are plenty of different carriers to choose from. Check reviews, get more than one quote, and make sure to make an informed decision.
Only Select Expedited Shipping if it Makes Sense: Getting packages quickly is great, but expedited delivery can be pricey. If it’s not absolutely necessary that you get your package right away, it might be better to use standard shipping.