Setting Up SurePost with UPS WorldShip for Bluestem Orders
For e-commerce businesses managing a high volume of shipments, integrating SurePost with UPS WorldShip offers a cost-effective and efficient shipping solution. This integration not only reduces shipping costs but also enhances the overall customer experience by streamlining the delivery process.
Understanding SurePost and UPS WorldShip
What is SurePost?
SurePost is a service by UPS that leverages the United States Postal Service (USPS) for the final mile delivery of small to medium-sized packages. This partnership allows businesses to benefit from UPS's robust logistics network while utilizing USPS's extensive residential delivery capabilities.
What is UPS WorldShip?
UPS WorldShip is a comprehensive shipping software designed for businesses of all sizes. It enables users to create shipping labels, track packages, and manage shipping histories efficiently. By automating shipping processes, WorldShip helps businesses save time and reduce errors.
According to UPS, businesses can achieve up to a 25% reduction in shipping costs by using SurePost compared to standard UPS Ground services.1
Benefits of Using SurePost for Bluestem Orders
Cost Savings
SurePost offers a lower shipping rate than standard UPS Ground services, making it a financially advantageous option for shipping small to medium-sized packages. This cost efficiency is particularly beneficial for businesses with tight margins.
Enhanced Delivery Flexibility
With SurePost, packages are delivered to residential addresses, providing greater flexibility for customers who may not be available during typical business hours. This ensures higher delivery success rates and improved customer satisfaction.
Improved Shipping Efficiency
The integration of SurePost with UPS WorldShip allows for automated label creation, tracking, and shipment management. Features such as automated shipping rules based on package weight or destination streamline the shipping process, reducing manual intervention and potential errors.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up SurePost with UPS WorldShip
1. Accessing UPS WorldShip
Begin by creating an account with UPS and downloading the UPS WorldShip software. Install the software on your computer to start configuring your shipping preferences.
2. Configuring SurePost in WorldShip
- Navigate to the Setup menu in UPS WorldShip and select UPS Services.
- Click Add and choose SurePost under the Package tab.
- Enter your Bluestem account number in the Billing tab.
- Set the correct dimensions and weight for your typical packages in the Package tab.
- Configure shipping options, such as delivery times and tracking numbers, under the Options tab.
- Save your settings to begin processing Bluestem orders through SurePost.
3. Configuring Your Bluestem Account
Log in to your Bluestem account and navigate to Account Settings. Under the Shipping tab, select UPS as your default carrier. Enter your SurePost shipping preferences, ensuring packages do not exceed 10 pounds or 130 inches in combined length and girth.
Creating and Managing Shipping Labels
Generating Labels with WorldShip
To create shipping labels, select the desired order in WorldShip and click Ship. Choose SurePost as your shipping option and print the label. WorldShip also allows you to schedule package pickups and track shipments in real-time.
Tracking Shipments
Using UPS WorldShip, you can monitor the status of your SurePost shipments through detailed tracking information. This includes real-time updates and notifications via email or text, ensuring you and your customers stay informed about delivery statuses.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Address Information Errors
Ensure that all customer addresses are entered correctly in both WorldShip and your Bluestem account to avoid delivery delays or misroutes. Inaccurate address information is a common cause of shipping issues.
Package Weight and Dimensions
Verify that the weight and dimensions of your packages match the information entered in WorldShip. Discrepancies can lead to incorrect shipping rates and potential additional fees.
Technical Support
If you encounter persistent issues, contact UPS Customer Service for assistance. They can provide guidance on troubleshooting and optimizing your SurePost setup.
Optimizing Your Shipping Process
Utilize Batch Shipping
Leverage the Batch Shipping feature in WorldShip to process multiple orders simultaneously. This significantly reduces the time spent on individual shipments.
Automate Shipping Preferences
Pre-configure your shipping options and preferences to streamline the shipping process. Automation minimizes manual input and speeds up order fulfillment.
Invest in Quality Equipment
Using a reliable label printer can enhance the efficiency of your shipping operations by ensuring clear and accurate label printing.
Regularly Review Shipping Data
Analyze your shipping data to identify trends, cost-saving opportunities, and areas for improvement. Regular reviews can lead to more informed decision-making and operational enhancements.
Additional Resources
By implementing SurePost with UPS WorldShip for your Bluestem orders, you can achieve a more efficient and cost-effective shipping process. This integration not only enhances operational efficiency but also improves the overall customer experience, leading to increased satisfaction and loyalty.
