How to Figure Out Shipping Costs

Shipping costs can be calculated online.

Small businesses use package delivery services such as UPS, the United States Post Office or FedEx to ship customers' purchases made through the business' website. Businesses typically offer products of different sizes, so shipping weights vary. Business owners who need to determine shipping costs have a few options.

Instructions

1. Measure the dimensions of the shipping package. Write down the height, length and depth of the shipping box.

2. Package the product. Place the product inside the shipping container, along with packaging bubbles, foam or newspaper. Tape the box securely using clear shipping tape.

3. Place the package on a scale and weigh it. Remove the package and let the scale return to zero. Replace the package on the scale to ensure the weight measurement is correct. Write down the weight.

4. Go to your preferred shipping service's website. Log on to USPS, FedEx or UPS's website and navigate to the shipping calculation page. Input the dimensions of the package, its weight and destination address. Select a shipping service, such as "Standard," "Two day" or "Overnight." The website calculator will display the shipping cost.

5. Add a handling fee, if applicable, to the shipping cost. Provide your customer with the shipping and handling cost, and approximate delivery date via email.

References

• Yahoo Help: Calculating Shipping

Resources

• USPS: Calculate Postage
• FedEx: Get Rates & Transit Times
• USP: Calculate Time and Cost