What is parcel shipping and delivery?

Parcel shipping refers to shipping lighter, smaller boxed items. Typically, parcel means packages that weigh 100 pounds or less and can be moved without assistance. If you need to ship a few small packages at a time, parcel shipping is an economical way to ship your products.

Here’s a look at how parcel shipping works and the unique way it’s packaged, handled, transported and delivered. 

How to prepare packages.

While LTL shipments are placed on pallets or in crates, parcel items are loosely placed in trucks. For this reason, packaging is very important for parcel shipments. It’s recommended to package parcel items in new or sturdy boxes. Select a box that is large enough to fit the item you’re shipping as well as protective materials, such as bubble wrap or recycled materials. Next, you’ll need to securely tape the box with proper 2” wide packaging tape.

Once you’ve boxed your parcel, weigh and measure the box. You will need to measure the length, width and height for each individual parcel. Attach the shipping label(s) created when you book your shipment to the box(es).

How does parcel shipping work?

Since parcel packages are small, they’re picked up from the pick-up location of your choice or a drop-off location. If you would like your parcel shipment picked up at the origin address, check the pick-up option in booking. Next, they’re placed on conveyor belts and auto-sorted by machines. Once sorted, they’re loaded into trucks by individuals. Parcel carriers usually deliver directly to a location or transfer the packages a few times before final delivery.

After you’ve booked your parcel shipment online, we will handle the rest of the shipping process. Packages are usually delivered to both business and residential addresses. For the most part, package deliveries stop at the entrance of a location. If inside pick-up or delivery is required, make sure to choose those options when booking your shipment.

Benefits of parcel shipping.

Parcel shipping offers numerous benefits to small businesses. Here are four reasons you would want parcel shipping over LTL freight:

  • Perfect for shipping small individual packages
  • Speedy overnight shipments
  • Shipping from drop-off locations
  • Delivery to residential addresses

Benefits of parcel shipping with Freightquote.

Parcel shipping can be overwhelming to navigate, but with Freightquote by C.H. Robinson you’ll save time and money.

We simplify the shipping process by offering you competitive quotes. Simply pick the price you want and book your shipment online. Plus, you can easily track your shipments online from a single tool.

Here are just some of the benefits of booking through Freightquote by C.H. Robinson:

  • Instant quotes without signing up
    Simply input the specifics of your shipment, including origin and destination locations, additional services your shipment requires, and the dimensions and weight of your shipment, to view instant quotes.
  • Proactive shipment alerts throughout the shipping process
    Track your freight easily throughout the shipping process. Simply enter your tracking number and our tool will provide real-time updates on the status of your shipments. For proactive notifications, you can sign up for email or text SMS tracking updates.
  • A single tool for all your shipments needs from truckload and LTL to parcel
    Start a free quote using our online tool and instantly compare freight carrier options to meet your shipping needs.

Parcel shipping versus LTL shipping.

While parcel shipping is ideal for small packages, there are times when LTL shipping is the better choice for your shipping needs. If your package is irregularly shaped, over 100 pounds, or it needs to be shipped on a pallet, LTL shipping might be the better option for your business.  Learn more about parcel shipping versus LTL.