Shipping costs and delays can easily eat into your time, energy, and budget—whether you’re sending out side hustle orders, mailing gifts, or fulfilling small business shipments. Fortunately, a few smart adjustments to your routine can make the process smoother, faster, and more cost-effective. These top 10 shipping hacks will help you trim costs, avoid last-minute panic, and take full control of your mailing strategy.
- Buy and print shipping labels at home
Purchasing and printing labels at home through services like Pirate Ship or Stamps.com saves both time and money. You’ll often get access to commercial pricing—lower than retail rates at USPS counters—and you can drop packages off without waiting in line.
- Use free packaging from carriers
USPS, UPS, and FedEx offer free branded shipping supplies for Priority Mail and express services. You can order boxes, padded envelopes, and labels online at USPS.com, UPS.com, and FedEx.com.
- Compare flat-rate vs. weight-based shipping
Don’t assume flat rate is always cheaper. Use carrier calculators to compare flat rate boxes to standard weight-based shipping for the same zone. A lightweight package traveling nearby may cost less using your own packaging.
- Reuse packaging (correctly)
Reusing sturdy boxes and bubble wrap is sustainable and budget-friendly. Just make sure to remove all previous barcodes and labels to avoid delivery errors.
- Earn cashback on shipping supplies
Save on mailers, scales, and label printers by purchasing gift cards through a cashback app like Fluz for merchants such as Staples or Office Depot. Stack savings by using gift cards during sales or clearance events.
Want more cashback tips? Download Fluz here and earn instantly on everyday business purchases.
- Batch your shipments
Instead of making daily post office trips, group your shipments and drop them all at once. This saves time and allows you to buy materials in bulk for lower unit costs.
- Use carrier pickups when possible
Schedule free pickups from USPS or discounted ones from UPS and FedEx. This is especially helpful if you’re shipping high volumes or managing orders solo from home.
Learn more: USPS Pickup, UPS Pickup, FedEx Pickup
- Automate tracking updates for customers
If you’re running a shop, automate tracking emails through platforms like Shopify or Etsy. For side hustlers, third-party tools like Shippo make it easy to notify buyers and reduce “where’s my order?” messages.
- Save receipts and scan them with cashback apps
Even if you’re not buying supplies through Fluz, you can still use Rakuten, Ibotta, or Fetch to earn rewards by scanning physical receipts or connecting store accounts.
- Use a home scale and measuring tape
One of the most common mistakes is underestimating the size or weight of a package and paying more at the counter. A $15 digital scale and a measuring tape can help you price accurately and avoid surcharges.
