Magazine

Shipping

August 1, 1998

ederal workers absolutely, positively have to have it overnight quite often, it seems. In fiscal 1997, they sent 17.9 million small packages via overnight and second-day services. Good thing GSA's contract with Federal Express, now in its second year, locks in rates 44 percent lower than comparable corporate rates.

This year, FedEx also introduced Sunday delivery, second-day delivery and overnight delivery by 10:30 a.m. to the federal contract.

Other category leaders include Roadway (which specializes in trucking), DHL (which leads in international shipping), UPS and Airborne Express.

All of them are automating their systems. It's now common for users to set up an account, request a pickup, calculate and compare rates, locate drop-off centers, track and trace packages, and more, via the Internet. Digital imaging captures proof of delivery. Users prepare packages and documentation, and notify recipients that a package is on the way, using software the shippers provide.

UPS and Roadway also have automated voice response lines. You can call UPS, say your package tracking number, and the system will give you the delivery status in less than two seconds.

UPS launched an electronic commerce site in late May that allows document transmission via the Internet. You can pick the security level you need. The system allows you to send documents to anyone, regardless of e-mail software, operating systems or hardware. Also this year, UPS introduced the first guaranteed ground service and a reusable envelope.

The U.S. Postal Service is chasing UPS, FedEx and the others, but it won't catch up anytime soon. Just last year, it introduced handheld scanners to enable tracking, tracing and delivery confirmation. It also got on board with tracking hardware, software and bar-code stickers.

The Postal Service also is testing what it calls a global electronic courier service, PostECS, that will ensure the security of legal and other official documents sent via the Internet. It will allow you to encrypt documents, password-protect communications, and track and trace shipments. Other capabilities in the works include public key cryptography, digital signature and proof of delivery and receipt.

Contacts

FedEx
(800) GO-FEDEX (463-3339)

Roadway
(800) 257-2837

DHL
(800) CALL-DHL (225-5345)

UPS
(800) PICK-UPS (742-5877)

U.S. Postal Service

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