Whether you are looking for a Houston Courier Service or a courier service anywhere throughout the US, the best way to begin is to know what you need to end up with. There are several areas that you need to consider and I have listed 5 of the most important ones below.
Customization
Courier services are skilled in delivering everything from legal documents to vital organs, so finding one that will fit your specific needs should not be too hard. Make sure the courier service that you are considering can customize a delivery solution that fits your needs. Each client is different and a courier service worth their salt can understand the big picture and create a plan that grows with you.
Reliability
This is a big one. Imagine working all night on a project only to have it delivered to your client late because the courier service did not show up on time. This happens all of the time with inexperienced courier companies. Before you trust them with your important packages, get references, ask for their on-time delivery percentages and find out how long they have been in business. These are all a good indicator of reliability. Now, don’t get me wrong – sometimes things happen that can’t be controlled (traffic back-ups, accidents, weather, etc…), but on-time delivery percentages should be over 90% or you need to keep looking.
Accessibility
You need people to answer the phone and give you up to date information on your packages. That might sound like a simple request but you would be surprised how many of the Houston courier service companies simply don’t staff that area of their business. I guess they hope that you will place your order and never need any help. Be sure that your courier service of choice has a large staff, normal operating hours and online tracking for package status. These are a must and any good courier service will have it.
Technology
This area can save you and your company many headaches when used properly. Make sure that you can place and track your courier orders online. In fact, this is one of the largest priorities at Hot Shot Delivery. We are constantly working with our technology partners to ensure we offer our Houston courier customers the latest in delivery technology. We have a one-click ordering feature on our website that will let you submit delivery orders in seconds, print delivery tickets & labels on the fly, track courier orders in real time and run various cost reports specific to your preference for any date range.
Security
It’s important to know that the company you trust with your important packages is doing its job when it comes to security. Background checks on drivers and personnel that represent their company should always be a requirement. Also, make sure your potential courier service operates with licenses, are compliant with occupational safety & health guidelines and have current insurance.
Notice we didn’t talk about cost. Because we all know that you get what you pay for. Be sure to pick a courier service based on benefits and then weigh the cost after you have narrowed down your options.
Most of the time, the great providers who you can rely on are not much more than the shady providers with no technology or real experience. So, do your homework.
Are there some other areas that are important to you? I’d love to learn more about what is important to courier service customers.
Until Next Time,
Eric Donaldson
