Guide to Messenger Services

Schedule rush and same-day deliveries without going broke

By Frances Sharpe, freelance writer/editor

1. Scheduled service (items are picked up and delivered on a daily or weekly basis).
2. Routed service (items are picked up and delivered to various locations).
3. On-demand service (items are picked up as needed).

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find a service

Messenger services are located nationwide and are highly concentrated in major metropolitan areas.

I recommend: To find a messenger service in your area, click on your state at MCAA.com (Messenger Courier Association of the Americas) or at 4SameDaySolutions.com.

Try FedEx or DHL same-day service

These shipping specialists also offer same-day, door-to-door delivery.

I recommend: Schedule a pickup at FedEx or get more info on DHL Same Day Service, which also delivers internationally.

Choose delivery times

Most messenger services offer a variety of delivery options. However, delivery options and terms aren't standardized within the industry. Depending on the firm, a 'rush' delivery could arrive within one hour, three hours or more. Always ask for a specific guaranteed delivery time to ensure your package arrives in time.

I recommend: View a common array of delivery options by clicking on 'service level' at City Express Courier Service, which provides service in all major metropolitan areas.

Verify charges

Messenger services employ a variety of pricing methods, all of which can be budget busters. Charges usually vary depending on how quickly a package needs to be delivered and the distance from the pick-up point to the destination. Flat fees are common, as are base fees plus mileage for long-distance deliveries. Additional fees may be required for rush jobs that arrive within a matter of hours.

I recommend: City Express Courier Service offers a Quick Quote request form on its home page. Download rates using FedEx Rate Tools. Click on your home city to calculate mileage to your package's destination and get estimated costs at Today Rush.

Place orders online

Most major messenger services and even some smaller local companies provide online order processing and shipment tracking.

I recommend: A1Express and Today Rush, both nationwide messenger services, offer online ordering and tracking. If you sign up for a free account, you can order online with FedEx.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Develop a relationship. Once you find a reliable messenger service, strengthen your relationship. It may help you in negotiations for volume discounts or faster delivery times.
• •  Include delivery instructions. Always provide clear delivery notes, such as 'leave at reception desk.'
• •  Consider insurance needs. If your items require insurance, ask if the messenger service provides it. Not all do.
• •  Don't overpay. Don't pay for two-hour delivery if your package doesn't need to arrive until the end of the day.