If you own a business that has to ship products all over the country and abroad, getting to know the ins and outs of the shipping process is in your best interest.
It might be the last stage of your workflow, but there’s still a lot that can go wrong after your products have been shipped – 88% of companies have experienced delays. There’s a symbiotic relationship between a small business and the shipping companies it uses. If they fail, you fail, and vice versa.
Quality shipping starts with choosing the right type of service – certified vs registered mail. Knowing which one is best for you and your customers starts with understanding their similarities and differences. Keep reading, and we’ll make sure you have all of the important info to make the right shipping call.
What Is Certified Mail?
The certified vs registered mail debate started in 1955 when Americans were given the chance to send first-class deliveries with proof of receipt using certified mail. It might not sound like much today, but at the time, it made sending mail and parcels through the post much more reliable.
Also, known as priority mail, certified mail is sent with a 20-digit tracking number for record keeping. You can order certified mail envelopes here that let the carrier know the type of service you want. It’s sent out with regular mail and, as a result, is cheaper than other types of tracked shipments.
The sender can find out when the package is delivered by inputting the tracking number into the USPS track and confirm website. You can pay extra to have a return receipt and insurance if it’s needed. Many businesses all over the country use certified mail.
What Is Registered Mail?
When looking at registered mail vs certified mail, registered mail is the successor to certified mail. It provides a more detailed record of where the package is as it arrives and departs from each point along its journey.
There are barcode labels stuck to the package that the USPS employees scan as it arrives and when it leaves a place, and eventually when it arrives at its final destination. The sender and receiver are both given this tracking number, allowing them access to this information as well.
Another feature of registered vs certified mail is the ability to pay for extra security. You can opt for locked cages, locked safes, sealed containers, and insurance of up to $25,000.
Certified Vs Registered Mail: Which Is Best?
When discussing certified vs registered mail, it’s a matter of security. If you want to know exactly where your package is along its 2-3 week journey, choosing registered mail is probably the better choice. If you want cheaper shipping that is still relatively secure and notifies you when shipping is complete, certified should do.
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