The US State of Alaska is one such remote territory where the scope of expanding an e-retail business exists. Most e-retailers do not think of entering the Alaskan market because it is sparsely populated. However, Alaska is a state of the USA, and its population likes to buy from e-retail businesses just like other people of mainland USA. However, shipping products to Alaska can be a tricky subject for business owners. This is especially true about finding the cheapest way to ship to Alaska.
Shipping to Alaska requires some special considerations. Being such a remote state, logistics can get complicated. Here are a few key things to keep in mind when sending packages to Alaska.
Due to the remoteness and difficulty reaching certain areas, extra shipping fees, known as surcharges, are common when sending items to Alaska. Always research expected costs beforehand.
Alaska has specific rules around shipping certain items like alcohol, batteries, and self-balancing devices. They also restrict bringing in non-native plants and animals to protect local ecosystems.
Major carriers like USPS, UPS, and FedEx all ship to Alaska but have different regulations, timelines and costs. USPS tends to be cheaper but has weight limits while UPS handles heavy packages. FedEx is fastest for urgent deliveries. Choose the right one for your specific needs.
If possible, try to bundle multiple orders heading to the same area before shipping them out. This saves on costs and reduces surcharges.
Account for extra transit time when telling customers how long deliveries will take. Shipments to remote areas can easily take weeks longer than other destinations.
With some planning and preparation, shipping orders successfully to your Alaskan customers is very achievable.
Next Article: Cheapest Ways Of Shipping To Hawaii
You'll often face surcharges and extra costs to ship to remote regions of Alaska. Factor these fees into your budget.
Yes, Alaska has regulations prohibiting shipping alcohol, batteries, invasive species, etc. Check restrictions before sending prohibited goods.
USPS has cheap rates but weight limits. UPS handles heavy packages. FedEx is fastest for urgent shipments. Pick the carrier that aligns with your needs.
Consolidate orders together before shipping. Compare carrier rates. Pass some costs onto the consumer through transparency.
The remoteness of certain regions means it takes much more time to transport items the last few miles. Two day service likely won't apply.
Carriers have different size and weight restrictions. USPS only handles small, under 70 lb packages. UPS ships up to 150 lbs. Check each carrier's specifics.
Yes, be upfront with customers that shipments to remote Alaskan regions can take weeks longer than other destinations in the continental US.