5 Alternatives to uShip [Pros & Cons]

Transporting a pet, a piece of large and bulky furniture, or simply moving house usually requires hiring a shipping or moving company. A quick Google search shows that there is an incredible variety of businesses that help you move things, from motorcycle transporters to boat shipping companies!

The shipping industry is so big in the US that it is worth $167.7 billion in 2023 and there are around 455,000 courier services throughout the country. One high-ranking search result is uShip — a popular shipping platform in the USA. Taking a few minutes to review your choices is important when you’re moving valuable items; read through some of the alternatives to uShip to make an informed decision.

1. CitizenShipper

Pros: CitizenShipper is an online peer-to-peer shipping marketplace. Like classified ads, it gives you more flexibility and value than companies like UPS and FedEx, but with a better safety net.

Benefits of CitizenShipper include:

• A booking assurance guarantee — this policy provides refund protection, a driver replacement guarantee, and customer support.
• Transporters you can trust — all transporters on CitizenShipper undergo a stringent background check.
• Direct contact with drivers — using an internal messaging system similar to Google Chat or WhatsApp, you’ll be able to contact the transporter throughout the trip.
• Top-rated marketplace — CitizenShipper is the highest five-star rated transportation marketplace on Trustpilot.

Using CitizenShipper is easy. First, post your shipping details on the website. Next, professional drivers will contact you with bids — many posts receive bids within minutes. After looking through the bids and checking the reviews on each driver’s profile, you make your selection.

You can use the messaging system to discuss details of the shipment and feel confident in the transporter you choose. Because of CitizenShipper’s unique reverse bidding system, you can save a significant amount of money compared to traditional shipment companies like UPS.

Cons: While CitizenShipper has drivers all over the U.S. and some drivers in Canada, the provider doesn’t cover a broader range of international transport.

2. FedEx

Pros: For decades, FedEx has been a brand synonymous with shipping. A considerable advantage of FedEx is they can arrange for your package to be delivered anywhere in the world. This is an excellent option if you’re sending Christmas gifts to relatives overseas.

Cons: One downside to FedEx is that they don’t always offer door-to-door service, especially if the recipient misses the delivery. Depending on your location, you may need to take your package to a FedEx depot or drop-off point.

3. UPS

Pros: UPS is one of the leading worldwide shipping companies for packages and specialized logistical and transportation services. Like FedEx, it’s a good choice for international shipping needs. Another significant advantage of UPS is its well-functioning tracking number system. The tracking number ensures that you always know where your package is and when it arrives.

Cons: While UPS has a great reputation, they also have a long list of items they refuse to ship. This can be a problem if you are trying to send something fragile, extremely valuable, made with animal products (like snakeskin or mother of pearl inlay) or demands special care.

4. Using General Classified Ads

Pros: Various online marketplaces, such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, offer an alternative to professional shipping companies. The biggest advantage of using open marketplaces is that they’re usually cheaper than professional shipping alternatives. Hiring an independent transporter through a classified ad also provides more flexibility for special care objects and other individual needs.

Cons: The downside of this option is that you have no security if something goes wrong. Additionally, you’ll be working with non-professional drivers who might have less knowledge and experience in taking care of your shipment.

5. Renting a U-Haul and Doing it Yourself

If none of these options will fit your budget or comfort level, you can always take the do it yourself approach! Most people transporting bulky items long distance use U-Haul, but there are other alternatives.

Pros: When you take the DIY approach, your shipping is under your control, and you can give your shipping the care it needs.

Cons: Organizing your U-Haul takes more work, energy, and definitely more time, which can be overwhelming in tight time schedules. You also take on a lot of risk moving your precious items. Depending on the value of the items, you may want to take out extra insurance in case something goes wrong.

Summary of the uShip Alternatives

We have compiled a comprehensive comparison table to help you make an informed decision when choosing the perfect shipping service. In our “Top 5 uShip Alternatives” table, we showcase the key features, pros, and cons of each alternative, emphasizing CitizenShipper as the premier choice among them. Discover why CitizenShipper outshines its competitors and offers unparalleled flexibility and trustworthiness in the shipping industry.

Conclusion

While uShip is a popular choice for people moving items long distances, there are many alternatives that can save you money or feel more personal. Shipping an oversized item or a pet isn’t an everyday occurrence, so be sure to research your options to find the best fit.

Doing it yourself is the most time-consuming but cost-effective approach. CitizenShipper offers a similar model to uShip with a more personal touch, while FedEx and UPS offer the professional reliability that goes along with a big corporation.

In the end, everyone will have a different set of needs to be met, and of all the options, CitizenShipper has the flexibility to meet most people’s requirements. Post a listing today and see how much you can save by using CitizenShipper!

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