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Angie's LIST Guide to
Errand and delivery services

Busy folks can save time and money by outsourcing a variety of business-related tasks, relying on individuals and small companies to provide mailing, delivery, errand-running, buying and other services.
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Outsourcing services, such as mailing and delivery, can save small business owners time and money. Errand services can also help busy homeowners check off their to-do lists a little quicker. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member Mattie M.)
Outsourcing services, such as mailing and delivery, can save small business owners time and money. Errand services can also help busy homeowners check off their to-do lists a little quicker. (Photo courtesy of Angie’s List member Mattie M.)
 
 
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What a mailing service does

A mail service specializes in preparing, addressing and sending large quantities of mail. A good mailing service can help your business run more efficiently. When choosing a mailing service, find out if the company not only specializes in sending direct marketing mailers, but can also handle customer billings and general sorting of incoming mail.

Mailing service costs vary depending on where you live and the scope of services. Many mailing companies offer a package of services, such as printing, folding, addressing and mailing direct-marketing pieces, and will charge according to volume and level of automation. For example, it costs about $1,800 to have 5,000 postcards printed, sorted, addressed and mailed, while the price for a single letter to be printed, addressed and mailed can average about $8.

What courier and delivery services do

One of the easiest ways for an individual or business to save time is to hire a local courier company to handle deliveries. A professional courier service will come to your business or home, pick up items and deliver them.

Courier companies offer tracking information so you can monitor the delivery. Depending on where you live, a courier service may use cars, vans, bicycles or motorcycles. In a large city, a bike rider may be able to deliver a package more quickly than someone driving a motor vehicle.

Tips for what to consider when hiring a courier service:

Professionalism: One of the first things to look for in courier services is professionalism, so be alert to how the service handles your first telephone conversation. They should be polite, eager to help and immediately responsive to questions about cost and delivery times. Ask if couriers were uniforms, as that may present a more professional appearances to your customers.

Experience: Ask how long the service has been in business, being more careful about hiring those who've operated less than three years.

References: Ask for references and call them, asking if packages were delivered on time and without damage.

Price: Courier costs will vary, depending on where you live and what's being delivered and how far. The average cost is usually determined by distance and in some cases you may have to pay extra fees, such as fuel charges.  Beware of a service that charges rates that are significantly lower than competitors.

Errand runners and personal assistants

Another way to make the most of your time is to hire an errand runner or personal assistant. Good personal assistants know that their job is to make life easier for their employer. An errand runner or personal assistant may perform any number of tasks, including light housekeeping, delivering packages, making reservations or walking a dog.

There are other kinds of personal assistants who can help you, including:

Personal concierge: A concierge can handle private communications, such as email, choosing and sending out personal invitations or communicating with family members.

Personal buyer: A buyer can take care of various shopping needs, including for clothing, groceries and even cars.

Tips for hiring a personal assistant

Consider these suggestions before hiring a personal assistant:

  • Be clear about all expected duties, especially if they include housekeeping, and note that assignments may change over time.
  • Get at least three references of former employers and call to verify the information provided. Ask about work ethic, tardiness. loyalty and trustworthiness.
  • Be aware that costs for personal assistant services vary, depending on where you live and what services you need. Average prices range from $15 to $20 an hour. Most assistants or errand runners don't charge extra for mileage if they use their cars for work.

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