We're heading into the busiest time of year for the big shipping companies, UPS, Fedex, DHL and the USPS (United States Post Office). And for a lot of us that means sending packages all over the country as well as receiving them at our homes and offices. If you are trying to get the best value for your money what should you do?

 We've got a couple of tips that should save you some time. money and worry this year.

First thing is to ship early. All the carriers are going to be slammed, lines will be long and people will be stressed. Your packages will take longer to get there than normal. Of course, everyone is staffing up, buying new trucks and anything else they can do to prepare but lets face it, this year is going to be rough.

 You can do your part by shipping as early as possible. All of the carriers, UPS, Fedex, DHL and the USPS will pick up your packages at your home or office. This is a great way to avoid all the hassles of the post office or your local office supply store's shipping counter. You'll need to buy your boxes, packing tape, peanuts and whatever else you'll need and package your own stuff. But, keep in mind that Office Depot, Office Max, Staples, Kinko's and all your local shipping stores charge a huge markup on these items and charge another markup on the shipping rates you'd be paying.

 So, you'll save on your shipping materials and on your actual shipping costs if you pick up the supplies you need and package them yourself. Don't go to crazy with your packaging, if you plan on gift wrapping do that and then pack the gift wrapped box inside a larger box with some cushioning material to protect it. Your package will arrive safely and you'll have saved some money.

 Then, use www.iship.com and punch in the starting zip code and the destination zip code. It will show you rates from all the major carriers on a simple to read calendar so you can see who's got the cheapest rate and when they will get it there. Its a great tip to get your shipping for the lowest cost and best timing.

 There's two tips that should make things a lot easier for you. Hit the comments button below to share your tips on shipping this holiday season.

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