In today's tough economy, you need all the discounts and rebates you can get to reduce shipping costs. The major shippers know this, which is why, to keep long-time, loyal customers happy, they commonly offer rebates. But these carrier discount rebates vary with the shipper, the volume of packages and many other factors.
Last year, UPS' Import Control Service helped many companies reduce shipping costs. The service provided up to $25 promotional credit. The rebate was valid for a $5 credit for qualifying UPS Import Control package shipped during their Rebate Purchase Period. It applied for shipping up to five packages. This carrier discount rebate appeared as a credit to the UPS Account Number that was used to purchase the shipments.
On the other hand, FedEx's Savings at Work program also helped a number of firms reduce shipping costs. It allows midsize companies to easily earn an automatic 5 percent year-end cash rebate on their FedEx shipping and business purchases. Customers simply have to use a qualifying American Express Corporate Card to pay for FedEx Express or FedEx Ground shipping services. The same carrier discount applies to FedEx Office products and document and business services. The 5 percent annual rebate for eligible clients is in addition to the savings your company already receives on FedEx Express, FedEx Ground and FedEx Office services. Cash rebates are basically savings earned by the company through eligible purchases with the Savings at Work program. Rebates accrue annually and are paid by check every year.
To get the highest carrier discount rebates from your shipper, get quotes and compare. See if the shipper will meet or beat the rebate you get from one. It's a down economy. Shippers should be eager to help you reduce shipping costs.