I guess I should have added to my last post that I did find that when using FedEx Ground, if I use the online calculator, it often doesn't match the price given to me if I actually go to the local depot, but it's usually pretty close, and has even been less at times. Also, keep in mind that FedEx Ground is run separate from FedEx Express service. My local depot is strictly a FedEx Express center, but they will accept ground packages from 7AM to 5PM. As long as I do the entire shipment online using my account number, the billing is fine, if I choose to simply print the label and pay by credit card when I drop it off, there's always a discrepancy in the billing rate. I ran into this twice, and had screamed and hollered enough at the time that I finally got through to someone who was able to correct it immediately, and the difference was refunded right then and there. I currently use my PayPal account to fund FedEx shipping, so that I am able to watch each transaction as it happens, and so far, all since those two problems have been perfect. If you are set up with FedEx Online shipping or FedEx Shipping manager software, you can see each item as it's billed right away.
If it's of any help, the contact phone numbers I have listed are:
FedEx main number: 1-800-463-3339 (U.S. Customer Service) (Press "0" to get through to a human.
FedEx Cargo Claims Dep. 1-800-229-4766 (FAX, Pittsburg, PA)
FedEx Packaging Design or instructions: 1-800-633-7019 (Packing instructions/questions)
FedEx Billing 1-800-622-1147 (Phone) or 1-800-548-3020 (FAX)
FedEx International 1-800-247-4747 (For Non-U.S. customers)
As far as claims, and insurance, I would assume that all of the larger shipping companies are self insured. There are a few independent shipping insurance companies that you could use to insure an item on your own, and most are quite bit less expensive than opting for the carriers insurance option. I also believe that PayPal offers an insurance service as well. Here are a few examples:
http://www.grw-products.com/
The problems I have had with UPS were always extreme. When there was damage, it was always a total loss, and each time it had been either run over, or simply torn apart to the point that nothing survived. I can half understand a package getting damaged on occasion, but not run over. The leaving of packages basically in the street or out in the rain is what I couldn't deal with. Knock on wood, I have not yet had any complaints with FedEx, and the personnel at the local depot are great as are the local drivers. I have never dealt with FedEx through any third party, or shipping service, I always take my outgoing packages right to the depot. If I drop off a box at say 4PM, it's already in the system and on it's way to the main terminal by 7PM that same day. I've had packages make it to Seattle, WA in as little as three days using FedEx Ground. With UPS, it's at least a week. I feel the that since a package sent by FedEx is 'in transit' for shorter time, it stands less of a chance of getting lost or damaged. I also ship all boxes with the contents totally hidden, if those in a warehouse don't know what's in a box, they are less likely to be tempted. I was told this by a former UPS employee. I also avoid shipping around Christmas if at all posible.
Joe McKishen
Vineland, NJ
USA