Types of shipping: discover the most common ones and which one suits you best

Have you ever wondered how many types of shipping there are and which one is ideal for you? Whether you shop online, run a small business, or simply send packages from time to time, knowing all the options helps you save time, money, and a headache or two.

In this article, we explain the most common shipping methods and in which cases it is better to choose one or another. In addition, we tell you why the Lockers and Puntos Pack of InPost are an alternative that more and more people choose for convenience and flexibility.

How many types of shipping are there?

Although there are many ways to classify shipments, the most practical is to group them by four key criteria:

1. According to distance

• Local: Deliveries within the same city or municipality. They are usually fast and economical, ideal for neighborhood businesses and local shipments.
• National: Packages that travel across the country from end to end. Perfect if you have customers in different provinces or family in another region.
• International: Shipments outside Spain, within or outside the European Union. This includes customs procedures and longer transit times.

2. According to delivery time

• Standard: The most economical and most commonly used option. Delivery times usually range between 3 and 7 days, depending on the distance and the logistics provider.
• Express or urgent: Perfect when you need speed. Delivery is made within 24 or 48 hours. It is ideal if your ecommerce promises fast shipping or if you remembered a gift late.

3. According to the delivery point

• Pickup points: Partner stores or designated spaces where you can pick up your package during extended hours and with in-person assistance if you need it.
• Smart lockers: Smart lockers available 24/7, with a fast and automatic process to drop off your package in just a few steps.

4. According to the type of goods

• Documents and small envelopes: Perfect for stationery, certificates, or contracts.
• Standard packages: Most online purchases fall into this category: clothing, electronics, books…
• Special goods: Fragile, heavy, or hazardous products. They require specific packaging and specialized operators.

What type of shipping is best for you?

The answer depends on what you need:

• If you are an individual and shop occasionally: Pickup points, such as Puntos Pack and Lockers, are a fantastic option. You pick up at your own pace, with no waiting, and you also save on shipping.
• If you have an ecommerce: Combine options: express for urgent orders and pickup points as standard. This way you offer flexibility and give the customer control to choose what they prefer.

Benefits of using InPost Lockers and Puntos Pack as a shipping method

Whether you are an individual or if you run a business, with InPost you have a lot to gain. Here's why:

If you buy or ship as an individual

• Extensive network throughout Spain: More than 10,000 points at gas stations, supermarkets, and neighborhood stores.
• Flexibility: Lockers are open 24/7, so you can send whenever you want, even at night or on weekends.
• Puntos Pack have extended business hours and in-person assistance, perfect if you prefer to send your package during the day.

No printer or labels: Everything is managed from your mobile. You only need the QR code you receive by email.

Fast, guided process: You arrive, scan, and you're done.

If you have an ecommerce or a business

• Flexible delivery that builds customer loyalty: Your buyers can choose where and when to pick up their orders.
• Fewer issues: Since it doesn't depend on someone being at home, failed deliveries and returns are reduced.
• Cost optimization: Grouping shipments at pickup points reduces logistics costs and delivery times.
• Higher customer satisfaction: Consumers value freedom and convenience. With Lockers and Puntos Pack, you offer both.
• Real-time tracking: It is possible to know the location of the package at all times thanks to our tracking tool.

Choose InPost, the most sustainable and economical way to ship

Every shipment is different, and so are your needs. That's why knowing all the options allows you to save time, money, and improve the experience, whether you buy or sell online.

With InPost, you can send and receive packages at your own pace, conveniently and economically, without fixed hours or queues, while choosing a more sustainable logistics.

Discover InPost and start shipping in a more convenient, sustainable, and economical way.