Shipping is one of the most consistent operating expenses for small businesses, but it doesn’t have to eat into your profits. With the right strategies, platforms, and insider discounts, small business owners can dramatically lower their shipping costs without compromising delivery speed or reliability. Whether you’re shipping ten packages a week or a hundred, these 2025 shipping discount methods are worth putting into practice.
- Use carrier-specific business programs
Most major carriers offer business shipping programs with built-in discounts and perks. Signing up can unlock lower rates, free supplies, and access to better tracking tools.
- USPS Business Pricing: Get commercial rates when using services like Click-N-Ship® for Business or through approved third-party shipping software.
- FedEx Small Business Center: Provides access to rewards programs, shipping tools, and exclusive deals.
- Buy shipping supplies in bulk—or get them for free
Both USPS and UPS offer free branded shipping supplies when using their services. For custom or eco-friendly packaging, buying in bulk from retailers like Uline or EcoEnclose can cut costs in the long run.
- Compare rates across multiple carriers
Third-party platforms make it easy to compare rates, print labels, and manage tracking all in one dashboard. Many of these tools offer pre-negotiated discounts:
You can also automate your fulfillment process, which saves time and reduces shipping errors.
- Tap into discounted gift card platforms
If you’re paying for shipping regularly, using rewards platforms can stretch your budget further. For example, you can save money on USPS shipping by purchasing digital gift cards through Fluz. You’ll still be able to pay online and ship through Click-N-Ship® or other USPS tools, while earning a percentage back.
Businesses using DHL eCommerce or Express can also earn cashback with a DHL gift card—great for regular international or commercial shipments. These cards are delivered instantly and can be purchased for the exact amount needed, helping avoid over-purchasing.
For the full list of available carriers and shipping brands, visit Fluz.
- Negotiate your own shipping rates
If you’re shipping at volume—even just a few hundred orders per month—you may be eligible for custom-negotiated rates directly from carriers. This typically involves contacting a sales rep and sharing your shipping volume, delivery zones, and package sizes.
Be ready to:
- Ask for lower base rates or reduced surcharges
- Share a 3-month shipping history if available
- Compare multiple carrier quotes to increase leverage
- Consolidate shipments and use flat-rate boxes
Consolidating shipments into fewer boxes or using flat-rate services like USPS Priority Mail Flat Rate can result in major savings, especially when sending heavy items over long distances. Always compare flat-rate pricing vs. calculated weight for each zone.
Final takeaway
Small businesses can no longer afford to overlook shipping as a controllable cost center. From business-specific carrier programs to discounted gift cards and automation tools, there are more ways than ever to cut shipping costs in 2025. Stack these methods together, and you’ll protect your margins while delivering a better customer experience.
