Shipping Coverage Explained: What You Can Send and Where

When you order something online, the first thing you wonder is – will it reach my door? That’s what shipping coverage is all about. It tells you the geographic area a carrier serves and the types of items they’ll accept. Knowing this before you click ‘buy’ saves you time, extra fees, and headaches.

Understanding Delivery Zones

Most carriers split the world into zones. Zone 1 is usually your local city, Zone 2 covers the surrounding region, and the numbers keep rising as distance grows. The farther the zone, the higher the cost and the longer the transit time. Carriers like UPS, FedEx, and DHL publish zone charts on their sites, so you can match your ZIP code to a zone and see the price instantly.

Domestic shipping is straightforward – most carriers cover every address in the country, even PO boxes for certain services. International coverage varies. Some carriers ship to over 200 countries, while others limit themselves to major markets. If you need a package to land on a small island, check the carrier’s list of excluded destinations first.

Item Restrictions and Special Handling

Not everything can go in a box. Carriers have rules about hazardous materials, perishable food, batteries, and high‑value items. For example, lithium‑ion batteries need a special label, and liquids over 100 ml usually aren’t allowed in hand luggage for air freight. When you’re unsure, the carrier’s online FAQ will tell you if your item is prohibited or needs extra packaging.

Large or heavy shipments often need a freight service instead of regular parcel. If your package exceeds the weight limit (usually around 70 lb for standard services), look for a ‘freight’ or ‘cargo’ option. These services have their own coverage maps, but they typically reach the same places as parcel services – just with higher limits.

Another tip: ask about “signature required” or “insured delivery.” These options add protection if you’re sending something valuable. They don’t change the coverage area, but they give you peace of mind that the package won’t be left unattended.

Finally, remember that coverage isn’t just about geography. Seasonal spikes, weather events, and customs delays can affect whether a carrier can meet the promised delivery window. During holidays, many services add a “holiday surcharge” and extend their coverage timelines.

In short, check the carrier’s zone chart, verify item eligibility, and consider any extra services you might need. Doing these three things will make sure your package arrives where you want, when you expect it, without surprise fees.

Ready to ship? Grab your package dimensions, enter your ZIP code, and compare a few carriers side by side. You’ll see instantly which one offers the best coverage for your needs. Happy shipping!