One of the main differences between standard and express shipping is the delivery time. In standard shipping, the regular delivery time ranges from two to eight days, while in express shipping it is around one day as the product is shipped via air couriers. In some cases, the shipment may even reach the recipient on the same day. Express shipping is apt for urgent and quick deliveries. However, if you have an extra timespan, standard shipping is a better choice.
Cost Effectiveness
Secondly, standard shipping is cheaper as compared to express shipping or delivery as the shipment is sent via road using surface couriers. As express shipping means urgent and faster delivery, the price and rates are also higher than other forms of transportation due to the use of air couriers. Based on the delivery timelines, you need to decide on the right shipping approach.
Dispatch from warehouse
In the case of standard delivery, the average time taken to leave the warehouse is around 2-8 days, whereas in the case of express shipping the time taken to leave the warehouse is about 1-3 days.
Shipping cost
For express shipping, the shipping cost is usually incurred along with the price of the product. However, in the case of standard shipping, the shipping can be provided free of charge to the customer. Sometimes customers are also provided with the option for choosing between express and standard shipping based on their urgency.
To have a seamless shipping and logistics service, eCommerce companies can tie up with renowned courier agencies. This way you can be assured of good delivery within the prescribed time limit.
Another great option is to opt for courier aggregator platforms such as Shiprocket. This will help you ship using multiple courier partners and decide the most appropriate features you may need to express or standard ship your orders.
The following table summarises the major differences between standard delivery and express shipping and will definitely help you make informed decisions about shipping your products to your customers.
| Feature | Standard Shipping | Express shipping |
| Time | 2-8 days | 1-3 days |
| Cost | cheaper | extra cost incurred |
| Transport | Road | Air |