Mid-Atlantic businesses have a new option this holiday shipping season, with the recent addition of Purolator USA's direct-to-Canada outbound service. Through this service, mid-Atlantic businesses now have a Canadian gateway right in their backyard.

'Our outbound service will really be a tremendous help to our customers, not only during the busy holiday shipping period, but throughout the rest of the year as well,' says Purolator's Philadelphia Branch Manager Frank Jacketti. 'Now we can offer customers direct access to the Canadian market. This is a big cost saver, since we can avoid unnecessary stopovers and transfers.'

In addition to expedited delivery to Canada, Jacketti also offered a number of 'tips' to help businesses manage their heightened holiday shipping needs:

Be aware of shipping deadlines
Logistics providers should be notifying their customers about holiday shipping deadlines. Purolator USA's holiday shipping deadlines ensure delivery by December 25. 'Obviously, the earlier a business can ship the better,' Jacketti notes. 'But, recognizing that 11th hour special deliveries are part of the holiday craziness, Purolator has adopted deadlines that give businesses as much flexibility as possible.'

Look for logistics carriers that work with you to find solutions
While holiday shipping deadlines are certainly necessary, a good logistics provider will understand that sometimes, situations come up that go beyond the scope of 'normal.' Since last minute emergencies are generally unplanned, it's a good idea to have a logistics provider that understands your business and can handle 'emergencies' without causing a major disruption to your supply chain. Purolator USA offers flexible pickup times, which allows customers some breathing room in preparing last minute orders. In addition, Purolator offers a variety of linehaul options including dedicated air charter service that expedite entry into Canada.

Make sure your shipments are not being held up at the border
The Canadian government administers the 'Pre-Arrival Review System (PARS)' which was developed as a way to minimize the clearance times for shipments crossing the border. Under PARS, a shipment can be cleared for entry before it even reaches the Canadian border. But, a logistics provider can't take advantage of this program if they don't know about it! Purolator USA takes full advantage of PARS, which results in considerable time savings. Since time is an especially valuable commodity during the holiday season, businesses should make sure they are taking advantage of the PARS program.

Jacketti notes that good planning and 'a good partnership' with a logistics provider are critical to effective holiday shipping. 'Purolator USA thrives on the challenges and craziness of the holiday season,' he says. 'There's no greater satisfaction than really coming through for a customer during this crazy time of the year.'