Safe Shipping Guide Home
uShip is the safest way to find shipping services online - unfortunately, fraud does exist in the shipping industry, but whether you ship through uShip or other means, there are some simple guidelines you can follow to ensure a safe experience.
Avoid Instant Cash Transfer Services
uShip prohibits members from requesting payment from instant cash transfer services (non-bank, point-to-point cash transfer services such as Western Union and Moneygram). When you send money via one of these services, not only can you not confirm who the person receiving the money is, but once you send it, you cannot get it back. Avoid using these services and report anyone requesting you use these services to uShip.
Execute a Written Contract
After the shipment is booked, you and your service provider should execute a written contract outlining the details of your agreement. This is very important in case there is a disagreement about service.
Understand Deposits
Some service providers request an upfront deposit. If your service provider requests an upfront deposit, be sure that the details of that deposit, such as the circumstances in which it is refundable, are clearly outlined in the contract.
Use Credit Cards Whenever Possible
Using a major credit card or a 3rd party payment system like PayPal to pay your service provider may provide you with additional safeguards and recourse in the event of a dispute or suspected fraudulent activity. Check with your credit card company for more information.
Choose your Service Provider Carefully
While uShip provides useful tools such as feedback ratings and comments, you should entertain the same level of due diligence as you would when selecting a service provider from another venue.
Use Common Sense
Something that doesn't seem right probably isn't. Ask questions, get it in writing, review credentials and always pay safely.
About the uShip Marketplace
uShip is a neutral venue and not a transportation service provider, freight forwarder or freight broker. The uShip marketplace serves as a venue where two parties agree on price for service. uShip is not involved in the actual transaction between shipper and service providers.
Any and all arrangements are made between you and the service provider you select. uShip does not prequalify or validate the claims of transportation service providers with respect to their license, insurance, or other operating authority.
Do not mistake a dispute for fraud. If you have a dispute with your service provider, please use the Report a Problem feature to contact uShip and we will do our best to help facilitate communication between the two parties.
For a more detailed description of how uShip works, and its policies, please review the uShip User Agreement that you agreed to when you joined.
If you suspect you are a victim of fraud or theft:
First, inform uShip of the issue using the 'Report a Problem' button on the shipment listing in My Shipments.
If you suspect you are a victim of fraud, you should report the incident to the proper local, state or federal law enforcement agency.
*These guidelines are not meant to be all inclusive. It is the responsibility of each member to determine what diligence should be performed before completing a transaction.