Has something like this been tried before?
Basically, I find small business owner resources to be woefully lacking if you are doing anything outside the norm. Or everything is so spread out on the internet that it's difficult to aggregate useful info.
Maybe this thread could be of use. I'm thinking mostly for pointing to resources in a format like:
Stated problem
Resource (be it website, person, or company) used to resolve the issue. I suppose even a suggested "procedure" for how to do something would be useful
If you are happy with the resolution
I have a few small businesses that rely on shipping (both parcel and freight) so I've found some handy resources along the way.
Problem:
Expensive/slow parcel shipments in North America (originating in Canada)
Resource:
Paypal/Netparcel
https://www.paypal.com/ca/business/shipping/net-parcel
This is a relatively new service Paypal started offering in Canada in 2019(?) . For someone starting an e-commerce based business, I can't find any rates lower (mainly through Purolator rates). UPS is also competitive. For shipping to the USA, this is a no brainer, next day shipping prices through UPS are great.
Now, you may get better rates elsewhere if you are established and have high volumes. I strictly am recommending this for new startups at this time as I don't know if it scales well.