Give me an education about this "PIRATE SHIP" method that has been discussed here.

they covered the basics up there. but to answer one of your specific questions: yes, you can take it to an independently operated UPS store. tape your label to the box and just drop it off at the counter-- mine will even print a receipt for me. for smaller boxes, sometimes i'll hand them off to my ups guy if i happen to catch him.

you get tracking, and a tracking number when you purchase the label thru them, it's there when you print off label, but also they provide a link. however, you don't get delivery confirmation. you can check through the UPS site for specific tracking and delivery-- or sign up there for notification.

one thing to note is that they only cover basic insurance on packages and it's only $100 so if you need more insurance than that, you'll need to find another option. also, all of their shipping and insurance claims are handled via email, there is no call center/customer support. you will not get somebody on the phone no matter how hard you try.

also, make sure you have a good shipping/postal scale and your measurements are spot on. if you're off on dimensions or weight they will come back and charge the difference to your account.