Two couriers are racing to deliver your new plasma TV. They are currently 65 miles apart. If the northbound courier travels at 55 mph and the southbound courier travels at 80, which will get to you first?

Screw the math. Place your order with the online service LicketyShip and your goods will arrive within four hours.

Just tell them what you want picked up (dry cleaning, groceries, a case of pinot from K&L), input your ZIP code, and the system scans its courier network for the best deal in town.

Rather not meet the nut job looking to buy your pink Schwinn? There’s a LicketyShip widget you can download onto your Craigslist or eBay post. If the buyers wants local delivery, they can enter their address for a quote. Once the deal is done, seller and buyer agree on a delivery time. The courier sends SMS updates so you’re not waiting around.

Now that adds up to a great service.

Available online at licketyship.com.