Shipping and logistics can honestly be a major nightmare for companies. It really doesn’t matter where you live, whether you’re in some busy metropolitan area or a closed-off island, shipping can just be a hassle. While there are international courier services that have the sole intention of making things easier, whether you’re needing an item delivered to you or shipped out, this service can help. However, it’s just not always as simple as choosing a reliable courier. Yes, it usually helps greatly, and it’s something you’re going to have to choose wisely, but so much goes into it and there are some things that businesses just seem to miss too. So, here are 6 shipping business tips you’ll simply not want to forget.
By Team Savant
Image: Process AG
1. Always pack your products in the most protective packaging possible
Packaging is the first impression that a consumer has of your product. It's important to have packaging that makes your product stand out from the competition and it's also important for your product to be protected from damage. One way to protect your products is to use protective packaging.
There are many different types of protective packaging, but one type that stands out is vacuum-sealed packaging, packaging peanuts, or even bubble wrap. A lot of businesses have received negative reviews or have lost profit all due to items breaking during transit.
2. Use a packing list to avoid mistakes and keep track of what's been packed
This should be pretty straightforward, when sending something to a customer, you don’t want to accidentally send the wrong item to them, this could greatly upset them.
3. Use a shipping service that offers to track so you know when your package is arriving at its destination
When it comes to looking for a logistic service, you can’t always think of financial tips. Some services make businesses pay an additional fee for tracking. But, all this is going to do is just upset the customers in the case that the package is lost.
4. Ship within a day of receiving an order
While it may be unfortunate, a lot of customers are now expecting businesses to ship just as fast as Amazon Prime does. People are far less patient about getting their orders. So, if possible, try to send this out immediately. However, if it is bespoke, then you may not have to worry about this as much.
5. Get paid quickly with PayPal or other digital payment providers
Depending on the payment method of your business, you may be able to immediately get your money. Some payment options, like PayPal usually only give out money once the item is marked as shipped, or if a tracking number is included. You’ll just need to look into what payment options for your website would best suit you.
6. Consider using a carrier that offers expedited shipping options like priority or express
There may be a variety of reasons that a customer wants their item as soon as possible, maybe it's an emergency situation, maybe it’s a gift, who knows! But, you should offer this service, and feel free to charge additional for this too.