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For an eCommerce professional, the majority of their shipping will likely involve packages.
For newer, and even veteran, eCommerce entrepreneurs, it can be easy to fall into the habit of packaging one’s orders into whatever is readily available and heading to the local post office to ship them out.
The reality is , while this may be the easiest shipping solution short-term, you will quickly find that it is inefficient, costly, and lacking in providing your customers a high-quality customer experience.
That said, it can be daunting knowing where to start when looking for the best way to optimize your package shipping. If you’re new to the world of eCommerce, ClickShip is here to help with that.
Discover the must-have checklist for eCommerce package shipping success.
Choosing the Right Equipment and Packaging Materials
Proper package shipping begins with having the proper equipment to prepare your package.
To this end, the two most essential pieces of equipment you should invest in are a quality shipping scale, and thermal label printer.
Both shipping scales and thermal label printers come in a wide range of price points, and with varied features and capacities.
Before purchasing either piece of equipment, be sure to read reviews on the available options to opt for equipment that can adequately serve the needs of your business without overexerting your budget.
Selecting the right packaging materials is crucial for the safe and secure delivery of your eCommerce packages.
The packaging should be sturdy enough to protect the contents from any damage during transit. Consider using corrugated boxes, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or air pillows to provide cushioning and prevent items from shifting inside the package.
It's also important to choose the appropriate box size to avoid wasted space and excessive dimensional weight charges.
Use packaging that is just the right size for your products, ensuring a snug fit without too much empty space. Additionally, consider using packaging materials made from recycled or eco-friendly materials to align with sustainable shipping practices.
Furthermore, proper labeling and branding on the packaging can enhance the customer experience.
Include clear shipping labels, return address labels, and any necessary handling instructions. You can also include your company logo or branding to create a professional and consistent image for your eCommerce business.
Understanding Shipping Requirements
When it comes to eCommerce package shipping, understanding the shipping requirements is crucial.
Different products may have specific shipping regulations and restrictions that you need to be aware of. For example, certain items may be considered hazardous and require special handling or packaging.
By familiarizing yourself with the shipping requirements, you can ensure that your packages are compliant and avoid any delays or issues during transit.
Additionally, it's essential to understand the weight and size restrictions imposed by shipping carriers.
Each carrier has its own limitations and exceeding them can result in additional fees or even package rejection. By knowing the shipping requirements, you can accurately estimate shipping costs and choose the most suitable carrier for your packages.
Selecting the Best Shipping Carrier
Choosing the best shipping carrier is essential for efficient and cost-effective package delivery.
Start by researching and comparing different carriers based on their services, rates, and delivery options. Consider factors such as shipping speed, reliability, tracking capabilities, and customer reviews.
It's also important to evaluate the carrier's coverage area to ensure they can deliver to your desired destinations. Some carriers may have limitations or restrictions for certain regions or countries.
By selecting a carrier with a wide coverage area, you can reach more customers and expand your eCommerce business globally.
Cost is another critical factor when selecting a shipping carrier.
Compare the rates and services offered by different carriers to find the most competitive and cost-effective option for your eCommerce packages. Consider any additional fees or surcharges that may apply, such as fuel surcharges or residential delivery fees. By optimizing your carrier selection, you can minimize shipping costs and maximize your profit margins.
Optimizing Shipping Costs
Shipping costs can significantly impact your eCommerce business's profitability. Therefore, it's crucial to optimize your shipping costs wherever possible.
One effective way to optimize shipping costs is by utilizing shipping software or platforms that offer discounted rates. For example, ClickShip provides discounted shipping rates for eCommerce businesses, allowing you to save on shipping expenses while maintaining high-quality service.
Consolidating shipments and using bulk shipping options can also help reduce costs.
Instead of shipping multiple small packages separately, consider combining them into a single shipment. This can result in lower overall shipping fees.
Lastly, consider offering free shipping for certain order thresholds or promotional periods.
While it may seem counterintuitive to offer free shipping, studies have shown that customers are more likely to make a purchase when free shipping is available. By strategically implementing free shipping, you can increase customer satisfaction and encourage repeat purchases.
Tracking and Managing Shipments
Tracking and managing shipments is essential to ensure a smooth and transparent delivery process.
Providing tracking information to your customers allows them to monitor the progress of their packages and reduces customer inquiries regarding shipment status.
Utilize the tracking capabilities offered by your selected shipping carrier or shipping software. This allows you to easily track the whereabouts of each package and address any potential issues promptly.
Proactively communicate with customers if there are any delays or concerns with their shipments to maintain a high level of customer service.
Regularly reviewing and analyzing shipping data can also provide valuable insights for optimizing your shipping strategy.
Look for patterns or trends in shipping costs, delivery times, and customer satisfaction. Adjust your shipping processes accordingly to improve efficiency and customer experience.
ClickShip Helps You Manage All Your Shipping Like a Seasoned Pro
ClickShip’s all-in-one platform integrates seamlessly with the leading eCommerce platforms and online marketplaces to give you access to discounted rates on parcel and pallet shipping from the most trusted carriers in North America, as well as a robust suite of shipping and fulfillment tools to help streamline your order management, all for zero upfront or monthly fees!
Contact one of our shipping experts and let ClickShip help you check better eCommerce shipping off your list.
Written by Brandon Draga
Brandon Draga is a full-time content writer at Freightcom, the leading shipping solution for businesses in Canada. When Brandon is not writing content to help businesses with their shipping needs, he can be found at local skate parks or writing fantasy novels.
