Today’s remote buyers expect to receive their packages in a timely manner. As a result, retailers that are unable to provide quick shipping may lose out on sales. Prioritize quick delivery for your business by optimizing your shipping process with the following strategies:
Choose Appropriate Shipping Services
Retail giants continue to raise consumers’ expectations when it comes to delivery times. In most cases, buyers expect free shipping and an incredibly quick delivery process. With many businesses forced to contend with higher shipping costs the faster the delivery time, it can be difficult to give customers both quick service and low rates.
Experts recommend that businesses focus their efforts on matching the right shipping services to each customer’s needs. For example, factors like delivery date, tracking, residential or commercial addresses, and other add-ons should be considered when selecting the shipping service. This way, you’ll be able to adjust prices accordingly for buyers that require extra add-ons with their delivery service.
Consider a Shipping Contract
Though many small business owners consider it more effective to ship their products themselves, as a business grows, this method isn’t as efficient. If you’re shipping several products, it may be in your best interest to sign a shipping contract. This type of agreement allows you to ship exclusively with one provider in exchange for lower overall rates. Be sure to review additional fees to make sure these rates are indeed cost-effective.
Package Products in Lightweight Boxes
In your effort to optimize your business’ shipping process, be sure to package your products in lightweight shipping boxes. This way, you’ll be able to circumvent the extra cost as a result of heavier shipping equipment. Stocking up on cost-effective shipping materials will expedite the shipping process and lower your fees.
Invest in Regional Shipping Options
Depending on your target audience, you may be able to utilize regional shipping options for more affordable rates. When shipping products locally, consider a smaller carrier. By avoiding the big-name shipping companies, you’ll likely be able to negotiate better rates and faster deliveries. As larger shipping companies like UPS and FedEx have a habit of sending products to distribution centers before their final destinations, smaller shipping companies are able to deliver locally, cutting out unnecessary stops along the way.
Shipping models look differently for each business. Make sure you’re using the fastest and most appropriate shipping methods by applying these strategies to your business.
Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer and blogger. She lives and works out of her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She recommends looking into local shipping boxes suppliers. For more information, contact Brooke via Facebook at facebook.com/brooke.chaplan or Twitter @BrookeChaplan
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