This guide outlines how to streamline your shipping process and operations for more efficiency.
With more than 75% of American consumers shopping online, the shipping process has become an integral part of running an ecommerce business. It doesn’t matter if you run a small business or own a much larger company; shipping can make or break your chance at success.
Shipping process strategies
There are a number of ways to streamline the shipping process of your business, which can prove beneficial. However, not all businesses will have the resources to achieve this.
If this is the case, your business might benefit from a third-party logistics (3PL) provider. These services can be found across the country, whether you need assistance from a 3PL in Los Angeles or Pittsburgh.
Outsourcing fulfillment can assist your business’ shipping process. If your business is growing, and you are spending more time packing orders, then a 3PL can save you money, time, and stress by creating a tailored strategy for you.
This strategy might include the three methods outlined in this article, which can be carried out by the business itself, too.
Optimize Your Order Processing System
The order processing system is the first part of the shipping process. An efficient ordering system will ensure there are minimal errors, such as delayed shipments and inaccurate inventory levels.
This is why your business should invest in an order management system that will automatically process any orders when they are placed. It will simplify communication between all stages of order processing and shipping.
Using automation in this process will remove the chance of human error, and it will also ensure the process is quick and effective. This could cover aspects like inventory management and labelling, which are critical to make sure customers receive the right order and are satisfied with their goods.
Improve Packaging for Cost and Protection
When shipping items, they need to be sufficiently protected by the packaging that is used. This could mean using durable materials like padded envelopes, bubble wrap, and strong cardboard boxes.
Before selecting the packaging materials that you prefer, you should think about the size, weight, and fragility of the goods you are shipping; this will affect the suitability of packaging. This will also give you the opportunity to reduce shipping costs by selecting the best-fitting packaging.
Ill-fitting packaging can be an additional cost for your business as well as a frustration for customers. Although this packaging might not result in damaged items, it can seem unnecessary and give customers the impression your business does not care about the item or the brand’s reputation.
Alternatively, your business might choose to invest in eco-friendly packaging, such as recycled or reusable materials.
Offer Clear Communication and Tracking Information
Customers have never wanted to be more in-the-know than they do now. They want to know how their orders are progressing through the shipping process at every stage, and many businesses can offer this through clear communication.
This can be communicated via email and/or text message that includes accurate tracking information provided by the courier. With up-to-date tracking information, customers have a better experience, and there is enhanced transparency throughout the entire process.
More transparency can be achieved by utilizing a tracking page that customers can use for updates on their order’s status. This will reduce the number of customer inquiries that your business receives, too.
Summary
If you want a smoother shipping process, the three methods mentioned in this article could definitely help. However, if you would rather outsource this task to a professional, a third-party logistics service could be a beneficial partner.
