If you are an ecommerce organization looking to zero in on a freight partner, you should look at the various factors they offer and choose one based on what you need. Here is a list of parameters that matter the most when it comes to choosing the right reliable shipping partners:
Horses for courses
In any business decision, you would want to seek the best quality that your budget can land. So, choose a delivery service that meets your specific shipping needs. If you ship to a remote country in considerable volumes, you have to look at the shipper’s operations there. Before you start off, you should have a fair idea of all your shipping plans, your shipping history, and specific needs. Draw a plan that clearly states the size and number of your packages, and how far you are sending them. Typically, businesses that ship large volumes over long distances tend to go for a regional or national freight carrier. It works out to be budget friendly. But if you are looking at same day delivery of delivery of small packages in your own area, you are better off with a local courier service with scalability inside your operation zone. This would be efficient and economical. If you need warehousing help, you should go for a transportation company that can handle all these requirements.
Also Refer: 5 Reasons to fight Late Delivery.
Background Check
Run a check of whether the company you go for is licensed to do business in the areas you intend shipping from and to. Most reputed brands would have their licenses. But, if you choose a local player, make sure you are getting into business with a legit partner with prerequisite permissions, bonds, and insurances.
Need for speed
For several businesses, speed is integral. While you might not need superfast, express deliveries on an everyday basis, you might still need the option if such an order arises. So, ask beforehand about how the partner will or can manage such special cases. Be specific about asking for same day, overnight and 2-3 hour emergency drops and costs involved. Go for a partner who has a proven record of ramping up when in need.
Reliability and Reputation
This is extremely important when you trust your package with someone else. Your company’s reputation is on the line until the package delivery is successful. So, choose a courier service that won’t let you down. It goes without saying that the freight partner needs to have a system for proof of delivery. Most players offer tracking processes over the internet.
Special needs
Does the shipping partner handle large packages? Do you send fragile goods that need special handling? Do you ship perishable and hazardous goods? Ask necessary questions before you decide. Do they offer help loading or unloading? Even if you do such packages only in one-off situations, it makes sense to figure all this well in advance. Also, ask about the necessary permissions the partner needs to handle such special cases.
Related:
5 Factors to consider when choosing your Shipping Carrier
Are you really getting a fair deal from your Shipping Carrier