In the era of e-commerce, shipping is as important as any other component of the shopping experience. The purchase has to be shipped to the right person, right address at the right time. The packaging has to be done properly. There should not be any damage with the shipment. All this has to be done at an optimal cost.
How to minimize cost:
Weigh the shipment. Shipping carriers bill based on dimensional weight or actual weight. And, generally they take into account, the greater of the two. So, the lesson from this tip is that, you pack your product with minimal weight and dimensional weight.
Reduce waste. Invest in containers that are just right for the product. While designing the product cover, container etc., minimize dead space and maximize in-transit protection. This reduces overall cost and brings down carbon footprint.
Stay loyal to one shipping carrier. Have an account with the carrier and you will be entitled to several benefits and discounts. It makes sense in the long run.
Avoid repeating procedure. Have a set process in place and ensure that’s the process followed throughout. It helps save time and money.
Track shipments diligently. An account with the carrier helps. You can track multiple shipments together. If there is a discrepancy, you can get in touch with the carrier and the customer to resolve it. This also enables a proper channel of knowing when to file for late shipments. You can save some money when you file and get shipping returns on late shipments.
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How to prevent damage:
Test. Carry out every test you deem necessary. Even if you mark your shipment ‘fragile’, it is going to be manhandled. Use the ‘four foot drop test. That is the industry standard for determining whether a package can survive ordinary shipping and handling impact. Drop the packed shipment onto a hard surface from four feet up from five different angles: flat on base and top, the longest and shortest sides, and on a corner. Apart from this, try the full-minute vigorous shaking test.
Plug all loopholes. If your product is moisture-sensitive, pack in a silica gel packet to absorb ambient moisture. If your product can fade with light exposure, pack them in polybags that block light
Fill void space with inflated air bags, packing peanuts, or Kraft paper. These help absorb impact.
Last, but not the least, seal the package properly.
How to make a good impression
The customer forms a lasting impression about you, based on your packaging. You can either make or break your reputation with your packaging. Good packaging hints at professionalism. Ensure that the to and from addresses are clearly mentioned.
The idea is to protect the package in transit. But also keep in mind that it has to be fashioned in such a way that it enables easy unwrapping. Avoid placing pins that can poke into the customer’s fingers and palms. Cushion it adequately. A lot of customers tend to reuse good packaging material.
Image credit: Blossom Heart Quilts