The introduction of the digital age has enabled businesses to cater to a global marketplace. While that opens up a world of possibilities, it also means learning how to ship packages internationally. Here are a few tips to ship efficiently and safely.
Take Advantage of Free Boxes
Depending on the size of your business, you’re likely working with a third party shipping company. In addition to the shipping service, many of these companies will also provide free boxes in which to package your products. This can be a huge money saver, considering the cost of cardboard in today’s market. While this costs the shipping service as much as it would cost your business, they’re willing to take on that burden in exchange for your business.
Avoid Flat Rate Shipping
Most companies don’t weigh their products and instead ship them for a flat rate. Unfortunately, this means paying a higher cost for shipping, which results in a price hike for the customer. By weighing each package and paying the accurate postage, you can eliminate some of that cost and pass those savings on to your customers.
Test Packaging for Quality
Many products that are shipped great distances don’t arrive at the customer’s door in the same condition as it was in upon leaving the warehouse. As a result of poor packaging designs, returned products cost businesses over $270 billion each year. Test your packaging for quality to ensure it will travel well to eliminate or reduce this cost.
Offer Shipment Tracking
In addition to improving the quality of your packaging, you can also boost customer satisfaction by allowing them to track their orders. In many cases, a customer ordering a product online will feel better about the experience if they can monitor the progress of their shipment. By enabling them to see where their order is at any stage in the shipment process, your customers will be better satisfied and will likely use your business again.
As online shopping continues to gain mass appeal, being able to offer your products worldwide becomes more important than ever. This means ensuring your customers receive their products in a timely manner and that they arrive undamaged. Improving your packaging process and shipping methods can help to do this and will engender greater trust in your customers.