Ecommerce Shipping Best Practice - How its Works
Various studies conducted in the business realm suggest that in the coming years, the market will be ruled by e-commerce. So not just the chances but the challenges for the e-commerce retailers may increase in the future. These challenges could come as a result of the increased competition, along with tariff wars and the newly rising markets across Africa and China. These challenges are expected to grow and some unexpected situations could also pose difficulties such as the outbreak of pandemics just like COVID-19. The e-commerce companies must adopt trends and practices that can help keep the company ahead in the competition. The main things to be worked upon are Order completion, Web design, Marketing, Customer service, Returns, etc.
Right People for Right Decision
One cannot run a successful business without the right team. To take decisions, it’s crucial that one is surrounded by capable and efficient people for help. The company must make sure that it hires the right people for the right job. Though with the advancement in technology, much of the work has relied upon technology usage yet the role that the team plays in making that work efficient can’t be ignored. And don't forget the importance a freight forwarder can do to help your business
Shipping:
One of the most important pillars of the e-commerce business is the shipping of the order. For every e-commerce business, it is necessary to make its customer’s experience best. Along with a good interface with good and attractive colors, faster page loading and online marketing, a good shipping experience is important too. To compete in the present-day world market, it is important to follow the best way of shipping in town. This is one of the very few ways to attract customers and earn their satisfaction. Extra attention must be paid to make the customer service better. Though to keep up with the current trends, the young entrepreneurs might find it expensive yet the need can’t be avoided as well.
Promised Services:
Conversely, if the shipping services are not up to the mark then the firm is always surrounded by a threat of loss in the business. Only with the delivery of the product at the doorstep of the customer does his/her shopping ends. The shipment should be delivered on time and in a better condition in accordance with the promised services.
Flat Rate:
Some retailers also offer flat rate shipping on the products that fall in a specific range of weight or a category. You can also set a flat rate shipping system based on size, weight or shape if you have products that resemble each other in these respects.
Shipping Options:
The shipping can’t be free as somebody has to pay for it but if the company takes that responsibility then it could lead towards low-profit margins and if that’s put on the customers then they might not want to buy online because of the high price. According to a report by Kissmetrics, 28% of the customers abandon the cart after realizing the unavailability of free shipping.
Free Shipping:
According to studies, the free shipping option can increase the average order value by a significant amount. According to a report, customers are of the opinion that the option for free shipping is one of the biggest factors that compel them to shop online. But there should be a way of not being affected by the cost of shipping.
For that, the policy of the major online e-commerce companies can be followed. Amazon which is one of the biggest e-commerce organizations provides free shipping on orders that sum up to cost more than 25$.
So a price can be set as by the company to deliver free shipping based on area and country. This policy would not only help to save cost but also the customers would likely spend more money and time on your site, and help sell your products.
For that, the policy of the major online e-commerce companies can be followed. Amazon which is one of the biggest e-commerce organizations provides free shipping on orders that sum up to cost more than 25$.
So a price can be set as by the company to deliver free shipping based on area and country. This policy would not only help to save cost but also the customers would likely spend more money and time on your site, and help sell your products.
Marketing
A separate team should work to handle marketing. Time to time promotions on shipping like a flat discount or free shipping often attracts customers. Customers are also helpful in spreading the word about their good experience thus building up your company’s reputation.
Another team’s expertise should be used to handle the responsibilities related to the customers’ orders. In order to gain a competitive edge in the market, a smooth and efficient system is necessary and all departments must work efficiently.
Another team’s expertise should be used to handle the responsibilities related to the customers’ orders. In order to gain a competitive edge in the market, a smooth and efficient system is necessary and all departments must work efficiently.
No Ambiguity
The organization must provide crystal clear ideas about the shipping policies of your company. According to reports, approximately 60% of customers look for trouble-free and simple shopping solutions. So there are no hidden surprises left for the customer and he/she is very clear about what to expect from the company.
Total Amount to be Paid:
Tell the customer clearly about the total amount of money including the shipping cost if it’s not free. Everything should be obvious and clear, there should be no ambiguity left before ordering and no surprises left for the customers on delivery. As soon as the customer enters the zip code, the customer should be notified about the addition of the shipping fee to the total amount in the order summary.
Display Expected Delivery Date:
Based on the shipping method and the date of the order, it is better to show the customer the expected date and time of delivery at checkout. Big sites like Amazon lets the customers know the exact day on which they would receive their order as shipping time is one of the main factors that influence a customer's decision to purchase.
Shipment Cost:
The shipment cost can be determined based on standard weight, amount, number. The customer would have an idea that the cost may increase with addition to weight, amount and number. Fixed and well-explained shipping policies help clear many of the customers’ confusion.
Keep the Customer Updated
It’s better to keep the customers in the loop. An email or a text message about the order confirmation and another notification after the shipment has been dispatched can give the customer a good feeling of trust and can make the shopping experience better. Many big online retailers use software to make it possible for the customers to track their orders enhancing customer satisfaction.
What if Something Goes Wrong:
If something goes wrong with the shipment, it is better to accept the responsibility quickly and take action as soon as possible by checking the tracking details. Double-check the address and confirm it with the carrier, and send the replacement package. The company must put true efforts in finding and assembling the best team to make the shipping experience flawless.
Same Day and Overnight Deliveries:
Some surveys conducted to observe customer’s behaviour suggested that more than 50% of customers are willing to pay extra money to get their orders delivered on the same day as ordered.
Many organizations also offer the option of overnight shipping, this practice, however, is hard for the smaller businesses to follow but by setting fixed charges for this quick service, the goal can be achieved.
Many organizations also offer the option of overnight shipping, this practice, however, is hard for the smaller businesses to follow but by setting fixed charges for this quick service, the goal can be achieved.
Delivery Fee:
Either an increase in the price of the product or a share from the profit can fulfill the shipment cost. But the best option is oftentimes to find a balance between the two so no one has to bear all the pressure. The price can be based on size, weight, origin country, destination country, etc. Insurance and tracking can be an extra option too.
Correct Packaging and Bonuses:
Right labeling adds to the credibility of the company. For appreciating your loyal customers, you can offer special services including free shipping or a discount.
Carriers:
Some organizations also display real-time carriers allowing companies to charge customers exactly the amount that costs the shipment.
Suitable Package:
The packaging must be done in accordance with the quality and quantity of the products to be delivered. Moreover, weight and fragility factors should also be kept in mind and packaging must be done accordingly.
Eco-Friendly:
Nowadays, many countries are implementing environment-friendly policies. Considering this factor, it is better for companies to adopt these policies right away in order to grab the interest of customers. Companies can choose eco-friendly packaging. This will not only promote companies' reputations but also help reduce pollution. Many freight forwarding and logistics companies already working on it and they have customized and eco-friendly packaging.
Other Small Things to Note:
It is necessary to have a user-friendly interface for clients. The shipment must be done at economical rates. There should also be a proper mechanism to handle the returns too. The delivery options must be diversified and provide various price options to choose from. The organizations must try to cover as many shipping zones as possible.