eCommerce is a concept that dates back to the early 1980s, but it has grown exponentially since its inception. Between then and now, the industry has grown nearly 23% every single year. Today, consumers can buy almost anything online and have it delivered to their front door. For businesses that participate in eCommerce, choosing the correct packaging is essential to ensure that everything arrives safely. What do you need to know when creating shipping solutions for eCommerce?
First, you need to choose the correct packaging for your products. You’ll need to consider a number of variables, including:
Modern eco-friendly shipping trends will also play into your choices. Instead of relying on cardboard, Styrofoam and plastic, it’s becoming increasingly important to use recycled cardboard and paper as well as biodegradable materials rather than options that will just end up in the landfill.
Next, you need to consider the kind of shipping methods you’ll offer. Some standard methods might include standard delivery, same-day delivery, timed delivery — which starts early, between 9 and 10:30 a.m., and ends at the end of the business day — or free in-store pickup. This last option only works if you also have brick-and-mortar locations that customers can visit rather than a strictly digital storefront. LTL freight carriers are also an option.
Finding the best shipping rates for an eCommerce business is essential. Fortunately, a variety of options are available for you to choose from, so you can find the best option for your business. Available options include:
The shipping rates you choose will depend on the individual needs of your business. Do some research to see which style is right for you before you make a decision.
International shipping can be challenging, especially when you have to take duties and extra expenses into account. To determine if international shipping is right for you — and whether you can afford to accept international orders — ask yourself the following questions:
You’ll also need to contend with customs, tariffs and duties when shipping internationally. Using an incorrect tariff code can lead to higher duties and taxes or to your shipment being delayed. You’ve got two options when it comes to ensuring duties and taxes are paid — delivery duty paid, where the seller is responsible for them, and delivery duty unpaid, where the customer is responsible for all the duties and taxes.
Shipping is the backbone of an eCommerce site. Making sure you’re using the right carrier for you is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make as a business owner. Consider a few things when you’re choosing a carrier, including:
Finally, you need to consider insurance and tracking. Both are relatively inexpensive but offer a great deal of security for both you and your customers. Shipping insurance will protect you if the package is lost or damaged in transit. Tracking will allow both you and the customer to track the package and ensure that it reaches its destination safely.
eCommerce will continue to be a large part of the retail industry for many years to come. Choosing the correct shipping solutions can mean the difference between success and failure for businesses both small and large.
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