No matter how small a business is, they have a chance to grow and become prolific if owners provide the best shipping services to deliver goods to their customers. In recent years, online shopping has become prominent enticing customers from all over the world. Because of this trend, businesses need efficient and guaranteed shipping services more than ever. Fortunately, reputable companies have stepped up to their level to offer efficient shipping at an affordable price.
Here are time-tested alternative shipping methods you should avail for your small business.
Shipping Small Items
In choosing a courier, one crucial consideration is the size of your package. In shipping small and lightweight items, the United States Postal Services (USPS) is the name everybody trusted. USPS has conveniently delivered boxes below five pounds. Moreover, they are famous for their cheaper shipping fees ranging from $6.95 for a Priority Mail envelope (arrives in one to three business days) to $19.95 for a large box.
They offer various additional service options for different package types. Also, customers can quickly locate their pick up and drop off points.
For Larger Shipments
United Parcel Service (UPS) has a good reputation for delivering larger shipments that are at least 20 pounds. Be assured that even the best American-made drones will arrive safely at your doorstep at the shipping cost that suits your budget. UPS offers reasonable prices in sending a 20-pound package.
Small businesses can choose appropriate shipment packages such as guaranteed day-definite ground delivery, overnight, two-day, and three-day air delivery, and international delivery to over 220 countries and territories. You also need not worry as all shipments automatically get insurance of up to $100. You can also keep track of your packages via Quantum View software.
For Timely Shipments
For speedy deliveries, many businesses trust Federal Express. FedEx offers various shipping options like cross-country same-day shipping, overnight shipping, two-day and three-day shipping, and regular ground delivery within one to four business days. These services are available for packages shipped either locally or internationally.
If you choose FedEx, consider that the company has slightly fewer service locations than UPS. There is an additional sending fee if you think receiving your package directly to your place of business. FedEx also caters to deliveries even on Saturdays, which UPS cannot do.
For International Shipments
Shipments internationally via DHL has been convenient as it can reach up to 220 countries and territories. It also has 2.6 million customers who regularly use the method, thus gaining its advantage over other couriers. Their quote generator online makes it convenient for business owners to estimate the package’s cost before sending it. Setting prices for each package vary considering its dimension, weight, and destination. Even without a DHL account, you can always choose to pay for the shipping fee online and scheduled pickups or order supplies.
You may also need to purchase different insurance options depending on your package. DHL guarantees shipping the package within 3-8 business days worldwide.
Small businesses can now extend their horizons and dream big with fast, secure, and efficient delivery options. To arrive at the best shipping choice, try using the shipping rate comparison software to avail of discounted shipping rates for regular weekly or monthly shipping. These software programs also allow you to view essential functions such as package and shipment tracking, printing labels, processing returns, highlighting trends, and generating reports.
Before shipping, you may also consider other factors affecting the secured shipping of your package. These factors may include standard return policies and processes, the price you want to charge to your customers, your company’s packaging and branding practices, creating a shipping strategy and popular shipping tools.
Usually, you want to charge your customers a reasonable price for shipping so that they will come back and shop more in your store.
Free shipping options are the most attractive that you can give to your customers even if they have to wait longer. Your customers may want to add more products to your shipping carts to avail of this advantage in free shipping.
Flat rate shipping is also an attractive feature. However, this option only works if your products are similar in size and shipping rates.
Real-time rates are also appealing and are appropriate for oversized items, specialized products, and B2B business. Merchants using real-time rates also have the advantage of not overcharging or undercharging customers, thus arriving at a fair deal.
You may also want to focus on branding and product packaging. These days, customers flaunt their online purchases on social media, from unboxing to their first few days of experience. Thus, it would help if you made a good impression on your product. Invest in stickers, handwritten notes, and other freebies. Also, consider gaining more online visibility by selling your products in multi-channels, using multiple carriers, and investing in reliable shipping software to guarantee customer satisfaction.