Over the last 5 years, online shopping sales have increased by almost 300% here in Canada, making it a lucrative space for store owners– as long as they can get their shipping strategy right.
Whether you're selling handmade crafts on Etsy or running a full-fledged eCommerce store, your shipping strategies play a crucial role in your eCommerce revenue.
In this article, we'll dive into the importance of selecting the best shipping solution, the key factors to consider when making this decision, the various cost-effective shipping options available to you, as well as some key shipping tips to take your business to the next level.
Importance of Finding the Right Shipping Option
Your choice of shipping solution can have a profound impact on customer behaviour and your own experience as a business owner. Here are some key things to consider:
1. Influence on Customer Behaviour
Shipping has become an integral part of the online shopping experience, often influencing purchasing decisions.
According to a recent survey by Baymard Institute, unexpected shipping costs are the leading cause of cart abandonment, with 58% of shoppers leaving their carts due to high shipping fees. On the other hand, offering reasonable or even free shipping can incentivize customers to complete their purchases and even buy more.
The expectations are getting higher, and customers today demand transparency and real-time tracking. Reliable shipping services that provide tracking information help build trust and confidence among your customers, fostering repeat business and positive reviews.
2. Impact on Business Owner
As a small business owner, your time is precious (and often limited). Managing small business shipping logistics can quickly become overwhelming, taking time away from other critical aspects of your business, such as product development, customer service, and marketing.
Choosing the right shipping solution with the most efficient shipping strategies out there can streamline your operations, allowing you to focus on what you do best.
How Do I Know What Method Of Shipment Is Best For Me
Before you choose a shipping solution, consider the following factors to ensure it aligns with your business needs:
1. Order Volume
The volume of orders you receive plays a significant role in determining the most suitable shipping solution. If you're just starting out or have a low order volume, standard carriers like Canada Post, FedEx, or UPS might be suitable. They offer convenience, reliability, and a range of shipping options to cater to different customer preferences.
2. Destinations
Consider where you're shipping to. Are you mainly shipping domestically, internationally, or both? Some carriers excel at international shipping, while others might have a stronger domestic network.
3. Delivery Timeframes
The delivery timeframes you offer can impact customer satisfaction. If you promise fast shipping, ensure your chosen solution can deliver on that promise consistently.
4. Required Packaging
Certain products require specific packaging to ensure their safety during transit. Fragile items might need extra padding, while clothing could require poly mailers. Make sure your chosen solution accommodates your packaging needs.
5. Package Dimensions and Weight
Shipping costs are often influenced by package dimensions and weight. Consider your product range and ensure your chosen solution offers cost-effective shipping options for varying package sizes.
6. Package Tracking
Real-time package tracking is a must for modern customers because it provides transparency and peace of mind. Look for a solution that offers reliable tracking features.
What Shipping Options Should I use
Now that you understand what to consider, let's explore the different shipping options available to your small business:
Standard Carriers
Standard carriers like Canada Post, FedEx, and UPS are familiar names in the shipping industry. The range of shipping services they offer, from standard ground shipping to expedited options may be suitable for your business if you have a low order volume and mainly serve local customers.
These carriers are sure to provide convenience and reliability, ensuring your packages reach your customers on time.
3PL Partners
A third-party logistics (3PL) partner can be a game-changer for small businesses experiencing growth. These companies specialize in order fulfillment and shipping logistics, so they can warehouse your products, pick and pack orders, and handle the entire shipping process.
For instance, here at eShipper, we offer fulfillment solutions tailored to your business needs. This option is especially beneficial if you're shipping over 100 orders per month or dealing with distant customers.
As your business expands, managing fulfillment in-house can become overwhelming. Outsourcing this aspect to a 3PL like us as a partner can save you time, reduce shipping costs, improve customer satisfaction, and allow you to focus on growing your business.
Bottom Line
Finding the best small business shipping solution for you is not a decision to be taken lightly. It has the power to shape customer behaviour, impact your time as a business owner, and ultimately determine the success of your business.
Consider factors like order volume, destinations, delivery timeframes, packaging needs, package dimensions, and tracking features. Depending on your business's stage and requirements, standard carriers or a partnership with a 3PL provider like eShipper might be the ideal fit.
If you're ready to take your shipping strategy to the next level and explore the benefits of partnering with a 3PL provider, get in touch with us today.
