When you’re running an e-commerce business, shipping is a big deal. It’s not just getting products from point A to point B; it’s making sure your customers have a smooth experience from start to finish. But there are some common shipping mistakes that can easily slip under the radar.
Here are 3 of the big ones—and how you can avoid them.
Not Offering Enough Shipping Options
Chances are you’ve seen the frustration from customers who feel like their only option is standard shipping, which can take forever. People expect fast delivery, and if they don’t see options that work for them, they might just abandon their cart and look elsewhere.
How to avoid it?
Offer a range of shipping options. This can include express shipping, free shipping for orders over a certain amount, or even local pick-up if you have a physical store or partner with a local hub. Letting your customers choose how fast they want their items means you’re more likely to meet their expectations.
Underestimating Shipping Costs
We’ve all been there: you’re excited about making a sale, but when it comes time to ship, the costs are higher than you expected. This can lead to surprise fees, delays, or even price changes that leave customers feeling frustrated and confused. Underestimating your shipping costs can eat into your margins and hurt your reputation.
How to avoid it?
Do your homework. Use a reliable shipping calculator to get accurate quotes based on weight, size, and destination. Plus, factor in packaging materials, as these can add up quickly. And if you’re dealing with larger orders or bulk deliveries for example, research and include costs for freight unloading services in your calculations. Some businesses even build these costs into the price of the product to offer “free” shipping, but it’s important to be transparent with your customers about how you handle shipping fees.
Lack of Clear Tracking Information
Few things are worse than ordering something online and having no clue where it is. If a customer gets an order confirmation but no tracking details, they’re left in the dark—and probably annoyed. If a shipment is delayed or lost, not having clear tracking info makes the situation even worse.
How to avoid it?
Always send tracking information as soon as it’s available. Also, be sure to have a process in place for handling lost or delayed shipments. Customers are more likely to be understanding if they know you’re actively working on a solution.
Shipping might seem like a small part of your e-commerce business, but it plays a big role in customer satisfaction. By offering a variety of shipping options, accurately calculating costs (including freight unloading services when necessary), and providing clear tracking information, you’ll be able to avoid common shipping mistakes.
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