Choosing and implementing effective shipping strategies is critical to the success of any eCommerce firm. Because your business’s growth primarily depends on customer satisfaction, investing in effective eCommerce shipping solutions is critical.
At I-Fulfilment, we ship thousands of orders daily from our warehouse, using integrated technology to keep brands and customers updated throughout the process. Here, we’ll review how to develop an effective eCommerce fulfillment and shipping strategy.
Why eCommerce Shipping is More Important than Ever
Customers demand quick, reliable deliveries as well as updates on the status of their orders. Furthermore, a few customers focus their purchasing decisions on shipping costs and practicality, making delivery a competitive differentiation. With the right shipping strategy in place, you can:
Improve Customer Experience
Setting clear expectations with your delivery approach ensures customers have a consistent and unforgettable shopping experience. Remember to be transparent about delivery delays, natural disasters, carrier delays, the impact of peak volume, and anything else that may hold up your customers’ products.
Increase Your Average Order Value
Promotions and shipping offers are wonderful strategies to entice customers to buy more and can significantly raise your average order value. For example, you may provide free shipping with a minimum purchase of certain items or for a limited time.
Expand Your Business
With an international shipping strategy in place, you can sell to more people in more locations around the world, allowing your business to continue to grow.
Increase Your Conversions
When buyers know what to expect at a reasonable price, they are more likely to complete their purchase. Giving clients options boosts sales—you can offer them a choice of carrier, time frame for delivery, and even fulfillment methods, such as local and international delivery.
eCommerce Shipping Methods and Strategies
The best ecommerce shipping strategy for your business will be determined by your target audience, budget, profit margins, product, and several other factors.
Providing a variety of fast and low-cost delivery options can assist in reducing shopping cart abandonment and enhance conversions. Here are the shipping methods to consider as part of your shipping strategy.
1. Two-day shipping
This type of premium delivery may appear to be available to eCommerce giants, but there are ways for businesses to provide 2-day shipping to their clients without breaking the budget. Maintaining well-stocked local warehouses in strategic locations near major cities. These warehouses hold a variety of high-demand products, allowing businesses to fulfill orders quickly and without the need for long-distance shipping.
2. Same-day delivery
Same-day delivery guarantees that your order will be delivered on the same day it was ordered. 61% of buyers are willing to pay more for this faster shipping option. However, implementing this service requires a robust logistics infrastructure, including efficient fulfillment centers and reliable transportation partners.
3. Overnight shipping
Overnight shipping guarantees delivery of orders within one business day, typically used for the holiday season and last-minute gift purchases. While it enhances customer satisfaction, it typically comes at a higher cost, so it’s essential to evaluate the feasibility based on your budget and profit margins.
4. Expedited shipping
These shipping options accelerate the delivery process, usually within 1-3 business days. It provides a faster alternative to standard shipping methods, catering to customers who are willing to pay a premium for quicker delivery.
5. International shipping
Expanding your reach to international markets, like in the US, requires experienced fulfillment partners who can help you navigate complex logistical regulations. It involves additional considerations such as customs clearance, duties, and shipping regulations, so thorough planning and compliance are necessary.
6. Eco-friendly shipping
Adopting eco-friendly shipping practices, such as using recyclable packaging materials and carbon-neutral shipping methods, aligns with sustainability initiatives and appeals to environmentally conscious consumers.
7. Hybrid shipping services
Hybrid shipping providers such as FedEx pick up your orders and then collaborate with other couriers like USPS to transfer your parcels to a sorting facility or post office, where they are shipped to their final destination. Choosing a hybrid shipping option can save on shipping expenses by up to 50% in some situations. However, the trade-off frequently results in slower delivery.
8. Freight shipping
Freight shipping is the transfer of cargo around the world by air, land, or sea. Freight is defined as any shipment that is large or bulky and weighs more than 150 pounds. eCommerce enterprises employ freight shipping to obtain merchandise from manufacturers and ship it to fulfillment centers or distributors.
International eCommerce Shipping Costs
International shipping costs vary greatly based on shipment distance, package weight, destination country, and other factors. Carriers calculate fees based on the following variables:
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Package weight and dimensions: Carriers frequently use dimensional weight pricing, which takes into factor both the package’s size and weight. Some companies provide flat-rate shipping for items with a specific dimension, regardless of weight.
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Destination country: Each country has its own customs charges, import fees, and taxes, which are often a percentage of the product’s worth.
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Shipping service: Standard, expedited, and express shipping services all have different prices.
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Customs verification: Some eCommerce shipments may require documentation to prevent delays and fines.
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Additional fees: Other charges may apply, including fuel surcharges, remote location taxes, handling fees, and insurance costs.
eCommerce Shipping Solutions with I-Fulfilment
I-Fulfilment offers comprehensive eCommerce solutions tailored to meet the needs of online businesses. From order fulfillment to delivery, I-Fulfilment streamlines the shipping process, ensuring a prompt and reliable service. With advanced technology capabilities and an expert team, we simplify eCommerce shipping, allowing businesses to focus on growth and customer satisfaction.
eCommerce Packaging
Effective packaging is a crucial aspect of eCommerce shipping, serving to protect products during transit and contributing to a positive unboxing experience for customers. I-Fulfilment offers packaging solutions that not only ensure the safety of items in transit, but also that reflect and reinforce your brand identity. By utilising durable materials and efficient packaging techniques, I-Fulfilment ensures that orders arrive intact, leaving a lasting positive impression on recipients.
Shipping Labels and International Requirements
Accurate shipping labels are essential for streamlined order processing and effective tracking. I-Fulfilment generates professional shipping labels containing precise details, such as addresses, tracking numbers, and delivery instructions. Moreover, our services include compliance with international shipping requirements and addressing aspects such as customs documentation and regulations. This ensures smooth cross-border shipping, allowing businesses to reach a global customer base with confidence.
Tracking Shipments and Returns
Transparent shipment tracking is fundamental for keeping customers informed about the status of their orders. I-Fulfilment integrates robust tracking systems that enable real-time monitoring of shipments from dispatch to delivery. Automated updates and notifications ensure that customers can easily track their packages, contributing to an enhanced shopping experience. Additionally, we simplify the returns process, facilitating seamless returns and exchanges for customers while ensuring efficient handling and restocking for businesses.
eCommerce Shipping Integrations & APIs
I-Fulfilment offers seamless integration with eCommerce platforms and shipping APIs, facilitating smooth data exchange and order processing. Through direct connections to your online store or marketplace, our ecommerce and warehouse management software, BladePRO synchronises order information in real-time, ensuring efficient order fulfillment and shipping. Customisable APIs allow businesses to tailor their shipping workflows according to their specific requirements, thereby enhancing efficiency and scalability.
Enhance your customer experience and streamline your operations. Contact us today and let I-Fulfilment be your trusted partner in eCommerce success.