Whether you are a business or an individual, hiring a courier service is a convenient way to send packages anywhere. In fact, the demand for courier services has risen due to the pandemic.
Moreover, demand for time-sensitive and high-end shipping for customers is set to increase due to increasing consumer spending. Because of the rising demand, courier services have used technology and innovative ways, such as electric scooters as couriers , to deliver goods more efficiently.
For the best possible shipping experience, customers must also do their part to maximise courier services. What do you need to do to find the right courier service and have your package delivered safe and sound?
This list of shipping do’s and don’ts will offer insight and reminders on what customers need to do when using a courier service.
DO: List Down Your Courier Options
As with any other initiative, you must check all the courier services available to you. If possible, list down all your courier options and the advantages of using their services.
If you are a retailer or e-commerce business, then this is a necessary step so that you can plan your shipping services and finances as well as find the right shipping partner for your needs.
After all, the courier service will be an extension of your customer service as they will be the one handing out your goods to your customers.
DON’T: Forget About Delivery Fees
While browsing for courier services, one of the factors that you should consider is delivery fees. If you are a business, taking a good look at the delivery fees and solutions of courier services will help you plan the basic finances for your business partnership.
Keep in mind that some services have all-in-one services. Meanwhile, others have inclusive charges for unique solutions, such as using electric scooters for light and quick deliveries. Overall, make sure that the delivery fees align with the right services so you can make informed decisions on your courier services.
DO: Choose A Courier With An Efficient Tracking System
Another important factor to consider is the efficiency of the courier’s tracking system. According to a 2018 Walker Sands study , only 30 per cent of consumers rate retailers as “excellent” when it comes to communicating the status of their order.
Today, efficient and real-time order tracking is necessary for convenience. If you are a retailer, then an efficient tracking system will allow you to provide updates to your customer whenever. This will make the delivery of products to customers convenient for you as well.
DON’T: Wrap Your Package Loosely
When you are sending an item or package, don’t just put everything in a box and give it to the courier. Make sure to wrap the goods carefully, tightly, and securely. If there are multiple items in a package, add extra protection by wrapping it in bubble wrap, especially fragile items.
Make sure that there’s also no space within the package so that the items don’t get tossed around while in transit. Since the goods are confidential, the courier service can’t pack the goods for you (unless they actually offer that service), so you have to secure your items yourself.
DO: Follow The Allowable Shipping Dimensions
Aside from securing your items properly, make sure to know the allowable dimensions and weight for your packages. Keep in mind that the size and weight of your package can affect the price of your shipping fee.
So, if you will be sending large items, prepare to pay high fees. In general, packages can be in the following size: up to 108 inches (274 cm) in length or 165 (419 cm) inches in length and girth combined.
DON’T: Skip Insurance
For businesses, it’s important to have insurance with your shipping services. In case of an accident or mishap, your business can be protected against any liability.
Now that more courier services are using micro-mobility devices for deliveries, they can be prone to risks and accidents on the road. Moreover, despite the latest tracking technology, miscommunications and mishaps are still likely to occur. Protect your business from liabilities just in case.
DO: Ensure Your Shipping Details Are Correct
Lastly, before handing off your packages to the courier, make sure that all shipping details are correct. By simply double-checking, you can ensure that it will not go to the wrong address and that you will be sending the right item to the recipient.
In ecommerce shipping, these types of mistakes often happen due to the bulk of orders being processed. Whether you’re an individual or a business, make it a habit to double-check your packages before sending them.
Do Partner With The Right Courier Service Provider!
After doing all of the tips above, everything is now in the hands of your courier service provider. If you have done ample research on a certain courier, then you can ensure that you will have a safe and hassle-free shipping experience.
Overall, partner with the right courier service provider to get the most from your shipping service and ensure that the person receiving your packages also receives a great shipping experience!