The Best Ecommerce Shipping Solutions to Use for Ecommerce Merchants

The rise of online buying has revolutionized the way people purchase products. As such, shipping solutions have become a crucial component of the ecommerce sector.

Finding the ideal shipping solution for your company as an online retailer can be difficult. There are many things to consider, including price, dependability, quickness, and scalability. Here is an overview of the top e-commerce shipping options.

What Is E-commerce Shipping: The E-commerce Shipping Process Explained

Ecommerce shipping is the procedure used to transport customers’ online-purchased goods. It includes the infrastructure and logistical processes necessary to complete an e-commerce transaction and transfer a product from a vendor to a buyer.

Order fulfillment, packing, label creation, carrier selection, and delivery tracking are typical stages in the e-commerce shipping procedure. The order fulfillment process begins when the seller gets the order information through their website and starts preparing and packaging the product.

The customer’s location and the carrier’s tracking number get included on the shipping label. Next, the merchandise is shipped to the carrier’s hub or sorting facility by the seller after choosing a carrier for delivery.

The product finally gets delivered to the customer’s doorstep, and the customer can check the delivery status using the tracking number the seller gave.

The e-commerce shipping procedure significantly affects the user experience and can impact a seller’s standing and financial success. Sellers must select dependable carriers and streamline their shipping procedures to guarantee prompt and affordable deliveries.

Ecommerce Shipping Methods and Strategies

E-commerce shipping methods and strategies play a crucial role in the success of online businesses. Online retailers must offer various shipping options catering to different delivery requirements and preferences to fulfill customers’ expectations.

There are two ways to figure out shipping costs for online purchases. The two methods are:

• Flat shipping rates
• Live shipping rates

Flat-rate shipping imposes a set price regardless of the package’s weight or final destination. Customers purchasing small items or seeking predictable shipping costs may choose flat rates.

On the other hand, live rates get determined by the package’s weight, location, and delivery option the customer selects. Live rates are more precise and can be a good choice for customers purchasing bulky or heavy items or requiring fast delivery.

Online merchants frequently offer free shipping. While some retailers offer free shipping on every transaction, others have minimum purchase requirements that customers must meet. Although it can be expensive for retailers, offering free shipping to consumers can be an excellent way to encourage them to purchase.

A package can be shipped using either ground shipment or expedited shipping. Ground shipping can still be a good choice for customers who quickly receive their package, even though it is usually slower and less expensive than expedited shipping.

On the other hand, expedited shipping is more costly but faster than ground shipping. Customers who need their packages to arrive quickly may find this a good choice.

How to Calculate Your E-commerce Shipping Costs

The size, weight, location of the shipment, and delivery method you select all play a role in determining your e-commerce shipping costs. Here are some steps to assist you in figuring out your shipping expenses for online purchases.

1. Choose Your Carriers – It’s critical to pick carriers that fit your needs and budget while also providing services, rates, and delivery times that are compatible with your needs and goals as a company.
   Take into account the dimensions and weight of your shipments. Consider using postal services like USPS or Canada Post if you offer small, light items. On the other hand, consider using freight services like FedEx Freight or UPS Freight for more extensive and heavier goods. Additionally, contrast the fees and prices charged by various carriers. Every carrier has a different pricing system, so picking one that provides affordable rates for your particular shipping requirements is crucial.
2. Determine the Shipping Rates and Methods – Each shipping company provides various options. They include ground, expedited, and overnight shipping. To determine which shipping option best suits your requirements, weigh the delivery time, cost, and dependability.
3. Measure Your Package Size and Weight – To receive an exact shipping cost estimate, precisely measuring your package’s size and weight is essential. Measure the box’s length, width, and height to determine its cubic size. Then, multiply those three measurements to determine the package’s volume. Next, place the product on the scale to determine its weight, then note it in pounds or kilograms. Once you know your package’s size and weight, you can use this data to determine your e-commerce shipping expenses. Numerous shipping companies provide online calculators that use this data to give you an idea of the shipping cost. As an alternative, you can request a quote straight from the carrier.
4. Determine the Origin and Destination of Your Package – Calculating your shipping costs for online purchases requires knowing the origin and destination of your package. It means specifying the locations from and to which your product will get transported. The shipping expense will increase as the distance between the origin and destination increases.
5. Choose Your Packaging Options – You must consider your goods’ dimensions and weight when selecting your packaging options. Use a giant box or packaging material to protect your package during transit if they are heavy or bulky. You may also require to select various packaging materials depending on the nature of your goods. For instance, when shipping, you must use materials like bubble wrap or foam padding to secure fragile items. Use insulated packaging to keep perishable products fresh during transportation if you’re shipping them.
6. Calculate Your Shipping Costs – To determine how much shipping will cost, use the carrier’s online calculator and input the package’s dimensions, weight, and shipping method. To assist you in controlling your shipping expenses and streamlining the shipping procedure, consider using shipping management software or a third-party logistics provider.

How to Track E-commerce Shipments and Returns

Tracking shipments is an essential part of e-commerce, and many software tools are available to help businesses track their shipments effectively. Integrated shipping software can help companies to automate their shipping and tracking process.

These software tools integrate with multiple carriers and provide real-time tracking updates to clients.

How to Track Outbound Shipments

Here’s how to track shipments for your e-commerce enterprise.

• Use Shipping Software – You can monitor your shipments using shipping software such as Shippo, ShipStation, or EasyPost from when they leave your warehouse until they reach their destination. It offers up-to-date details on your packages’ whereabouts, condition, and scheduled arrival time and integrates with multiple carriers.
• Carrier Tracking – Utilizing a specific tracking number given to each package by the shipping company, such as UPS, FedEx, or DHL, is how carrier tracking works. When a package is delivered, the carrier gives it a tracking number, scans it into its system, and records it. The package then gets tracked using this tracking number as it travels through the carrier’s network of sorting locations and transportation vans.
• Automated Email Notifications – Automated email updates inform your customers about their shipments’ status, which helps decrease customer queries and raise customer satisfaction.
• Order Management Systems (OMS) – An order management system is essential for businesses that must efficiently manage their orders and shipments. It allows companies to streamline their shipping processes, minimize errors, and reduce the time it takes to fulfill orders. By providing real-time tracking information, an OMS can improve customer satisfaction by giving customers visibility into the shipment’s progress and expected delivery date.

How to Track and Handle Returns

Managing returns can be a difficult job. However, with proper planning and execution, you can handle the process successfully. Here are some actions you can take to manage refunds effectively.

• Provide a Clear Return Policy – Your return policy should be clear and concise. It should include details such as the return timeline, the returned item’s condition, and the refund or exchange process.
• Automate the Return Process – Software solutions give customers an instantaneous means to initiate returns and monitor their development.
• Provide Prepaid Shipping Labels – To make the return process as simple as possible for your clients, offer them pre-paid shipping labels. Customer satisfaction will increase as a result, and the possibility of negative reviews will decrease.

Other Considerations for Optimizing the Ecommerce Shipping Strategy

Here are some other considerations that can impact the success of your shipping strategy.

• Profit Margin – Achieving a balance between exceeding customer standards and maximizing profitability is necessary when optimizing an ecommerce shipping strategy with margin in mind. Ensure the shipping fees you charge enables you to make a profit and cover the shipping and handling expense.
• Insurance – Shipping and freight insurance shields both the seller and the client from potential financial loss brought on by package theft, loss, or damage while in transport. Customers feel secure knowing their orders are insured thanks to shipping insurance. Insurance raises customer satisfaction, which encourages referrals and favorable online reviews.
• International Shipping – If you ship globally, learning about and comprehending each nation’s customs and shipping requirements is crucial. To account for varying shipping prices and times, consider giving foreign customers a variety of shipping methods.
• 3PL (Third-Party Logistics) Companies -You can improve delivery times, streamline your shipping procedure, and obtain better shipping rates with a 3PL. To optimize your shipping plan and save time and money, think about collaborating with a 3PL.

Create a Strategy for E-commerce International Shipping

Speaking of international shipping, it’s important to explain this complicated logistics challenge in more detail.

Expanding your e-commerce business internationally opens up new opportunities for growth and customer reach. However, before diving into international shipping, creating a well-informed strategy is crucial.

The strategy presented in this guide considers various factors to ensure a smooth and successful international shipping experience.  We’ll explore critical considerations, including determining target countries, preparing your website for different languages, learning country-specific rules and regulations, identifying restricted items, and estimating costs, fees, and timeframes.

By carefully analyzing these factors, you can optimize your international shipping operations and effectively cater to a global customer base.

Determine target countries

Decide which countries you want to target based on market research, customer demand, and shipping feasibility. Consider factors such as shipping costs, customs regulations, and potential customer base in each country.

Prepare your website for different languages

To cater to international customers, ensure your website can support multiple languages. You can use language translation tools or hire professional translators to provide customers with a seamless browsing and shopping experience worldwide.

Learn country-specific rules and regulations

Familiarize yourself with each target country’s customs regulations, import duties, taxes, and documentation requirements. This helps you process the complexities of international shipping and ensure compliance with local laws.

Identify restricted items

Different countries have varying restrictions on certain items. Review and update your product listings to reflect prohibited or restricted items that cannot be shipped to specific destinations.

Estimate costs, fees, and timeframes

Research and estimate shipping costs, including customs fees, duties, taxes, and delivery timeframes for each target country. This will help you set accurate customer expectations and plan your pricing and shipping strategies accordingly.

Choose the best couriers for international shipping

Selecting the best couriers for your e-commerce international shipping is crucial to ensure your products’ reliable and efficient delivery to customers worldwide. There are several courier options to consider. Here are some popular choices:

• FedEx: FedEx is known for its extensive global network and provides services for international shipping needs. In addition, they provide express shipping, reliable tracking, and customs clearance assistance.
• DHL: DHL is recognized for its substantial presence in international shipping. They offer various services, including express delivery, customs expertise, and comprehensive tracking capabilities.
• UPS: UPS is a well-established courier with a global reach. They provide shipping options, reliable tracking, customs support, and flexible delivery solutions for international shipments.
• Local postal services: In some cases, utilizing local postal services can be a cost-effective option for international shipping. While they may offer slower delivery times, they often provide affordable rates and convenient tracking services.

Other Considerations When Choosing Couriers

In this section, we explore some considerations to help guide your decision-making on selecting the best couriers for your international shipping needs.

• Service level options: Evaluate the range of services offered by each courier. Consider factors such as express shipping, tracking capabilities, insurance coverage, delivery guarantees, and the ability to handle customs clearance efficiently.
• Shipping zones: Check if the couriers cover your target countries and regions effectively. Consider the extent of their network coverage and whether they offer competitive rates for the destinations you plan to ship to.
• Customer reviews and reputation: Research customer reviews and gather feedback from other e-commerce merchants to assess the reliability and quality of each courier’s international e-commerce shipping services. Look for couriers with a strong track record in timely deliveries, package handling, and customer satisfaction.
• Customer support: Evaluate the level of customer support provided by the couriers. Consider factors such as responsiveness, assistance with shipping inquiries, and issue resolution capabilities. Prompt and reliable customer support can significantly enhance your shipping experience.

Ensure Your Packaging Is Prepared for Long-Distance Travel

Proper packaging is crucial for international shipping for your e-commerce business. Packaging is essential in securing your products during long-distance travel and ensuring they reach customers in optimal condition. Let us further discuss the importance of packaging in international shipping and provide tips to ensure your packaging is well-prepared. And we will touch upon other considerations, such as returns and insurance for international shipping.

• Protection: Packaging safeguards your products from damage, impacts, and environmental factors during transportation. It should be designed to withstand the rigors of long-distance travel.
• Customs compliance: Proper packaging ensures your products meet customs requirements and regulations. It allows for easy identification, inspection, and clearance by customs authorities.
• Branding and presentation: Packaging serves as an opportunity to reinforce your brand identity and create a positive impression on customers. Well-designed packaging can enhance the overall unboxing experience and leave a lasting impression.

Here are some tips for packaging in international shipping:

• Sturdy and protective materials: You should use high-quality packaging materials such as bubble wrap, corrugated boxes, packing peanuts, or air pillows to provide cushioning and protect your products from potential damage during transit.
• Proper labeling and documentation: Clearly label your packages with accurate shipping and return addresses and customs documentation. This helps ensure smooth customs clearance and prevents delays.
• Size and weight considerations: Be mindful of size and weight restrictions imposed by couriers. Oversized or hefty packages may incur additional fees or face logistical challenges during international shipping.
• Packaging design and branding: Incorporate your branding elements, such as logos and colors, into your packaging design. This helps create a cohesive and memorable brand experience for your customers.

Other international shipping considerations

To ensure successful international shipping, addressing factors like returns, insurance, and proper packaging is crucial. These considerations enhance customer satisfaction and protect your products during transit.

• Returns: Develop a transparent and customer-friendly return policy for international orders. Consider the potential complexities of international returns, including return shipping costs, customs procedures, and refund or exchange processes.
• Insurance: Assess the need for insurance coverage for international shipments. Insurance protects against loss, theft, or damage during transit. Determine if it’s necessary based on the value and nature of your products.
• Proper packaging: You can enhance your international shipping operations’ success and customer satisfaction by preparing your packaging for long-distance travel and considering other aspects, such as returns and insurance.

In addition, proper packaging protects your products, reinforces your brand image, and contributes to a positive customer experience throughout the shipping journey.

Final Thoughts on E-commerce Shipping for Online Brands

The best e-commerce shipping option for your company will rely on your specific needs and financial constraints. Consider your choices carefully and choose the one that will save you time and money while delivering a great customer experience.

Will Schneider

Will Schneider is the Co-Founder and CEO of WarehousingAndFulfillment.com. Previously, he served as CEO of RMC Fulfillment and Clear Stream Fulfillment within the 3PL industry. In addition, Will served as VP of Finance at NetQuote, a leading lead generation company in the insurance vertical. Will has an MBA from the University of Colorado and an undergrad in Accounting, Economics, and Political Science.

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