As an online retailer, you might find that your products are vastly different. You might sell a range of items, from lightweight clothing items to bulky furniture. This can be difficult to manage when it comes to delivery, and your business should really look at this in more detail to streamline the process.
Changing your shipping method can be difficult at times, especially if you are unaware of what to look for. Thankfully, this post outlines three of the key aspects to consider when shipping large and small products.
Prioritize Secure Packaging
No matter the size of your products, they will require secure packaging. This is vital to prevent damage from occurring, particularly during transit, as this can be costly if you need to replace items for customers. Packages are often subjected to bumps, drops, and vibrations during transit, but the right type of packaging can absorb shock and protect items from damage.
But the way your products are packaged might differ due to their size. All products will require a box that is appropriately sized, cushioning materials like bubble wrap or packaging peanuts, and strong tape to seal all seams. However, for heavier or larger items, reinforced materials or double boxing might be necessary to offer more protection. The weight should be distributed evenly, and palletizing can be used to provide extra stability.
Alternatively, if you sell fragile products, then additional cushioning might be useful. Each item should be wrapped individually before placing it in the box to prevent damage, especially if there are multiple items in the order. For businesses that frequently ship fragile items, it could be worthwhile to consider custom-fit foam inserts or molded packaging.
Explore Different Shipping Options
A tailored approach might be necessary when shipping large and small items; this can ensure the specific needs of each product are met. To do this, businesses might need to look at different delivery methods and services to find the best fit for the destination, size, and weight of their products. This is incredibly important to remember if you sell large items, like pieces of furniture, that require specialized handling.
Again, businesses should think about factors like destination, size, urgency, and weight when selecting a shipping method. Flat-rate or standard ground shipping options are good for small and lightweight products, but heavier items will often require freight shipping. While it can be possible to use separate shipping services, this can become confusing after a while, so it is encouraged to find a courier that meets all of your needs.
Some shipping services do have the capacity to offer delivery for small and large items. For example, Detroit Couriers has a range of vehicles from sedans and cargo trucks to box trucks with lift gates, which can handle freight up to 10,000 lbs. This means that all manner of orders can be delivered by this one courier, simplifying the process for you.
Consider Offering Free Shipping
Although it can seem counterintuitive when shipping larger items, offering free shipping can have several benefits for a business. Free shipping is a significant incentive for online shoppers, with many consumers actively seeking out retailers who offer it. It was found that 60% of shoppers want free shipping from online businesses, meaning you could see an increase in sales if you offer it.
Offering free shipping doesn’t mean the price of shipping shouldn’t be calculated in the overall cost of the product, though. You can increase the cost of the items you sell slightly, covering the cost of shipping without the customer knowing, or you might only offer free shipping for items below a certain weight or size.
To conclude, there are many aspects to consider when selling big and small products. One key area to look at is the shipping of these items. As discussed in this post, there are three main considerations to prioritize to ensure your items, no matter the size, are shipped effectively and safely.
