While negotiating rates and researching shipping options will help you create an effective shipping strategy, there are a number of tips and tricks that SMBs can implement to keep shipping costs low and not let them become a barrier to success.
Choose the right size for your packages . It's not a good idea to send half-empty boxes everywhere, so reduce the size and weight of your packages and choose boxes that fit your products well.
Use inexpensive materials . Cardboard is a heavyweight packaging material, so use plastic mailers or other lightweight packaging whenever possible. For filler, consider lightweight alternatives such as air pillows, packing paper, bubble wrap, foam fillers, Versa-Pak filler rolls, and wood chips.
Sign up for a flat rate shipping plan whenever possible . Flat rates are almost always the most cost-effective, especially if you ship a lot of domestically. Flat rates allow you to better predict your costs, since no matter what type of package you ship or its dimensions and weight, the price will always be the same.
Offer in-store delivery and in-store or pick-up . The cheapest option is to have it delivered to your store or even to a pick-up point designated by the courier company. For a small business, a local courier service is a great way to connect with customers near you, boost your sales, and provide a great experience for your customers.
Finding the cheapest way to ship a package can be a simple process of trial and error, especially as you get used to the options, shipping methods, and courier companies, while seeing where most of your sales come from.
It may be a bit difficult at first, but once you have a solid shipping strategy and find shipping rates that work for you and your customers, you'll start spending less time managing losses and more time growing your business.
Frequently asked questions about cheap ecommerce shipping
What is the cheapest way to ship?
The cheapest way to ship a package will depend on canadian cell phone number factors such as size or weight, as well as distance and delivery time. Generally speaking, larger courier companies tend to have more stable prices and local courier services tend to have better deals.
How much does it cost to ship?
The cost of shipping a package will depend on its size, weight, destination and shipping method. The exact cost will depend on the size and weight of the package, its destination and the type of service contracted.
Is it cheaper to send a package with Correos or UPS?
It depends on the size and weight of the package, as well as the distance it needs to travel. Generally speaking, Correos is cheaper for smaller packages or domestic shipments of light packages, while UPS is usually cheaper for large packages sent to more distant locations.
What is the process of sending a package?
Prepare your package: Gather the necessary items, such as boxes, packing materials, labels and tape, as well as the products to be shipped. Make sure to pack them properly.
Calculate shipping costs: Determine the size and weight of your package and find out how much it will cost to ship it.
Please provide the package address: Please provide the complete address of the recipient of the package, including name, street, city, region and postal code.
Select the shipping service: Decide which service you would like to use, whether it is Correos, UPS, FedEx, etc.
Ship the package: Take the package to the chosen courier service and pay for the shipping. They will provide you with a tracking number that you can use to track the package.
Track your package: Use the tracking number to track your package online or through the courier service app.