Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, online orders have skyrocketed. More people than ever are doing business via the internet, avoiding public places at all costs. Since so many people have gotten used to this since the pandemic started, it’s likely that the trend will continue even after the pandemic is over. If your company has experienced an increase in its shipping quantities, it may be time to adjust your shipping practices.
Create an Online Account
If you haven’t already done so, create an online shipping account for your business with the companies you use the most. You will also need to purchase a shipment scale to assist you in properly weighing your items. Most companies, such as USPS and UPS, offer discounts for customers who weigh their items and print their own labels. Once you have prepared your packages for shipment, simply schedule a pickup time and location or drop it off at the post office or other shipping facility.
Purchase Shipping Supplies in Bulk
If you were not doing much shipping before, you probably haven’t been buying your supplies in bulk. You can get wholesale discounts on shipping products when purchasing in bulk. Not only will this lower your shipping costs, but you can also extend those savings to your customers.
Hire a Logistics Company
If you are shipping out large amounts of merchandise, it may be time to consider hiring a logistics company. A third-party logistics company will help ensure that you are using the most beneficial shipping means possible by incorporating intermodal drayage.
Intermodal drayage is carried out by carefully planning your shipping route and methods. Your logistics manager will look at the route and decide on the fastest way to get your merchandise to its destination. Sometimes this can include boat, truck, train, and plane all in one trip.
While it may seem like a daunting task, an experienced logistics company will be able to execute it properly, giving you peace of mind, so you can focus on more important aspects of your company.
Rearrange Your Warehouse
Organization is very important when shipping large quantities. If your current layout isn’t efficient, you should create a new plan for your warehouse, making it easier for your employees to find each item. If organization is not one of your strengths, you can hire someone to come in and rearrange your storeroom.
While you may not have focused much on shipping practices in the past, it’s time to rethink the way you handle online orders. By making a few small changes, you can create a faster, easier shipping method for your business.
