When it comes to superior shipping solutions for Australian small businesses, it is not only important to get your package delivered on time to your customers, but it is also imperative to be clever and intuitive when it comes to selecting the ideal packaging materials and sizes. This will ensure the goods will not only arrive safely but also does not cost the earth by using wasteful materials which end up in landfill.
Shipping challenges
Products from different industries come in all shapes and sizes, with some being easy to ship and other products which are more challenging to deliver. Whether they are a unique shape, size or are fragile, some items may require extra packaging internally to ensure they are given some shockability as well as robust double or triple walled carton for the outer packaging.
Shipping errors can be a very costly exercise but planning and executing it correctly from the outset will set an invaluable foundation for your small business.
For example, you need to be aware that if you are shipping a product that is an odd shape, you will be charged for the whole space the item takes on the truck, from the widest, deepest and highest point.
Brand aesthetic
Don’t underestimate the value of good packaging when you deliver products. With the perfect balance of colours, materials and labelling, the packaging is the all-important prelude to what lies within the box.
The packaging is one of the enhancers of the customer experience. It is fundamental that you align your product packaging with all the other elements of your brand, including your website and your product. Selecting premium packaging for delivery is a tell-tale sign that the product will also be up there in the quality stakes. They go hand in hand.
Packing solutions
Packaging suppliers have a wide range of products available to ensure you have everything you require so your items are packed with enough protection to withstand shipping.
Heavier items need new, strong sturdy cartons with internal packaging like foam or peanut shells or biodegradable peanuts. Bubble wrapping also provides a good buffer between the outer carton and the internal goods.
If you are enticed into taking shipping short cuts, think about the suite of shortcomings that your small business may likely experience. This includes your time consumed in having to deal with a damaged product, re-shipping replacement items at your expense, loss of margin due to damages or tarnished brand reputation.
You will find the extra few dollars you invest in additional packaging will provide the piece of mind you need to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Keeping it lean and green
Reducing plastics and minimising landfill rubbish is another consideration when deciding on which packaging to use for shipping.
Products like “wood wool” mushroom mycelium is an alternative to plastics and foams. Another thing to think about when designing your packaging is if the packaging can be repurposed by the receiver. Perhaps consider an incentive program that would encourage the receiver to return the packaging to be re-used.
Don’t box up your ideas
Whether you decide to use corrugated boxes, padded mailers, envelopes, or bags when shipping, make sure you take the time and care to make the delivery part of the shopping experience for your customer a positive one. This will amplify the chances of them coming back to you again and again.
It does not matter how much innovative marketing and alluring website design is presented to a customer, if the order shows up damaged and late, that is the last impression that a small business needs to combat.
Steve Visic, Director of Sales, Smart Send
