Packaging is an often overlooked aspect of e-commerce business, even among larger companies.
Perhaps larger businesses can afford to pack their products haphazardly and still make a profit, but if you’re just getting started, or you’re still a relatively new business, you’ll want to ensure that you aren’t spending more on packaging than you need to.
But make no mistake – this is something every e-commerce business should be taking a closer look at, regardless of what their profit margin is.
You need to make your customers a top priority when you value the longevity of your business.
Let’s take a look at the importance of packaging your product in the right package:
Ensure Smooth Delivery Of The Product
The goal of fulfillment is to get the product in the hands of the customer safe and sound.
When you use the right boxes and material for protection, you’ll be better able to live up to the standards of your customers.
When you overload your packages, you’ll rack up additional expenses, and if you use the wrong kind of packaging, orders may arrive broken or damaged.
This is why it’s a good idea to create systems and procedures for your warehouse team, so they know exactly how to pack each and every item in your inventory.
Save On Fulfillment Costs
Are you constantly sending out orders in boxes that are too big?
This is a surefire way to increase your expenses, as you may need to use additional materials just to keep contents secure. Moreover, shipping costs can be affected by the size of the package or box.
When you want to save on fulfillment costs, you’ll need to have customized packaging options for all of the products in your inventory. This can take time to figure out, so stay with the process if you’re serious about streamlining overhead.
Mitigate Returns & Exchanges
Once products arrive at the door of your customer’s homes damaged or broken, then you will inevitably have to process more returns and exchanges. This may not be a huge concern if you have a dedicated department to handle these contingencies, but a high number of returns and exchanges will reflect badly on your business.
By simplifying and thinking strategically about your packaging methods, you can cut down on unnecessary expenses related to returns and exchanges.
You may have to deal with some no matter how organized you are, but there won’t be so many that your reputation is hurt indefinitely.
Get Your Branding Right & Create A Great Impression
You have the option of creating a positive association with your company’s brand by developing customized boxes and packages, complete with your logo.
But it is good to keep in mind that this could incur additional costs, and if orders aren’t delivered on time, you’re not going to create happy and loyal customers. You may as well use generic boxes if you can’t ensure speedy fulfillment.
Nevertheless, it’s good to be aware that you have the opportunity to create a positive reputation with your customers by using customized packaging.
Final Packaging for Safe Shipping Thoughts
Packaging is just one aspect of the picking, packing and shipping process, but it is one of the most important ones to be thinking about – especially if you’re looking to save on fulfillment costs.
Today, there are many innovations in packaging, and there is more opportunity than ever to find affordable and effective packing solutions.
If you aren’t sure what your warehouse team is up to, it may be a good idea to do a thorough audit of your processes and systems. When you take the time to understand exactly how things are being done, it can lead to breakthroughs and innovation.
But outsourcing can also be worthwhile since experienced teams are sure to have effective practices in place for packaging. Your goal then would be to find professionals that you can trust.
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Get More Insight into Safe Shipping and Fragile Packaging at the Links Below
- Are Your Products Let Down By Their Packaging?
- RePack: A Solution for Packaging Management
- How to Maximize Cost Savings and Storage
- Products Packaging Optimization and Branding
- The Benefits Of Eco-Friendly Shipping for Your Ecommerce Business
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