Setting up an e-commerce business is challenging but keeping it running is a different kind of beast. It requires not only a lot of hard work and dedication but also significant knowledge of the unique pros and cons that come with being a part of this industry. One thing many beginner e-commerce entrepreneurs overlook is the importance of delivery services.
Offering a customer the shortest delivery time frame possible is often the difference between receiving an order and not hearing from them ever again. Simply put, if someone finds a competitor with a quicker delivery estimation, you just lost a client. For example, Nangs Melbourne delivery service offers guaranteed delivery in under one hour across the city – you need to be able to compete with that if you sell products in the same niche.
Similarly, if the delivery company you work with has a bad reputation, it can put your customers off, further reducing your conversion rate. That being said, it is wise to take a closer look at the role delivery services to play in today’s world of e-commerce and establish just how much they can alter the shopping experience.
What are delivery services?
Delivery services are external companies that help e-commerce businesses deliver goods to their customers. These can be postal services, for example, or courier companies. Delivery services often provide a customized solution for each client, which is one reason why they are so popular.
In fact, a study published in 2014 has shown that 60% of German consumers and 44% of French consumers purchased physical and virtual goods online at least once in 2013. According to the same study, there is a rapid development of alternative parcel delivery services in Europe, indicating that this industry is still growing.
Why do online stores need delivery services?
Although many online stores would love to handle the logistical side of their business themselves, it’s simply not possible. The main reason is that depending on the number of products and clients you have, the list of things you need to keep in mind when it comes to delivering your products is usually too long to handle alone.
First off, there’s the matter of finding a reliable shipping company that will ensure your product arrives on time and in good condition. Next is deciding how fast you want your product to get to your client.
Then, you need to make sure you keep track of each delivery manually or use an app that can automate the process and keep track of statistics. Finally, you have to ensure that all of your deliveries are insured in case something goes wrong during transit.
With all these tasks at hand, it is easy to see why so many online stores rely on third-party delivery services. If you wish to avoid losing clients due to slow shipping or negative customer experience, it might be better for your business if you delegate this part of your day-to-day business operations.
It might be a bit more expensive than doing everything yourself at first, but it will surely pay off in the long run. And who knows? You might even discover a great deal on shipping rates!
How do e-commerce businesses find reliable delivery services?
Finding an ideal delivery service provider can be a daunting task. Still, with enough research, it can be done easily enough.
If you wish to find one, the first thing you should do is to check if any other businesses in your local area use one as well. This way, you will know what they offer, how they operate, and whether or not they are suitable for your own needs. Then again, if you want something tailor-made and unique, this might not be the best option for you.
Regardless of what kind of service you choose, though, don’t just go with the first one that pops up on Google – there are plenty of unreliable companies out there, so make sure to do some additional research before hiring one.
Another thing you should do is ask your existing customers what they think of your current delivery process. The more feedback you receive, the better. Moreover, even negative feedback should be taken with a grain of salt, even if it might simply be an isolated case and not indicative of the company’s work as a whole.
And finally, if you’re looking for a specific delivery service provider for your business (as opposed to one that’s just good for your area), there are plenty of online directories that can help you find what you need. This way, you can find the delivery services provider that suits your business needs best!
As you can see, delivery services can play a major role in the success or failure of an e-commerce business. When used correctly, they can be a great addition to your products and services and help you significantly increase your company’s revenue. However, if used improperly or without proper research, they can break your business.
To avoid such an outcome, make sure to consider all the options and do your research before hiring a delivery service provider. Whether you decide to use delivery services for your entire business or simply for select deliveries, it is essential to have this option available to you at all times. It will not only help you provide a better service to your clients but also save you time and money in the long run.