Welcome to Parcelconsulting
Welcome to Parcelconsulting
Shipping expenses are an unavoidable part of running an ecommerce business. While brick-and-mortar retailers can simply send customers on their way with items in hand, e-tailers must determine how products will get from the warehouse to the end customer. Then, the cost of shipping must be worked into the business budget, and it becomes more complicated for businesses that have a global (or, at least, multinational) supply chain.
All ecommerce sellers know their order fulfillment and shipping logistics present a complex puzzle, which is why many sticks to familiar processes once they’re in place. Whether it’s a preferred carrier or software system, it’s easy to get too comfortable with what you’re already doing. However, there’s a good chance it’s costing you far more than necessary.
Therefore, the experts recommend using a shipping rates audit to help your business reduce cost and increase ROI. Audit your shipping rates twice a year for best results and watch the savings add up over time. Here are some tips on how to get the best shipping rates for your ecommerce business.
Software solutions have been around longer than you might expect, and there are new options that enter the market every week. Even shipping software has been available for at least 15 years, and some e-tailers who started using it back then still haven’t switched to something modern and with more features. This alone showcases the need to evaluate your software systems on a regular basis. There’s bound to be something out there that meets your ecommerce business needs.
For example, some shipping software solutions let you compare rates in real time. These providers have relationships with multiple shipping carriers and can, therefore, show you up-to-date rates side by side. Other solutions come with built in rates and savings, so you know you’re getting the best shipping rates from a trusted provider. Shipping software that can automatically gather rate information is a huge time saver. Time is money, so the time saving features of new technology can reduce cost too.
Savvy online retailers are always on the lookout for the best shipping strategy that can save them money. Five or ten years ago, it was smart to develop a solid relationship with a carrier to access their best shipping rates and high-quality customer service. As time went on, it made sense for some businesses to diversify to a multi-carrier network. Now, the trends are shifting back toward a strategic consolidation of shipping options.
The truth is you may be paying more by using multiple carriers. It simply depends on the structure and operation of your business, which illustrates the importance of a twice-yearly shipping audit. Another costly mistake is not utilizing cubic-based rates. If your packages are under 20 pounds, cubic may be the best option. Different services can offer consolidated shipping rates to get you the best rate every time.
The shipping industry has grown large and complex with the globalization of supply chains and the explosion of ecommerce. There are thousands of experts to talk to who can give your insight into the most up-to-date best practices, plus tips for how to get the best shipping rates.
Specifically, a shipping rates audit can save your business anywhere from 10-20% every single year. That’s money that can be spent on marketing, operations or other growth initiatives. Audits can get you in touch with expert firms, which have the connections and experience to get you the lowest rates. These types of consultants have special contracts with multiple carriers and can audit your current rates, compare what they have to offer and save you a chunk of change.
Parcel Consulting was started with a simple mission in mind: Connect end shippers with the best carrier and rate strategy for their needs and the best software options to streamline, automate and improve the accuracy and efficiency of the daily pick, pack, and label-printing process for their business.
We work with many different carriers and software partners, so that we can recommend the best solution based on more than a decade of actual experience with all these providers.
Most people, even those experienced in shipping and logistics, are surprised to find out how many new and innovative carriers and software options exist now.
We have been tracking, comparing and evaluating them objectively for more than 10 years and we freely share our personal review of your shipping needs by simply scheduling a phone call or video conference with one of our experienced shipping consultants.
We’ve been preparing for this for more than a decade and we’re here to help! Give us a ring to discuss your options at: 833-PARCEL-1 (833-727-2351).
