Shipping Solutions for Small Businesses
By: Aries Payne
Figuring out how to get your products to your customers safely, affordably, and efficiently can be overwhelming. There are multiple shipping carriers and fulfillment solutions at your fingertips that can do it all, but how do you know which one is best for your needs?
Here’s everything you need to know about your options and how to select the most appropriate shipping solution for your small business.
Shipping Carrier Options for Small Businesses
In many cases, companies will alternate between these major carriers, leveraging the benefits each has to offer:
- USPS – Traditionally, USPS offers more cost-effective shipping for small and lightweight packages.
- FedEx and UPS – FedEx and UPS are typically used interchangeably for tracking, insurance, fast delivery, and additional business support.
- DHL – DHL is a common option for entities that ship products internationally.
Businesses with their own commercial vehicles or fleets may also opt for delivering products themselves, especially if the destinations are generally local.
A courier service could be an option if you send lightweight products locally and need to get them to your customers quickly. However, it’s not necessarily the most cost-effective or efficient option for businesses with large order volumes.
Shipping Software for Small Businesses
If you plan to use major carriers to ship products to your customers, you may benefit from using online shipping software to facilitate the purchase of shipping labels.
These platforms typically allow you to access discounted shipping rates and send automated updates to customers about their order status once the label has been created. Some software options include:
It’s worth noting that each platform may support different carriers, so the one you choose will depend on your specific business needs and the final destinations of your products.
Considerations for Selecting Shipping Solutions
Now that you know what your shipping options are, here are some factors to consider before choosing a solution for your business:
- Products – The types of products you’re shipping will also impact your shipping method. Do you sell perishables that need to reach your customers quickly? Do you sell fragile, heavy, or large items that require specialized handling?
- Order Volume – If you receive an increasing volume of orders monthly and maintain a high inventory, you may consider a more automated fulfillment solution or partnering with a third-party logistics company to help move products around.
- Location – Consider where your products will be sent. Different carriers offer different benefits and rates for local and international shipping.
- Cost – How much will it cost you to fulfill orders? Will you be offering your customers free or discounted shipping?
By leveraging the right shipping solutions, you can compete with larger companies and impress your customers with fast, reliable delivery and service. For assistance in determining which shipping solution is best for your small business, we recommend that you contact one of our business advisors for no-cost consulting today.
