Taking time to re-evaluate your shipping strategy is an excellent opportunity for change. Your strategy may seem ideal, but there are surprisingly simple tips available that can potentially help you reduce shipping costs with the right implementation. Read these tips for creating a more cost-effective shipping strategy so that you can consider how they may impact your operation, then make any changes necessary.
Work With Resourceful Logistics Experts
One of the best ways to develop a cost-effective shipping strategy is to expand your transportation opportunities. The more modes of transportation you have at your disposal, the easier it is to find the most efficient and cost-effective mode by comparing current fuel prices, delivery timelines, and other critical details unique to each shipment.
Whether you’re shipping internationally or domestically, various vehicles exist that can help you get goods to your customers. Plus, the vehicle variety is only one of the ways a 3PL can help you reduce international shipping costs, so take the time to compare 3PLs to find the perfect partner.
Reduce Your Packaging Size
Another easy tip for creating a more cost-effective shipping strategy is to assess your packaging size. Packaging weight and dimensions can impact shipping costs. But, of course, you can only reduce packaging size so much for any given product.
So assess your packaging design to see if you can trim anything without impacting the package strength. Something as simple as reducing the size of these materials can help you file down those shipping costs throughout the year. Plus, smaller packages mean more room for other packages, so doing this can assist with space efficiency too.
Consider Implementing Flat-Rate Shipping
Flat-rate shipping is a way to provide your customers with a consistent shipping fee, no matter the size of their packages. Thus, this is ideal for optimizing shipping costs if you’re shipping products that fall within the same size and weight range.
Instead of calculating each shipment’s weight and risking under-valuing or over-valuing it, you can carefully calculate and charge one fee across your shop to simplify the process for you and your customers. Each company’s ideal strategy is unique to its needs, so evaluate your operation today to consider how the tips above may improve your shipping methods.
