The Basics of Expedited Shipping Every Entrepreneur Should Know
One of the factors in e-commerce that entrepreneurs have to contend with is shipping and delivery. One of the options in shipping is expedited shipping. It is a delivery option that offers faster shipping as opposed to the standard service.
Defining the term
With this type of shipping, delivery trucks with expedited goods are transported nonstop order pickup up to delivery, aimed to fulfill the expedited shipping requirements. This term varies in definition from one carrier to another, but usually this means overnight shipping up to 2-day shipping for domestic orders.
Expedited versus shipping
Standard delivery services are known for being the cheapest among the different types of delivery options whether for online stores or in-person customers. Standard shipping within the US means between three to seven days depending on the carrier you chose. This starts from the time the order is released up to the time it reaches the customer.
You can find shipping firms that claim two-day delivery options as the standard, but some other firms say that with standard delivery you have to wait a bit longer than that. Those shipping firms that belong to the latter usually offer two-day or next-day delivery options for customers who need their orders sooner.
Why online stores must provide this type of shipping
The following are some of the important advantages in offering expedited shipping services on your e-commerce outlet:
Reduction of cart abandonment
It is believed that 45 percent of online shoppers abandoned their carts because they are not satisfied with the delivery options. Make sure that when your online customers check out they can find several available shipping options that are affordable and fast. An expedited delivery option would help prevent shopping cart abandonment and increase sales conversions for your online shop.
Helps build customer loyalty
It is said that a usual e-commerce shop gets 45 percent of its revenue from repeat customers. When customers are satisfied with the product and the fast delivery, they are likely to make purchases from your shop again. On the other hand, about 38 percent of shoppers may not purchase again after an unpleasant delivery experience. This may result in negative reviews that may eventually dissuade customers from purchasing.
There are several ways you can do to ensure that you can offer expedited shipping without breaking a bank. One of these is to shop around for various options offered by different carriers. You may also limit the extent of your delivery only to customers who reside in nearby shipping zones.
