Smart Send, provider of streamlined premium shipping solutions, is urging Australian businesses to be diligent and consistent with their packaging strategies and processes, to ensure they safeguard their goods, their brand and the environment.
The company believes that when it comes to superior shipping solutions, it is imperative to be clever and intuitive when it comes to selecting the ideal packaging materials and sizes. By doing this, not only will the goods arrive safely, but it will also ensure that little wasteful materials are used that will end up in landfill.
It says products from different industries comes in all shapes and sizes, with some being easy to ship, while others can be more challenging to deliver. Some items may also require extra packaging internally to ensure they are given shockability, as well as robust double or triple walled carton for the outer packaging.
According to Steve Visic, director of sales at Smart Send, shipping errors can be a costly exercise, but planning and executing it correctly from the outset will set an invaluable foundation for a business.
“You need to be aware that if you are shipping a product that is an odd shape, you will be charged for the whole space the item takes on the truck – from the widest, deepest and highest point,” Visic says.
“The key is to pack them internally with enough internal support so there is less chance of damage. As an online business, your reputation is king; so don’t risk it by using old, flimsy cartons or boxes for your valuable products.
Visic also pointed out another key aspect, saying, “The packaging is one of the enhancers of the customer experience. It is fundamental that you align your product packaging with all the other elements of your brand, including your website and your product.
“Selecting premium packaging for delivery is a tell-tale sign that the product will also be up there in the quality stakes. They go hand-in hand.”
Chris Madden, co-founder and director at Smart Send, says that packaging should be viewed as an investment, rather than an expense.
“When your customer receives their goods on time and intact, the likelihood of your business receiving a positive review and feedback is increased,” explains Madden.
“If you are enticed into taking shipping short cuts, think about the suite of shortcomings that your business may likely experience.
“This includes your time consumed in having to deal with a damaged product, re-shipping replacement items at your expense, loss of margin due to damage, or tarnished brand reputation.
“You will find the extra few dollars you invest in additional packaging will provide the piece of mind you need to avoid unnecessary expenses.”
Madden says reducing plastics and minimising landfill waste is another consideration when deciding on which packaging to use for shipping.
“Products like ‘wood wool’ mushroom mycelium is an alternative to plastics and foams. Another thing to think about when designing your packaging is if the packaging can be repurposed by the receiver,” he adds.
“Perhaps consider an incentive program that would encourage the receiver to return the packaging to be reused.”
Smart Send says whether one decides to use corrugated boxes, padded mailers, envelopes or bags when shipping, they must ensure the delivery aspect of the shopping experience is a positive one for the consumer.
