SMB order fulfillment doesn’t have to be something you are scared of. For the most part, you can use an outside service to take care of handling goods while you stick to pleasing others. Also, logistics is a critical part of eCommerce, so here are some tips for getting it done right.
Don’t Skimp on Courier Services
One of the most crucial things when it comes to pleasing your customers is the handling of their goods. They want them as quickly as possible but delivered undamaged. Couriers are the main way of doing this after goods have been shipped. However, it is wise to get freight broker insurance to make sure you are covered during the handoff between shippers and carriers. Yet always use a reputable courier instead of the cheapest. They aren’t all made equally, you know.
Make the Process as Easy as Possible
The customer experience is vital when it comes to a small business. And your entire sales process might rely on positivity if you compete with larger companies. So all transactions must be as easy as possible for your customers, from start to finish. This includes finding what they need on your website using mega menus and search bars. But also keeping them informed of what’s in the shopping cart, shipping and delivery charges, and offering multiple ways to pay.
SMB Order Fulfillment Includes Customer Service
A recent survey found that 85% of customers place customer service as one of the top things they value when using a service or business. Getting this right can be an ongoing process, and there will always be some people you can’t please. But you can improve your reputation and trust if you always provide great service to customers. You can do this with an easy process, quick and effective communication, and always going out of your way to resolve an issue.
Partner with a Reputable Center
Like couriers, not all fulfillment centers are made equally, either. Some are pretty poor in terms of logistics, handling goods, and proper storage methods. For example, you might need climate-controlled storage of perishable goods. So your fulfillment center must be able to meet these needs. Also, you can stay ahead of some of the competition if you partner with a green eco-friendly, and sustainable fulfillment center. Modern clients might appreciate this more.
Balance the Needs of All
Getting it right all the time is nearly impossible. And you will find there is a delicate balancing act. When fulfilling orders, whether you are a small or large business, you need to balance three things. These are speed, accuracy, and cost. Your customers want things as quickly as possible. They also want exactly what they ordered. And they want to pay as little as possible for an order. If you can offer a good balance across these, you can establish and increase trust.
Summary
Mastering SMB order fulfillment is crucial to stay ahead of larger companies. Yet you can offer great courier services, customer service, and balance speed, accuracy, and cost to gain trust.
