7 tips for packing and shipping your goods efficiently

1. Choose the correct packaging

Choose boxes that are a suitable size for your items without too much unnecessary space in the parcel. The shipping cost depends on the size, volume and weight of the parcel. So don't pay for air and empty space.

USEFUL TIP:

• Try a few different sizes and types of boxes that are suitable for most of your goods. Make these your "standard boxes” that you use for most of your orders.

2. Standardise your packing process

Create clear guidelines for the packing station and good routines for packing items in an optimal way.

USEFUL TIP:

• Create checklists that describe and explain each step of the packing process. Your staff will then learn the necessary steps, from choosing the right box size and how each product should be placed inside the box, to how to attach the labels correctly and how to label the parcels before they are dispatched.

3. Organise your stock as efficiently as possible

You can save a lot of time by arranging the packing area and shelves in a smart way. Keep the distance to your best-selling products and promotional goods to a minimum by moving them next to the packing area. Another smart idea might be to pre-pack the most popular goods and place them on shelves where they are readily accessible.

Do you have products that are often sold together? Make sure they are close together on the warehouse shelves.

Another good way to save time is to label shelves and rows with clear signs so that no one wastes time searching for the products.

USEFUL TIP:

• You save a lot of time and frustration by setting up a packing zone where all the tools you need to pack and package your items are organised in a neat and logical way (scissors, packing knives, tape, labels, etc.).

4. Be well prepared ahead of peak sales periods

Everyone who works in online stores knows that sales will increase considerably in the weeks that kick off Christmas sales (Black Friday and Cyber Monday). There are also other periods during the year that are more hectic than others. It is a good idea to be ready for these periods by preparing the packaging and materials that you'll be using.

USEFUL TIP:

• Make sure you are well prepared before the peak period begins by putting boxes together, filling them with cushioning material and preparing anything else that will be needed.
• If you expect or know that you will be selling large quantities of any particular products, you can pack lots of them in advance. The more of these jobs you can do in advance, the easier it will be to ensure that your customers receive their orders on time.

5. Invest in quality packaging

Don't be tempted to cut corners when it comes to purchasing boxes and other packaging. The extra money you spend on good quality packaging can save you unnecessary costs for damaged and broken goods. 

USEFUL TIP:

• Strong, sturdy boxes offer greater protection for your products, possibly enabling smaller sizes to be used, which can result in lower shipping costs.

6. Communicate your delivery terms and conditions very clearly

Don't forget to give your customers good answers to their questions about shipping and delivery.

USEFUL TIP:

• Create a FAQ page that covers common questions about packing, shipping, returns and delivery times.
• Remember to update the FAQ page to reflect real circumstances and any changes during the peak periods. You should also remember to include information that may feel a little uncomfortable, such as information about major delays.

7. Avoid delays by ensuring that address details are correct

Make sure your customers’ address details are correct. When you send a mobile number to your carrier, your customers will receive up-to-date information on the status of their shipment.

USEFUL TIP:

• Checking the format of e-mail addresses, mobile numbers and postal codes, etc. helps ensure that the parcels reach their intended destination.
• Make sure that labels and markings on the parcel are correct. There is some good advice here on how to make sure that barcodes and labels are correct and properly attached. This can minimise the number of parcels that your carrier has to handle manually.

Whether you are starting an online store or mapping existing practices, it is always worth reviewing your procedures for packing and shipping. You can make significant long-term savings in both time and money by making these processes as efficient as possible.