eCommerce Shipping Solutions – An Overview

eCommerce shipping solutions aim to solve delivery pain points for retailers – yet the software features and benefits can vary depending on your chosen software provider. 

Here, we take a brief look at three features to look for when considering eCommerce shipping solutions.

Navigating the Future: Trends in E-commerce Shipping Solutions
  1. Same-Day and Next-Day Delivery: The demand for faster delivery options continues to grow as consumers seek instant gratification. Same-day and next-day delivery services have become a standard offering for many e-commerce giants. Retailers are investing in local fulfillment centers and partnering with third-party logistics providers to reduce delivery times. Technologies like advanced route optimization and real-time tracking are being employed to ensure the swift and efficient movement of goods from warehouses to doorsteps.

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  3. Green and Sustainable Shipping: Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it has become a fundamental concern for both businesses and consumers. E-commerce companies are increasingly adopting eco-friendly shipping practices to minimize their environmental impact. This includes using recycled and biodegradable packaging materials, optimizing delivery routes to reduce carbon emissions, and exploring alternative energy sources for transportation. Consumers are showing a preference for brands that demonstrate a commitment to environmentally friendly shipping practices.

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  5. Contactless and Automated Solutions: The global pandemic has accelerated the adoption of contactless and automated shipping solutions. From contactless deliveries to the use of robotics and drones for last-mile delivery, businesses are embracing automation to enhance efficiency and reduce human contact. Automated warehouses, equipped with robotic systems, are streamlining order fulfillment processes, ensuring accuracy, and expediting the shipping cycle.

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  7. Subscription Box Services: Subscription box services have gained immense popularity in recent years, providing consumers with a curated selection of products delivered at regular intervals. This model not only fosters customer loyalty but also allows businesses to plan and optimize their shipping processes. E-commerce companies are increasingly leveraging subscription services to create predictable shipping schedules, reduce delivery costs, and offer personalized experiences to their customers.

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  9. Advanced Tracking and Transparency: Transparency in the shipping process is a growing trend as consumers demand real-time updates on the status of their orders. Advanced tracking systems and improved communication channels are being integrated into shipping solutions to provide customers with accurate and up-to-date information on their shipments. This not only enhances the customer experience but also helps in building trust and loyalty.

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  11. Dynamic Shipping Pricing: Dynamic shipping pricing models are gaining traction as businesses seek to optimize shipping costs and remain competitive. These models take into account various factors such as delivery speed, distance, and package size to calculate shipping fees dynamically. Offering flexible pricing options allows businesses to cater to a diverse customer base while ensuring that shipping costs are fair and transparent.

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  13. Global Expansion and Cross-Border Shipping: E-commerce is no longer confined to local markets, and businesses are increasingly expanding their reach globally. Cross-border shipping solutions are evolving to address the complexities of international logistics. E-commerce platforms are partnering with global carriers, implementing duty calculation tools, and enhancing customs clearance processes to facilitate seamless cross-border transactions.

In conclusion, the e-commerce landscape is undergoing a significant transformation in terms of shipping solutions. As businesses strive to meet the evolving demands of consumers and overcome logistical challenges, these trends are shaping the future of e-commerce shipping. Adapting to these changes will not only enhance the efficiency of shipping processes but also contribute to overall customer satisfaction, ultimately driving success in the competitive e-commerce market.

1. Seamless multi-carrier integration

eCommerce Shipping Solutions that provide seamless carrier integration can help ensure your eCommerce business has the delivery coverage it needs, while also empowering you to drive efficiencies within delivery management.

 

 

For example, Scurri’s eCommerce shipping solutions provide seamless integrations with over 700 carrier services, both global and domestic. You can automatically select the best carriers for your delivery needs and connect to them through a single Scurri API integration.

A carrier fulfilling eCommerce shipping
Labels generated by eCommerce shipping solutions

2. Fast and accurate label generation

eCommerce Shipping solutions that provide fast and accurate labelling can help ensure your eCommerce company drives profitability at every opportunity. Inaccurate, incomplete or non-compliant data can lead to an increase in WISMO queries or failed deliveries which can be detrimental for retailers’ profit margin.

 

In contrast, having the right eCommerce shipping solutions in place that can generate labels at speed and at scale can help your company drive significant efficiencies. 

 

For example, Scurri customer Kirsten Cunningham, Logistics Manager at Gousto says: 

“Our time spent booking labels has significantly reduced from 90 minutes per day to less than 15 minutes per week”

 

3. Advanced tracking and reporting

eCommerce shipping solutions that enable you to track and report on all aspects of your delivery management can help you to greatly improve your business performance. Having one central platform that connects all aspects of delivery management can play an important role in this – and advanced tracking features can help extract further insights.

 

For example, Scurri has a suite of dashboards that enable retailers to analyse carrier performance. Retailers can easily run reports and gain actionable insights, including using data to assist with cost reconciliation.

Workers analysing eCommerce shipping solutions

These are just three features that should be looked for when considering eCommerce shipping solutions, but there are many more.

 

If you’re currently researching eCommerce shipping solutions and would like to learn more about why retailers choose Scurri, learn more about our platform below.

eCommerce Shipping Solutions FAQ

eCommerce Shipping Solutions FAQ

Q: What are ecommerce shipping solutions? 

A: eCommerce shipping solutions are services that help online businesses ship their products to customers efficiently and cost-effectively.

 

Q: What types of ecommerce shipping solutions are available? 

A: There are several types of ecommerce shipping solutions available, including shipping software, shipping automation tools, and third-party logistics (3PL) services.

 

Q: What is shipping software? 

A: Shipping software is a tool that helps businesses manage their shipping operations by automating tasks such as label printing, order tracking, and shipping rate calculation.

 

Q: What are shipping automation tools? 

A: Shipping automation tools are services that help businesses streamline their shipping processes by automating tasks such as label printing, order tracking, and inventory management.

 

Q: What is a third-party logistics (3PL) service? 

A: A third-party logistics (3PL) service is a company that provides logistics services, such as warehousing, order fulfillment, and shipping, on behalf of another company.

 

Q: What are the benefits of using ecommerce shipping solutions? 

A: The benefits of using ecommerce shipping solutions include increased efficiency, reduced costs, improved customer experience, and better inventory management.

 

Q: How do I choose the right ecommerce shipping solution for my business? 

A: To choose the right ecommerce shipping solution for your business, consider your shipping volume, budget, and shipping needs, and research different solutions to find one that meets your requirements.

 

Q: Can I integrate ecommerce shipping solutions with my existing ecommerce platform? 

A: Yes, most ecommerce shipping solutions can be integrated with popular ecommerce platforms, such as Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento.

 

Q: How much do ecommerce shipping solutions cost? 

A: The cost of ecommerce shipping solutions varies depending on the solution and the level of service required. Some solutions charge a monthly fee, while others charge per shipment or per order.

 

Q: Do ecommerce shipping solutions provide tracking information for shipments? 

A: Yes, most ecommerce shipping solutions provide tracking information for shipments, which allows businesses and customers to track the progress of their orders and know when to expect delivery.

eCommerce Shipping Solutions Checklist

There are a number of things to consider when researching which eCommerce shipping solution is best for your company.

 

Below is a guideline checklist that will assist you in when researching.

Does the eCommerce shipping solution integrate with your eCommerce platform? 

Ensure that the shipping solution integrates seamlessly with your eCommerce platform. It should be compatible with your website or marketplace to automate order fulfillment, sync shipping information, and provide real-time updates to customers.

 

 

Does the eCommerce shipping solution provide a wide range of carriers? 

Check if the shipping solution supports a wide range of shipping carriers. Having multiple carrier options gives you flexibility in choosing the most cost-effective and reliable shipping methods for your products.

 

 

Can the eCommerce shipping solution result in cost savings with carriers? 

Evaluate whether the eCommerce shipping solution provides the opportunity to negotiate achieve rates with carriers.

 

 

Does the eCommerce shipping solution provide international shipping?

If you plan to ship internationally, verify that the shipping solution supports international shipping and provides the necessary customs documentation and tracking capabilities. It should also offer competitive international shipping rates and integrate with customs authorities, if applicable.

 

 

Does the eCommerce shipping solution provide easy label generation? 

Ensure that the solution provides easy label generation and printing for shipments. It should generate shipping labels with all the required information and support different label formats. Additionally, it should provide robust tracking capabilities so that you and your customers can monitor the shipment’s progress.

 

 

Does the eCommerce shipping solution provide automation features?

Look for automation features that can streamline your shipping process. This may include batch processing, automated order import, rules-based shipping, and customisable workflows. Automation saves time and reduces the risk of errors during order fulfilment.

 

 

Does the eCommerce shipping solution offer a post purchase communications tool?

Consider the customer experience aspect of the shipping solution. It should provide the option to send branded tracking emails, customisable shipping notifications, and order status updates. A positive customer experience throughout the shipping journey can increase customer satisfaction and loyalty.

 

 

Does the eCommerce shipping solution provide reporting and analytics?

Evaluate the analytics and reporting capabilities of the shipping solution. It should provide insights into shipping costs, carrier performance, delivery times, and other key metrics. These reports can help you optimize your shipping operations and make data-driven decisions.

 

 

Does the eCommerce shipping solution provide growth potential?

Choose a shipping solution that can scale with your business. Consider if it can handle increasing order volumes, support multiple warehouses or fulfillment centers, and integrate with additional systems as your operations expand.

 

 

Does the eCommerce shipping solution have a reputation for strong support?

Assess the level of customer support provided by the shipping solution provider. Ensure they offer reliable technical support and have a reputation for resolving issues promptly. Look for reviews or testimonials from existing customers to gauge their satisfaction with the solution and provider.

 

 

By carefully considering these factors, you can select an eCommerce shipping solution that aligns with your specific needs, enhances your shipping operations, and delivers a positive experience for both you and your customers.

Talk to us about eCommerce shipping solutions

 More about our eCommerce Shipping Solutions

From labelling to last-mile logistics and post-purchase solutions, Scurri’s eCommerce shipping solutions connect every stage of the delivery journey

 

Overview of our eCommerce shipping solutions

Next generation eCommerce shipping solutions

The Scurri Platform

 

Explore the our eCommerce shipping solutions and see why leading retailers, marketplaces and 3PL’s choose Scurri to help them take control of their international growth.

More about Scurri

Built for control, scaled for growth

Delivering control

Scurri’s eCommerce shipping solutions put you back in control of your business by cutting costs, coordinating carriers, scaling your capabilities, enhancing your offer and optimising your last mile logistics.

 

 

Download our one page PDF that gives a high level overview of our eCommerce shipping solutions.

 

Pain points

Delivery pain points and how we solve them

Effective eCommerce shipping solutions have the ability to help retailers solve a number of delivery management challenges. Discover how our eCommerce shipping solutions help solve them.

Analyst using ecommerce shipping solutions
Next steps

See examples of how our eCommerce shipping solutions have helped leading retailers improve their delivery management.

Carriers

Discover how our eCommerce shipping solutions put you in control of your delivery management.

Meet our customers and hear why they choose Scurri as their provider of eCommerce shipping solutions.

Talk to us about eCommerce shipping solutions