These days, delivery is often stated by consumers, as one of the most important factors which influences their buying decision. With the rise of next and same day deliveries, customers expect a lot in terms of delivery and if your business doesn’t measure up, they have no problem heading over to your competitors.
So, how can you ensure you get your delivery services right? Well, the first step is to ensure you’re choosing the right courier for your business.
Why the right courier matters
At one time, the only option businesses had when it came to sending parcels, was Royal Mail. However, now there’s literally hundreds of different couriers available. This means prices are often very competitive, helping to save you a small fortune if you shop around.
The trouble is, with so many different couriers available, it can be difficult knowing which one is right for your business. Not all couriers are equal and it’s really important to make sure you’re choosing a provider you can rely upon.
The delivery service you provide is going to be the last impression you leave on your customers. So, if they have a negative experience, you can guarantee they won’t order anything from you again. They’ll also likely tell their friends and family, losing you even more potential business and damaging your reputation.
So, you know why it matters, but how can you make sure you’re choosing the right courier?
How to select the best courier for your business
When choosing a courier, most businesses mistakenly think the only thing they should be looking at is the cost. Now, obviously you want to find an affordable courier so you can save as much money as possible. However, cost is definitely not the only factor you need to consider.
Reliability is perhaps the most important thing to look out for. You can find out how reliable a courier is by looking at online reviews. Customers today love to record their experiences, so it won’t be difficult to see how highly rated different couriers are.
It is possible to find couriers who offer both an affordable and a reliable service such as Whistl. The courier also offers something else you should factor in – a range of delivery services.
Customers want options. While some are still more than happy to wait 7-14 days for delivery, others want the option to receive their parcel the next working day. So, you need to make sure the courier you choose can provide a fast delivery service if required. You’ll also want to pay attention to charges for fast delivery. Many customers abandon their basket because they discover the delivery options are too expensive.
Overall, choosing the right courier service for your business is extremely important in today’s digital age. Customers expect their parcels quickly, so it’s vital you opt for a service that’s professional, fast and reliable. Remember, the delivery experience you provide your customers can make a huge difference to your reputation.
Further reading on courier services
