Running your own internet-based business from
home can be a very rewarding experience. You have the ability to make your own
stock, choose what to sell, set prices, and build excellent client
relationships with repeat customers. Aside from offering high-quality goods
that match the listed description, customers care about how quickly they
receive their order and how it was packaged. In order to become more a more
efficient business, there are a few simple steps to follow.
Set Up a Work Area
There are times when many orders will come in
quickly and you don't want to be scrambling around looking for supplies.
Instead, streamline the preparation process by setting up a designated
workspace for preparing orders for shipment. You will want to keep shipping boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and tissue paper in stock. Additionally, a shipping
scale and tape measure are essential tools for an at-home business to avoid
long waits when mailing orders.
Determinging Shipping Costs
There are many factors that contribute to the
cost of shipping orders. The size of shipping boxes, weight, destination, and
desired delivery times all play a role in the final cost to the seller. Before
setting the shipping price for consumers, be sure to do some research with
other sellers to see what the competition offers. You can also build in the
shipping cost into the listed prices and offer free shipping. This is appealing
to online shoppers. Finally, you can also take advantage of using flat-rate
boxes as an additional cost-saver.
Establish Shipping Policies
It is important to have a set shipping policy
listed on your website to avoid any future problems. Keep the policy short and
clear. While most of the time shipping is reliable occasionally there are
mishaps. You can opt to insure expensive orders or make the option available to
the consumer at checkout.
Save Money on Packaging
The USPS offers free flat rate boxes in several
sizes. This can offer cost savings if and when you choose to use them. Another
common option is to purchase boxes, tape, and bubble wrap in bulk. When you are
able, recycle items that come in from your own personal or business orders.
Time is Money
As a busy entrepreneur, your time is important.
There are many ways to cut down on wasted time. First, you can remove any
packaging from shipping materials. Second, pre-writing thank you notes for
orders will make it easy to toss one in the box and be done. Third, take
pictures of merchandise before adding tags or labels. Finally, avoid long lines
at the post office by printing shipping labels at home.
Becoming a successful entrepreneur is no easy
task, but once online orders begin arriving you are on the right path to
creating a positive reputation and client base for your growing business. There
are a few simple steps that can help you get orders prepared quicker and more efficiently.
Making a workspace to prepare orders streamlines the process. Making a wise
decision on shipping costs and materials can save money. Finally, time-saving
activities can free up more of your day to complete other pressing tasks.
