Hi Boox Popular Magazine 2024
Since we now rely on courier services more than ever, it pays to make sure that we are not making costly mistakes. Mistakes can lead to overpaying, delays or to losing the parcel. Courier services are ideally fast, secure, and affordable and there are some things that we must avoid in order to keep it that way.
This is especially important for businesses because if their customers have a bad experience with the courier service, it can damage the reputation of the business that sent the item through that service.
This article explains 8 things we can avoid to make our experience with courier services more efficient and less expensive.
1. Using the wrong packaging
When preparing a parcel for delivery make sure that it goes inside a box or envelope that is the right size for it. Parcels are usually more expensive the larger they are so using an excessively large package will be a waste of money. If you regularly send items, it may pay to have a variety of package sizes on hand. A quick visit to your local shops for the right size may save you a significant amount of money.
2. Neglecting to protect fragile goods
The parcel may be dropped, rattled, or bumped while it is with the courier. Don’t assume it will be treated with perfect care and use the necessary wrapping to keep fragile goods safe. Use packing paper, bubble wrap, or foam to wrap the item and fill up the empty spaces in the box. If the item is fragile then make sure that it is written clearly on the box. Seal the packages well with packing tape and apply warning stickers, e.g. ‘this way up, or write special instructions clearly.
3. Getting the purchase order wrong
When sending and receiving parcels, always ensure that you have the right order number and are receiving the corresponding parcel. Mistakes in this area can waste a lot of time and cost more money. If a courier has to make a second trip because you got the numbers wrong you can expect an extra charge and further time spent waiting. If someone else is collecting your item, make sure they are aware of when it is due, what it is, and what the reference number is.
4. Writing the wrong details
When making a delivery order be sure to accurately write the parcel size and weight. Measure it accurately with a scale and ruler instead of guessing. The price of the delivery will depend on these details and incorrect details will lead to additional charges. Double-check the delivery address and name as well. If the address or name is wrong the courier might not get to the right destination or might not hand over the parcel.
5. No Contact information
Couriers should be able to easily contact the person who is receiving the parcel. Write their name and contact details on the order form and parcel so that the courier isn’t left waiting and wondering who they are supposed to give it to. If you are the sender, include your own contact information in case something goes wrong and they need to get hold of you.
6. Overpaying for rapid delivery
Most courier services offer different delivery speeds and charge more for the faster ones. If you don’t need it urgently you can save money by choosing slower and cheaper delivery times. If you send it early then you might not be in as much of a hurry and can save money that way too.
7. Not giving necessary special instructions
When you make your order, be sure to think about what the courier needs to know when they arrive. If necessary instructions are absent the courier may leave the parcel in the wrong location or waste time wandering around looking. For example, you may need to give instructions on how to get to your door, where the parcel box is or who is supposed to sign for it.
8. Not insuring the items
It is a mistake to not insure the items. Parcel theft is high and on the rise. There is also the risk that goods in transit will be lost or damaged. In the event of damage, there will be additional costs of returning the damaged items and sending replacements. If the item is lost or stolen then the entire value of the item will be lost. Significant delays in the delivery of some items can also be costly. An example of that might be a photographer who urgently needs a replacement camera part delivered before a photoshoot. If the part is not delivered on time they may have to hire or lose work.
Insurance can cover the risks that individuals and businesses face when sending, delivering, and receiving goods. The couriers themselves should be insured with couriers insurance. The other parties should also make sure that they are adequately insured for the risks associated with the parcel delivery. You can get in touch with an insurance broker to know more about the inclusions and exclusions of couriers’ insurance in Australia.
