When it comes to shipping products, there are a number of things that can go wrong.
From forgetting to include important information and documentation on the package to shipping the wrong item altogether, there are plenty of ways for things to go wrong.
In order to help you avoid these common shipping mistakes, we’ve put together a list of 10 of them along with some tips on how to avoid them.
1. Not packing items securely
If you’re not careful, your items can easily be damaged in transit if they’re not packed securely. Make sure to use plenty of packing material and to pack the items tightly so they don’t move around.
2. Not including return addresses
If an item is sent back to you, you’ll need to know where to send it back. Make sure to include your return address on the package.
3. Including too much information on the package
When you’re shipping a package, you don’t need to include your entire life story on the label.
Just include the necessary information like the name and address of the recipient and the sender, as well as the item’s weight and dimensions.
4. Not checking the weight and dimensions of packages before shipping
Before you ship a package, make sure that it doesn’t exceed the weight or dimensions allowed by your carrier.
You may end up paying more money if you do exceed those limits.
5. Failing to track shipments
If you’re not tracking your shipments, it’s difficult to know where they are or when they’ll arrive at their destination. Tracking allows you to stay on top of your deliveries and make sure that they arrive safely and on time.
6. Not using a shipping carrier that offers insurance coverage
If something happens to your package during transit, you’ll want to be sure that you’re covered by insurance. Make sure to use a shipping carrier that offers insurance coverage in case of damage or loss.
7. Not packaging fragile items properly
If you’re shipping fragile items, make sure to use appropriate packaging materials and to pack them securely so they don’t move around in transit.
8. Over-stuffing packages
When you over-stuff packages, it can be difficult for carriers to handle them correctly and they may end up being damaged in transit as a result.
Make sure that your packages are within the weight and size limits set by your carrier and only pack what’s necessary into each one.
9. Shipping perishable items during hot weather
Without proper packaging, perishable items can spoil during hot weather. Make sure to use insulated packaging and ice packs when shipping perishable items during warm months.
10. Not getting a signature upon delivery
If you’re not requiring a signature upon delivery, your package could be left unsecured and vulnerable to theft. Requiring a signature ensures that your package will only be delivered to the intended recipient.
By avoiding these common shipping mistakes, you can help ensure that your packages arrive safely and on time.