smartmockups_kuwfb6uh-768x511 (1)

Reduce shipping costs of small parcel shipments seamlessly

by BlogTSM Services

The postage charges of the U.S. Postal Service are rising, according to the latest news. USPS Ground Advantage service is one of the simplest, affordable ways of shipping small parcels. But, its prices have increased. Similarly, there is an increase in the prices of USPS Priority Mail® and USPS Priority Mail Express® services. Further, the annual shipping rates of major small parcel carriers like FedEx and UPS have seen an upward trajectory.

It has led to a rise in the cost of shipping services for businesses. Many shippers are searching for faster and cheaper ways of shipping small parcels. Small parcel delivery companies offer discounts and affordable shipping rates. However, shippers need to know where to look to get the best service.

Regional carriers compete with the bigger shipping couriers with offers of different service options, fees, and more. Nowadays, the demand for free shipping and fast delivery is growing. E-commerce owners have to fulfill customers’ expectations and lower shipping costs. So, companies must find ways to reduce shipping costs.

This blog will cover the five ways to lower shipment costs and make profits for companies.

Factors affecting shipping costs

Small parcel shippers face challenges of packaging and labor shortages. To increase business profits, reducing shipping costs is vital. In addition, it is necessary to meet customer expectations when delivering small parcels. There are several factors affecting shipping costs.

The main factors affecting shipping costs include

  • Delivery speed and service

Faster small parcel delivery satisfies customers’ needs. Last-mile delivery of packages can influence shipping costs. In addition, the service levels provided by small parcel carriers like ground or air transport affect the shipping costs.

  • Weight and dimension of packages

Heavier packages cost more. Package dimensions also can affect shipping costs. Bulkier packages occupy more space in a delivery truck. Thus, small parcel delivery companies charge more for the packages.

  • Shipping distance

It will be costly to ship a small parcel far away. It will be cheaper to ship it to a nearby location. Small parcel shipping costs increase depending on the shipping zones within the contiguous US states. Small parcel international shipping involves taxes and duties affecting shipping costs.

  • Surcharges

Accessorials can influence the shipping expenses. There are many surcharges, like additional handling charges, fuel surcharges, residential delivery fees, delivery area surcharges (DAS), and more. The surcharges can add to the shipping costs if the shippers are not vigilant during shipping.

These factors will affect the calculation of shipping charges. Companies can reduce expenses by partnering with 3PLs and warehouse management. Further, they can invest in efficient packaging methods and streamline the shipping process.

Five ways to reduce shipping costs

According to the latest statistics, 47% of online shoppers abandon their carts due to extremely high costs. The high shipping costs could be due to taxes or shipping rates. Longer delivery time is also one of the reasons for cart abandonment. Shippers can reduce shipping costs in several ways. Audintel advises our customers about the ways to save money. Here are five easy ways to lower shipping costs.

  • Using advanced tracking software tools

Automated Transportation Management Software (TMS) allows shipping companies to reduce expenses. The tracking software helps shippers track their shipments. It provides an accurate shipment delivery time. Companies can cut shipping costs by effective planning of transportation budgets.

Audintel’s TMS effectively manages shipping spend by managing small parcel carrier payments and performance. It gives shippers an edge over shipping carriers when requesting refunds for late deliveries. Audintel monitors the package deliveries and files a refund for our customers. Shippers get insights into real-time tracking of small parcels.

  • Management of shipping rates

Small parcel carriers offer different shipping rates and delivery services to customers. FedEx and UPS increase their shipping rates annually. Shippers can choose the service levels that suit their business needs. Further, they can check the services of alternate shipping carriers. So, shippers choose from the shipping rates of many prime and regional small parcel carriers.

Audintel gives comparison data about the parcel carriers’ rates to shippers. It provides valuable data insights to shippers. Audintel helps companies optimize their shipping operations with small parcel data management. Managing shipping rates of small parcel carriers allows shippers to save money.

  • Negotiating with small parcel carriers for the best shipping prices

A well-negotiated deal is the core of each shipment. Thus, negotiations with small parcel carriers are vital for companies. Shippers can reduce shipping costs by negotiating a flat fee from small parcel carriers. Shipping carriers like UPS and FedEx offer better fees for small parcels based on the size, weight, and destination. Shippers can expect discounts for some services from small parcel carriers.

Experts from Audintel have the data about shipping rates and discounts of shipping carriers. They inform shippers about the discounts and shipping rates of the small parcel carriers so that they get the best deal. Businesses can negotiate shipping rate discounts before the annual General Rate Increase (GRI). In this way, shippers benefit from discounts offered by small parcel carriers.

  • Inform shippers of the importance of shipping audits.

Customers hate unexpected charges in their invoices during the checkout process. Shipping companies can educate customers on the complexities of the shipping process. Shippers can reduce shipping costs by creating pick-up points for customers’ orders. Businesses can negotiate with fulfillment centers for shipping packages quickly.

Moreover, shippers can decrease the size of the packages to save money. For example, use a poly mailer for small parcels instead of a box. In addition, companies can reduce the weight and dimensions of small parcels. For instance, use lightweight and compact packaging material.

Shipping audits are essential for companies to lower shipping costs. Our team at  Audintel provides an in-depth audit of the shipping process. It identifies mistakes made by small parcel carriers. We point out any improper invoicing or unnecessary charges levied by shipping carriers.

  • Streamlining the shipping process

The entire shipping process requires streamlining from beginning to end. Companies can increase profit margins by optimizing the supply chain model. Identification of supply chain bottlenecks in time prevents shipping disruptions. In addition, shippers need to pay attention to customers’ needs. Shipping companies need to adopt advanced shipping processes with efficient planning.

Audintel advises shippers about shipping strategies to increase profit margins. We provide business models to shippers that lower shipping costs. Presenting real-time delivery updates to customers helps increase customer satisfaction. Further, Audintel provides customized shipping reports for shippers to streamline their shipping processes.

How Audintel services reduce shipping costs

Audintel’s audit team has TSM services to help shippers manage their shipping profiles. Our TSM services include

  • real-time tracking of shipments
  • identifying invalid, inaccurate billing charges
  • assessing carrier contracts
  • saving with accurate pricing calculations
  • analyzing Transportation Spend
  • claims and refund processing, etc.

Audintel’s state-of-the-art cloud-based software provides access to the best shipping rates. It allows shippers to compare shipping rates of different small parcel delivery companies. We offer real-time shipping data to shipping companies. Our AI-based technology saves money and time for our clients. We aid shippers in negotiating good contracts. As a result, shippers receive the best deals and discounts. In addition, we provide shipping strategies to customers that help reduce shipping costs.

The bottom line

Small parcel shipping is complex, whether you ship locally or globally. Small parcel delivery companies add to the complexity by increasing their shipping prices. Businesses are looking for ways to ship small parcels economically and effortlessly. Small parcel audit companies help companies lower shipping costs with minimum hassles. Audintel gives shippers peace of mind with its sophisticated business intelligence solutions for Transportation Spend Management. The data analytics provided by Audintel helps shippers save money. Need help in reducing shipping costs- contact us at +1 (619) 354 8539. Further, visit our Audintel website to learn more about our services.

Parcel Forum 2023-source1

Key takeaways from Parcel Forum – 2023

by BlogTSM Services

Whether you are a novice shipper or a big conglomerate, learning the intricacies of small parcel shipping is essential. Are you interested in gaining insights into various aspects of the small-package supply chain industry? The conferences at Parcel Forum held for the past twenty years provide this opportunity to all. Shippers, carrier representatives, and consultants attend this conference annually. This year, in the home of country music, Nashville, Parcel Forum (PF ’23) was held from September 11-13, 2023.

Parcel Forum ’23 had workshops and keynote addresses from shipping experts. The event was for small parcel professionals from various backgrounds, company sizes, and experiences. The conference agenda included shipping practices, warehousing, packaging, parcel delivery,  etc.

Key takeaways

My business partner, Vikram Malik, and I attended Parcel Forum ’23, an incredible experience. We had the opportunity to connect with our current and prospective clients. We had a chance to network with our clients and learn from our peers. Here are some of the key takeaways from PF’23:

1. The Workshops were on topics like

  • Contract negotiations

There were interactive sessions with the presenters on shipping strategies and tips for negotiating carrier contracts. Examples of negotiations and case studies were a part of this workshop held exclusively for shippers.

  • Automation and digital strategies for seamless operations

The session on inventory strategies and cost-effective automation was helpful for shippers, suppliers, and customers. In addition, it covered digital strategies for seamless operations from warehouse to destination.

  • Managing complex international shipping

Controlling trade compliance risks and volume-based international solutions were discussed. Also, giving correct documents and strategically placed inventory were the highlights of this session.

  • Leveraging data for supply chain efficiency

Using data to optimize order management, inventory management, and purchase were the highlights of this session. Further, the discussion was on data building blocks like Key Performance Indicators, dashboards, and data architecture.

2. Keynote speeches, presentations, and panel discussions were based broadly on the following areas

  • Best shipping practices

Artificial intelligence and predictive technology help implement and predict the estimated delivery time of small parcels. Customer-centric shopping with reduced shipping costs was part of another session at this conference. Robotic solutions for boosting order fulfillment can help shippers. Further, implementing customer-centric returns while decreasing shipping costs was discussed.

In addition, the best practice to unlock parcel savings is by reviewing shipping contracts and invoices. The economics around free shipping and how to design profitable programs were enlightening for the audience. AI and algorithms are helping reduce packaging costs for shippers. Moreover, technology will help shippers control the fulfillment process and maximize customer retention.

3. Carrier diversification

The factors to consider when partnering with a new shipping carrier by reviewing existing carrier activities are necessary. Further, choosing multiple parcel carriers helps in saving costs, carrier efficiency, and shipping volume discounts. The conference focused on a four-step process to maximize carrier benefits. Companies with limited resources can get the best from the national carriers, which was part of the learning objective.

There was a case study session on carrier diversification, its benefits, risks, and practical tips for securing competitive proposals from parcel carriers. Using technology to automate carrier decision-making was insightful for the audience. Shippers understood the impact of dynamic pricing and its effect on businesses.

The keynote address by USPS Postmaster General Louis DeJoy focused on the Postal Service Management team making significant changes to create an efficient and high-performing organization.

4. Warehousing solutions

The advantages of on-demand warehousing and the latest technologies for the digital transformation of the supply chain industry were on the agenda. Robotics and automation are increasing employee efficiency and customer satisfaction. The speakers shared successful examples of AI implementation in warehouse operations, which was very enlightening.

The best way to do slot assessment of warehouse operations is to increase operation efficiency. Changing customer expectations, advanced technology, and labor shortages transform warehouse management. We liked the panel discussion on choosing the right warehouse management system (WMS) for warehouses to support end-to-end supply chains.

5. Data Analytics

The use of predictive intelligence platforms to monitor and predict timely parcel delivery was a part of the FedEx keynote address. Meanwhile, the attendees learned new ways to reduce shipping costs using data modeling. How analytics and data are helping shippers create reliable and cost-effective supply chains was explored.

The increasing demand for predictive analytics helps shippers make better shipping decisions. Shippers can analyze and optimize their supply chain by leveraging track-and-trace technology. The real-time data is critical in reducing waste, optimizing shipping operations, and reverse logistics control.

6. Shipping forecasts

Online retailers have to adapt to changing online shopper expectations in the future. There was an in-depth analysis and prediction for the 2024 General Rate Increase (GRI) by FedEx and UPS. Valuable insights on 2024 accessorial fees and strategies to leverage data were a part of the discussion.

Further, the audience learned the trends reshaping the 3 PL market in 2024. Experts gave valuable inputs on how to negotiate 2024 contracts. Further, shippers can reduce parcel costs with strategies like zone skipping, inventory management, etc.

Parcel Forum’23 shed light on the labor shortages faced by companies and provided strategies to retain the workforce. Agile supply chains using AI can provide operational visibility to shippers. Industry experts gave their opinions on the growth of transport management systems (TMS) and their role in optimizing shipping strategies.

Conclusion

The conference helped us network with peers and learn more about the supply chain industry. Audintel helps shippers with its automation tools and interactive dashboards. Our clients use real-time shipping data and save shipping expenses. We also provide crucial negotiation strategies when shippers sign carrier contracts. Further, our team helps shippers in receiving refunds from shippers. Schedule a meeting with our team by contacting us at +1 (619) 354 8539. Alternatively, visit our Audintel website for further information.

Small_Parcel_Shipping_Challenges

How to overcome challenges of small parcel shipping?

by BlogTSM

Small Parcel shipping is challenging for many shippers. Businesses need strategic solutions with the right software tools to ship small parcels efficiently.

The convenience of ordering online is here to stay. Experts believe there’s been a significant increase in the volume of shipping small parcels to customers directly over the past few years. However, small parcel shipping domestically or internationally requires strategic planning. Inflation, record-high gas prices, supply chain disruptions, and more contribute to various challenges during shipping. Shippers need to automate shipping processes to save time and enhance customer satisfaction. This blog will focus on the challenges shippers face when shipping small parcels.

Small parcel shipping

Packages such as envelopes, posters, small boxes, etc., weighing less than 150 lbs are small parcels. Shipment of small packages requires efficient pickup, transit, and delivery. They do not occupy full truckload capacity like freight or large packages. Each small parcel order is unique and has various requirements. Shippers face challenges when shipping small parcels direct to customers (D2C).

Some of these challenges include:

  • Management of high volumes of small parcels

As customers shifted to e-purchases, there has been a rise in small parcel shipping volumes. Warehouse workers and truckers keep parcel volumes moving to prevent supply chain disruptions. LTL carriers disassemble small parcels or less than pallet load (LPL) shipments to fill their trucks. It may cause damage to the goods during transit.

  • Labor requirements

Processing small parcel shipments requires more labor or workers than bulk shipments. It leads to higher shipping costs for shippers. This cost is either transferred to customers as shipping fees or is a part of the product. Companies hire more people for warehouses and fulfillment centers for shipping small parcels.

  • Overcoming packaging hurdles

Small packages can vary in size, weight, and dimensions. Picking out the ideal packaging material is necessary to prevent shipping delays. Padded mailers and envelopes are appropriate for single items. Fragile items need packing in boxes with proper dimensions to avoid damaging goods in transit. In addition, heavy packages cost more to ship than light ones.

  • Accessorial fees charges

Many transportation service providers charge accessorial fees for small parcel shipping. These fees are residential charges, additional handling, address correction, weekend pickup/delivery, and more.

  • Selection of appropriate parcel carriers and services

Last-mile delivery of small parcels is essential for better customer satisfaction. Choosing the correct local parcel carriers is necessary as inexperienced and untrained courier staff can damage the goods. Hence, selecting the parcel carrier and the appropriate services allows shippers to cater to their customers’ needs.

Retail consumers expect on-time delivery and updated arrival status of packages. And failure to meet customers’ expectations causes loss of repeat business. Providing reliable services with greater visibility gives shippers an advantage over their competitors. Many parcel carriers like UPS and FedEx enhance customer experience with their services.

UPS small parcels

UPS has various options for small parcel delivery that are tailor-made for small businesses. They provide access to Drop Boxes, pickup options, and an-inclusive rate for shipments. They have defined the price range and service level for small parcel deliveries of particular dimensions at specific times. For example, UPS Ground services can provide 1-5 delivery dates for shipping small parcels.

FedEx small parcels

FedEx has different package classifications based on size and weight for delivering small parcels. For instance, FedEx’s Flat packages have short dimensions and a volume of around 400 cubic inches. FedEx has various small parcel limits for domestic Ground services than Express Services.

A third-party (3PL) provider helps shippers in carrier management. They can negotiate better shipping rates for shippers to get better discounts. Further, they can compare carrier performances and suggest services of multiple parcel carriers. With expert knowledge of packaging expertise, they can provide cost-effective solutions.

Audintel- for faster and cheaper small parcel shipping

Our state-of-the-art shipping optimization platform helps manage small parcel delivery. We offer customizable dashboards that continuously monitor shipping status and on-time delivery of packages. Audintel’s automated real-time customer notifications keep our clients abreast of the entire shipping operations of packages. Our expert team can provide shippers with data to compare carrier performance, identify areas of saving money and time, and more.

Companies can streamline their small parcel shipping needs with Audintel’s Transportation Management System (TMS). We provide customized views within our dashboards even for the shipping’s made through small parcels to different destinations. Moreover, our software tools help reduce shipping costs for our clients by providing alternate solutions.   

Finally

During the pandemic, there was a drop in sales of brick-and-mortar products. E-commerce sales of small packages have grown exponentially. Smooth, reliable small parcel shipping is vital for shippers to improve their profitability. So, efficient management of high volumes of small parcels with advanced shipping software solutions is the need of the hour. Partnering with Audintel helps shippers overcome these challenges. We address each business’ unique customer preferences to ensure effortless, cost-effective delivery of small parcels.

Along with customized dashboards, Audintel do have 200+ reports available in their portal which are available for live customers which will help in generating and scheduling the reports based on their required criteria.

Wondering how much it will cost for small parcel shipping? Learn more about small parcels by contacting us at +1 (619) 354 8539 or visiting our Audintel website.