An eCommerce business cannot thrive without ensuring a robust shipping process. Timely and efficient shipping is necessary to establish a name in the eCommerce industry. Offering the best products and services has to be accompanied by quick deliveries to attract buyers. In addition to quick deliveries, shoppers also prefer free shipping.
Trends in eCommerce shipping are evolving to meet the expectations and needs of customers. This article covers the latest trends in the eCommerce international shipping industry.
Latest Trends in E-Commerce International Shipping
Here is a look at the latest developments shaping the global eCommerce shipping industry:
Popularity of Ocean Freight
Ocean freight has always been popular owing to its cost-effectiveness and ability to carry large volumes. While it is generally believed that air freight is taking over because of its speed, the truth is that sea shipping remains more popular. Its popularity is, in fact, growing as small and medium-sized businesses look for cost-effective means to expand their reach across borders. Many big businesses also rely on ocean freight as it enables shipping heavy items and bulk packages.
Sustainable Shipping
A business that adopts sustainable shipping and packaging practices is viewed as responsible and trustworthy. Consumers look forward to purchasing products from such businesses. Thus, there is a growing trend of incorporating sustainable solutions. This is helping businesses lower their carbon footprint and reduce landfill waste. Statistics reveal that the sustainable packaging market stands at USD 9.67 billion in 2024 and is likely to reach USD 19.19 billion by 2035, thus growing at a CAGR of 6.43% during this period. The shift towards eco-friendly initiatives is increases business profitability and benefits the environment.
Fast and Free Shipping
Shoppers look for online stores that offer quick product delivery. Quick and timely deliveries boost customer satisfaction and help establish goodwill in the market. Businesses that provide quick deliveries consistently stand a better chance at attracting buyers. However, those that offer free shipping are preferred even more. It has also been observed that shoppers purchase more products just to get free shipping. Thus, even though the cost of international shipping is high, businesses often provide free shipping for purchases exceeding a certain amount. This strategy helps beat the growing competition in the global market.
Technology Enabled Solutions
The use of GPS tracking software, route optimisation tools, inventory management systems, and other advanced tools helps businesses make informed decisions. These tools are designed to offer reliable, real-time information. Information about the real-time location and status of shipments helps in providing better customer service. Buyers can also track their shipments on their own on the company’s mobile application or website. Many businesses even send notifications about the same to keep their customers informed. Besides, there are tools that provide data related to customer’s buying behaviour. By leveraging this information, businesses can build strategies to keep up with the evolving consumer demands.
Likewise, the use of inventory management software helps track the goods stored in the warehouse. It prevents the problem of stock-outs and overstocking.
Elevated Post Purchase Experience
Businesses are trying to offer a brilliant post purchase experience to their customers to encourage repeat purchases. A good post purchase experience includes the following actions after an order has been placed – round-the-clock customer support, order tracking updates, a branded shipping experience, and shipping insurance.
Offering this is only possible by partnering with a reliable shipping partner. Seeking services from trusted shipping companies such as Shiprocket is ideal. As they try to create a mark in the global market, businesses are prioritising quality over cost-effectiveness. It has been observed that this approach helps enhance customer satisfaction and encourages repeat purchase.
Flexible Shipping Options
Many shipping companies have started offering flexible shipping options to match the requirement of businesses of different sizes. Using their services, eCommerce businesses can use full container loads (FCL) or less than container loads (LCL) based on their requirements.
Conclusion
You can ensure a smooth shipping experience by partnering with a reliable courier partner. Leading global courier partners like ShiprocketX provide you access to instant shipping, discounted international shipping charges, user-friendly tools like all-in-one order dashboard, unified tracking, and international shipping insurance.
