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<h1 class="ql-align-center">Shipping Peak Season is Almost Here - Analysis 2023 (USA)</h1>Peak seasons are the busiest time for shipping companies and other key players in the supply chain. Although peak season begins to take shape in August, it enters full gear in November and December. This isn’t a new occurrence as it is a yearly scenario in the supply chain. However, how the industry shapes up to meet the demands of the peak season tends to differ from year to year.&nbsp; With the current position of the industry, it is predicted that several key players such as shipping companies and last mile delivery service providers will increase fees to cater to the fulfillment demands of the peak season.&nbsp; &nbsp;A Quick Look at Service Providers With A High Possibility of Extra Fees for Peak SeasonOne thing is common during peak seasons – surcharges placed at different stages of logistics process to offset the extra labor and resources.&nbsp; <ul><li>OnTrac surcharges will be placed on residential packages and this will kick off from the 28th of October 2023 to 12th of January 2024. The extra fees will be charged based on the shipper’s baseline volume. Surcharges range from $1.35 to $6.40 per shipment.&nbsp;</li></ul> <ul><li>UPS surcharges will be focused on high volume shippers. Surcharges will also cover heavy, large and difficult-to-handle shipments. The extra fees ranging from $1.35 to $7.50 per shipment will be charged from 29th of October 2023 to the 13th of January 2024.</li></ul> <ul><li>&nbsp;GLS is looking to set a flat extra fee of $1.50 covering residential deliveries. This will take effect from 30th of October 2023 to 7th Jan 2024.&nbsp;</li></ul> <ul><li>FedEX is set to impose surcharges on high volume shipments. With the surcharges per shipment ranging from $1.35 to $6.35 for ground shipment and $2.40 to $7.40 for express shipment, FedEX is getting set for the peak season. These surcharges takes effect from 30th October 2023 to 14th Jan 2024.&nbsp;</li></ul> Although surcharges comes to play in peak seasons, there are companies that do not impose these extra charges. In the USA, service providers that are partners of the US postal services have shown intentions not to impose peak season surcharges.&nbsp; The spokesperson of DHL eCommerce via an email says they will not impose peak season surcharges this year. The CEO of OSM Worldwide, Gaston Curk gave a statement that they will be able to avoid extra charges on shipments. Other service providers that won’t be imposing peak season surcharges include Halify, Veho, and AxleHire.&nbsp; Why Peak Season Surcharges?The interaction between the forces of demand and supply creates the peak season. It is a time of high demand compared to relatively low supply forces. The high demand creates pressure and often disrupts the even flow and balance of the supply chain.&nbsp; The pressure of high demand in peak seasons results in warehouse and port congestion, the need for increased labor time and effort, and delays in delivery. In a bid to push up the supply to meet the high demands of peak season, carriers and other key industry players put in more regarding personnel, equipment, time, and other resources. All these come with increased expenses, hence the need for peak season surcharges.&nbsp; Advice for Shippers/Businesses Regarding The Peak SeasonAccording to Carson Krieg, the director of global alliances at Project44, over-communication is a significant measure for businesses and their carriers in peak seasons. His statement is hinged on the fact that demand and supply forecast is a must for all parties and must be shared for smooth navigation through peak seasons.&nbsp; Embrace DataBuilding upon the words of Carson Krieg, the director of Global Alliances at Project 44, Data is pivotal. There is a responsibility for shippers and businesses to pay more attention to demand forecasting and planning. This way, businesses can predict customer behavior and needs for the peak season.&nbsp; With data and the company's historical records, businesses can know areas of heavy surcharges and communicate appropriately to the carriers. This is a trigger for better negotiation for the best of both parties.&nbsp; Deploy the Priority GameDuring peak seasons it may be difficult to execute fulfillment to every location within your region of operation. Prioritize areas of larger volumes of packages to be delivered. Companies can cut down on transportation surcharges.&nbsp; Be in Sync With the CarrierEffective communication between shippers/businesses and carriers is the way to go in peak seasons. Let in carriers on sales and order details regarding volume analyzed from the forecasted data. Efficient data sharing will help negotiations, speed, and overall efficiency.&nbsp;

A view of what to expect from the holiday peak season in 2023

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Get updated on brand behavior for the peak season. Discover companies that are imposing surcharges and learn how to navigate the peak season

Shipping Peak Season is Almost Here - Analysis 2023 (USA)

<h1 class="ql-align-center">Return Fees - Creating A Double Situation in E-commerce</h1>One of the trending happenings in the e-commerce space is the addition of return fees by retailers. While these fees have deterred returns, it has also resulted in the loss of customers. Experts say return fees seem to work like magic but it comes at a cost.&nbsp; Research and survey reports from over one-third of brands imposing return fees say customers have been lost due to the charges. On the other hand, these brands have seen a reduced inflow of goods back or returned to the warehouse.&nbsp; Gartner, a research firm has its analysts, Tom Enright make his remarks. Tom Enright’s statements touch on the dynamics between returns and increased sales during the holiday peak seasons. This is when the industry is at its busiest moments.&nbsp; Tom Enright emphasized that it had become a norm for retailers to expect a percentage of returns, especially during peak seasons. According to the National Retail Federation in the US, retailers experienced over 17% of returned items after being sold in 2022. The introduction of return fees will initiate the loss of customers according to Tom Enright. The return fees make the entire purchase more expensive for customers, hence they tend to stay away.&nbsp; In the e-commerce industry returns have proven to be an efficient marketing tool to attract customers and keep them. Customers love the platform provided to return any purchased item short of their satisfaction. As a result, retailers were more than happy to take responsibility for the extra cost implications.&nbsp; The model had always looked like a win-win situation. However, comparing returns data from the pre-pandemic era to this time, it is seen that the percentage of returns has significantly increased. This shows a rise from 9.6%&nbsp;&nbsp;to over 16.5% between 2019 and 2022. It is as though customers have taken advantage of the returns model and it is now weighing down on business profits.&nbsp; While some retailers see imposing return fees as a way of minimizing returns, it creates a double situation. It’s valid that returns have significantly reduced by virtue of the fees, however, it has taken a toll on the customer base as several customers stop shopping with the retailers. According to a survey by Blue Yonder, over 50% of customers have claimed that return fees tighten the return policy and discourage them from shopping with a particular retailer.&nbsp; What the Return Process Looks LikeThe return of purchased items looks simple from the customer's perspective. However, there are several operations behind the scenes put in place to ensure that the item is fit for resale. Every e-commerce brand with a pursuit of premium customer satisfaction puts a lot into returns management.&nbsp; The return process begins from the point where a customer is dissatisfied with a purchased item and then requests a return. The retailer operates with its prevailing return policy which instructs the customer on how the returns are made. Customers ship or return the item back to the retailer as directed.&nbsp; With several return options available, retailers inform the customer when they receive the item and update them on the state of the return process. Upon receiving the returned items, retailers inspect the items to identify their quality state. The customer then receives an exchange or a refund depending on the situation. The returned item rejoins the stock if fit and ready for resale.&nbsp; In a situation when the condition of the item is beyond remedy, it is disposed of. In other cases where the condition is manageable, it is resold at a discount.&nbsp; The Ugly Aspects of ReturnsOn a general note, returns means extra warehouse spaces, logistics cost, and labor resources. This tends to fall on the business’s expenditure and takes a toll on the profit. It becomes worse when there is a significant volume of returns that yields higher operational costs. This is a pretty difficult situation for retailers. When returned items are sold at a discount, it results in a loss for the retailer. A worse case is when the item cannot be resold and needs to be disposed of. This means there is no revenue generated from that volume of returned items.&nbsp; The return process may require more stages compared to the original distribution of items to customers. This results in management difficulty and extra operational costs. The uncertainty with returns makes inventory management an uphill task. When the volume of returned items is higher than the actual settled or accepted sales, a huge loss is recorded.&nbsp; Cases of customers playing a fast one on retailers also exist and this results in a loss for the retailer.&nbsp; With all these aspects in view, several retailers have adopted the use of return fees to minimize the volume and offset operational costs. However, the loss of customers remains a downside.&nbsp;

Retailers are imposing return fees on customers. This has worked in the retailer’s favor but also has a significant downside. 

Discover the positives and negatives behind imposing return fees by retailers.

Return Fees - Creating A Double Situation in E-commerce

<h1 class="ql-align-center">St. Lawrence Seaway Strike- Negotiations Resumes</h1>The importance of the St. Lawrence Seaway to the Canadian and US supply chain is never in dispute. But the news of the strike is true and valid, as workers walk out and cease operations. In a bid to solve this issue, talks were held on Friday 27th of Oct,2023 between the trade union and the St. Lawrence Seaway Management.&nbsp;&nbsp; The strike is a result of workers expressing displeasure regarding their wages. According to reports, The wage deal broke down, and several workers stopped working. Everyone is aware of the detrimental effects of this situation especially on the economy. It is recorded that the St. Lawrence Seaway is responsible for over $20 million in economic revenue per day. This importance has triggered the Canadian Chamber of Commerce to call on the government for a quick solution to the situation.&nbsp; The Labor Minister Seamus O’Regan had a meeting with the union and the seaway management on the 22nd&nbsp;of October 2023. The union also met with Transportation Minister Pablo Rodriquez on the same day. The meetings were focused on calling on every key player to come to the negotiation table.&nbsp; The Effect of the St. Lawrence Seaway StrikeThe St. Lawrence Seaway offers significant importance to Canada and the United States. The Seaway is the pathway for the transportation of personnel and goods connecting the Great Lakes and the Atlantic Ocean. Hence it plays a key role in the Canadian and US supply chains.&nbsp; The strike has affected the Canadian and US supply chains. There have been delays in the delivery of cargo with over vessels said to be affected by the strike. The weight of this setback is significant. As a result, Unifor, the union have expressed her interest in listening to the offers from the St. Lawrence Seaway Management. This strike is second with a significant effect on the Canadian supply chain after the shut down of the British Columbia Port.&nbsp; The severity of the situation is a major pointer that a quick resolution can be achieved.&nbsp; Overall Benefits of the St. Lawrence SeawayThe St. Lawrence Seaway is a trade gateway as it is link between the Great Lake and the foreign markets. Goods are easily transported between Canada and the United States via the St. Lawrence Seaway. It connects Canada and the United States to the international market through the Atlantic Ocean.&nbsp; The trade gateway and other activities on the St. Lawrence Seaway influences the Canadians and the US economy. Through this Seaway, e-commerce and industrial activities are significantly supported. Famous commodities such as manufactured goods, iron ore, grains, and coals are consistently shipped via the St. Lawrence Seaway. All these contribute massively to the economy and GDP of Canada and the United States. The United States Agribusiness gains a lot this Seaway.&nbsp; Aside from the trade and economic benefits of the St. Lawrence Seaway, the Seaway offers basic and crucial transport infrastructure and network. The US inland waterways is a major beneficiary of the St. Lawrence Seaway. The Seaway constitutes a major part of the US inland waterways. This provides an alternative transport network that offers immense benefits to the people and society. As a result, traffic congestion is minimized, and the movement of large numbers of personnel and cargo becomes easier.&nbsp; The St.Lawrence Seaway is physically appealing. As a result, it promotes tourism and recreational activities, especially for the people of Canada. A good example is boating and other yacht activities. These activities also have positive economic implications as they contribute to the generated revenue of the country. The Seaway's contribution to power generation is also worth the mention.&nbsp;

Bodies involved in the St. Lawrence Seaway Strike are on the negotiation table.

Stay up to date with the St. Lawrence Seaway strike. Discover why the workers walked out.

St. Lawrence Seaway Strike- Negotiations Resumes

<h1 class="ql-align-center">Warehouses Seeks More Gig Workers in the US</h1> Warehouses are fast embracing the gig economy. Other players in the global supply chain have increased their preference for gig workers which has in turn taken a toll on logistics operators and warehouses who still adopt the traditional work model. With the labor force going down, there is increased competition for workers, and logistics companies feel to be on the losing side. Hence the adoption of the gig economy into the system.&nbsp; Logistics operators/warehouses have decided to offer more flexible working hours to workers. This is a model greatly imbibed by companies such as Shipt, Uber Technologies, Care.com, Instacart, etc. This is a bid to meet up with the competition in the labor force and maximize the available personnel.&nbsp; <h2>What The Gig Economy Looks Like&nbsp;</h2>It’s safe to see this system as one with immense worker flexibility. Workers set their availability and shifts are allocated based on the availability. This has resulted in more freelance or independent contractor activity. It is focused on part-time positions, hence winding down the glamour of full-time positions.&nbsp; As of 2021, experts claim that a third of the US population belongs to the gig economic system. The COVID-19 Pandemic was a major boost for the gig economy. It was originally a quick response or fix to the pandemic effect with technology and digitization being significant triggers. The gig economy continues to be on the rise as employees are enjoying the flexibility it brings. It is predicted that 60% of the American workforce will be independent in 2027. Also, the number of gig workers tipped to reach 86.5 million by 2027. Experts also predict that 80% of large organizations in the US will depend more on gig workers than traditional work models in the few years to come. Coming down to the logistics space, gig workers have risen by 21% compared to the 15% in 2021. Experts predict more growth as current logistics workers buy the idea of the gig economy and are willing to explore the model.&nbsp; <h2>The Gig Economy Works A Bit Differently in the Logistics Space</h2>On a general scale, especially outside the logistics industry and some other technical spaces, gig workers can fill in several positions immediately. According to Hisham Khaki, the founder of Alpharetta, “It actually takes someone who understands warehousing to operate a forklift”. His idea is that logistics companies and warehouses cannot hire gig workers via the same procedures as other organizations such as Uber, etc.&nbsp; One of the reasons for the disparity in procedure is that logistics gig workers must be trained and capable of warehousing operations for which they are to be assigned. “You can’t just have someone who lists themselves as a warehouse worker go into a facility” – Hisham Khaki. HapiGig, an employment agency for warehouse workers located in Georgia is an ideal illustration of Hisham Khahi’s point of view. The available personnel looking to be gig workers go through training and the employer can track their performance before offering them the part-time job.&nbsp; <h2>Some Effects of the Gig Economy on Warehouses</h2>Oftentimes, the effects of the gig economy are analyzed from the worker's point of view. However, it has an effect on employers. This route which logistics companies and warehouses are taking by storm could bring in several benefits.&nbsp; The gig economy triggers lower labor costs. It eliminates the high volume of full-time workers and offers wage flexibility as gig workers tend to receive lower pay compared to full-time staff. The cost of hiring and training full-time employees is also reduced.&nbsp; With the gig economy, there is no need for employers to pay health insurance to workers. There is no form of medical payment but employers can put the money back into the warehousing operations. Gig workers as of now are not qualified for 401(k) benefits. This can save employers huge sums of money per year.&nbsp; Hiring gig workers is a perfect solution for the sick leave issue. In a case where a worker has to take a sick leave, a part-time worker can easily step in to fill the position at a lower rate. This also solves the issue of seasonal employment as warehouse managers can boycott the cost of using emergency employment agencies.&nbsp; The adoption of gig workers gives logistics operators the flexibility to scale. They can easily increase the labor force with lower costs. This is especially perfect for small-scale or startup warehouses. The gig economy beings a balance between employers and employees. Employees have more control over their work-life which can result in increased productivity.&nbsp;

News on warehouses open to hiring gig workers 

Read on warehouses being open to hiring gig workers. Explore the factors and elements that come to play.

Warehouses Seeks More Gig Workers in the US

<h1 class="ql-align-center">Port Everglades Cargo Volume Declines For Six Consecutive Months (March to August 2023)</h1>The latest update on Port Everglades cargo volume is a dip of 14% as of August. There was no significant change in cargo volume in September. According to reports, the Port Everglades cargo volume has been on a downtrend for the past six months, and Jonathan Daniels the port CEO spoke concerning the situation. He said- The crash in cargo volume could be because Port Everglades cargo traffic is returning to the pre-Covid levels.&nbsp; <h2>A Look At The Port Everglades Pre-Covid Levels</h2>As it is well known, Port Everglades ranks as one of America’s busiest ports located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It is a major trade gateway between the United States and the rest of the world. Port activities are pretty high and boast an average of 5 million tonnage per year.&nbsp; In 2017, Port Everglades recorded a total annual TEU of 1,076,912 and tonnage of 7,226,433.&nbsp;&nbsp;Over 20, 000 increase in TEU and 100,000 increase in tonnage was recorded in 2018. The year 2019, was a little off the mark as both TEU and tonnage dropped compared to 2018. A 1,053,078 TEU and 6,797,694 were recorded in 2019. The year 2020, was a full-blown Covid-19 pandemic. With the global lockdown, there was a significant drop in Port Everglade’s TEU and tonnage. The number recorded was 945,512 TEU and 5,707,528 tonnage. In the year 2022, the post-Covid era experienced a resurgence of cargo volume with 1,053,078 TEU and 7.3 million tonnage. This forms the basis of Jonathan Daniel’s claim that the post-Covid surge will trigger an improved level of cargo volumes.&nbsp; <h2>A Look At Some Possible Factors Leading to the Decline of Port Everglades Cargo Volume</h2>In the words of Jonathan Daniel “In general, the bump in volumes can be attributed to Port Everglades’ cargo traffic returning to pre-Covid levels” This is a general perspective of the situation. However, some factors trigger the decline in cargo volume.&nbsp; The change in consumer behavior can boost or reduce the port’s cargo traffic. A shift in consumer behavior is a pretty wide scope as it can involve a change in consumer preferences within a period. This triggers the forces of demand and supply for a range of products which in turn influence cargo influx in and out of the port.&nbsp; The change in consumer preferences can see a reduction in imports, hence reducing cargo volumes into the port. Consumer preferences for locally made products also take a toll on port cargo volume, as goods are manufactured very close to the consumers, eradicating the shipping phase.&nbsp; Inflation is another factor that influences the port’s cargo volume. The surge in commodity and material prices takes a toll on both businesses and consumers. Inflation lowers the spending power of consumers and they tend to spend on more vital commodities. This kills off the buying activities of some other items considered as less important.&nbsp; Inflation also disrupts business activities as small-scale to medium-scale businesses may opt to cut down on the volume of goods processed along their supply chain. The reduced activities by businesses and the lower purchasing power will reduce the level of imports into a region. Cargo volume is a function of both imports and exports, hence when one side suffers, the entire volume will decline.&nbsp; Shipping delays can also have an adverse impact on cargo volume. The port is a two-way gateway as it receives goods (imports) and sends out goods(exports). As a result, it is somewhat dependent on the state of other ports within the trade lane. This network forms the supply chain and a disruption such as shipping delays can cause a reduction in cargo volume within a time range.&nbsp; <h2>Possible Effects of Port Everglades Dip in Cargo Volume</h2>Port Everglades is a vital supply chain infrastructure as it is popularly known as Florida’s important economic hub. It is an established gateway for international trade. It is responsible for over 10% of trade between the United States and Latin America.&nbsp; Although Port Everglades isn’t the only formidable port in the United States, its low performance by virtue of reduced cargo level will have an impact on the US markets and industries. This tends to affect business operations as imports may be on the low side. As a result, there could be limited availability of several products for the end consumers.&nbsp; It is believed that Port Everglades will in no time take the step of recovery and experience a much-improved cargo volume level.&nbsp;

News on Port Everglade’s cargo volume performance 

Get updated on Port Everglades cargo volume. See how it has fared for the past six months

Port Everglades Cargo Volume Declines for the Sixth Consecutive Month

Port Everglades Cargo Volume Declines For Six Consecutive Months

<h1 class="ql-align-center">Strategies to Minimize Carbon Footprint in E-commerce Delivery</h1>There is a growing commitment by every facet of life to achieve a sustainable environment and the e-commerce industry is not left out. Every player of the industry has the responsibility to see that e-commerce practices and delivery are eco-friendly. For this reason, the subject matter of green logistics is gaining more attention and adoption.&nbsp; The goal is to reduce the carbon footprint while customers get their ordered items with ease. This is super important as it minimizes adverse effect on plants, public health and the climate. It can be seen as a way of keeping plants, customers and the environment healthy. Green e-commerce is achievable as there are laid out strategies that can help minimize the carbon footprint during delivery. <h2>Eco-friendly Packaging</h2>Let’s kick it off from the packaging even before the item hits the road. It’s best for e-commerce brands to utilize the dynamics of eco-friendly packaging. It involves the adoption of packaging practices with minimal environmental effects. Here is a further breakdown.&nbsp; The Use of Biodegradable MaterialsBiodegradable materials are known to be catalysts for low-carbon emissions. These materials are easily broken down naturally, hence they are not toxic to the environment. Some of these material include; <ul><li>Cardboard/compostable paper: Perfect fits for boxes and cartons&nbsp;</li><li>Biodegradable bubble wrap: A perfect cushioning material for items loaded onto vehicles&nbsp;</li><li>Bioplastics: They are better off traditional plastics as they are biodegradable, hence minimizing carbon emission.</li><li>Mycelium: These are biodegradable protective materials for packaging fragile items.&nbsp;</li></ul> The Use of Returnable PackagesReturnable packages are designed for durability and flexibility so that they can be used for multiple deliveries. The one-off packages will need to be recycled or discarded leading to increased waste that boosts the carbon footprint. Therefore, returnable packages minimize the production of packaging waste and in turn, lead to low-carbon delivery.&nbsp; The Use of Recyclable Materials&nbsp;Recyclable materials promote lower carbon emissions in two ways. One is the reduction in the production of packaging materials from the raw state. The production involves high usage of energy which increases the carbon concentration in the environment. Hence, recycling helps to cut short such production operations.&nbsp; The other aspect is the reduction of waste. Recycling helps divert materials that would have been stored up as waste into useful materials. Waste increases the carbon footprint in the environment and one key initiative is to reduce these wastes.&nbsp; <h2>Green Transportation Methods</h2>The mode of transportation during delivery is a key factor in the concentration of carbon in the environment. Traditional transportation modes utilize the large volume of fossil fuels which emits large volumes of carbon. The green transportation method is one that focuses on cutting down the use of fossil fuels. They include the use of electric delivery trucks which are powered by electricity. Hydrogen-powered vehicles are also fit for low-carbon delivery. They provide a way for delivery trucks to eliminate fossil fuel usage.&nbsp; Urban delivery solutions can also be an effective initiative. This includes the use of bicycles or a walk-along delivery within short distances. The bicycle and pedestrian delivery methods are super efficient for cases where the product locations are very close to the customers.&nbsp; <h2>Eco-friendly Warehousing</h2>Green warehousing is part of the sustainable initiative in e-commerce logistics. It focuses on the elements of the warehouse building being eco-friendly. One area is the adoption of renewable energy for its operation. This will cut down the use of fossil energy and minimize carbon.&nbsp;&nbsp;emissions. Renewable energy includes solar energy/panels, wind energy, etc.&nbsp; <h2>Efficient Route Optimization</h2>Planning and analyzing the pathway or delivery route has become a mainstay practice for high-flying e-commerce brands. It’s past the era where there are several uncertainties in this area as route optimization helps to predict possible outcomes along a particular route. Route optimization can be done using high-end optimization software and it plays a part in minimizing the carbon footprint.&nbsp; Efficient route planning will help organize trips and deliveries. As a result, deliveries can be made to multiple locations in one journey. Minimizing multiple trips reduces the frequency of delivery vehicles on the road and in turn, reduces carbon emissions. Route optimization will help minimize the miles traveled by delivery vehicles. It takes account of possible factors that can lead to delays on the road. This will help put remedial measures and ensure shorter travel times. When the travel time is short, a lower volume of carbon is emitted from delivery vehicles.&nbsp; <h2>Collaborate with DeliverThis for Green E-commerce Delivery</h2>DeliverThis is a regional carrier with a focus on Los Angeles, Dallas, Arizona, and other close by cities. We are a brand that believes in sustainable e-commerce, striking the right balance between delivery efficiency and the environment. The responsibility to minimize the carbon footprint for the sustenance of the environment lies on every player in the industry, and we are at your service to fulfill this course.&nbsp; Let DeliverThis be your regional carrier as we continue to implement strategies that will have a positive impact on the industry and environment.&nbsp;

Discussion on strategies to reduce the carbon footprint caused by e-commerce delivery operations 

Discover effective carbon footprint minimization strategies. A step forward to sustainable e-commerce 

Strategies to Minimize Carbon Footprint in E-commerce Delivery

<h1 class="ql-align-center">How Packaging Improves Efficiency of Last Mile Delivery</h1>Last-mile delivery is undoubtedly a crucial aspect of the e-commerce business. It is the final part that knits the e-commerce brand with its customers. It is safe to say that several people have embraced online shopping due to the guarantee of last-mile delivery. That is, customers are assured that their items will be delivered to their preferred locations. The efficiency of last-mile delivery is key to the growth and sustenance of the e-commerce business as it helps translate to customer happiness. That’s why deliberate last-mile delivery optimization is emphasized in this article. One approach toward efficient last-mile delivery is packaging solutions. When a brand optimizes its packaging solutions, then last-mile delivery can be taken to the next level. Let’s see the role of optimized packaging in last-mile delivery operations.&nbsp; <h2>Packaging Design</h2>The packaging design is more important than you may have ever imagined. It refers to the structure and composition of the packaging materials. The optimization of packaging materials will influence the efficiency of last-mile delivery. We can break down the elements of packaging design to see how it directly affects the last mile delivery.&nbsp; Optimal Packaging SizesThe package size is a significant element of the package design. Packaging size can influence the delivery vehicle capacity either on a positive or negative scale. When package sizes are optimized it helps to maximize space in the truck. As a result, a considerable volume of items can be delivered.&nbsp; On the other hand, finding the best package size with respect to the estimated truck capacity will help prevent the issues of under-loading and over-loading.&nbsp; Protective Packaging MaterialsRecall that the packaging design includes the composition materials of the package. Materials with high strengths and protective features provide safety to the items to be delivered. Employing packaging solutions made of protective materials will ensure that product integrity is maintained. Improving last-mile delivery with packaging made of protective materials will minimize damages and returns.&nbsp; Eco-friendly and Lightweight MaterialsThe use of lightweight materials for packaging offers immense benefits that all improve the delivery experience. One key metric of last-mile delivery is the truckload capacity. The truckload capacity has a close relationship with the item weight and this helps determine the maximum load the truck can transport for delivery. The item weight also serves as a base for determining delivery rates, especially when the carrier charges per weight. With lightweight packaging materials, e-commerce businesses can cut down on delivery costs as there will be fewer weights to be charged by the carrier. Carriers can also gain from lightweight shipment as it will help save the cost of fuel. As a result, both parties gain in terms of delivery cost.&nbsp; Lightweight packaging materials will improve the usage of transportation or delivery resources such as trucks. This is because the carriers can load more items onto the trucks and this will help with faster delivery. Here is a summary of how lightweight materials can improve last-mile delivery. <ul><li>Less labor when loading and unloading items which results in lower handling fees.&nbsp;</li><li>Less stress on the truck or vehicle which minimizes wear and tear&nbsp;</li><li>Minimized damage when items move or collide while in transit.</li><li>Easier handling and faster loading and unloading times will lead to a much-improved delivery time frame.&nbsp;</li></ul> One emerging aspect of last-mile delivery is the adoption of sustainable logistics. With so much effort toward reducing the global carbon footprint, the e-commerce industry is embracing environmentally friendly means of delivery. Eco-friendly packaging materials aid this system and ensure optimal delivery experiences while the carbon footprint is reduced.&nbsp; <h2>Room for Customization</h2>Customization brings last-mile packaging solutions to a whole new level. It involves personalization that closely knits a particular customer to the delivery experience.&nbsp; Personalized PackagingThe number of customers with unique preferences for packaging and delivery is on the increase. Several customers now want packaging and delivery tailored to their specific needs. Meeting these demands needs a good level of efficiency and getting the packaging right boosts other final stages of the delivery. Personalized packaging offers enhanced customer experience and satisfaction.&nbsp; <h2>Specially Designed Packaging for Specific Products</h2>It’s understandable that there are conventional packaging solutions used for a wide variety of items. However, a few specifics and specialty happens as some items need special packages that support their nature and composition. A good example is that fragile or perishable items require special packages compared to regular items.&nbsp; With the availability of this diversification in packages, it’s possible to package every form of item and deliver it efficiently. Getting the packaging of these special items right will help improve delivery efficiency.&nbsp; <h2>Conclusion</h2>As an e-commerce business looking to improve its last-mile delivery, it is advised that you look into your packaging solutions. Consider your packaging materials, size, and how they align with the customer’s specific demands. Your packaging has a role in optimizing your last-mile delivery.&nbsp;

Discussing the effect and role of packaging in last-mile delivery. 

See how packaging can improve last-mile delivery efficiency. A call to improve your packaging for enhanced e-commerce fulfillment

How Packaging Improves Efficiency of Last Mile Delivery

<h1 class="ql-align-center">A Guide to Eco-friendly Packaging Materials in E-commerce</h1>Eco-friendly packaging materials are a key response to the serious call for environmental awareness and care. These materials are environmentally responsible and minimize the negative impact on the environment. The importance of sustainable packaging materials in e-commerce is growing as every player including customers are getting interested in sustaining the environment.&nbsp; There is a significant call from customers to e-commerce brands on sustainability. Over 80 percent of US customers claim to be interested in green e-commerce. They say that they will purchase from e-commerce brands with sustainable practices.&nbsp; E-commerce brands can execute sustainable practices by switching to eco-friendly packaging materials. Here is a quick guide to expose you to all you need to know.&nbsp; <h2>Types of Eco-friendly Packaging Materials</h2>Eco-friendly packaging materials come in different types. They have a positive response to the environment by virtue of their composition, structure, and recycling characteristics.&nbsp;&nbsp;Biodegradable MaterialsEvery material has a way it reacts when exposed to air, micro-organisms, and other environmental elements. Biodegradable materials from their root word “biodegrade” means they undergo a natural decomposition without an adverse effect on the environment. This forms the basic characteristic of biodegradable materials.&nbsp; Biodegradable materials possess extra attributes such as compatibility, and durability and are mostly produced from renewable sources. Good examples include cornstarch-based materials and bioplastics.&nbsp; Renewable Materials&nbsp;There is a close relationship between renewable and biodegradable materials. However, they are not entirely the same thing. Renewable materials are produced from natural sources such as biomass, plants, wood, etc. These materials can be regenerated and have a reduced environmental impact. Renewable materials offer versatility in packaging, as they can suit different shapes and sizes.&nbsp; Recycled MaterialsThis type of packaging material is made from previously used packaging materials. It is safe to see it as reworking on post-consumer material. Recycled materials have the ability to conserve compositions that make them fit for packaging. Recycled materials minimize the need for traditional production with raw materials, as a result, there is lower carbon emission and promotes overall environmental sustainability.&nbsp; Examples include returnable cloth bags, recycled paper, returnable boxes, and recycled cardboard. <h2>Why Eco-friendly Packaging Materials?</h2>There is no mixing of words here, eco-friendly is immensely beneficial to e-commerce brands, customers, the environment, and every other player in the industry. Let’s break the benefits into categories for better understanding.&nbsp; Environmental/Societal Benefits&nbsp;Choosing eco-friendly packaging materials for e-commerce is first beneficial to the environment and primary society. The environment has a role in the preservation of human, plant, and animal life. It then becomes a huge problem when human activities distort environmental quality. This could lead to severe damages and losses.&nbsp; Conscious efforts to maintain environmental quality via eco-friendly packaging in the e-commerce industry will see a drastic reduction in the carbon footprint. This means less carbon emissions and improved environmental sustainability.&nbsp; One other way eco-friendly packaging contributes to the sustainability of the environment is the reduction of waste. The use of renewable and recyclable materials for packaging minimizes the waste level in the environment. The combination of non-toxic decomposition and minimal waste level will massively improve the ecosystem. Business-related BenefitsIt’s a valid point that eco-friendly packaging materials positively influence the environment. However, these materials can also have a massive positive effect on your e-commerce business. One way is cost-saving through sustainable practices. Here is a breakdown. <ul><li>Recycled materials will reduce the cost of procuring new raw materials and this will lead to massive savings in the long run.</li><li>Eco-friendly packaging materials are lightweight. As a result, they reduce shipping or delivery fees especially when charged per weight.&nbsp;</li><li>Eco-friendly materials help reduce waste. This will in turn minimize the brand’s expenses on waste disposal.</li><li>E-commerce brands with sustainable practices may be qualified for some financial incentives in some regions.</li></ul> When an e-commerce brand adopts eco-friendly packaging, they are positioned for business continuity and growth. The world at large is happy with sustainable practices by industries and this will help businesses attract eco-conscious customers.&nbsp; Regulatory BenefitsThe government and related authorities in the industry are making strict sustainability laws. Breaking these laws takes a toll on the business and it can lead to the end of business. Embracing eco-friendly packaging solutions puts the business in compliance with authorities.&nbsp; This also gives the brand a competitive advantage in the modern e-commerce market. In today’s market, over 80% of customers in the U.S. are eco-conscious, so they will shop with eco-conscious brands.&nbsp; <h2>Some Eco-friendly Packaging Advancements in the Industry</h2>This section will point out some programs and technologies focused on environmental sustainability that industries such as e-commerce should adopt.&nbsp; Novel Recycling TechnologyNovel recycling technology is an advanced system for recycling materials useful for packaging. The system targets high-end efficiency and speed. It incorporates chemical processes, automation, biological processes, and data analytics for maximum productivity.&nbsp; Other programs and technologies advised include:<ul><li>Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programs</li><li>Closed loop systems</li><li>And other sustainability programs in the industry.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Enlightening the audience on eco-friendly packaging materials that are crucial for environmental sustainability 

Discover eco-friendly packaging materials that can help you build an eco-conscious e-commerce brand 

A Guide to Eco-friendly Packaging Materials in E-commerce

<h1 class="ql-align-center">Less Than Truckload Shipment for E-commerce- The Rising Need of Online Retailers&nbsp;</h1> Several e-commerce brands seek a cost-effective method to ship small volumes of items. This is where the Less Than Truckload shipment comes into play. It is contrary to the most basic shipping strategy where a brand has to fill up a truck before delivery can be made. Less Than Truckload involves a consolidation strategy where different brands can ship their items via the same truck and at the same time. With the rise of the e-commerce industry, online retail shipping requires flexibility as timelines are much closer and customer demand has gone beyond the usual. Less Than Truckload shipment can help in this regard. Let’s find out more about the Less Than Truckload Shipment in this blog.&nbsp; <h2>Less Than Truckload(LTL) Shipment for E-commerce- How it Works</h2>Let’s make this a bit practical. An e-commerce brand “X” has a small volume of items that must be delivered as soon as possible. However, the available volume of items isn't enough to fill up the truck of the carrier. The carrier will not be pleased to drive an almost empty truck through long distances for delivery as it is not profitable. At this time the customers of the e-commerce brand “X” will take no excuses and are expecting their items.&nbsp; The Less Than Truckload shipment is a shipping solution that solves this kind of problem and it is a service offered by the carrier. The carrier will pick up the small volumed items of the e-commerce brand “X” and consolidate them with the items of other e-commerce brands heading to the same region, then make the delivery as fast as possible.&nbsp; <h2>Benefits of LTL Shipment to E-commerce Businesses</h2>The thing is, if as an e-commerce brand, you are not exploring the option of Less Than Truckload, then you are missing some great benefits. Less Than Truckload(LTL) has revolutionized the shipping and delivery of items as it primarily offers flexibility which is a key element of modern-day e-commerce.&nbsp; A Key to Same-day and Next-day DeliveryIt’s no news that one of the basic demands of the modern-day online shopper is the same-day and next-day delivery. The traditional shipping strategy where the truck has to be filled with items of a particular brand may not suffice for this demand. The daily volume of orders may not be the same and the brand may not be able to fill a truck for a same-day or next-day delivery.&nbsp; With Less Than Truckload shipment, ordered items can be swiftly grouped with other items to fill the truck for delivery.&nbsp; Cost EfficiencyCost-saving is a dire desire for every e-commerce brand. There are several areas of the business that attract cost and one significant area is in the shipping or delivery of items. However, cost-effective LTL solutions for online retailers have come to the rescue. With Less Than Truckload, the delivery cost can be shared amongst the e-commerce brands that have their items consolidated in the truck.&nbsp;A brand will only have to pay for the space its items occupy rather than paying for the full truck. This will save costs, especially in the long run.&nbsp; FlexibilityFlexibility is key for efficient e-commerce shipping as it gives the brand leverage and options to meet customer’s fulfillment needs. With Less Than Truckload, e-commerce brands can deliver items at any time and in any manner. This serves as a solution for the cases of scarcity, emergencies, etc.&nbsp; Less Than Truckload is a great solution in the case of seasonal fluctuations. In peak seasons when there is a surge in demand, LTL can help with quick turnaround time. As items can be delivered as soon as they are ordered. It also reduces the effect of cost in peak seasons. In all, LTL gives the brand the leverage to change shipping volumes and adapt to prevailing market situations.&nbsp; Improved Customer Experience and SatisfactionLess Than Truckload boosts the e-commerce order fulfillment of any brand. This results in happy customers. LTL can help tailor delivery to the specific needs of a customer. In all, there is continuity of business and a good relationship with customers.&nbsp; <h2>How to Choose the Right LTL Carrier for E-commerce- DeliverThis Your Perfect Fit</h2>The idea of an LTL shipment sounds amazing, but the efficiency lies in the hands of the carrier. This is why an e-commerce brand must choose a competent LTL carrier like DeliverThis. Consider the following criteria of an ideal LTL carrier.&nbsp; ReliabilityAn ideal LTL carrier must be reliable. This can be traced from the general reputation of the carrier based on past delivery execution. On-time delivery is not negotiable and the carrier must be available with all resources when needed. DeliverThis fits into this profile as a reliable regional LTL carrier in Los Angeles and nearby cities.&nbsp; Service CoverageIt’s fine that you may have spotted a reliable carrier. However, that carrier must be available and operate in the region where your customers are located. For example, DeliverThis operates in some cities of the U.S. such as Los Angeles, Dallas, Arizona, etc. So you must consider the tea of your e-commerce business and that of the carrier must align.&nbsp; Whatever, the criteria you seek, DeliverThis is willing to collaborate and offer you high-quality LTL shipping services.&nbsp;

Explanation of Less Than Truckload Shipment and how it serves e-commerce brands

Get an understanding of Less Than Truckload Shipment and how it benefits e-commerce businesses

Less Than Truckload Shipment for E-commerce - The Key for Online Retailers 

Less Than Truckload Shipment for E-commerce- The Rising Need of Online Retailers 

<h1 class="ql-align-center">Furniture Last Mile Delivery Challenges in E-commerce</h1>When the topic of e-commerce is discussed, furniture hardly comes to mind. The industry experiences more of food items, clothings, electronics, and other basic lightweight products. However, online furniture sales is fast rising in the United States as it generated over 130 USD in 2021. Since then, online furniture sales have experienced immense growth with a 26.26% market penetration rate for 2023.&nbsp; With furniture e-commerce fast becoming a norm, there are some bottlenecks experienced by e-commerce brands. This is the area of furniture last mile delivery. Although there could be other challenges, this post is focused on the challenges of the last mile delivery in furniture e-commerce.&nbsp; <h2>Challenges</h2> FragilityFurniture items are pretty fragile. This is due to their composition materials, structure and general characteristics. Some examples include wooden furniture that are pretty vulnerable to damage. There are also furniture made of glass such as table tops, dinning tables, side stools, etc that can easily get broken while in transit. In all, most furniture materials are vulnerable to scratches, breakage when there is minimal impact or displacement. This is one of the major furniture delivery challenges.&nbsp; Size and WeightFurniture items come in different weights and sizes. However, there are more of large sized and heavy weight furniture compared to the lightweight items. This creates a serious furniture shipping dilemma as the weight and size are a concern during loading and unloading. Large size and heavy weight increases the chances of accidents and damages such as cracks.&nbsp; Complex DesignAside from the size and weight of furniture items, they widely come in several shapes and designs. Sometimes these designs may be irregular in shape making it difficult to fit several items into the truck. The designs of furniture items can be so complex that a scratch kills off the appeal and essence of the design. This results in extra care during handling and delivery.&nbsp; Rural DeliveryE-commerce furniture delivery challenges in rural areas are a serious issue. First off, basic delivery to rural areas has its unique challenges, then it worsens when delivering furniture of large sizes and heavy weights. There is limited infrastructure in rural areas such as easily navigable roads. The difficulty in navigating these roads, and driving through bumps and potholes will create too many impacts that may damage the furniture.&nbsp; The case may be worse in areas of rugged terrains and features such as hills and mountains. These areas may need specialized vehicles and intensive resources to deliver large furniture successfully.&nbsp; Turnaround TimeThere is a significant gap between the ease of delivering a regular food item compared to furniture delivery. There are several complexities with the fulfillment of furniture which tend to affect the turnaround time. The furniture needs to be assembled which takes significant time and disrupts the customer’s desire for super-fast delivery.&nbsp; Another factor is the complexity of loading and unloading of the furniture onto trucks. This requires extra effort and resources and may take more time. Special equipment and trucks may be required in the case of delivery to less accessible or rugged areas. Putting all these measures in place takes time away from the usual fast delivery of other basic items.&nbsp;&nbsp;Assembly RequirementFurniture assembly requirement is a significant factor in e-commerce delivery struggles. This issue is dissected into different aspects. One aspect is the diverse range of furniture products having different assembly requirements. The variation means that there is no standard assembly procedures, hence more know-how is required. Now on the part of the customers, not all of them can assemble the furniture upon delivery. As a result, the e-commerce brand may need to send experts to assemble the furniture at the customer’s location. There are a lot of technicalities around furniture assembly that must be handled with care to avoid customer dissatisfaction.&nbsp; Urban DeliveryUrban delivery also poses its challenges just as the rural delivery. One issue with urban delivery is that the customer’s location may be far away from an assigned parking space. This means the furniture items will be unloaded and carried to the customer’s location. Furniture items are often heavy and can prove strenuous.&nbsp; Delivery time can be further delayed by traffic congestion in urban areas. This is a common issue with several urban road networks.&nbsp; <h2>Overcome These Challenges with DeliverThis</h2>The challenges with furniture delivery can be overwhelming for e-commerce brands. However, working with a reliable regional carrier like DeliverThis can help combat these challenges. DeliverThis offers solutions to logistical and product specific challenges and with good knowledge of furniture logistics, there is so much you can gain.&nbsp; DeliverThis offers the following<ul><li>Special care and high-level handling of fragile furniture items at every delivery stage.</li><li>Route optimization to handle the issues of traffic congestion, limited accessibility, etc.&nbsp;</li><li>On-time delivery that leads to customer satisfaction</li></ul>

A post explaining the challenges involved in the e-commerce fulfillment of furniture. 

Discover the challenges associated with last-mile delivery of furniture in e-commerce 