Last year saw the 23rd anniversary on eBay’s launch, with the brand’s third annual UK report revealing that it had created a staggering 1,065 millionaires during its time.
This is one of numerous sites through which entrepreneurs can now sell items to a global consumer base while making a viable, and in some cases significant, profit. Packaging plays a key role in defining margins, however, as buying materials will eat into your costs and determine whether or not your parcels arrive safely.
So, whether you’re shipping sold goods or sending a parcel to a loved one, here’s three packing hacks that will stand you in good stead.
1. Don’t Overload Flat Rate Mailers
If you’re selling items in bulk online, you can use padded, flat rate mailers to help save money and improve your delivery times.
This can encourage sellers to overload these mailers with an excess of goods, which can represent a false economy (particularly over longer-haul distances).
The reason for this is simple; as overcramming these mailers can cause them to burst open when in transit or damage the condition of the goods included within. Sure, if these goods fit then the mailer will be shipped, but there’s no telling what condition the package will be in when it’s delivered.
So, try to strike a balanced between making the most of your packaging and ensuring the integrity of your service.
2. Partner with a Reputable Courier or Delivery Service
Sometimes the most simplistic solutions are the best, and this is definitely true when looking to deliver your parcels safely.
More specifically, partnering with a reputable delivery company can help you to identify the very best prices on offer, while also enabling you to secure the most favorable time-frames for completion. The best companies will offer a wide range of services like chilled delivery or this overnight courier service.
Some firms offer parcel delivery services across the UK, for example, while also providing competitive and real-time quotes to help you get the best deal.
This provides actionable assistance, while providing some additional insurance in case anything does happen to your goods when they’re in transit.
3. Be Careful when Re-using Boxes
Recycled packaging is rightly all the rage, whether you use specialist materials or look to reuse existing crates and boxes.
However, you’ll need to be careful about the types of box and packaging that you use, as alcohol and beer crates represent a big no-no.
This is because packages containing alcoholic beverage or the associated markings are automatically prohibited in the mail, meaning that your parcel will be held and prevented from reaching its final destination.
So, try to give thought to your use of packaging and use this to ensure that your parcel arrives safely and on-time.