When it comes to shipping large and bulky items nationwide, business shippers are under tremendous amounts of pressure to deliver. From high buyer expectations to rising delivery costs, providing an easy and seamless delivery experience is often a maze of costly decisions and considerations.
Ask any smart business shipper and they’ll tell you – all it takes is one shipment-gone-wrong to cut into your bottom line and possibly damage your brand reputation. For shippers who make assumptions about how to save on shipping by choosing cheaper service or not purchasing a shipping protection plan, the risk of loss rises significantly.
Here we take a look at three common assumptions made by business shippers that can really add up, plus advice on how you can avoid them at all costs.
Are you a business shipper looking for a fast, affordable, and secure way to ship to customers nationwide? Click here to see how we can help grow your business today.
Assumption 1: “My Carrier Will Cover Damages”
A recent uShip survey found that 30 percent of business shippers assumed their carrier’s protection plan would cover any damages. If your transporter is protected (and that’s a big IF), there’s a chance that some of the damages could be covered. However, this coverage amount can vary greatly and is never guaranteed.
Why risk potential shipping expense losses?
Purchasing additional protection is the best way to protect your shipment (and bottom line). This will provide coverage for the direct physical loss or damage to your shipment, meaning you can rest easy in even the worst of scenarios.
Assumption 2: “I Can Save By Going With A Cheaper Option”
Your service selection should always be determined by what you’re shipping, not by what’s cheapest. Delivering a high-end, vintage sofa across the country? Home delivery service from a first-to-final mile driver is going to be the route for you. Shipping a boat? You’ll want to find a transporter who’s qualified and has the proper equipment.
Bottom line: You get what you pay for and cheaper service could mean a greater chance for loss to occur.
Instead, business shippers should choose the transporter who is best for the job. Make sure to read through reviews and select a licensed carrier who has the experience and equipment needed to ship your items. Making these informed shipping decisions upfront can prevent loss and damage from ever occurring in the first place.
Assumption 3: “I Don’t Need Extra Protection”
While properly packaging items and selecting an experienced service provider is one of the best ways to prevent loss from happening, purchasing extra protection is the final step to safeguarding your shipment.
The road is fraught with danger, no matter what carrier you select. It’s unforgiving. Accidents can occur and may not be your provider’s fault, etc. Ship happens, so protect yourself and your business.
Still have questions about protecting your business shipments? We can help.
