Lockdown has had many of us sat at home, twiddling our thumbs, wondering what to do with our lives when things get back to the ‘new normal’. Small retail businesses have been hit the hardest, and even though many retail outlets have now opened, the footfall of customers has dropped significantly.

What should retailers do?

This leaves retailers in a bit of a predicament. With fewer people arriving at their physical shops, many are turning their attention to moving their business online. It isn’t quite that simple to just create a website and get started though. There are lots of things you need to consider, such as how you are going to stand out in the saturated market. With consumer needs changing on a regular basis, are you able to deliver the right products at the right time? Here are some tips on how to take your business online, and how Quickbox can help with our custom postal boxes.

Have clear delivery & returns policies

A shipping strategy that works could be the difference between someone purchasing one of your products, or abandoning their cart. Firstly, you need to make sure that your website is up to the job and can carry out eCommerce transactions easily. Once you have that sorted, you need to have order fulfillment policies and information clearly displayed on your website. Are you able to offer free Next Day Delivery, for example?

Shipping options

You should already have a clear idea of who your ideal customer is, and their buying behaviours. This means that when it comes to shipping you should have an idea of whether they are impulse buyers and want the product delivered tomorrow, or if they would be fine waiting for a few days. You need to make your staff fully aware of any shipping options that you are offering, so that when they are dealing with customers they can advise them of the best solution.

Types of packaging

Once you have decided on your chosen shipping method, you need to pick the right type of packaging for your eCommerce business. It can get slightly confusing, as there are hundreds of different types of packaging available. If you are unsure, please feel free to contact our expert team who will be more than happy to assist you.

The one thing to think about when choosing your postal boxes is how your product will be introduced to your consumer. It isn’t just about protecting the item in the post, consumers are looking for an ‘experience’ when they receive their products. Branding and packaging play a really important role here, as it is your first opportunity to communicate with your customers. Stand out from your competitors by investing in some printed eco tape complete with your own branding. 

Bespoke Cardboard Boxes

If you are shipping products that are unusual sizes, and are struggling to locate the right size cardboard boxes, why not have a look at our bespoke cardboard box calculator. You can type in exactly what size box you would like, the type of box, the cardboard colour and thickness, and your exact quantity. Buying bespoke cardboard boxes for your eCommerce business really couldn’t be easier. 

If you would like any more information on the bespoke packaging options and postal boxes that we can provide, please get in touch with our expert team today on 01472 868047, or email [email protected]. Good luck with your online business!