Reducing shipping costs – 7 practical tips
Efficient shipping does not always have to be expensive. Many companies spend too much money on packaging, filling material or transport. This is usually because their processes are not optimised. Small changes are enough to achieve significant savings.
In this article, we would like to give you seven valuable practical tips on how to reduce shipping costs. We provide you with tips that are very easy to implement. No major investments are necessary. Cut-to-size pieces and edge protection can be particularly helpful if your goal is to make packaging cheaper, more environmentally friendly and safer.
How to get started with shipping optimisation
To ensure your shipping is successful, you need to start with good preparation. You don't have to start with big changes; even small things and easy-to-implement steps are enough. This will allow you to quickly identify where there is potential for savings.
Before implementing major changes, you should first take small, easily achievable steps. Here are some important steps to prepare:
Document the shipping process in detail
Check packaging sizes
Record shipping costs per parcel
Compare prices
Check material quality
Determine filling material requirements
Analyse return rate
With this foundation, it is easier to work on specific improvements. In the next section, you will learn seven practical tricks that will make your shipping even more efficient.
Trick 1 – Optimise box sizes
A box should be neither too large nor too small. Boxes that are too large cost more to post and require more filling material. Not only is this more expensive for you, it also has a negative impact on the environment. There are cut-to-size sheets that allow you to adjust the size exactly. Blank cardboard sheets are flat cardboard panels. You can fold and shape them individually. This allows you to save on both postage and material. Another advantage is that you need less storage space. This is because blank cardboard sheets are delivered flat. This automatically reduces storage costs.
Regularly check your box sizes. Standard sizes that no longer fit the products have often crept in. With customised cuts, you have the flexibility to respond.
Trick 2 – Reduce weight and save on postage
When shipping, every single gram counts. The costs of heavy packaging materials can quickly add up. In this case, lighter and thinner corrugated cardboard, for example, can be very helpful. Nevertheless, you should always ensure that the packaging is sufficiently stable. This is where edge protection angles come into play. They reinforce the cardboard in sensitive areas. This allows you to use thinner material without compromising on safety.
You should also check the filling material. Heavy paper padding can often be replaced with lightweight bubble wrap.
Trick 3 – Securely fasten products
Damaged goods can be very expensive. In addition, returns can cost twice as much. This means that you lose both the product and the shipping costs. It can also damage the trust of your customers. With the right edge protection, you can protect corners and edges perfectly. Your goods are thus optimally protected from shocks and pressure. This is particularly important for furniture, pictures and appliances.
Edge protection is available in self-adhesive or loose form. Self-adhesive edge protection saves you additional time when packing. Loose variants are more flexible and can be used multiple times.
Bear in mind that even lightweight products need to be secured properly. Sliding around inside the box can also cause scratches. Small pieces of cardboard or interlayers can help here.
Trick 4 – Reuse packaging materials
Many types of packaging can be reused. This not only saves you a lot of money, it also shows your customers that you are committed to sustainability. Cut-to-size pieces are perfect for multiple use. They can be easily adapted and folded multiple times. Edge protectors made of sturdy cardboard can also withstand multiple transports.
Do not leave returns unused. Check which parts of the packaging are still in good condition. You can save these for your next shipment. It is also advisable to clearly label reusable materials. This will enable you to find them quickly in the warehouse.
Trick 5 – Optimise shipping processes
It's not always just about material costs. Time is also a cost factor. If packaging takes a long time, for example, personnel costs also increase. Pre-cut blanks save you time. You don't have to cut or adjust cardboard boxes every time. There are also quick solutions for edge protection. As already mentioned, self-adhesive edge protection can be easily applied in just a few seconds.
Set up packing stations so that all materials are within easy reach. This will make packing quicker and easier.
Trick 6 – Bundle products
Individual shipments are usually expensive. It makes sense to ship several products together. This reduces postage and material costs. With cut-to-size packaging, you can bundle several small products on a stable base. This is particularly worthwhile for series orders. Instead of sending three parcels, you can send one larger parcel. This not only saves you a lot of money, it also protects the environment. Always ensure that the bundle is secure. The products should not rub against each other or slip.
Trick 7 – Protect fragile goods in a targeted manner
Not all products require the same packaging. Protection should therefore always be tailored precisely to the sensitivity of the item. For very sensitive goods such as glass or ceramics, water-repellent edge protection is a good choice. This protects your goods from impact on the one hand and from moisture on the other.
If you would like to advertise additionally, then a printed edge protector is ideal. This allows you to save on advertising costs while also protecting the product.
For less sensitive products, a simple cutting mat with light edge protection is often sufficient.
Enhancing brand impact through packaging
Packaging offers you more than just protection. In most cases, the packaging is the first impression customers get of you or your product. Printed edge protection makes your shipment instantly recognisable. This looks professional and can also strengthen your brand.
At first glance, good packaging material seems like an additional cost factor. But in practice, it can save you a lot of money. Appropriate cut-to-size pieces and edge protection angles protect your product during shipping. Experience has shown that these protective measures have significantly reduced returns and complaints. Your goods will arrive at the customer in perfect condition. This creates trust and, at the same time, you can also benefit from customers ordering from you more often. Furthermore, there is the possibility that you will be recommended to others.
Those who invest wisely can save on costs in the long term. Those who opt for high-quality packaging always benefit in terms of competitiveness.