Monthly Archives: May 2022

When you streamline your eCommerce workflow, you are exponentially increasing your efficiency. This, in turn, will result in better results: More growth and greater profit.

It’s especially important as your company expands and the number of things you have to execute each day increases.

A proper workflow is essential to ensuring that your eCommerce business is ready to meet increased demand, your website is up to date, and you are properly warehousing products and other related tasks.

So, if you are unfamiliar with how to streamline your eCommerce workflow, no time is better than now. Use our top five tips to get more done with less.

Why Should You Streamline Your eCommerce Workflow?

  • Track Your Progress:

eCommerce workflow

It’s easier to track your progress when you have a good workflow. It also helps you in identifying your most major operational challenges.

As a result, you will be able to optimize your business and achieve better results.

  • Compete Against the Big Names:

There’s no denying it: The stakes are really high. And you are up against some large companies, such as Amazon, in the market.

If you are not optimizing your resources and are not at the top of your game, finding success is surely a difficult endeavor. Staying ahead of the curve is easier with the eCommerce workflow.

  • Retain and Satisfy Customers:

eCommerce workflow

No one wants to buy from an eCommerce site if products are frequently out of stock, deliveries are late, and customer service is poor, among other issues. Shipping orders become a lot easier once you have everything in order.

Top 5 Tips to Streamline Your Ecommerce Workflow

Now we come to the important part. The tips that will make a major difference in your eCommerce workflow.

  • Data is Everything

They say knowledge is power, and this power will help you to propel your business in the right direction.

Analyze all the data you have to identify your weak points, strong points, immediate challenges, and long-term worries, and utilize this information to make plans for the present and future developments.

Data can help you in streamlining your entire process and focusing on what needs to be done.

  • Save Time by Automating

Do you want to know what’s wasting your valuable time and labor resources? Those monotonous, repetitive duties that, while important, take up a lot of time. Every second counts in the times we live in.

Why do things the hard way when you can easily automate them? It would be a huge mistake to overlook the numerous eCommerce workflow management solutions available.

Not only will you save time, but your employees will be able to work on more productive and strategic projects instead of doing the same thing every day.

Top five ways to automate your eCommerce workflow processes and boost your business:

  • Manage Your Customers

The mantra is simple: happy customers, more sales. One of the things you could do with automation tools is come up with the most effective customer retention strategies. One of which is by rewarding customers for their loyalty.

Instead of manually verifying, employ technology to keep track of your most valuable customers and reward them. They can be easily identified by their purchase history.

You can utilize the tools to send discount vouchers and personalized thank you messages to your customers. Instead of laboring over excel sheets, use automated management technologies to streamline your eCommerce workflow.

  • Approval of product/catalog listings

Several internal clearances are frequently required before new items can be listed on your e-commerce site. To eliminate discrepancies and improve speed and effectiveness, it is always better to automate the whole process.

ecommerce in india

  • Manage Your Orders

Say goodbye to silly errors. A simple mistyping of address can result in an unhappy customer and a waste of resources owing to delivery to the wrong address.

Therefore, incorporate a warehouse management system to streamline and implement improvements to avoid costly errors.

Automation makes processes such as printing labels and registering orders extremely easy. You can use it to generate the tracking numbers as well.

  • Customer grievances

There should be no delay when it comes to refunding customers to avoid any negative reviews. But addressing the small grievances that customers post on your website or social media, or through feedback is equally important.

It might not affect you immediately, But the reputation of a company can be negatively impacted over time.

While it is not possible to manually go through each customer complaint, you can handle them efficiently by simply automating the whole process.

Find the best platform

You will need to add and integrate several solutions to effectively streamline your eCommerce workflow, as we mentioned in the previous points.

You’ll need to move your online store to a compatible platform if your present site is not suitable enough. This will ensure that your website runs smoothly and without any technical hiccups.

Manage Multiple Social Media Channels

Social media is essential for increasing traffic and engagement. However, managing too many channels at once can be time-consuming, and the marketing team could be doing more strategic work with that time.

Switching between several accounts and sites to publish the same promotional posts or campaigns can be time-consuming.

Why do this when you can use social media management solutions to centralize all of your social networks and streamline the process?

It’s especially useful during the festive season when you’re running a lot of promotional campaigns and your marketing team already has a lot on their plate.

Optimize and Monitor eCommerce Workflow

There are many management tools available to assist you in optimizing and managing your eCommerce workflow.

It’s also critical to keep an eye on the process on a regular basis to ensure it is up to par and to identify any areas for improvement. You can also make immediate adjustments if necessary.

Summing Up

Parceldeck-blog

If you want to keep ahead of the competition, you’ll need to streamline your workflow. By using the above tips for your eCommerce business, you will be able to increase efficiency, client satisfaction, and productivity.

Shipping makes a big part of your online business. If you want to make things easier, use Parceldeck to deliver your products at the lowest possible cost and manage and calculate shipping charges on the platform.

To know more, read our blog on Things To Consider When You Tie-Up with A Courier Company for eCommerce

Inventory management techniques help to always have a stock of ready supplies at hand, whether for your retail store or online shop.

Thanks to proper inventory management, you can avoid disruption in the supply chain, higher storage costs, a shortage of working capital, and many other things. All of this will result in happy customers and more sales.

Therefore, to help you meet the demand of your customers, with the required quantity, on the promised time, and to the right destination, we have detailed all the useful techniques in this blog.

Here, you’ll learn:

  • Process of inventory management?
  • Inventory management techniques
  • Benefits of inventory management techniques

Inventory management technique

What is the Process of Inventory Management?

A well-thought-out, well-executed plan nearly always works in your favor. Following a set of actions behind the scenes of your eCommerce will help you in keeping track of sales, ensure a smooth flow of products, and optimize your resources.

Therefore, before you move on to the list of inventory management techniques, take some time to understand the process of management.

The process has many stages, but broadly speaking, we can separate them into five.

Inventory management technique

PURCHASE

This is the stage in which you add new items, raw materials, and individual products to your inventory, which will be used to build a final product later.

Depending on how much space you have allocated for storage, you can use drop shipping, cross-docking, or a different approach.

PRODUCE

Inventory management technique

If you’re a wholesaler, for instance, you can skip this step. However, this is the stage where the raw materials and parts bought in the first stage are turned into a finished product. Here you manufacture the final product.

STOCK

You store purchased products, finished products, and raw resources that haven’t been used yet in this stage. You must properly maintain your stocks to ensure that there is a steady  flow of products.

Always keep detailed reports on your inventory, as well as which products sell well and which don’t, to minimize supply shortages.

You can manually count your inventory or use software to do so.

SALES

This is the point at which you sell your products to customers and get paid. They have the option of buying straight from you or from your online store.

TRACK

One of the most critical parts of the process that will help you in maintaining and growing your company. You must keep track of how many units your products sell and how much money you make on each sale.

Keeping track of re-ordered goods will also help you maximize sales while also ensuring that there is always adequate stock to meet demand.1

Inventory Management Techniques That Make Keeping Inventory Extremely Easy

  • ABC Inventory Management Technique

The ABC analysis technique, which is short for ‘Always Better Control Analysis,’ separates products into three groups in order to determine which products have the most and least impact on total inventory costs.

Group A: Products with the highest profit margins.1

Group B: This category contains things that are less expensive but nonetheless valuable.

Group C: These products are essential in terms of overall profit, but they don’t contribute much on their own.

ecommerce in india

  • Demand Forecasting

Wouldn’t it be better if you could anticipate the future demands of your customers? This inventory management technique does just that. It uses historical data on sales to forecast the future demands of your customers.

  • Six Sigma

This inventory management method is a data-driven procedure that provides you with the resources you need to increase business efficiency and reduce inventory waste.

  • Bulk Shipments

Bulk shipment is a cost-effective inventory management method that is based on the notion that buying and shipping things in bulk are less expensive.

While it provides advantages such as cheaper shipping prices and greater profits, it also has drawbacks, such as increased capital risk and storage costs.

  • VED Analysis

The abbreviation VED stands for ‘Vital Essential and Desirable.’ This method is quite handy for keeping track of your inventory’s spare parts.

Some inventory parts are more expensive and necessary for production, and if not managed effectively, can cause the manufacturing process to slow down.

  • Just-in-time Inventory Management Technique

When you order too much stock at once, you risk having dead stock, which means that the products never leave the shelves for an extended period of time.

Companies receive a reduced volume of goods to avoid such scenarios and only as much as is required for the time being.

While this may help save money on storage and avoid frozen inventories, it is not without risk. If consumer demand is not anticipated, you may run out of supply. As a result, make certain you have dependable suppliers at hand.

  • Cross-docking

We know storage costs eat up into the profits, especially when there are large orders. But what if you could avoid warehousing your inventory altogether?

Cross-docking is an inventory management technique where supplier trucks arrive and unload directly onto outbound trucks.

So, in essence, there are no warehousing stops, and products are directly shifted from one mode of transportation to another.

However, a large fleet and a proper chain of transport vehicles are required for a smooth process with no hiccups.

What Are Some Benefits of Inventory Management Techniques?

Inventory management will give you control over your supply chain, sales, and distribution. Your company will benefit immensely from implementing the above techniques. Other additional benefits include:

  • Higher Revenue

The data is clear. Businesses have stated that proper inventory management has resulted in significant increases in sales.

  • Improved Accuracy

You should have accurate information on hand to avoid wasting resources and time. When you manage orders properly, you can fulfill orders on time and with less loss.

  • Customer Retention

Customers are more likely to continue with you for a longer period if you consistently and efficiently meet all of their needs. And, when demand increases, inventory management tactics will ensure you never run out of goods.

Parceldeck-blog

To Sum Up

The above-mentioned inventory management techniques will surely help you ‌manage your inventory and optimize your sales. However, you may lose significant profit thanks to higher shipping costs.

Parceldeck will help you ‌ship your products cheaply and securely. To learn more about shipping, read our blog How Can You Make Shipping for eCommerce Sites Easier?

FedEx Express, originally known as Federal Express, is a major courier service recognized for its quick and reliable delivery. Our blog will definitely help you grasp the ins and outs of FedEx tracking, whether you already use their services or are considering it as an option.

Before we do that, let’s get to know a little about order tracking.

What Is Order Tracking 

Order tracking is a service that helps you to keep track of your online orders. Use this to inform and update your customers on the status of their orders in real-time.

fedex tracking

It includes, when to expect delivery, its estimated time, as well as live tracking, and location updates.

Customers are generally informed about the status of their orders in five stages:

  • Order accepted
  • In-progress
  • Shipped
  • Delivered
  • Completed

Now that we know what order tracking is, learn in detail about FedEx Tracking, the importance of order tracking. In addition, what to include on your order page. 

fedex tracking

Simple and Practical Guide to FedEx Tracking

FedEx is one of India’s most well-known and widely used courier services. When it comes to fast and convenient shipping solutions, FedEx is a great courier option. 

Keep in mind, that the courier you choose will have bearing on the quality of tracking service you provide. FedEx tracking ensures that your customers have a good shopping experience.

Continue reading for more information on FedEx tracking.

How Does FedEx Tracking Work?

When you use FedEx, keeping track of your orders is a breeze. In just one click, FedEx tracking provides shipping updates. 

It’s a fast and easy-to-use tool designed with your convenience and ease of use in mind.

To track your shipment, simply follow the easy steps outlined below.

  • First, check the tracking number or reference number

The whole FedEx tracking process requires the use of a tracking number. The number is a one-of-a-kind code that encrypts all the shipping information you provide. This number is issued to each parcel, and you will receive it every time you ship your package.

In the case of FedEx, you will receive a 12-digit number, however, the number of digits can vary. There are also, 10-digit, 15-digit, 20-digit, as well as 22-digit numbers. These tracking numbers are usually devoid of any letters. 

You will receive the number once you ship your items via email or SMS. The numbers appear on the shipping label as well.

  • Second, enter the tracking number

Go to the FedEx homepage, and enter the digits of your number in the search bar. There is no need to log in. You can get your shipment status and proof of delivery with only one click.

  • Third, use the FedEx tracking benefits

All of your shipments are displayed in one simple interface. You can also create nicknames for your orders to make searching easier.

There are different ways to track orders,

  • Parceldack

ecommerce in india

Parceldeck is a shipping aggregator that works with FedEx and other delivery companies. If you are using Parceldeck to ship your products, you can easily track your shipment using our ‘Track Order

  • FedEx Website

Of course, the simplest approach to tracking a FedEx package is to go directly to the FedEx website. You can find out about your shipment’s status straight away. You can use the website either on PC or mobile browser. 

FedEx allows a maximum of 30 tracking numbers to be entered at once, which is useful when sending several items from various customers.

  • Phone Number and Email

FedEx tracking using mobile tracking is convenient to use too; simply call the FedEx number to find out the status of your shipment. Likewise, you can find out the status by sending a quick email request. 

  • Mobile App

Another option for tracking is to download the FedEx mobile app from the App Store. It offers a pleasant user experience and allows you to track your orders on the go.

Why Order Tracking Is Important?

Customer satisfaction is an end-all and be-all for the success of e-commerce. When customers can easily track their products, it alleviates a lot of their order anxiety and helps you in the long run by gaining their trust. 

Let’s say an order is delayed in transit and customers have no update about it. They have no idea where the order is or when they can expect it. Wouldn’t that create a negative experience surrounding your brand? 

However, if the timely updates and tracking options are available, the late delivery is not a huge issue, since they know the exact location and expected delivery time. 

Customer experience will greatly improve when the reliability factor and expectations around orders are properly met. Order tracking is at once beneficial and essential. As a business owner, it also helps you to monitor all your orders and shipments. 

What Details Should You Include On Your Order Tracking  Page?

To ensure a smooth and convenient experience for your customers, having an order tracking page is a great idea. It is also a good place to promote and encourage customers to repeat purchases. 

To do so, you need to add all the relevant information.

  • Details of order

For transparency and to keep customers informed, add full order details on the tracking page. Include the payment amount in the case of COD orders.

  • Date of Estimated delivery

Customers value delivery dates because it eliminates any uncertainty about their orders. You should inform them about the estimated delivery date for the order. This will help you to keep and build the trust of your customers.

  • Details on customer support

If there is any problem with the order, the customer should be able to reach you right away. That sense of security is essential for relieving the customer’s worry. Include contact information, such as an email address and a phone number.

  • Tracking details

The order tracking page’s most important feature is the tracking information. You must provide detailed tracking information on each stage so that the customer may be notified and updated if any problems or concerns arise.

Role of Parceldeck

Parceldeck-blog

Parceldeck has partnered with FedEx and other major courier services to provide you with a seamless shipping experience at the lowest possible delivery cost. If you use our services, you can immediately track your orders using our track order page.

If you want to know whether FedEx is a good option, read our other blog on Things To Consider When You Tie-Up with A Courier Company for eCommerce

Dropshipping is pretty popular these days. Every other seller is in this business. As the online market expands, so does the need for dropshipping products.

It is especially appealing to new sellers because there is no need to maintain inventory. In comparison to others, this business approach has proven to be quite a low risk.

In this blog, you will learn everything you need to know about dropshipping in India, so you can get started right away.

What is Dropshipping Business in India?

Dropshipping in India

When we break down the term: ‘drop’ means to deliver while ‘to ‘ship’, does not always mean to transport by water but through other means as well.

In the dropshipping business model, an eCommerce business does not have to keep any inventory of products. Instead, the sellers order the products from suppliers or wholesalers and then deliver them straight to the customers.

Thanks to the involvement of third-party sources, the need for manufacturing, and inventory management has taken a backseat.

Thus, for anyone dipping toes into the e-commerce business for the first time, dropshipping in India gives you a great opportunity and a solid start.

Origin and Evolution

Dropshipping in India

Dropshipping is easily the most successful model right now, but where did it all start?

Here’s an interesting fact: drop shipping existed well before the internet.

Albeit not ‌called “dropshipping”, the practice started in the 1950s. Back then, mail order companies sold directly to the customers by phone order catalog.

These mail-order catalogs arrived in the mail and promoted a variety of products. All you had to do was call the number and order the items from the catalog. Then Internet arrived and we were introduced to online shopping.

Fast forward to many years, companies like Amazon and eBay completely transformed the e-commerce game. There was no need for brick and mortar store. Anyone could directly sell their products on their sites.

This brought a surge of popularity in dropshipping business. And it evolved into what it is today

Now that we know the meaning, it’s time to find out how dropshipping in India works in our e-commerce industry.

ecommerce in india

How to Start Dropshipping in India?

Dropshipping business in India will undoubtedly be profitable; you only need to approach it properly.

To begin something new, you should follow a set procedure. The process will keep you on the right track.

Follow the below steps to get started,

First, Pick a Product to Sell to Do Dropshipping in India

Conduct the research and form a list of products customers wish to buy or are already buying. Here’s the thing: The market is oversupplied with certain kinds of products.

You can avoid competition by identifying niche products and targeting a specific market. This is a tried and true strategy for breaking into the industry.

Because dropshipping in India is such a safe bet, it will allow you to test which products sell and which do not. You are not bound to stay with the product you first selected and can always change your mind.

There are no shortcuts to success. One guaranteed method is to conduct thorough market research.

You can estimate demand by looking at what people are searching for using the keywords they use. “Neck pillows” or “bead bracelets” are two examples.

We’ve added a short checklist. These will help you to pick your products:

  • Can you sell the product in bulk to certain businesses?
  • Can you market the product to hobbyists? This is a consumer base that will spend money on specific hobbies.
  • Does the product have a pretty niche base of buyers?
  • Is there a trend you can hop on?
  • Will the product weigh too much? As a beginner, you should stick to small and light-weighted products to reduce shipping costs.
  •  Is it easy to market the product? For example, you can ask Instagram influencers to market accessories and such products.

Second, Figure Out the Best Supplier

This is the most important step. As this is such a lucrative business, a lot of people have started dropshipping in India.

Likewise, there are many suppliers around, including spammers. Therefore, it’s better to do more research than be sorry later.

To choose the best, keep in mind the below points:

  • Verify that your suppliers manufacture the product themselves, or that you are informed of who their distributors are. When there are too many people engaged, it is difficult to pinpoint the source. And you should always be aware of the source.
  • Your supplier should be prompt with their deliveries as your whole business depends on them. Late deliveries will reflect negatively on you.
  • Make certain that there is no ambiguity in how a supplier charges you.
  • Don’t pay more to receive less. Keep a strong profit margin.

Third, Set Up an Online Store

To do dropshipping in India, having an online store is a must. You’ll need a website or, at the very least, a platform like Shopify where your customers can find your products.

Your online store is the primary way to reach out to potential customers. That is why your website should be beautifully designed and appealing to your customers. The way you market and promote your products will make or break your business.

Follow the below tips to create a great website for dropshipping in India

  • The design of the website should complement the products.
  • Include all the necessary features in the “shopping cart”.
  • Incorporate social media sites such as Instagram, Pinterest for engagement.
  • Make your website more customer-centric.
  • Keep the shipping rates as low as possible. Parceldeck can help you to ship your products at the lowest shipping cost in the industry

Summing Up

Parceldeck-blog

Dropshipping in India is a great way to build and grow your business, granted you take all the precautions and make the right decisions. Learn and explore as much as you can before you begin.

Read our blog on Easy Tips For Finding Dropshipping Suppliers For Your eCommerce Business in India, for more information.

Have you ever purchased a product from a website such as Amazon because you were afraid you might miss out on a good deal? One of the most effective eCommerce techniques to increase sales is FOMO.

For instance, there may have been moments when everyone else in your social circle was buying something and you didn’t want to be left out. If this was the case, you may have been experiencing FOMO, which stands for “fear of missing out.”

A large number of people have also experienced it.  Apparently, about 60 percent of people make purchases as a result of FOMO.

What is FOMO in eCommerce?

fomo

FOMO is also known as the ‘Fear Of Missing Out’. This is the feeling of impending loss that may occur when you realize you have missed out on a great chance to do something.

FOMO is a major part of marketing that may help you in raising your conversion rates by quite a large margin. It is also the fear of being left out of an event that would otherwise be both fun and prove to be beneficial to you.

No one wants to be left out of a fantastic event that is happening. Consequently, it is your responsibility as a marketer or business owner to fully capitalize on this anxiety in order to increase your sales and conversions.

After all, who would want to miss out on a great new product that is now on sale and offers significant savings?

More importantly, how can you incorporate FOMO into your marketing strategy? Is it a time-consuming, hectic procedure?

These eCommerce techniques to increase sales with FOMO will help you get started.

What are some eCommerce FOMO techniques to Increase Sales?

We have provided some great eCommerce techniques to increase sales by using FOMO below,

  • Increase sales with FOMO

fomo

One of the best eCommerce techniques to increase sales is by increasing your sales. You can do this by showcasing your most popular products on your website.

Customers will have a good impression of your business if you display your best-selling products to them in a professional way.

This is also a FOMO coping mechanism as when you see products that other people are buying, you’ll want to buy them for yourself as well. Make sure you display the best-selling products on your shopping site.

  • Provide Free shipping

Offering free shipping can be very advantageous to customers as it provides them with an incentive to shop online. It is one of the smartest eCommerce techniques to increase sales and market your products.

Customers could quickly make purchases if they believe they will miss out on offers for free shipping. This information could result in increasing sales if there is a threshold for delivery. It could be above a particular price to encourage customers to buy more and qualify for free shipping.

Displaying free shipping information on a banner at the top of your website will alert your clients to the availability of these offers. You must keep your customers up to date on the latest developments.

You can use a variety of methods to motivate your customers. For instance, by providing amazing discounts, displaying product information, or fear of missing out on a great deal.

ecommerce in india

  • Provide details on the stock available

Making people think that there is a scarcity in the products that are available is another one of the best eCommerce techniques to increase sales with FOMO.

It demonstrates that if a product is going to run out then most customers will rush to buy it immediately. Online store owners can display how much stock is available in a manner similar to that of many other eCommerce sites.

With the correct facts and marketing, you can use the FOMO method to convince customers to buy your products. You can do this by showing them that your product is going to be unavailable soon.

Every sale that you end up making can be because of a customer clicking on a call-to-action button. This is one of the many eCommerce techniques to increase sales that you can employ.

Your call to action should persuade and instill a sense of urgency in your customers to buy the products. A Call-To-Action should get an emotional response from customers to have a much better success rate.

Your customers should think that they are getting a once-in-a-lifetime offer that has a limited time period. To effectively use CTA, you need to use the right terms and language.

The goal is to make your potential customers aware of this fantastic opportunity and persuade them to take advantage of it as soon as possible.

Some phrases that you can use in your CTA are,

  • Make sure you use this opportunity before it’s too late!
  • Limited stock available, buy now!
  • Buy now to get a special voucher!
  • Timing is important

fomo

This is one of the eCommerce techniques to increase sales where your website visitors are aware that they are about to miss out on a bargain due to lack of time. Customers who are in a rush are more likely to make a purchase.

In order to make this happen, you can send out notifications when bargains expire or provide information about different discounts on different days.

  • Make sure you stay positive and competitive

FOMO marketing is very essential to help motivate people to make a decision. You can do this by showing the number of people who are looking at a particular product that is on your website.

You may also display the total number of users who have registered to buy a specific product. It is good to show the number of customers that have already availed of certain offers and discounts on your site.

These eCommerce techniques to increase sales with FOMO are normally used by businesses to help encourage customers to purchase products.

Conclusion

Parceldeck-blog

With the help of FOMO, the eCommerce techniques to increase sales discussed in this blog can help you achieve the desired results. Also, when the sales increase and orders start rolling in, you need a reliable courier partner

Parceldeck can help you ship easily and affordably. To know more, read our blog, How Can You Make Shipping for eCommerce Sites Easier?

If you run an online store, you’re probably familiar with words like ‘dead weight’ and ‘volumetric weight’. These terms are frequently used in eCommerce, but many vendors get confused between dead and volumetric weights.

Sellers often make mistakes while calculating weights, resulting in weight discrepancies. So, to avoid such hindrances, we’ve put up this guide to assist you to grasp the meanings, calculations, and differences between the two weights.

So, without further ado, let’s dive right into the main content.

What is Dead Weight?

dead weight

The deadweight is the actual weight of your package in grams or kilograms when you put the package on a weighing machine.

When logistic companies choose to charge a package based on dead weight, they ignore the physical dimensions of your shipment. There are some carriers in the market that charge depending on dead weight.

How to calculate Deadweight?

dead weight

Let’s understand by considering the example of a package containing feather pillows. To measure the dead weight of this package, we need to place this box on a weighing scale.

The weight displayed in grams or kilograms will be considered the dead weight of the package. Let’s assume the weight comes out to be 2kg, so the dead weight will be 2kgs.

However, it will be compared with the volumetric weight of your package and then you will be charged accordingly.

Calculation of dead weight is easy, isn’t it? Now let’s move on to volumetric weight. It’s as easy as this one.

What is Volumetric Weight?

The volumetric weight, also known as dimensional weight, is a measurement of the total size of a parcel. It is determined by a package’s length, breadth, and height.

Volumetric weight is a pricing method used by logistics companies based on the amount of space your shipment takes up on a truck or aircraft.

For instance, shipping a truck full of feather pillows is more expensive than shipping a truck full of smartphones.

As said earlier, volumetric weight refers to the length, breadth, and height of a package. Therefore, a big box of pillows will be considered heavier than a small box of cellphones.

How to calculate Volumetric weight?

dead weight

The volumetric weight of a parcel can be calculated by multiplying its length, breadth, and height (in cm) divided by 5000 which is a DIM divisor. The DIM divisor differs from carrier to carrier (some logistic companies use a divisor of 4000).

Let’s use the same example of a feather pillow package that measures 50cm x 30cm x 30cm. Using the above formula (length x breadth x height / 5000) multiply the three dimensions of the box and divide it by 5000.

(50 x 30 x 30 / 5000) = 9kg.

This gives you a volumetric weight of 9kg. This number is then compared to the dead weight of your parcel.

  • If the actual weight is less than 9kg, the company will charge for 9kg.
  • If the actual weight is more than 9kg, it will use that number for pricing.

Since, in this case, the volumetric weight (9kg) is higher than the actual weight (2kg). The logistics company will charge you for 9kg.

Key differences between Deadweight and Volumetric weight

ecommerce in india

The two main techniques used by couriers to calculate shipment charges are dead weight and volumetric weight. The weight of the shipment, measured in kilograms (kg) or pounds, is known as the actual weight or dead weight.

On the other hand, Volumetric weight, also known as dimensional weight, is a measurement method that uses the length, breadth, and height of a parcel to calculate its entire size. It is measured in kilograms or pounds, just as dead weight.

Volumetric weight = (length x breadth x height) / dimensional factor (DIM divisor).

Each courier sets this dimensional factor, also known as the cubic divisor, differently. As a dimensional factor, most couriers choose 5000 (metric units) or 139 (imperial units).

Therefore, these are some basic differences between Deadweight and Volumetric weight. Now, let’s understand why only volumetric weight is charged by most courier companies.

Why Do Couriers Charge by Volumetric Weight?

Imagine shipping a package full of feather pillows. The weight of the package itself is pretty light. But, It utilizes more space than other small but heavy packages. A delivery truck full of such big packages could quickly fill the capacity with very little actual weight.

Shipping large, light packages would reduce their profits.

Courier companies are always looking to maximize the number of packages on a vehicle while maintaining profitability, so they take this into account and use a pricing structure that will charge accordingly.

As a result, most shipping companies around the world have decided to calculate their shipping prices based on volumetric weight.

For instance, A parcel of feather pillows is light in weight but big in size. It will take up more space than usual packages, thus it will be charged according to its volumetric weight.

Importance of Calculating Accurate Weight and Dimensions

During transportation, the logistic companies will always measure the dimensions and weight of each parcel. This is a fully automated procedure that employs extremely precise laser measurements.

Therefore, If there is a discrepancy between what they measure and what you reported, you may be charged an additional fee based on the fluctuating shipping prices.

You will be charged to make up the difference if the parcel is larger/heavier than stated. This also applies in the opposite direction; if the parcel is smaller/lighter than stated, you will receive a partial refund.

Conclusion:

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So, wasn’t it easy? We are confident that the terms Volumetric weight and Deadweight won’t be that confusing to you anymore. Hope this blog could give you a better understanding of both the weights and answer all your questions related to the topic.

Although courier partners charge a lot for the shipment process, you can ship your products at affordable prices with Parceldeck. In addition, If you face problems with weight discrepancies, visit Parceldeck’s other blog on the respective topic.

Weight disputes are one of the most common discomforts in the eCommerce sector. As a seller, you might get surprised to see the inaccurate shipment weight calculation. 

Many new suppliers struggle with weight discrepancies. They are often charged extra for their packages. If you’re one of them, don’t worry; in this blog, we’ll help you understand what weight discrepancies are and how to reduce them.

Let’s start with the basics of weight discrepancies.

What is Weight Discrepancy? 

Weight Discrepancy

Generally, When sending parcels with courier services, weight disparity is a problem. Weight discrepancy is a disagreement between a ‘seller’ and a ‘courier company’ over the package’s reported weight. 

It usually arises when the courier company disagrees with the seller’s provided order weight. 

For example, During shipment, the seller claimed the weight of the package was 3 kg but when the courier company calculated the parcel it was 3.5 kg. Therefore, due to the different weight measurements, there will be a dispute between the shipping company and the seller. 

And this weight can lead to changes in the total amount of the parcel while delivered. Thus, if the weight of the parcel turns out to be more than you calculated, you will have to pay more. 

Now that we know the basics, let’s understand how to reduce such weight discrepancies.

7 effective ways to reduce Weight Discrepancy:

Weight discrepancy can be burdensome for any company. So, here are some measures that can help you reduce weight disputes caused by weight discrepancies:

  • Improve Packaging system:

Weight Discrepancy

The first step is to reduce the package fill. Do not unnecessarily stuff the boxes with bubble wraps and other packaging materials. Use it according to the product. 

Select the most appropriate carton sizes and pack products with only the materials required to properly dispatch the product. Do not over package any product as it may lead to increasing the weight of your package. 

  • Correct Volumetric Weight Measurement:

To reduce weight discrepancy the second thing you need to do is to measure the volumetric weight measurements carefully and correctly.   

The volumetric weight of a product is calculated by dividing the product of its length, width, and height by 5000. (This divisor of 5000 can vary from company to company). All the measurements should be in cm.

To determine the actual weight of a product, the seller must measure its length, breadth, and height after packaging and divide it by 5000.

For example, If the gross weight of your product is 1 kg and you used a lot of packaging material and the shipment’s length, width, and height come out to be 30 x 30 x 30, the volumetric weight will be 5.4kg, which is a lot more. 

This is why, to prevent paying extra costs, you must double-check that your packaging matches the product. 

3) Maintain a record of Product Image:

The image serves as the best proof for any weight disputes. Before sending goods to a shipping aggregator, a seller should always have a proper image record of it.  

The image is proof in the event of a dispute. You can take images while measuring the package’s dimensions. You may also make a video of it. Make sure you take 3 to 4 photographs from every dimension so that images are clear to understand. 

Take a photograph of the length, width, and height of a package separately to avoid any confusion with Weight Discrepancy.

This is necessary to do so because when the company raises a dispute they ask for images as proof. So, if you have the measurement images in hand, it will help you resolve disputes easily. 

4) Map Packaging with SKUs (Stock Keeping Unit):

A key strategy for reducing weight discrepancies is to map packaging material with product SKUs. A unique code that a seller gives to each type of goods it sells is known as an SKU.

SKUs are also an important aspect of a marketing strategy since they allow merchants to manage inventory in their stores or warehouses by SKUs.

For example, If your product weighs 800 grams and is supplied in a specific box, you can attach the SKU with that box, this means you can give a unique code to that box. So, whenever a new order comes for that product you can package the product with the same box.

This way the volumetric weight of each box remains the same and you won’t have to recalculate the weight of each box again. This will assist you in having a smooth shipping experience.

5) Use a correct shipping partner while outsourcing:

ecommerce in india

For smooth operation, It’s necessary to choose a reliable shipping partner, so that they do not cheat you with unnecessary weight discrepancy disputes. 

A logistics aggregator assists a seller in keeping track of all weight discrepancies and taking action in a timely manner. Parceldeck is one of the most reliable shipping aggregators that enables you to ship across 27000+ pin codes with 25+ courier partners. 

Parceldeck provides you with a platform to identify discrepancies and take action on them within seven days. 

6) Measuring unusual packages with an automated system:

Unusual packages are one of the most common causes of weight discrepancies. A bottle and Tubes, for example, must be weighed in cubic measurements. 

But if you simply calculate the cubic measurements it won’t be effective, that is why we need a dimensioning system to determine the weight perfectly. Therefore, when we automate this process, the weight of the package will be reduced. 

7) Keep track of your overall monthly shipping costs:

Regularly review your carrier bills to confirm that shipping prices are correct and that you’re measuring the correct Weight Discrepancy. 

You’ll have a greater chance of resolving a shipping charge dispute if you take the time to measure products before shipment and record the information. 

Conclusion:

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And that’s it, these are some simple suggestions and strategies for reducing weight discrepancies. Easy right?  We’re sure that after reading these pointers, you’ll think to yourself, “We could have done that before.” But do not worry, you can still make these minor adjustments to avoid weight disparities and ensure a seamless shipment for Weight Discrepancy.

Weight discrepancies are not a huge issue; they can be reduced with some simple and easy methods. All you have to do is to look out for ways and work efficiently. Now that you have all these pointers, you can work on your business and help it grow without any hindrances. 

For more such informative content you can always check out our blogs on Marketing and eCommerce at Parceldeck’s website. 

The eCommerce business has grown at an exponential rate since the pandemic. The advantages of eCommerce were already many, and a lot of people benefited well from it, but the outbreak has radically changed the game. Doing business online is no longer a trend, but rather a necessity.

When we suggest that doing business online will greatly increase your chances of success and allow you to expand your business, we are not exaggerating. As a result, in this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the advantages of eCommerce and how it can help you grow your business.

But first, 

What is eCommerce?

advantages of ecommerce

To put it simply, eCommerce refers to the online purchase and selling of goods and services, as well as the data and money exchanges required to complete the transaction. Electronic commerce or online commerce are other terms for it.

While the advantages of eCommerce are multiple, the paths to starting an e-commerce business are also many.

Below are the most common types of eCommerce models.

  • Business to Business (B2B)

advantages of ecommerce

In B2B, a business sells its products and services to another business. Generally, it is not aimed at consumers and frequently involves goods such as software or raw materials. Here, the manufacturer can sell directly to retailers. 

  • Business to Consumer (B2C)

Here, the business sells its products or service to the consumers. For example, when you buy clothes from a website.  

  • Consumer to Business (C2B)

A C2B transaction occurs when a consumer sells a product or service to a business for use. A photographer allowing their photo to be used, or influencers promoting products, are two such examples.

advantages of ecommerce

  • Consumer to Consumer (C2C)

When a customer sells their services or products to another consumer, this is known as C2C eCommerce. For instance, sales on sites such as Etsy, eBay, and Upwork.

  • Direct to Consumer (D2C)

This is a relatively new and rapidly evolving type. Here, a brand can sell straight to consumers without the involvement of a third party. When a consumer buys a product directly from Instagram or Pinterest, for example.

In addition, some examples of eCommerce 

  • Wholesale
  • Retail
  • Dropshipping
  • Subscription
  • Digital products
  • Services

Now let’s take a deeper look at some advantages of eCommerce and how it can help you reach greater success. You’ll recognize the significance of eCommerce.

 

A Deeper Look at Top 5 Advantages of eCommerce

Advantages of eCommerce: #1 The Sky is the Limit

You limit yourself to a specific region in the physical store. It substantially lessens the chances of expansion and exposure when you cater to the same and small customer base. When you take your company online, the market is vast and the opportunities are limitless. You can conduct business at a national and international level.

Your potential consumer may readily locate you on their mobile devices, thus geographic restrictions are no longer a concern.

You break not only the geographic barriers but demographic as well. Social media sites have the potential to expose you to people from all walks of life. This can help you ‌determine your target audience and plan your business accordingly. Etsy, for example, is one site that caters to a niche customer base looking for particular items.

Advantages of eCommerce: #2 Strategize Better to Sell More

One of the most beneficial aspects of an online store is the ease with which you can collect, analyze, and act on consumer data. Through the constant input you receive, the consumer insights will assist you in creating a wonderful customer experience. It will also help you better understand and strategize your areas of growth. You can make well-informed decisions and expand your business.

However, it’s essential to consider how to gather and use consumer data ethically. There are privacy laws to consider, such as GDPR.

Advantages of eCommerce: #3 Convenience is the Key

The two most desired qualities are comfort and convenience. Whatever we do, we want to do it quickly and comfortably. What could be more convenient than ticking items off your wishlist without having to leave your house? No one has the time or energy these days to make that extra trip to the store. Not only does eCommerce save you time, but it also saves you money.

Your online store allows customers to compare products, add them to their carts, and have them delivered to their door, with zero effort. Furthermore, there is no longer any need to close the store at any time. Your clients can shop at any time of day with an online store. Shopping has become a breeze thanks to eCommerce.

ecommerce in india

Advantages of eCommerce: #4 Inform to Interest

eCommerce provides you with the opportunity to increase brand awareness and sales of the products you sell. When you provide information about your brand’s history and how it came to be, you could pique your customers’ interests and connect with them on a deeper level.

In addition, eCommerce allows you to provide thorough information about your products and services. To inform and instruct on how to use your product or service, you can create blogs, articles, and videos. The ease with which customers can access the information they need on your website will have a bigger impact on their buying decisions.

Advantages of eCommerce: #5 Less Money, More Growth

You save a lot of money because the need for a brick-and-mortar store is no longer necessary. Lower operating costs benefit both you and your consumers. Selling online is less expensive, so you can put that money toward growing your business.

You can boost your brand’s visibility by investing in marketing. Search engine optimization, social media promotion, and pay-per-click advertising are just a few examples.

Reduced expenses can allow you to provide discounts or free shipping to your customers. You’ll be able to attract and retain more customers this way.

You can automate as much as possible with e-commerce. When you can automate checkout, inventory management, billing, and other processes, you save money.

Know More:

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Now that you know what the advantages of eCommerce are, learn more about how you can easily ship your products to customers on our blog: Best 5 Shipping Tips for eCommerce Beginners, and how Parceldeck can help you. 

Cash on Delivery or COD is a popular method of payment for internet shoppers. When there is an emergency, this can be a life-saver, but there are several reasons why you should choose the prepaid option instead. It is good for you and India’s economy too.

As there is no need for authentication, you can complete prepaid orders quickly. Your pre-paid order makes a significant contribution to long-term economic growth.

What is Cash on Delivery or COD?

Difference between COD and Prepaid

One of the most popular methods of payment for online purchases in India is cash on delivery (pay on delivery). Most customers like receiving and viewing the merchandise before paying for it and COD payment has made this possible.

Cash on Delivery allows the consumer to pay for the product when it arrives rather than in advance.

What are Prepaid orders?

In prepaid orders, the vendor handles the shipping costs. The buyer or the receiver of the goods accepts full responsibility for the items once they arrive at their destination.  

The buyer pays for these orders in advance.

Why do people choose to opt for the COD option?

  • They may not be able to make payments online.
  • People don’t trust internet vendors.

Why has COD become so popular in India?

Difference between COD and Prepaid

The cash-on-delivery option is boosting e-commerce in India. As a result, it is a popular option for customers who lack the means to pay for their purchases online.

What is the procedure for COD orders?

A customer places an order on the website and specifies a delivery location.

Instead of paying for the goods at the time of purchasing them, the buyer selects the option to pay at the time of delivery.

The confirmed order will come with an invoice from the seller.

An employee of the seller or supplier picks up the shipment and delivers it to the customer’s address.

The delivery agent accepts cash or a credit card as a payment option from the customer. 

The logistics partner receives the COD payment and the amount gets deposited in the account. 

After taking out the handling fee, the seller receives the amount.

ecommerce in india

Can you refuse to pay COD or Cash on Delivery?

If you’ve chosen to pay by COD or cash on delivery, you may be able to decline the delivery in most situations. Any other payment method would necessitate a conversation with the seller to determine the return of the product.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Cash on Delivery?

Difference between COD and Prepaid

The main advantages of COD are, 

  • When it is about COD for businesses, the payment term is shorter, and there is no delay when it comes to receiving cash. This basically protects businesses from the danger of not receiving payment from a consumer for goods. 
  • Consumers benefit from COD since it allows them more time to pay for the goods delivered. 
  • Cash on delivery permits purchasers who do not have access to credit to make purchases that they would not be able to do otherwise.
  • The payment time is shorter with COD than with other types of payment.
  • Cash on delivery helps with cash flow and planning.
  • You will be safe from online fraud that could happen while making payments.
  • Customers who do not have credit can purchase products with COD.
  • There is no need to be dependent on cards for payment.

The disadvantages of Cash on Delivery are, 

  • There is a higher possibility of refusing goods during delivery with COD
  • Buyers may find it more difficult to return things if they have already paid for them at the time of delivery. 
  • The costs that courier companies charge for cash on delivery orders could be more. 
  • COD has a greater chance of delivery refusal.
  • Returning things can be expensive for sellers who do not have a return infrastructure or support system in place.
  • It may be difficult for buyers to return things that do not fulfill their expectations.
  • The seller could face losses when the product is returned without payment.

What are some benefits of prepaid orders?

These are the advantages of prepaid orders,

  • The majority of e-commerce companies now use phone calls or text messages to verify the authenticity of COD orders.  There are many delays and additional costs because of this.
  • This is one reason why prepaid orders are much easier to handle.
  • Since the customer must pay with currency notes in order to use cash on delivery, the infection risk is increased and due to covid, this should be avoided.
  • Certain pin codes, particularly those in outlying areas, may not support COD deliveries. States that don’t have cash on delivery are still receiving deliveries of pre-paid purchases. 

Parceldeck is one of the best shipping aggregators in India. It supports many courier partners and handles both cash on delivery orders and prepaid orders.

  • In order to ensure that the money is received by the shipping partners and returned to the seller, safety procedures are required.
  • The vendors and the economy bear the additional weight of cash on delivery orders. Sellers must pay additional cash on the delivery collection fee to shipping partners for each order.
  • A package returns to the warehouse when the order is not delivered. To put it another way, this puts pressure on the profit margins of your business.
  • Online retailers may be able to pass the savings on to customers by cutting prices or spending more on product and packaging and employee well-being if these fees are decreased.
  • There are exclusive incentives, loyalty awards, and more offered.

So make sure that you use your debit card, credit card, net banking, UPI, or any other prepaid means to pay for your next order. 

You and the entire economy as a whole will be able to benefit from this. 

Bottom Line 

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Ecommerce and online businesses have extended the reach of products to other sectors and provided lots of options for customers to select from. 

They can choose between COD and prepaid orders based on the best fit for them. This can help make an educated choice while you help the economy as well.

The GST council mandated the introduction of the e-Way bill on 1st April 2018 for the transportation of goods from one place to another. 

Since then, both sellers and transporters have been using the e-Way bill. Although many people are still unsure of what an e-Way bill is and how to generate one. 

Thus, all the answers to your question are in this article, so keep reading to learn more about the e-Way bill.

What is an e-way bill?

What is an e-Way Bill

An e-Way Bill is an electronic way bill that is necessary for the movement of goods in case the value of the goods is greater than Rs.50,000.

The bill is generated using the GSTN portal, and it is required for every registered taxpayer, along with the goods transferred.

For example, if you are a seller and you need to transport your goods from Bhopal to Gujarat and the value of your goods exceeds Rs. 50,000, you will need to generate an e-way bill. Without an e-way bill, you will not be able to transport your goods.

When is an e-Way Bill required?

Following are the reasons why e-Way bill is required:

  • When there is Interstate or Intrastate movement of goods for the reason of supply or other than supply.
  • Goods value exceeding Rs. 50,000.
  • Due to inward ‘supply’ from an unregistered person     (the one who is not registered under GST).

As a result, e-Way Bills for all these types of movements must be generated on the common portal. 

Who should generate an e-Way bill?

  • Registered Person: Every person registered under GST is required to generate an e-Way bill on the occasion of transportation of goods.

  • Unregistered Person: If a seller who is not registered under GST is supplying the goods, the buyer or receiver of those goods should generate an e-Way bill.

  • Transporter: If the supplier has not generated an e-Way bill the transporter carrying goods should generate one.

ecommerce in india

When do you not need an e-Way bill?

  • Mode of transport is non-vehicle – If the mode of transport is non-vehicle or goods are not transported by a car, truck, or any vehicle e-Way bill is exempted.

  • Transportation of empty cargo containers – If a supplier transports empty cargo containers they won’t need an      e-Way bill.

  • Transportation of goods by Customs – If the Custom (CBIC) department of India transports any goods from one place to another. 

  • Movement of goods under Ministry of Defence – If goods are transported to or from the ministry of defense,        e-Way bill is not required.

  • Goods exempted from the e-Way bill as per state/ territory rule – Every state and territory has its own GST rules. Therefore, goods that are free from GST according to their states do not require an e-Way bill.

Validity of e-Way Bill

An e-Way bill always has an expiration date, which is determined by the distance traveled by the goods. Here’s a chart to help you understand.

Type of conveyance Distance Validity of EWB 

(e-Way Bill) Over Dimensional cargo Less Than 20 Km 1 Day Every additional 20 Kms  Additional 1 Day Other than Over Dimensional cargo Less Than 100 Km 1 Day For every additional 100 Kms Additional 1 Day

  • For Over dimensional cargo – If cargo is bigger in size than normal cargo, the validity of an e-Way bill for 20 Kms would be 1 day. But if the distance is increased then for every extra 20 Kms the validity will increase for 1 more day. 

  • For other than Over dimensional cargo – If cargo is of regular size, the validity of an e-Way bill for 100 Kms would be 1 day. But if the distance is increased then for every extra 100 Kms the validity will increase to 1 more day.

Therefore, the validity of the e-Way bill can be extended also. The validity can be extended up to 8 hours before the expiry time and 8 hours after its expiry time. 

Also, the reason code for the extension, and a description of the reason, must be entered to extend the validity.

Documents Required to Generate e-Way Bill:

Here is the list of mandatory documents required to generate an e-Way bill: 

  • Registration on the e-Way bill portal.
  • Invoice/Challan/Bill related to the consignment of goods must be handy.
  • If the mode of transportation is by road, Transporter ID and Vehicle Number are required.
  • If the shipment is by rail, air, or ship, the transport document number and date on the documents are needed. 

All these documents must be available for registration and e-Way bill generation.

How to generate an e-Way Bill?

There are 3 methods of generating an e-Way bill:

  • Online
  • Through SMS
  • By e-Invoicing

Here is a step-by-step guide to generating e-Way bill online.

Step 1: Register on e-Way bill system –

 To register, go to ewaybillgst.gov.in and click on Registration

Image Credit: ewaybill.gov.in

Enter the GSTIN pin and Captcha code then click on “Go”.

Image Credit: waybill.gov.in

Step 2: Login on the e-Way bill system –

Go to the Login option. Enter the Username, Password, and Captcha code, and Click on ‘Login’.

                                                   Image Credit: ewaybillgst.gov.in

Step 3: Generate new e-Way Bill:

Once you have logged in successfully, Click on generate new e-Way bill option. 

Step 4: Fill the form:

Fill the following fields in the form.

Image Credit: ewaybill.gov.in

  • Transaction type – If you are a consignment supplier, select ‘Outward.’ If you are a consignment recipient, select ‘Inward.’

  • Sub-type: Select your desired sub-type. 

The following subtypes appear when the Outward transaction type is selected:

Image Credit: cleartax.in

The following subtypes appear if the transaction type is set to Inward:

Image Credit: cleartax.in

  • Document Type: Select one of the following if it is not listed: invoice, bill, challan, credit note, bill of entry, or others.
  • Document Number: Enter invoice/document number.
  • Document Date: Fill out the invoice, challan, or document’s date. The system does not allow you to fill a future date. 
  • To/From: Select whether you are a supplier or a recipient in the To / From section.

                                  Image Credit: ewaybillgst.gov.in

  • Description of the product:
  •   HSN Number
  •   Quantity, Unit, and Value/ Taxable Value
  •   CGST and SGST or IGST tax rates (in percent )
  •   If a Cess is charged, mention the rate  (in percent )

 

  • Transporter information: Select the mode of transportation (road, rail, ship, or air) and the distance (in kilometres). 

Image Credit: ewaybillgst.gov.in

Then enter Transporter name, Transporter ID, Transporter Doc. No., and Date and distance(in km).

Step 5: Submit the form: After filling the form, the last select ‘Submit‘. If there are any errors, the system will check the data and display an error message.

Otherwise, your request will be processed, and an e-Way bill with a unique 12-digit number will be generated. The generated e-Waybill looks like this:

You can then print and carry the e-way bill whenever you transport your goods. You just have to click on the ‘Print EWB’ option under ‘e-Waybill’ and enter your e-Way bill 12 digit number and click on ‘Go’.

EWAY bill

 Image Credit: ewaybillgst.gov.in

There you have it, with these easy steps you can generate an e-Way bill.

Conclusion:

The generation of an e-Way bill is necessary as per government guidelines. So, you must follow that and carry an e-Way bill whenever you transport goods. Hope this article helps you. For more such informative content you can read our other blogs on the Parceldeck website.

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