Daily Archives: May 30, 2022

30
May

5 Tips For Streamlining eCommerce Workflow

Categories eCommerce Author By Parceldeck

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

30
May

Best Inventory Management Techniques You Need To Know

Categories eCommerce, shipping Author By Parceldeck

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?

30
May

Easy Guide to FedEx Tracking for eCommerce businesses

Categories eCommerce, shipping Author By Parceldeck

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

30
May

How To Start Dropshipping in India – Definitive Guide

Categories Online Selling, shipping Author By Parceldeck

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.