Peak season is here, so what better time for us to share our top 15 logistics tips to help your business navigate the rush with minimal stress. We’ve asked our colleagues from DHL Express to share some of their expert advice, too. Read on…
1. Be prepared for disruption this peak season.
“This year, higher prices for both merchants and consumers has created unpredictable consumer demand. So, work with a trusted logistics partner and communicate often – let them in on your marketing strategy and product roadmap so that all parties can prepare for spikes in volume throughout the peak." - Rachel McGarry, Head of E-commerce, DHL Express US
2. Customers are for life, not just for peak season.
Many businesses overlook the opportunity to increase their average Customer Lifetime Value. Invest in the customer experience during the holiday period and they’ll come back again and again.
3. Be transparent with your customers about delivery deadlines.
“During peak season, it is all about clear and open communication with your customers. There is no bigger disappointment than a late delivery after the holiday, so be transparent about which date you can guarantee the delivery by.” - Leendert Van Delft, VP Global Sales Programs, Development & Global E-commerce, DHL Express
4. Tech can help with the above.
“We encourage B2C customers to have system integration with DHL Express to reflect the correct Estimated Delivery Date.” - Nizam Md Agil, VP Customer Service, DHL Express Singapore
5. Remember that free shipping will always be a big incentive for customers.
Look at where you can absorb the cost elsewhere in your business – it will be a worthy investment.
6. We recommend using DHL’s “Duties & Taxes Paid” service
– this will charge customs fees back to your business, so your customers don’t have any unexpected, nasty surprises on delivery.
7. It’s all in the details.
“The quality of data on the invoice is important, such as a clear goods description and the value of the sales transaction.” - Simona Lertora, VP Customs EU, DHL Express
8. First impressions count.
“DHL on your home page will have a positive impact on conversions if the customer is purchasing on site for the first time.” - Ben Mclean, Head of E-commerce UAE, DHL Express
9. Let your customers have things on their terms.
They will expect the convenience of choosing exactly when and where their deliveries arrive. The more choice and flexibility you can offer, the better!
10. Remember the last mile!
“I advise merchants to prioritize the delivery experience so that their customer acquisition strategy delivers repeat customers.” - Rachel McGarry, Head of E-commerce, DHL Express US
11. Offer your customers full tracking of their shipments.
With DHL Express’ Time Definite International service, every shipment is actively monitored throughout the network – so both you, and your customer, have full transparency of its status, in real time.
12. Be prepared that what goes out, might come back.
Returns are a big pain for online retailers, but there’s no escaping that offering a simple and free returns policy is a huge incentive for customers to shop with your business.
13. Choose a trusted logistics partner – like DHL.
For your customers, we are representing your brand and delivering your promise. And for your business, you benefit from speed, value-added services, and strong account management – all critical factors in reducing risk and maximizing opportunity throughout peak season.
14. And don’t forget the R word!
“Reliability! We continue to be the most reliable logistics partner globally. Our transit times are best-in-class in every market.” - Franz Haase, Quality Control Center Director EU, DHL Express
15. Think internationally.
“I get asked how to enter new markets easily and profitably. I recommend using a trusted partner like DHL to share tools and local insights that enable confident market entry.” - Rachel McGarry, Head of E-commerce, DHL Express US
As the world’s most international company, we can ensure your peak season goes smoothly – wherever in the world your customers are! Click here to open a DHL Business Account.
