Outsourcing Your Shipping Needs

Chances are, you haven't thought a lot about shipping — the materials you'll need, the time it will consume, or the money it will cost. But getting your products to the right places on time can make or break your company.

That said, you don't have to add shipping to the multitude of things you need to do to make your business successful. Outsourcing your shipping needs can save you time, trouble, and money.

Consider these factors if you decide to outsource shipping and handling:

• Cost. National shipping companies such as Craters & Freighters transport large quantities of materials throughout the world. They can pass along volume discounts even to their small customers, with further discounts for frequent shippers. In addition, many companies offer package deals that include pick-up, packaging, insurance, shipping, and delivery. Meanwhile, you'll save money on salaries, benefits and overhead that you'd pay if you tried to do the job yourself. You can spend that money on research and development, upgraded technology, or skilled employees who will focus on your business — not the business of shipping.
• Productivity. If you rarely ship products, you might be tempted to assign an employee to do the job. But you probably don't want your skilled employees spending their valuable time packing products and ferrying them to the post office or other delivery service. On the other hand, you don't want unskilled workers taking on those tasks. They might pack goods improperly, neglect to insure them, or both. Outsourcing your shipping ensures that your resources remain where you need them.
• Packaging. Big shipping companies often use state-of-the-art technology — from liquefied foam injection systems to other packing materials that can protect light- or moisture-sensitive products. They also offer crating and truck-lift services for large items. And they can custom-build heavy-duty shipping containers for unusually weighty or delicate products. Your product is far more likely to survive its journey intact if you leave the shipping to the pros.
• Pick-up. It's easy to schedule regular or occasional pick-ups and deliveries — and most shipping companies are extremely prompt.
• Additional services. Many companies offer door-to-door delivery, choice of air or ground service, and free price quotes.

If you have special shipping needs, shop around until you find a company that can provide the services your business requires. For example, some shipping companies specialize in international delivery. Other transporters are ideal for firms that ship large volumes of goods; they provide freight consolidation, warehousing, charter cargo services, and other services for high-capacity businesses.