2020 is the year where eCommerce shipping has seen a complete shift. From the traditional way of functioning, it has become more automated and technology-oriented. Due to the lockdown, many stayed within four walls. Hence, most of the shopping done switched to online. This also means that eCommerce shipping transitioned to a digital way. Here are 4 eCommerce Shipping trends that have received central focus in the year 2020.
eCommerce Shipping – A Growing Success
eCommerce shipping is a type of electronic service that is undertaken to transport products sold via an online website. These products are shipped from the manufacturer to the customers.
A switch to online is the new way of how shopping and selling takes place. That also gives rise to digital payments being the newest way of transactions made. E-wallets are on a rise along with other mediums such as NEFT, Net Banking, Debit/Credit card payments or even EMIs.
As statistics estimate, there are more than 12 million – 24 million eCommerce sites across the globe. And with every single day amidst the pandemic, the number just increases. All thanks to free eCommerce website builders such as Shopify, Magento, WooCommerce, and many others. With the increased number of eCommerce websites, the competition has kicked in.
eCommerce Shipping Trends To Watch Out For 2020
Now that the shipping process is well defined and understood, the next thing to keep in mind is to walk with trends. Continuous development and enhancements paves the way for heavy competition. And in order to stay ahead, keeping up with shipping trends is what will take your business to the top. Here are some trends to watch out for in 2020:
Shipping Directly From The Store
Quick delivery is what customers want, in addition to, ‘receive what is promised’. In addition to this, when shipped from a store, there are low costs incurred with the elimination of a middle stop. This paves the way for eCommerce business to cost less or even free along with quick and seamless delivery.
The fast paced and busy world has caused humans to be less-patient and opt for quick deliveries. These expectations are hard to meet and hence ship to store is a method that will boost this year. Also, the fact that almost 60% of the working population have given the option to work from home; life is less busy than it was before lockdown.
Direct To Customers
Well! This trend is similar to ship-from-store, however the major difference is the shipment is done directly from the brand to the customer. Instead of relying on eCommerce platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart, eBay and many others, brands are now opting for direct delivery from their eCommerce websites itself. The advantages in this kind of shipping includes:
- Elimination of Pit Stops – Supplier, Retailers, Courier Companies, etc.
- No Extra Costs – When you sell your product via an Amazon platform, a certain fee needs to be paid. Using the DTC model will help reduce this costs
- Increases Brand Awareness – Customers will have a better understanding about your product and service and place their order directly over your store
As an eCommerce brand, what you need to keep in mind is market your website right. Use Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) strategies, display your product right, create a real store experience and target the right audience to create better reach. Ensure that you are present on different platforms at all times so that you do not miss out on any prospects. With the growth of DTC, brands will overcome the faults made by eCommerce platforms, thus rising over and above to ensure customers get what they demand for in a quick and effortless manner.
Environment Friendly/ Green Shipping
In recent years, climate change is the talk of the down. And with various disasters that occured this year itself, many have switched to being sustainable and environment friendly. Well! The same is applicable to eCommerce shipping as well. Consumers have made a shift to green shipping. Before knowing the reason for this switch, let us understand what is Green Shipping?
Green shipping refers to nothing but a type of shipment that uses eco-friendly and sustainable methods to deliver the goods to the customers. This includes using recycled products for packaging, omitting the use of transport that would increase carbon emission, converting multiple packages into one, using motorbikes or smaller vehicles for local deliveries, etc.
While many eCommerce companies as well as customers have switched to green shipping, many still haven’t. But without a doubt this trend is at a developing pace and will soon take over the traditional mode of shipping.
As of now, courier services such as DHL, UPSP, etc. have implemented green shipping with a switch from gasoline trucks to electric ones. Amazon too has switched to smaller packaging for deliveries. Alongside this, a single truck instead of multiple cars. All of this is ensured in order to get the product delivered, especially for same-day or one-hour delivery services.
Digital Payments and E-Wallet
Gpay, PhonePe, PayPal, Paytm and many other online wallets are now the newest medium for an online transaction. E-wallets have already been a part of online shopper’s convenient mode to make an online payment for a few years now. And the trend is just growing. However, on the other hand, the major reason for cart abandonment is online payment itself. The reason being, too much time to input or process a payment.
Security plays another major role in online payments. Customers often face confusion about their confidential details being violated and hence gaining their trust is what is important. A secure payment gateway in the eyes of the customers will eventually develop into increased sales. While asking for personal information at the payment section, keep it minimal. Too much information asked will result in the customers leaving halfway without any conversion.
The eCommerce shipping trends in 2020 need a catch on match to takeover the eCommerce shipping industry. Hence, it is important to choose the right shipping carrier as well as a shipping partner. Hence, Dash101– not just your shipping but business partner. With more than 8 courier partner integration and multiple channels integration, it is your perfect one stop-sop for all your eCommerce shipping needs.
