Businesses that receive online orders are finding that customers are demanding quicker delivery times.
A recent survey found that 59% of retailers said that meeting customer delivery expectations was their biggest challenge. Customers want next day and tracked deliveries. Furthermore, nearly half of online retailers say that increased automation is the solution to increase the speed at which goods can be picked and dispatched.
Well organised warehouse shelving and material handling equipment to move items are still important for an efficient warehouse, but manual systems can be both slow and error prone. Few small to medium sized businesses can afford the level of automation seen at Amazon and Ocado’s warehouses, but not all automation is expensive.
Handheld scanners and inventory software do not cost thousands but can mean fewer errors when picking and packing. Inventory software can also make sure that quick selling items are replenished before they run out.
If retailers do not meet customer’s expectations, then they risk them uploading comments to social media sites criticising the service, which can have a negative impact on sales.
If customers expect next day delivery, they will be disappointed if their parcel does not arrive on time. Whilst the extreme weather experienced at the beginning of 2018 meant that delays were unavoidable, more automated systems can make sure that orders are dispatched on time.
Customers want to rely on goods arriving on time and if they don’t want to keep them they’ll also need an easy returns system.
