How do I set up shipping for my online store?
Shipping – easier than you think!
Sending packages out from your online store is a central part of running a business online. Many beginners may think it seems complicated to set up shipping, but it absolutely doesn't have to be! With the right tools and a simple approach, you can easily get your goods out to your customers.
In this guide, we go through the most important steps and considerations so you can set up shipping on your online store without headaches.
Choose your shipping strategy
Before you set up prices and methods, it's a good idea to think about which shipping strategy best fits your business and your customers. Do you want to offer free shipping? A fixed price? Or will the customer pay the exact amount?
Popular shipping methods for beginners:
- Free shipping: This is a popular method, as it can increase sales and reduce the number of abandoned shopping carts. You typically include shipping costs in the product's price. Consider offering free shipping over a certain amount, e.g., "Free shipping on purchases over $50".
- Fixed shipping price (Flat Rate): The most simple method. Regardless of what the customer buys, they pay a fixed price for shipping – e.g., $5. It makes it very transparent for both you and the customer.
- Pickup in store/at address: If you have a physical store, a warehouse, or just want to offer customers nearby to save shipping, you can offer pickup. Here the shipping price is typically $0.
- Shipping by weight or price: A bit more advanced but gives more precise shipping prices. Here shipping price varies based on the package's total weight or the total amount in the cart. For example: 0-1 kg = $5, 1-5 kg = $8. This can be relevant if you sell very different products in size and weight.
What does shipping cost, and who delivers?
When you send packages, you need to use a shipping provider. The most well-known are postal services, courier services, and specialized shipping companies. Each offers different services and prices. Your costs as an online store owner often depend on the package's size, weight, and the chosen service (e.g., package shop or home delivery).
It's important to research what it costs you to send a package so you can decide how much you want the customer to pay and how much you'll cover yourself.
Setting up shipping on your online store – step by step
Regardless of which system you use, setting up shipping often follows the same basic steps. Many user-friendly systems make the process very intuitive.
1. Determine your shipping prices
Decide which shipping methods you want to offer and what the price should be for each. Write them down so you have a clear overview. Consider having a small buffer for unexpected expenses for packaging or administration.
2. Choose delivery methods
Do you want to offer delivery to package shop, directly to the door, or both? Make it clear for yourself so you can configure it correctly in your system.
3. Configure in your online store system
Log into your online store system and find the section for shipping settings. This is often called "Shipping", "Delivery", or "Shipping". Here you can typically:
- Create new shipping methods (e.g., "Courier Package Shop", "Postal Home Delivery", "Pickup").
- Set the price for each method (fixed price, weight-based, order amount-based).
- Specify which countries or areas you ship to.
If you use a system like GoShup.com, this process is often incredibly simple and straightforward, designed to guide you without technical knowledge. You just need to enter your prices and choose methods, and the system handles the rest.
4. Packaging and shipping
When an order is completed, the item needs to be packed securely. Order shipping labels from your chosen shipping provider (this can often be done directly from your online store system or via the provider's own portal) and attach them to the package. Then you drop off the package at a drop-off location or have it picked up.
Good advice for your shipping
- Transparency: Always be clear about your shipping prices and delivery times. Customers hate hidden fees. Show shipping price early in the purchase process.
- Communication: Send tracking number to the customer so they can follow the package. Keep them informed about any delays.
- Returns: Have a clear and understandable return policy, and think about how shipping is handled for returns. This creates security for your customers.
Shipping on your online store doesn't have to be a source of worry. By choosing a simple strategy and using a user-friendly system, you're well on your way to delivering good customer experiences – all the way from click to doorstep!