Does the carrier provide end to end delivery?

Ask if the shipping Carrier you choose does end to end delivery. The idea of having a shipping partner is, a reliable partner should be the one whom we can ask for ally, they act us our representatives while reaching out to people living in places you can’t reach yourself. Make sure your courier companies have tie ups with local partners to manage delivery to the remotest areas. Request details about the first mile, in-transit and last mile delivery of your shipping partner before deciding.  

Does the carrier offer Insurance?

Like it or not, there are a few orders lost in transit and if the item is not insured the merchant has to bear the cost of the lost product. Even if the product turns up after a delay, the rerouted delivery might take months. Whatever the error is, if the package is not insured, the shipping carrier cannot be held at fault and be expected to make up for it unless there is an insurance clause. So, ask before you sign: Does your carrier offer insurance? Understand the policy before you sign. There might be caveats that say insurance covers only a certain kind of delays and losses due to specific factors. Do not finalise the deal without understanding insurance policies, how shipments are covered, how to dispute when the case arrives, how to file a claim and how to calculate the value of your parcel and so on.

Also read How to hold your shipping carrier accountable for all your lost packages?

How cost effective is the carrier?

The most important factor in sealing a deal is the cost. Aim for a competitive rate from your shipping partner. Give details on your order value and pitch with several carriers. Opt for one or two carriers. You can always check for rates with either carrier and then decide on real time, based on delivery and cost. Every carrier would also ask for a security deposit upfront. So, choose wisely.

Is the carrier suitable for your needs?  

Shipping is different across industries. Someone who does a great job with cold storage shipping might not be great with regular stuff. A carrier with a good track record of international shipping might not be great with local operations. Let’s say you run a local operation and deal with fresh cut meat and fish. You need someone who can do quick trips in the city. But if you have an apparel store, you will want to reach a wide audience around the country. Look for peer reviews and choose a shipping partner who excels in your area of shipping expertise.

Does the shipper reach places you are aiming to reach?

If you want to reach every nook of the country, look at the local delivery partners your carrier liaises with. Not every courier company provides complete coverage. If you do international shipping quite often, opt for one who specialises in that. If your partner does not comply, you can lose out on customers. If you should, go for more than one shipping partners who cover different areas. But also remember that you have to pay security deposits at all places.

Related:

Choosing the right Shipping carrier for your business

5 factors to consider when choosing a shipping carrier.