Five Things to Remember for the Holiday Season: Reseller Shipping Dos and Don'ts

The holiday season is a bustling time for resellers, with customers eager to find the perfect gifts for their loved ones. As a reseller, ensuring that your packages arrive safely and on time is crucial for maintaining customer satisfaction and growing your business. To help you navigate this busy period with ease, here are five things to remember for the holiday season: reseller shipping dos and don'ts.

Holiday shipping packages

1. Do Plan Ahead

Timing is everything. The holiday season brings increased shipping volumes, which can lead to delays. To avoid disappointing your customers, plan your shipping schedule well in advance. Consider the cut-off dates provided by carriers for guaranteed delivery before the holidays, and communicate these deadlines clearly to your customers. By setting realistic expectations, you can reduce stress and ensure a positive shopping experience.

avoid shipping delays

2. Don’t Skimp on Packaging

Quality packaging is key. During the holiday rush, packages are often handled more roughly, so using sturdy, protective materials is essential. Invest in high-quality boxes, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts to safeguard your items. Avoid using previously used boxes, as they may not withstand the rigors of shipping. Remember, a well-packaged item not only arrives safely but also reflects your professionalism and attention to detail.

Reseller tip: Remember to stock up on your packaging supplies. Because the mail will be slower, you want to make sure you have all the items you need, so that there are no delays in your shipments.

Packaging with care

3. Do Double-Check Addresses

Accuracy matters. Ensure that the shipping address provided by your customer is complete and correct. A simple mistake in an address can lead to delays or lost packages. Consider using address verification tools available through many shipping platforms to minimize errors. Additionally, confirm any special delivery instructions with your customer to prevent misunderstandings and ensure a smooth delivery process.

Check the address on the shipping label

4. Don’t Overlook Shipping Insurance

Protect your shipments. While it might be tempting to skip shipping insurance to cut costs, this can be a costly mistake if a package is lost or damaged. During the busy holiday season, the risk of mishaps increases. Investing in insurance for valuable or fragile items provides peace of mind and financial protection. Most carriers offer affordable insurance options that can save you from potential losses. 

Shipping insurance covers damaged packages

Reseller Tip: Platforms like Whatnot, Poshmark and Mercari offer insurance for most orders. Use these platforms to your advantage during the holidays. Every platform has a listing of their shipping costs and shipping policies. Be sure to read them over. You can contact the platforms customer service if you have questions about their shipping costs and policies.

5. Do Communicate with Your Customers

Keep them informed. Communication is key to maintaining customer trust and satisfaction. Provide tracking information as soon as packages are shipped, and keep customers updated on any delays or issues. If a problem arises, proactive communication can help manage expectations and demonstrate your commitment to excellent customer service. Encourage customers to reach out with any questions or concerns, and be responsive to their inquiries. 

Excellent customer service is important

Reseller tip: You can offer a coupon or a free gift for any unsatisfied customers. This helps to ease their frustration for any inconvenience and they are more likely to leave a higher review. Plus, they are also more likely to return for another purchase.

By following these dos and don’ts, you can navigate the holiday shipping season with confidence and success. Ensuring that your packages are shipped efficiently and securely not only enhances customer satisfaction but also strengthens your reputation as a reliable reseller. With a little preparation and attention to detail, you can make this holiday season a prosperous and rewarding time for your business. Happy holidays and happy shipping!