When it comes to ecommerce fulfilment, the packing process is just as important as the order picking process. A well-designed packing process can improve the accuracy and speed of your fulfilment warehouse, while also reducing the chance of damage to your products during shipping. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best in class packing processes for warehouse fulfilment. One of the most important aspects of the packing process is using the right type of packaging materials. For example, using sturdy corrugated boxes and packing peanuts or bubble wrap can help protect your products during transit. You should also consider using tamper-evident tape or seals to ensure that the package has not been tampered with before it reaches the customer. Another key aspect of the packing process is using the right type of packing equipment. For example, using automated packing machines can help increase the speed and efficiency of your packing process. These machines can be programmed to pack products of different sizes and weights, and can also be used to apply labels and shipping information. Another best practice for packing process is to use a packing software, it can help you to optimise your packing process by automating the process of selecting the right box size and providing detailed instructions for the packer. This can help to reduce packing time and improve accuracy. In addition to these best practices, it’s also important to have a well-trained packing team in place. They should be trained on proper packing techniques and safety procedures to ensure that they can pack products quickly and efficiently while also reducing the chance of damage or errors. Lastly, it’s important to keep in mind that the packing process is not just about protecting the product, but also creating an experience for the customer. A positive unboxing experience can help to build customer loyalty and increase the likelihood of repeat business.
How Proper Order Packing Affects a Customers Experience
Good order packing can have a significant impact on a customer’s experience with an ecommerce business. A well-packed order can not only protect the products during transit but also create a positive unboxing experience for the customer. This can help to build customer loyalty and increase the likelihood of repeat business. When a customer receives a well-packed order, it shows them that the business cares about the condition of their products and the overall customer experience. The customer feels that the business is reliable and takes the time to ensure that their order is properly protected during shipping. This can help to build trust and confidence in the business, which can lead to repeat purchases. A positive unboxing experience can also help to create a memorable moment for the customer. A well-packed order can help to make the customer feel special and appreciated. For example, including a personal note or a small gift in the package can help to make the customer feel valued and appreciated. This can help to create a strong emotional connection with the customer, which can lead to repeat business. Moreover, good order packing can also improve the overall customer experience by reducing the chance of errors and returns. A well-packed order is less likely to be damaged during transit, which reduces the chance of the customer receiving a damaged product. This can help to reduce the number of returns and complaints, which can save the business time and resources.
Way’s you Can Speed Up your Order Packing
Good order packing not only improves the customer’s experience but also can increase the efficiency and speed of the fulfilment process. Here are some ways to speed up order packing:
- Use the right type of packing equipment: Automated packing machines can help to increase the speed and efficiency of the packing process. These machines can be programmed to pack products of different sizes and weights, and can also be used to apply labels and shipping information. This helps to reduce the chance of errors and improve the overall accuracy of the packing process.
- Implement a packing software: A packing software can help to optimise the packing process by automating the selection of the right box size and providing detailed instructions for the packer. This can help to reduce packing time and improve accuracy.
- Use pre-printed labels and shipping information: Using pre-printed labels and shipping information can help to speed up the packing process by reducing the need to manually apply labels and shipping information to each package.
- Organise your packing station: A well-organised packing station can help to speed up the packing process by making it easier for the packer to find the right materials and tools.
- Train your packing team: Having a well-trained packing team can help to speed up the packing process by ensuring that the team can pack products quickly and efficiently while also reducing the chance of damage or errors.
- Use a Pick and Pack method: This method is used to pick and pack multiple orders at the same time, this method helps speed up the process as the picker doesn’t need to move to different locations to pick items for a single order.
- Use a flexible packaging solution: A flexible packaging solution allows you to adjust the packaging size to the product, this can help to reduce the number of boxes used and speed up the packing process.
- Keep on top or KPIs to accurately track the best methods for packing. Then utilise these best methods across the whole warehouse.
By implementing these best practices, businesses can speed up the order packing process while still maintaining accuracy and customer satisfaction. This can help to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the ecommerce fulfilment operation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the packing process is just as important aspect of ecommerce fulfilment as order picking, that can have a big impact on the accuracy, speed, and overall customer satisfaction. By implementing best in class packing processes, such as using the right type of packaging materials, equipment, software and training, you can improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of your ecommerce fulfilment operation. If this is something you currently struggle with then maybe think about outsourcing your warehouse fulfilment to a 3PL such as OnLogistics. As a business we have perfected the order picking process that ensures your customers will be left satisfied.