How To Ensure A Smooth Delivery From Start To Finish
Those who have never used a courier service before may feel nervous about knowing how to ensure a safe delivery of goods
. Whether you have set up a new online shop or have numerous presents to deliver to friends and family this Christmas, there are some useful things you should know. Here is a quick start to finish guide so you do not miss anything important
1. Choose a courier search online for a courier that offers a delivery service appropriate for your needs i.e. catered to your parcel size, delivery location, delivery timescales etc.
2. Arrange a booking most couriers will allow you to arrange a collection online. Some will even allow you to nominate a designated safe place to collect from if you are unable to wait in for the courier. Other couriers have drop-off points in their depots so you can drop off your parcel at a time that is convenient for you
3. Package your goods this should be done with care. Use extra packing for fragile items and always place sharp items at the centre of the box so they do not pierce the sides.
4. Check the courier accepted goods list most couriers have a list of items they will not allow you to ship. This includes liquids and certain prohibited items.
5. Check the courier shipment protection policy always make sure that you have insurance to cover the value of your goods during shipment. If the courier policy is not sufficient then you will need to take out your own insurance cover.
6. Label your parcel clearly make sure you include the recipient name and address, sender name and address and a delivery note stating what the delivery contains
7. Track and trace check on the progress of your delivery online
8. Obtain a POD a proof of delivery is the document that displays who has signed for the goods. This should be kept on file should any queries as to the whereabouts of the delivery arise
If you follow these steps carefully and make sure that you are thorough in the way that you handle your deliveries then your delivery process should run like clockwork every time. If you are making deliveries on a regular basis then it might be worth enquiring about setting up an account with your courier so you can make your payments monthly. In addition, you could also save time using an online service that allows you to store addresses so they do not have to by typed out each time.