With the global ecommerce sales expected to grow 8.8% from 2023 to 2024, there has never been a greater need for businesses to prioritize shipment visibility. The multi-billion-dollar industry spans the world and has opened the door for people to acquire everything from baked goods to apparel to furniture and even vehicles. No matter what you sell, you need reliable shipment tracking to ensure that you are able to provide the greatest customer service.
According to a 2024 Tive survey, 77% of respondents say real-time visibility is a must-have, yet only 24% report having visibility into 75%-100% of their shipments, and 45% have less than 50% visibility.
Overcoming the challenges of low shipment visibility can open the doorway to greater customer satisfaction, a higher customer lifetime value, and more streamlined workflows for your staff. Most importantly, shipment visibility helps protect your business from losses and allows you to be more responsive in your order fulfillment process.
How Shipment Visibility Improves Ecommerce
With the right level of visibility, you can identify bottlenecks you’ve been oblivious to. You can recognize issues with your shipping logistics and make data-informed decisions that enhance your shipping process and lead to greater results for your customers.
Shipment visibility refers to the entire destination a package takes throughout the supply chain, from its origin to its final destination. It includes real-time updates that let you know where a project is, offering both you and customers valuable insights into the status of a delivery.
Moreover, shipment visibility improves trust by increasing transparency between you and your customers. When you’re able to offer them updates and insights, they can trust you more. Even if things don’t always go as desired, they can feel supported because your company has all the necessary information to keep them up-to-date and resolve the issue as quickly as possible.
Benefits
Enhancing your ecommerce shipment visibility with an order management system (OMS) can help you improve your operations and deliver better service to your customers. Additionally, adopting the right technologies can also:
Reduce Customer Support Workloads
Lower the stress on your customer support team with automated logistics. These will offer real-time updates on shipping and order statuses, allowing them to free up more time to provide higher quality support to your customers.
Nothing is more frustrating for a customer than being told customer service doesn’t have an answer. One way to prevent this from happening is with dedicated ecommerce fulfillment services. Having all the tools, technology, and resources you need to fulfill and track orders can give you and your staff peace of mind.
Lower Operational Expenses
Businesses with lower visibility are likely to spend more on operations. Enhanced visibility gives you greater insight into how your orders are being processed, where they’re being delayed, and where you may be experiencing issues that disrupt the customer experience.
The ability to recognize these challenges will help you develop strategic solutions to make your ecommerce business more efficient.
Promote Repeat Business
Customers who feel supported by a brand are more likely to make repeat purchases. Positive delivery experiences lead to a boosted brand reputation and higher customer satisfaction. In turn, this can promote returning customers while also increasing your number of positive reviews and referrals.
Challenges
Adopting shipment visibility technologies doesn’t come without challenges. As you’re exploring solutions, be mindful of these potential obstacles and plan accordingly.
Technical Requirements
Adopting an OMS can be difficult if you don’t have the right infrastructure. While all you really need is a computer and internet connection, you need additional time for maintenance. There is also a learning curve associated with shipment tracking software that can require overtime for small teams to learn without interrupting their usual service.
Data Security
It’s critical to work with a provider who offers data encryption and protection. You will also need to possibly update your company’s privacy policy and terms and conditions to clarify where customers’ data will be stored and who may have access to it. Take every measure possible to ensure your customers’ personal information stays confidential.
Cost
Investing in advanced technologies is expensive, and it does come at an added cost to your business. Make sure that you compare solutions to find one that fits your budget and offers the highest return on investment (ROI).
Future Trends and Innovations in Shipment Tracking
Shipment tracking is continuously improving. Barcodes and QR codes allow for instant scan-and-track technology, while artificial intelligence (AI) and real-time analytics are becoming more commonplace. Automated exception handling allows businesses to manage common delivery issues without human intervention. This can streamline the delivery process while reducing workloads.
Internet of Things (IOT) technology is also an emerging trend in shipment tracking. It allows for real-time monitoring of vehicles and packages, sensors that can detect environmental conditions, and in-depth analyses of supply chain logistics to help you improve your operations.
Blockchain technology is also a leading trend in shipment tracking technology. By offering a highly secured ledger system, it helps improve trust throughout the shipping process. By offering brand protection and anti-counterfeiting solutions, blockchain gives ecommerce businesses more security and helps improve their reputation with customers.
Summary
The future of shipment visibility leverages leading technology trends like AI, blockchain, and the Internet of Things to create a more seamlessly connected delivery experience. Businesses looking to improve their shipment logistics can explore options like ecommerce fulfillment services to make their business operations smoother.
Contact us at Snapl to learn more about our ecommerce fulfillment and order management services in New Jersey.
