Small businesses often don’t have substantial budgets or resources to worry about researching and organising the most cost-effective, efficient and reliable providers for shipping.
Resources may be restricted so it’s important to find a courier service that you can rely on to deliver a first-rate service at the best possible price – whether it be an urgent, next day delivery or a large, long haul consignment.
So what are the key things to consider when choosing the right courier service for your business?
Appearance and Professionalism
Remember that the courier service you choose will be representing your own company. The drivers will be the ones interacting with your end clients, so it’s important for the sake of your own reputation, that you choose a highly professional company with a positive track record.
Size of the Company
It’s often assumed that the large, well-known companies are going to be the best. This isn’t necessarily the case. Smaller, local courier services are far more likely to be able to react and adapt quickly to urgent requests, as well as provide a dedicated, personal service.
Budget
Small businesses are often keeping a very close eye on accounts and cashflow, and it’s often seen that using a courier service is just another drain on your bottom line. You need to find a courier company that can work with you on a solution that fits your budget.
Reputation
It’s common practice these days to research reviews of companies we choose to work with. And courier services are no different. Take a bit of time to see what other companies say about courier services you’re considering working with.
It’s not all about the lowest price
Yes your courier service should offer you a competitive price but it’s not the most important thing to consider. Along with good pricing must come an efficient, trustworthy and professional service. You may be getting a ‘good price’ but the damage to your company’s reputation if the service is poor, will be far more costly.