If you run a shopping cart website that markets cosmetics, you will already be aware of the additional challenges shipping make-up and skincare products involves. Any delicate product needs to have effective packaging that protects the contents during transit, plus cosmetics have to be presented well.
Third-Party Logistics (3PL)
Forming an alliance with an established logistics company Sydney or any other city in the world trusts will streamline your processes; they would have that much needed working experience with cosmetics and healthcare products. Deliver your entire product range complete with packaging and labels and they will do the rest; forward all orders by email, and order fulfilment is guaranteed.
Shock Damage
Use a product like bubble wrap to prevent shock damage, which can occur even with small products. Do check whether the product is correctly packaged according to law, which can be a nightmare when exporting.
Waterproof
Cosmetic products are best sealed in plastic when being transported in high volumes. A single package might contain 72 pieces, which is how products come from the factory or wholesaler. Either way, the last thing you need is wet packaging, so do take precautions.
Consider Shipping Insurance
If you ship a lot of delicate products and experience a fairly high rate of returns, you should find out the cost of shipping insurance that allows you to claim on all returns. If you search with Google or Bing, you can find a few commercial insurance brokers who can find what you are looking for.
Kraft Paper Fillers
These work wonders and keep small products firmly in place during transit; there are eco-friendly solutions that are visually appealing as well as being functional. Airbags can work for very delicate cosmetic products; search online for cosmetic packaging to get a clear idea of what is available.
Carrier Rules
It can be a real nightmare to ensure packaging compliance with a lot of different carriers, which is yet another reason to use a 3PL company to handle all logistics. Products that contain alcohol may have to travel by sea and, of course, all FDA data needs to be on the packaging; if you look under the classification, you will find any limitations or restrictions.
Package Design
This is the key to low-returns; get your packaging and packing right and the 3PL warehouse handles all order fulfilment. When talking to package designers, give clear expectations to help them come up with something that ticks all the boxes.
Two Day Shipping
The cosmetics market has 2-day shipping as standard, with a same-day delivery service available. If your online business is newly set up, logistics can take up all of your time and by forging a working alliance with a nearby 3PL warehouse, order fulfilment is guaranteed. A leading 3PL company has the know-how and resources to provide a very reliable service at an affordable rate.
Tailored Solutions
Scalable solutions mean you can turn on or off the services at any time; a quick phone call sets the team in motion and you can send them excess orders that you are unable to process. You only pay for the services you use; there are no lengthy contracts to tie you to the service, and most are happy to bill you monthly.
Ground Transportation
This is for certain products that contain alcohol or other hazardous material, which many air carriers will not accept; there are agencies to assist you with import/export procedures. GPS technology enables fast package tracking in real time, which is a game-changer.
If you have an e-commerce cosmetics business that is rapidly growing, we recommend talking to a leading 3PL company about your logistics needs.
