A four-letter word

I have been working in logistics for some time now, and I know the first topic of any sales call will always be “How much?” – Cost is paramount for e-commerce shipping. That’s why I joined SmartKargo. They help e-commerce shipping costs go low while ensuring speed is there for the customers.

Now there are so many issues that are going on that distress shipping costs. We are finally getting past the pandemic issues that forced so many of us to rely on e-commerce, but we are all watching for other mutations. We now have the tragedy of Ukraine affecting oil prices and subsequently disturbing gas prices. There is the “Great Resignation” which is causing employee costs to rise to attract drivers, warehouse workers, and logistic specialists.  Moreover, there is the issue of overall inflation which is a result of the Fed’s response to the pandemic and the other issues listed above.

What is the impact on costs for e-commerce delivery? Higher costs and climbing fast – FedEx and UPS had already announced 5%- 6% rate hikes for this year. Surcharges are on the rise, and they will put a big hit on e-commerce companies’ shipping. Surcharges could hit as high as 30% for shippers as economics, geopolitics, and pandemic issues move. The reality of these costs is that they will be passed onto their customers.  Nevertheless, many platforms, e-commerce companies, and retailers have announced increases in shipping costs from eBay to Etsy and of course Amazon.

Now, I know the Head of Logistics for e-commerce companies doesn’t care how the package gets to their customer – Just if it’s delivered for the right cost, safely, when the customer expects it! That is what is unique about SmartKargo, they have an interesting solution for the middle mile. They utilize the existing airline’s belly space to ship e-commerce shipments but what is unique is the airlines are already heading to the destination in the lane because the passengers are heading that way. For greater distances, it becomes very economically feasible even in a rising surcharge environment. So, finally, a positive impact on cost.

Costs are always first in my conversations, but there are innovative solutions that will help e-commerce shippers to have options to attack rising costs and ensure their customers are delighted. Cost does not need to be a four-letter word we avoid.