Nowadays, having a reliable courier partner is one of the key factors of success if your business is related to retail or e-commerce. Why? Simply because customers expect delivery that arrives on time, is cheap, and matches their convenience expectations. These high demands of modern buyers can be met only if the courier delivery service is credible and professional. Let’s break down the four key features that let you know if a delivery service is a reliable partner.
Delivery Speed
Given how essential the speed of delivery is nowadays (with 74 % of global online shoppers expecting delivery within two days), that is what you should question in the first place. Consistent shipping timelines with no missed deadlines are the benchmark you are looking for. Ideally, the company should also be able to accurately predict the approximate delivery time to minimise unnecessary waiting for buyers.
Top-tier couriers, like Stuart, use route optimisation software, real-time traffic data, and smart dispatching in their work. This allows them to minimise delays and make transportation cost- and time-efficient. For businesses that partner with such shipping services, this means fewer complaints, increased chances of repeat orders, and boosted sales.
Tracking Accuracy
Customers highly appreciate the possibility to track their order, as not knowing whether it is processed and when exactly it is going to arrive triggers hesitations about the reliability of your business.
When you select a reliable courier partner, you can expect real-time tracking that updates buyers at every step — from pickup to drop-off. Top-tier companies use GPS, barcode scanning, and automated notifications to keep both parties informed.
Thanks to such a tech stack in place, the number of missed deliveries is minimised. As a result, you can expect lower support inquiries and higher confidence in your business. When customers can ‘see’ their parcel moving, they feel in control. For you, it means that there is a higher chance of having first buyers converted into loyal customers.
Customer Service
No matter how advanced and professional the delivery service is, transportation issues still happen from time to time. It should be able to handle the situation swiftly and smoothly. It should also be efficient, so make sure that a potential courier partner offers multi-channel support. Most popular channels are:
- live chat;
- phone;
- email.
Ideally, test the customer support team for competence and efficiency, and expect no less than trained agents who understand logistics. Moreover, the support team should act empathetically and professionally, as many customers do not differentiate between a store that sells them goods and a courier service that delivers them.
Damage Rates
Finally, customers expect their parcel to arrive intact and not damaged. Your priority is to ensure that your courier partner can cope with this task seamlessly. Top courier companies maintain damage rates below 0.5 %, as they have strict handling protocols, quality packaging standards, and trained staff.
However, despite all the protocols and standards, parcels can still be broken, wet, or mishandled. Therefore, insurance options and easy claims processes are also important. Make sure those are a part of the service provided by the reviewed delivery company. Remember that those companies that cannot guarantee a safe delivery are not truly reliable.
Conclusion
There are plenty of factors that influence the reliability of a courier service and make it a good partner. Undoubtedly, the speed of transportation and tracking accuracy are among the main features. However, you should also pay attention to damage rates and customer support professionalism, as those also contribute to the quality of the shipping service, which can convert one-time buyers into loyal customers.