The Ultimate Shipping Guide 2024

Now is the time to review the company's shipping solution. In early 2024, many companies reviewed their shipping options and realized that there was much to be done to reduce costs. In this guide, we go through everything you need to create an optimal shipping solution, with tips and advice from the experts at Shiplink.

The History of Shipping
Throughout history, people have transported goods over long distances to meet the need for resources that were not available locally. The shipping has been carried out in various ways and for various reasons. The Swedish shipping industry has its origins as far back as 1636 when Posten was founded and since then the shipping sector has developed considerably. The modern version of the Post that we know today was established in 2009 after a merger with the Danish Post. CityMail was founded in 1991, and since then many major players have established themselves in the market such as Bring and DHL. Many Last Mile players started establishing themselves around 2015.

Economy and Security
Shipping prices are dynamic and are affected by a number of economic and security-related aspects. One of the biggest cost components in the shipping industry is fuel prices. The costs of gasoline and other fuels directly affect the costs of operating transport vehicles.

The balance between supply and demand for freight capacity is also crucial. When demand exceeds supply, prices can rise and vice versa.

Security risks such as piracy can affect costs for shipping companies. Areas with a high risk of piracy can force ships to take greater security measures and longer routes, increasing delivery times and fuel consumption.

Choosing Supplier for Shipping
Negotiating shipping rates with shipping companies can be a complicated and costly process, especially if you lack the necessary knowledge.

Transport companies base their prices on, for example:
Volume and weight: The transport companies use either the actual weight or the volume weight also called freight weight, whichever is higher.
Transport distance: Longer distances mean higher costs due to fuel consumption and working time.
Type of goods: Dangerous goods, bulky or fragile goods require special handling, which increases costs.
Availability: Direct and regular routes are usually cheaper than detours or unusual routes.
Fuel prices and surcharges: Current fuel prices affect prices and many transport companies apply fuel surcharges which are adjusted regularly.
Security measures: Extra security measures may be required for certain types of goods or destinations.



By using freight forwarding companies, small to medium-sized businesses can gain access to advantageous shipping deals that are otherwise often only available to larger players. This means that they too can offer their customers competitive shipping rates, which can improve their market position and profitability.

Packaging Right
The most common mistake made when packing is to use boxes that are too large without filling up the empty space. When you place your goods in their box, it is important that they do not slide around when moving. It should also not touch the walls of the box, as this increases the risk of damage. This is countered in the best way by wrapping the goods in plastic, corrugated cardboard or by using filling material. Fill the box with impact-resistant material, such as cardboard, styrofoam or bubble wrap to make it as compact as possible. Make sure that the goods rest on the filling and that it is applied to all the walls of the box.

If the goods are already in a box, you can wrap them in corrugated cardboard to avoid using another package. Wrap the goods in several layers of corrugated cardboard to reduce the risk of impact. Also apply edge protection to your shipment to make it as durable as possible. A good rule of thumb is to make the inside of the package soft to absorb shock, and the outside hard to avoid crushing.

Step by Step Guide:
Wrap in the appropriate amount of bubble wrap.
Choose an appropriately sized box.
Make sure the product does not touch the sides of the box.
Fill up with shock-absorbing material.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Shipping
How ​​can I see where my package is?
Most carriers and e-commerce companies offer their customers a tracking link that updates the status every time the package is scanned. This takes place on collection, arrival at the terminal and on delivery. This feature makes it easy to track packages in real time. If you do not have access to a tracking link, we recommend that you contact the e-commerce company or shipping company to get the information you need. In this way, you can ensure that you are always up to date on the status of the transport and can act quickly if any problems arise.

Is it important to fill in the correct measurements & weight?
Entering the correct dimensions and weight of your package is crucial for several reasons. First, the price you pay is determined by either the actual weight or the shipping weight. Incorrect information can lead to penalties and potential handling issues. In addition, incorrect dimensions can make it difficult to stack packages correctly, which can cause delays and damage during transport. Therefore, it is important to be careful with these details to avoid unnecessary complications and extra costs.

Can the prices differ depending on where you book?
Yes, prices may vary depending on where you book. If you book the shipping through an intermediary, you can get different prices, just like if you book directly through the transport companies. It is important to find a good balance between price and quality, not least when it comes to customer service in case of any problems. Choosing the right one can mean that you get both a cost-effective solution and good support should something go wrong.

What is the purpose of a shipping label
Shipping labels are used to ensure that the package is handled correctly and reaches the correct destination. The shipping label contains important information such as recipient's address, sender's information, tracking number and any handling instructions. It helps carriers scan and track the package throughout the supply chain, minimizing the risk of errors and lost shipments. In addition, shipping labels facilitate sorting and handling at terminals, contributing to a faster and more efficient delivery process.

Summary
Shipping is an important part of many different companies and industries and requires optimization to reduce costs. In 2023, many companies discovered opportunities to improve their shipping solutions. This guide provides tips and advice to achieve a cost-effective and efficient shipping process.

Historically, shipping has evolved from simple methods to an advanced industry influenced by fuel prices, shipping capacity and security risks. Choosing the right shipping provider involves negotiating rates based on a variety of factors, and small businesses can benefit from freight forwarding companies for better deals.

Correct packaging and carefully filled in measurements and weights are essential to avoid damage and extra costs. Tracking links and shipping labels ensure that the package is tracked in real time and reaches the right destination without any problems.

By following these guidelines, companies can improve their shipping solution, lower costs and offer reliable deliveries.

👋 We are here for you if you have questions about shipping, packaging or anything else? Contact customer service via chat, telephone: 010-20 706 66 or e-mail: kundservice@shiplink.se

Updated on: 02/07/2024