The Ministry of Transport in China is setting stricter regulations for its parcel delivery sector. The new rules emphasize the importance of environmental sustainability and protecting consumer rights.
How does this impact the global e-commerce industry? As the world’s biggest parcel delivery market, this move encourages companies to opt for more environmentally friendly packaging practices.
Now, if you’re looking to “green” your shipping processes, these sustainable shipping strategies are worth a try.
1. Improve Last-Mile Delivery
The best shipping partner ensures the last leg of a package’s journey is seamless. They ensure there are no hiccups so that your customers receive their parcels in excellent condition.
If your shipping partner has optimized routes, this makes the process more eco-friendly. With less time on the road, they can reduce their fuel consumption and emissions. It would also be great if they used electric or hybrid vehicles for deliveries to help decrease pollution.
2. Opt For Green Packaging
One way to ensure sustainable shipping is to use packaging made from recycled, recyclable, or compostable materials. The good news is you have plenty of options, such as plant-based packaging and biodegradable plastic packaging.
If you haven’t switched to greener packaging, it’s time to evaluate your current shipping practices. Take into account that one-time-use mailers, for example, and other plastic packaging end up in landfills. Remember, choosing eco-friendly packaging materials doesn’t just help with carbon offset goals but is also good PR for your company.
3. Consider a More Sustainable Shipping Method
Have you ever heard of SIOC? It stands for “ships in own container.” What it means is when a customer orders a product, the store will ship it in its original packaging. No more extra casing before sending it to its final destination.
The only downside to this is if you sell expensive products, they might be vulnerable to package theft. If customers have previously complained about porch pirates, then SIOC may not be for you. However, you can push your customers to reuse packaging or help them find the nearest locations for recycling.
4. Involve Customers in Your Green Shipping Campaign
Customers are excited to receive your products, especially since these come in memorable packaging, but how much do they know about your shipping processes?
It’s easy to assume that all customers want their packages sooner than now, but some are willing to wait a little longer once they understand what they can gain from it. For example, consolidating orders can help both sellers and buyers save money on shipping costs. You can even incentivize the whole thing if that’s within your budget.
Sustainable Success: Start With Shipping
Are your current shipping methods not green enough? With these sustainable shipping tips, you can start making choices that can help save the environment and delight your customers at the same time.
Check out our eco-friendly packaging products and packaging services. With over 28 years of experience, Packaging Fulfillment Co. is a packaging solutions leader, helping manufacturers and distributors in Tennessee and nearby areas.
To learn more, you may call (800) 385-0289 or (615) 793-0088.
