E-Commerce Logistics Companies and Your Business
Establishing and growing an e-commerce business requires taking into consideration a huge number of factors. Success often depends on factors such as product development, marketing, social media, and customer service. It’s easy to forget one of the most essential factors with such an overwhelming amount of information to think about and consider. Namely, logistics. In order to scale your business effectively, you need to be able to send out products at scale.
In an increasingly e-commerce-dominated world, where there is no shortage of options for consumers to choose from. Customers have come to expect and demand shipping that is (usually) free, fast and flawlessly executed.
That’s why we’ve listed our choice of top e-commerce logistics companies for scaling up your business based on our experience dealing with clients.
Logistics for E-Commerce Businesses
Logistics refers to the process of obtaining, storing, and transporting goods to their end-user. The transportation and placement of these products and services must all be planned, executed, and controlled inside a system that is intended to meet particular industry-specific goals.
The logistical process is relatively simple for small businesses. Typically, whenever a transaction is completed by a customer, integrated inventory management software will immediately update inventory. Products are then shipped upon receipt of the order notification. However, larger businesses that outsource their online operation logistics also usually connect their platform with third-party providers.
What to Look for in a Logistics Company for Your e-commerce Store
Logistics companies, particularly third-party logistics (3PL) companies, have expanded the services that they offer from basic delivery solutions to comprehensive supply chain management that better supports the development of e-commerce. But what makes a great logistics company? The best logistics companies are committed to supporting, optimising and improving e-commerce companies of all sizes.
These are the most important characteristics that good e-commerce logistics companies share:
- Accurate Tracking
- Speedy Delivery
- Exceptional Customer Support
- Up-To-Date Technology
The Best E-Commerce Logistics Companies in South Africa
The top logistics businesses are always searching for ways to improve and offer a best-in-class service to assist e-commerce companies to remain competitive and be more successful online. They will provide excellent customer service to you and your clients. The right logistics partner should be willing to go above and beyond to ensure your online success.
Apart from being able to meet your current business needs, you should ensure that the logistics partner that you choose will ultimately be able to grow with you and continue to meet your needs in the future. Your choice should however also be informed by whether or not your business will be able to afford their services without stretching your budget.
DHL
Overview
DHL is the second-largest global shipping carrier and parcel delivery company in the world, operating in over 220 countries worldwide. As an international brand, they have done a splendid job integrating into the South African market by partnering with local couriers. The simplicity with which products can be sent locally as well as globally is undoubtedly one of their main selling points. They are a fantastic option for e-commerce companies seeking to enter local and international markets. They also offer a range of logistics services including, warehousing and fulfilment, transportation and distribution.
Services
DHL’s services include both local and global package delivery services, as well as road, air and ocean freight services. They also offer various logistics services such as warehousing, transportation and distribution. For an estimation of their shipping costs, you can request a quote on the DHL website.
FedEx
Overview
FedEx is another international package delivery and shipping company servicing the South African market. Although, their services are currently limited to international shipments. As a result, FedEx might not be the best option for e-commerce companies looking for a courier that can fulfil both local and global shipments. They are however a good option for e-commerce businesses on the hunt for an international shipping partner. FedEx has earned a reputation for providing expedited shipping services.
Services
FedEx are an international parcel delivery service and global freight forwarding company. Their services include package delivery, e-commerce logistics services and several value-added services. FedEx’s logistics services include warehousing, distribution, freight forwarding and reverse logistics. If you would like a quote for any of their services, you can use their tool to calculate the estimated cost of shipping.
Imperial Logistics
Overview
Imperial Logistics is an African logistics services provider that operates in Africa, Europe and the UK. They are listed on the JSE and are rated as one of the top tier global logistics companies in South Africa. Contact Imperial Logistics for quotes. They focus on the healthcare, industrial, chemicals, consumer, automotive, and commodities industries.
Services
They offer logistics services such as 4th-party or LLP logistics, contract logistics, as well as road, air and ocean freight services. Nationwide shipping is priced from R115 for e-commerce orders. For more information on their rates, click here.
Barloworld Logistics
Overview
Barloworld Logistics is an African logistics services provider that operates in Africa, Europe and the UK. They are listed on the JSE and are rated as a top tier global logistics company. They provide end-to-end supply chain management and logistics solutions. What makes them unique is their commitment to improving your bottom line and contributing to the success of your e-commerce business by delivering tailored, innovative, and reliable logistics solutions.
Services
They offer logistics services such as 4th-party or LLP logistics, contract logistics, as well as road, air and ocean freight services. Contact Imperial Logistics for quotes.
Conclusion – The Best Logistics Companies for Scaling Your Business
There is no shortage of choices within the South African market, for both local and international courier and logistics services. Picking a great logistics company to work with may be difficult, but hopefully, this article will help to make an informed decision. So make sure to do your research before deciding on a logistics firm to work with.
The top logistics businesses are always searching for ways to improve and offer a best-in-class service to assist e-commerce companies to remain competitive and be more successful online. They will provide excellent customer service to you and your clients. The right logistics partner should be willing to go above and beyond to ensure your online success. Apart from being able to meet your current business needs, you should ensure that the logistics partner that you choose will ultimately be able to grow with you and continue to meet your needs in the future.
If you found this article helpful or would like to read more articles like this one, you will find more e-commerce marketing content on the inSyte blog. Alternatively, you can sit back, relax, and listen to the inSyte Podcast.
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