Common Warehouse Shipping Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Once you start a warehouse shipping operation, you’ll bend backward, trying to meet customer expectations.

Unfortunately, even when customers have low expectations — if you have low standards — you’ll bend backward trying to meet them.

Big-name shipping companies have gotten away with substandard customer service. Warehouse shipping mistakes happen every day. Most of them result in lost money or wasted time.

Today, we will look at some common shipping mistakes.

Warehouse Shipping Mistakes: Packaging Errors

One common mistake, whether you are a small business shipping or big, is using the wrong-sized box or container. This can result in the contents being too snug, which can cause them to shift during shipping and become damaged.

Another mistake is not using enough packing material. This can allow the contents to move around too much, resulting in damage. Finally, not labeling the box properly can also lead to damage, as the contents may not be adequately protected.

Wrong Addresses and Undeliverable Packages

If you have moved or changed addresses, be sure to update your lists so that your packages are shipped to the right place. Another mistake is inputting the wrong address when shipping online. Be sure to double-check the address before you submit it to avoid any delays or problems.

Finally, some companies ship to PO Boxes, which can sometimes lead to undeliverable packages. Make sure to do the necessary research and check out the most reputable ones like ITG Transport which has been in the industry for 30 years.

Not Enough (Or Too Much) Insurance

There are a few different things that can go wrong when shipping to a warehouse, and one of the most common mistakes is not having enough or too much insurance. This could cause a lot of problems down the line if something were to happen to the shipment. It is always better to have a little bit more insurance than you think you might need, just in case.

Incorrect Documentation

This can include using the wrong type of form, not having all the required information on the form, or simply forgetting to include a form altogether. When shipping internationally, incorrect documentation can lead to delays, penalties, and even the forfeiture of the shipment.

If you are unsure about anything, ask a supervisor or consult the shipping company’s website for guidance.

Failure to Track Shipments

This can lead to packages being lost or delivered to the wrong address. Logistics mistakes can also cause delays in receiving payments for products sold.

To avoid this, be sure to track all shipments from the time they leave the warehouse until they are delivered to the customer. This can be done using a tracking number or by keeping a log of all shipments.

Take the Necessary Precautions

There are a few common warehouse shipping mistakes that are easy to make and can end up costing you time and money. Avoid these mistakes by being aware of them and taking the necessary precautions. With a little bit of planning, you can ensure that your shipments are safe and arrive on time.

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