For online shoppers, the time between placing an order and receiving the package can be a source of anxiety and uncertainty. Consumers naturally want to know the status of their orders and have confidence that their purchases will arrive on time. This is where parcel tracking plays an important role, providing much-needed visibility and transparency for e-commerce customers. By keeping them informed throughout the journey, retailers can alleviate stress for consumers and improve the overall shopping experience. In this article, we'll explore how parcel tracking works and the key benefits it offers for retail businesses and their customers.
How does parcel tracking work?
After processing an order, e-commerce retailers generate a label with a unique tracking number and apply it to the package. This tracking information is scanned at various points during the package’s journey. Consumers can access parcel delivery information through a variety of channels, including the parcel delivery service’s website or mobile app, the retailer's website tracking page, as well as receiving automated email or SMS updates.
The delivery driver provides a final update when the package has been successfully delivered, often including a photo on delivery for reassurance.
What are the main benefits of parcel tracking?
Parcel tracking has become a key part of the online shopping experience, with almost
two-thirds of European consumers now expecting it as a standard feature. The visibility offered by parcel tracking enables retailers to provide their customers with reassurance that their package is in transit and will arrive as promised. Not only does this enhance the overall shopping experience, but it also builds trust with your brand.
Parcel tracking enables a host of reliability features, such as predictive delivery times, enhanced safe place details, and SMS/email updates. This level of transparency keeps your customers engaged and informed throughout the shipping process.
Why is parcel tracking important to your business?
Reliability is the number one priority for
51% of shippers in the UK, France, Italy, and Spain - surpassing even speed and cost. “Consumers want to feel confident when they order online, and the shipping experience is the final touchpoint they have with a brand. Reliable service, proactive communication, and visibility is essential,” said Matt Tandy, Head of UK Operations at Amazon Shipping.
Here are some the key reasons parcel tracking is essential for your retail business:
1. Increases brand loyalty
The delivery experience contributes directly to customer perceptions of your brand. Poor communication can lead to a negative delivery experience, while proactive communication builds trust. You work hard to attract customers, and a
positive purchasing experience means they’re more likely to shop with you again.
2. Reduces delivery issues
Knowing when a parcel will arrive lets customers plan around the delivery, reducing stress and missed deliveries. Some providers may also allow your customers to add safe place instructions if they’re not going to be home. This creates convenience for your customers and can have cost-saving and environmental benefits.
3. Decreases support calls
When customers have tracking information, they are less likely to contact customer support for delivery updates. This saves everyone time and means happier customers.
4. Combats fraud
Parcel tracking can also reduce fraud, as delivery data confirms successful handoffs. If a parcel goes missing, can quickly view the tracking history and confirm the delivery location.
5. Proactive communication
Tracking keeps you, as the retailer, informed of any delays or issues. Early, proactive communication is a powerful tool if a package is delayed or goes missing.
Ship with us
At Amazon Shipping, we offer a tracked delivery service. You’ll receive tracking details through your Amazon Shipping account, and we'll send your customers simple, easy-to-understand tracking details via SMS and email. Begin your Amazon Shipping journey by
signing up here.