# Shipping Best Practices

Shipping excellence leads to happy customers and positive reviews.

## Packaging Guidelines

### Choose Appropriate Packaging:
- Use sturdy boxes for fragile items
- Right-size packaging to reduce costs
- Branded packaging enhances customer experience
- Eco-friendly options appeal to many customers

### Protect Items:
- Use bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or air pillows
- Wrap fragile items individually
- Fill empty spaces to prevent movement
- Seal packages securely with quality tape

### Include in Package:
- Packing slip with order details
- Thank you note or business card
- Return instructions
- Any promotional materials
- Care instructions if applicable

## Shipping Carriers

### Recommended Options:
| Carrier | Best For | Features |
|---------|----------|----------|
| USPS | Small items, lightweight | Cost-effective, reliable |
| UPS | Larger packages | Excellent tracking, insurance |
| FedEx | Time-sensitive | Fast delivery, great tracking |
| DHL | International | Best for global shipping |

## Setting Up Shipping Profiles

1. Go to **Settings** > **Shipping**
2. Create shipping zones
3. Set rates by weight or price
4. Offer free shipping thresholds if desired
5. Set handling time

## Shipping Rates

### Calculate Actual Costs:
- Carrier shipping rates
- Packaging material costs
- Handling time
- Consider offering free shipping over certain amount

### Rate Types:
- **Flat rate**: Same price for all orders
- **Weight-based**: Price increases with weight
- **Price-based**: Price based on order total
- **Real-time**: Carrier-calculated rates

## Tracking Requirements

- Always provide tracking numbers
- Upload tracking within 24 hours of shipping
- Use integrated carriers for automatic updates
- Send tracking to customers automatically

## International Shipping

- Complete customs forms accurately
- Declare actual item values
- Research restricted items by country
- Communicate longer delivery times
- Be aware of import duties/taxes (buyer typically pays)

## Shipping Issues

| Issue | Solution |
|-------|----------|
| Lost packages | File claim with carrier |
| Damaged items | Review packaging procedures |
| Delays | Communicate proactively |
| Returns | Provide clear return instructions |

## Shipping Tips

📦 Ship within 24 hours when possible
📬 Provide tracking promptly
💬 Communicate any delays
🎁 Consider branded packaging
🌱 Offer eco-friendly options
📸 Take photos of shipped items
📝 Keep shipping receipts