Small business shipping requires diligence, planning, and attention to customer satisfaction. As shipping rates rise, you can pass costs on to the consumer, or you can leverage flat-rate shipping, use cost-cutting best practices, and leverage technology to offer the best prices to consumers. Shipping products can be complicated, especially for small businesses.
- FedEx recently joined a coalition of more than 40 companies in Stand for Small powered by American Express.
- For example, you might use Priority Mail for smaller and lighter packages, and UPS 2nd Day Air for expedited shipping.
- Now that you know where you’ll be selling, you can figure out how you’ll ship.
- Packaging your orders properly can reduce costs, and you have a few areas where you can save money.
- For many, this grant represents a pivotal turning point, transforming ambitious ideas into tangible success stories.
- Service discounts are generally available within three to four business days.
What should companies do when shipping fees increase?
- Our best expert advice on how to grow your business — from attracting new customers to keeping existing customers happy and having the capital to do it.
- For businesses looking to leverage the grant to enhance their eCommerce presence, Firebear Studio can be your partner in digital transformation.
- Members who are eligible for the Advantage Program are encouraged to join the FedEx Rewards to earn rewards on eligible shipments.
- You’ll need to consider both carrier shipping fees, and the additional costs of packaging and labor.
- Securing resources to grow and thrive is one of the biggest challenges small businesses face.
- Your small business can use the FedEx Rewards program in conjunction with the FedEx Advantage Program.
Understanding your options for shipping solutions and carriers is a great place to start. Chamber of Commerce members get exclusive access to big shipping discounts from FedEx. As online shopping continues to grow, consumers have come to expect benefits like free shipping and a more substantial commitment toward sustainability. These evolving e-commerce trends challenge small businesses striving to remain competitive as they balance costs versus service. Across all industries, small businesses are using shipping services to expand their offerings and cater to a wider audience. By the end of 2024, global e-commerce is fedex small business center positioned to grow by 9.8% and generate $6.9 trillion.
Leverage technology to streamline shipping
A/B testing will allow you to find your minimum order “sweet spot,” so you can offer free shipping when it’s practical for your business’s profit margins. Automation and technology save businesses time and money while keeping customers happy. Don’t overlook these costs when calculating your shipping fees, as they can eat into your profits. All of this convenience comes at a price – and that price can seriously lower your profit margins. It’s important to weigh your options carefully here to determine whether dropshipping is viable for your business. While it’s tempting to stick to one carrier to simplify things, working with multiple providers may be advantageous.
Receive deliveries on your terms with FedEx Delivery Manager®
The FedEx Small Business Grant is a game-changing opportunity for entrepreneurs in the US looking to scale their businesses and drive impactful growth. Launched in 2012, this annual initiative provides financial backing and tailored business solutions to US-based small businesses. Whether you’re starting a new business or looking to improve your current shipping strategy, having a reliable vendor like FedEx can help you save time and money as you grow. From shipping discounts and deep expert knowledge to convenient order delivery and tracking tools, your FedEx account is the key to unlocking shipping success for your business.
Learn more about organizations that help empower entrepreneurs
The FedEx Small Business Grant Program was established in 2012 to support US-based small businesses by offering grants and services to enhance their operations. Since its inception, the program has evolved into a cornerstone of FedEx’s efforts to nurture entrepreneurial spirit and drive economic growth. By providing financial assistance and resources, the program enables small businesses to overcome obstacles and achieve their strategic objectives. For businesses looking to leverage the grant to enhance their eCommerce presence, Firebear Studio can be your partner in digital transformation.
Growing for ECE: Insights into the growing Early Care and Education Market
Once you have a strategy in place, pay some attention to calculating your shipping fees properly, so they don’t undermine your profitability. You’ll need to consider both carrier shipping fees, and the additional costs of packaging and labor. While you’ll incur additional costs, you’ll save time and resources by offloading shipping and fulfillment to an experienced and reliable provider.
The ten grant recipients and Honorable Mentions are usually notified by mid-May. Winners will receive a call or email before the public announcement, while Honorable Mentions will be informed via email. Extra credit is awarded to businesses that excel in these areas, so highlighting these aspects in your application can boost your chances.
FedEx Office inside Walmart®
Small businesses that ship their products can save money through FedEx. The United States Postal Services (USPS) delivers to 167 million addresses and over 12.7 million businesses. Small businesses rely on the post office for shipping supplies, labels, packaging materials, and cost-effective services.
But despite easy access to shipping, the process can still be confusing and overwhelming for the average small business owner. With a free-to-join membership, you can earn rewards like merchandise and gift cards from big-name retailers to use on your business or share with your team. All you need to get started is an eligible FedEx account — you can even link your FedEx shipping, FedEx Office®, and FedEx Freight® accounts. Enrollment is simple and can be completed in minutes through an online form or by calling a FedEx Advantage specialist. FedEx even offers personalized onboarding with its customer service team if you need extra assistance. Once your application is approved, you can access your discounts immediately using your FedEx account!