An Australian study has concluded that small and mid-sized local businesses may not be well equipped to deal with shipping-related challenges this festive season.
The research led by shipping company Temando surveyed 200 Australian micro, small, mid-sized and enterprise retailers about challenges meeting demands revealing startling findings.
77% of the businesses believe that they are not prepared with multiple shipping options during Christmas including express and same day delivery.
83% of all retailers indicated they are not prepared to handle shipping delays and uncertainty, with just 15% of small retailers recording confidence.
Temando co-founder and CEO said that local retailers need to utilise technologies available to them to stay on top of the Christmas rush.
“Shipping and fulfilment are highly complex and important processes not only for business operations, but for keeping customers happy, especially as many online stores hit their peak sales period when customers are prone to be distressed and unsatisfied if gifts arrive late.
“Many outlets still rely on manual or partially automated systems for customer product returns (76%), delivery tracking and customer communication (69%), booking a carrier (68%), and warehouse management (66%).”
The survey did reveal positive findings for enterprise retailers, with 100% believing their return processes will meet customer expectations and with 75% assured that their logistics are well organised for Christmas.