What Is Express Shipping?
Express shipping is a premium service by courier companies that prioritises speed over cost. It is the fastest way to get a package delivered, typically within 1-2 days, though it can be quicker, with some companies offering overnight or same-day deliveries.
How Is Express Shipping Different From Standard Shipping?
The key differences between express shipping and standard shipping boil down to speed and cost:
Speed: Express shipping typically delivers packages within 1-2 business days, whereas standard shipping takes anywhere from 3-7 business days (or even longer depending on the distance). Express shipping often utilises planes to achieve these faster speeds, while standard shipping relies on ground transportation like trucks.
Cost: Due to its speedier nature, express shipping comes at a premium price compared to standard shipping. A user has to pay for the expedited service and the resources required to move the package faster.
What Are The Benefits & Drawbacks Of Using Express Shipping?
While express shipping can be advantageous in certain situations, some related problems are worth mentioning:
Benefits Of Express Shipping:
- Faster Delivery: The biggest advantage is speed. Customers get their items much quicker, typically within 1-2 days, which is ideal for time-sensitive situations.
- Increased Customer Satisfaction: For businesses, express shipping can lead to happier customers who don’t have to wait long for their purchases.
- Competitive Advantage: Offering express shipping can give a business an edge over competitors who don’t.
- Improved Inventory Management: Businesses can reduce the stock they need to hold since items can be quickly replenished.
Drawbacks Of Express Shipping:
- Higher Cost: Express shipping can cost significantly more than standard shipping.
- Limited Availability: Express shipping might be unavailable for all locations or oversized or overweight items.
- Environmental Impact: The reliance on air travel can contribute to a larger carbon footprint.
What Happens If A Brand’s Express Shipment Is Delayed?
The following is a general outlook of this scenario:
- Customer Dissatisfaction: The biggest consequence is likely unhappy customers. People who pay extra for express shipping expect their items to arrive quickly, and a delay can cause frustration and damage the brand’s reputation.
- Potential Refunds/Returns: Depending on the brand’s policy and any guarantees offered with the express service, they might have to issue refunds or accept returns for frustrated customers.
However, there are certain ways brands can mitigate delays:
- Proactive Communication: The brand should proactively communicate delays to affected customers. This can be done via email, SMS, or website updates.
- Offer Alternatives: Brands should consider offering alternative solutions like expedited standard shipping (if available) or store pickup options to appease customers.
- Investigate The Cause: Brands should work with the shipping carrier to understand the reason for the delay and take steps to prevent similar issues in the future.
Which Players Offer Express Delivery In India?
The Indian startup landscape offers a vibrant selection of players in the express delivery space:
- Delhivery: It is one of the largest express delivery companies in India. It is also known for its reliability and wide reach.
- Ecom Express: An end-to-end technology-driven logistics company offering express delivery options.
- Ekart: Owned by Flipkart, a major ecommerce player in India, Ekart provides express delivery primarily for Flipkart orders.
- Shadowfax: It specialises in hyperlocal, on-demand deliveries within cities.
- ShipRocket: Primarily a logistics software solution provider, it also connects businesses with express delivery services as a third-party logistics (3PL) provider.
- Xpressbees: It is a rapidly growing logistics startup, which offers B2B, B2C, and cross-border express delivery solutions.
