How to Handle Last-Minute Orders for Long-Distance Catalog Shows

  • Thread starter Thread starter Pampered Laura
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The thread discusses the challenges faced by consultants when handling last-minute orders for long-distance catalog shows, particularly regarding shipping costs and customer communication. Participants share their personal experiences and strategies in similar situations.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant shares their experience of receiving a last-minute order just after submitting a catalog show, expressing concern about whether to absorb the direct shipping cost or ask the customer to pay it.
  • Another participant suggests considering how much the closing date was emphasized to the host's guests and proposes options for the customer, including placing an individual order or waiting for the next show.
  • A different participant mentions their practice of closing shows a day or two in advance to avoid such situations and expresses a willingness to absorb the shipping cost in this case.
  • One participant notes that the order would not impact the host's show total and decides to have the order shipped directly to the customer, accepting the shipping cost.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on how to handle last-minute orders and shipping costs, with no clear consensus emerging on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences related to managing customer expectations and shipping logistics for long-distance catalog shows.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants navigating similar challenges with last-minute orders and shipping decisions may find the shared experiences relevant.

P
Pampered Laura
Just submitted a catalog show (long distance) with about 10 mins to spare to midnight. Of course, at 12:02am, I get an order for this lady's show!
AAACK! :eek:
Should I eat the Direct Shipping cost, or risk losing the order when I ask her to pay the additional charges?

Normally, if it were a local show, I'd tack it on to someone elses show - but this is in CA, and I'm in TX. LOL
WWYD?? :eek: :eek: :eek:
 
Sticky!!
Pampered Laura said:
Just submitted a catalog show (long distance) with about 10 mins to spare to midnight. Of course, at 12:02am, I get an order for this lady's show!
AAACK! :eek:
Should I eat the Direct Shipping cost, or risk losing the order when I ask her to pay the additional charges?

Normally, if it were a local show, I'd tack it on to someone elses show - but this is in CA, and I'm in TX. LOL
WWYD?? :eek: :eek: :eek:
Click to expand...

How much did you emphasize the closing date of the hosts show?? Depending on that I may suggest to the guest you could place it as an individual order or add it to the next show you do. Is this guest ordering to help her friend out or does she really need the items (some people are like that!), if you let her know it will not go towards her friends show she may just wait until 'the next person she knows has a party'. So I would say you have a 50/50 chance. If she does place the order (individual) still have her pay the $4.00 S&H and you cover the rest ($2.00 - $10.00) this maybe your comission for this order, but she may become a customer for life???

Let us know what happens,
Leea
 
How did she place an order? Was the show still open on your website or did she email you? I generally make it a habit for shows to close on my website a day or two before I am really going to close them.

In this case, I'd probably eat the direct shipping.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #4
Yup, the show was still open on my website, dangit. LOL Oh well! It's my hosts godmother. The show is already submitted, so it won't count on my hosts show total (and wouldn't have made a difference on her show's level, either).
It's a $40 order... I'll just have it direct shipped to her I think, and eat the cost.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I effectively communicate with customers about last-minute orders for a long-distance catalog show?

It's essential to keep communication clear and timely. Use multiple channels such as email, text messages, or social media to inform customers about the deadline for last-minute orders. Make sure to emphasize the importance of placing their orders as soon as possible to ensure they receive their desired items.

What should I do if a customer wants to place a last-minute order after the deadline?

Be flexible and understanding. If possible, allow the customer to place their order but make it clear that it may not be included in the main shipment. You can also offer to place their order separately, but inform them about any additional shipping costs or delays they might incur.

How can I keep track of last-minute orders for a long-distance catalog show?

Utilize a spreadsheet or an order management tool to keep track of all orders, including last-minute requests. Make sure to note the customer's name, order details, and payment status. This will help you stay organized and ensure that no orders are overlooked.

What strategies can I use to encourage customers to place last-minute orders?

Consider offering incentives such as a small discount or a free gift for last-minute orders. You can also highlight limited-time offers or popular items that may sell out quickly. Creating a sense of urgency can motivate customers to act quickly.

How can I ensure timely delivery for last-minute orders in a long-distance catalog show?

Plan ahead by choosing reliable shipping methods and informing customers about potential delivery times. If possible, use expedited shipping for last-minute orders to ensure they arrive on time. Communicate with your shipping provider to confirm delivery schedules and keep your customers updated on their order status.

You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar Pampered Chef Threads

Tips for Hosting a Successful Long Distance Catalog Show?
  • barbara_anne
    • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
8
Views
2K
lesliec
How to Correctly Handle Long Distance Catalog Shows and Internet Orders?
  • leannvv
    • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
6
Views
2K
tlennhoff
Save on Shipping Costs for Long Distance Catalog Shows
  • kam
    • Business, Marketing and Customer Service
Replies
7
Views
1K
Jules711
How Would You Handle This? (Long)
  • pampchefsarah
    • Recruiting and Team Leaders
Replies
14
Views
2K
Sheila
Back
Top