What are some tips for handling online orders with high shipping costs?

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Discussion Overview

This thread discusses participants' experiences and reactions to customers placing online orders with high shipping costs for low-priced items. Several participants express disbelief and humor regarding the situation, while others share their thoughts on customer behavior and potential follow-up strategies.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes a customer paid $6 shipping for a $1.75 item, expressing frustration over the wasted lead.
  • Another participant shares a similar experience with a customer ordering a citrus peeler for over $7 shipping on a $0.75 item, questioning the perception of product pricing.
  • Several participants find the situations ridiculous and humorous, with one participant joking about not spending the commission all in one place.
  • One participant suggests that customers may be accustomed to high shipping costs from other companies without considering alternatives.
  • Another participant mentions the importance of customer contact information and suggests a cautious approach to follow-up to avoid embarrassing the customer.
  • One participant reflects on their own ordering habits, noting they check shipping costs to maximize their purchases.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the absurdity of high shipping costs for low-priced items, but views differ on how to handle customer follow-ups and the implications of such orders.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences of Pampered Chef consultants regarding online ordering practices and customer behavior, without implying any official guidance or policies.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants interested in understanding customer behavior related to online orders and shipping costs may find this discussion relevant.

DebbieJ
Messages
10,849
I just got an online activity email and someone ordered ONE PACK of nylon pan scrapers through my site.

Heck, the guy could have called me and I would have mailed them to him for free! Instead he paid $6 shipping on a $1.75 item! CRAZY!!

What a wasted HO lead that was...
 
DebbieJ said:
I just got an online activity email and someone ordered ONE PACK of nylon pan scrapers through my site.

Heck, the guy could have called me and I would have mailed them to him for free! Instead he paid $6 shipping on a $1.75 item! CRAZY!!

What a wasted HO lead that was...

ROFLMAO - I have had a few like that - you just gotta scratch your head...
 
Oh my gosh, that's the most ridiculous purchase I've ever heard!!! Whew, don't spend that commission all in one place!:D
 
That is just totally crazy and a wasted of money!
 
pamperedbecky said:
Oh my gosh, that's the most ridiculous purchase I've ever heard!!! Whew, don't spend that commission all in one place!:D
LOL!! I was thinking the same thing.
 
Well...at least he didn't get them on Ebay!!
 
I think people get so used to ordering online for other companies and paying outrageous s/h, that they just don't give it a thought.
 
I have you beat! I had someone order the CITRUS PEELER through my website (yeah, what a waste of a HO lead!). Over $7 for a $0.75 item. No wonder people think our products are expensive.

I give those away for free for pete's sake!
 
BethCooks4U said:
I have you beat! I had someone order the CITRUS PEELER through my website (yeah, what a waste of a HO lead!). Over $7 for a $0.75 item. No wonder people think our products are expensive.

I give those away for free for pete's sake!

I would be compelled to call the customer and ask WHY??? LOL
 
If they pay shipping for something that small without a thought, I wonder if they have the money to buy the bigger purchases, like stoneware or cookware !!

I say contact them (if they gave that info), and see if there is anything else they were wanting, or even offer to mail him something else small just for paying that much shippng.

That would make you stick out in my mind as a great person to work with. Maybe that would make it not a wasted lead. Just a thought.
 
Well, my person did not give contact information. If I had contact info I would be careful about how/what I said anything to them though. I wouldn't want them to be embarrassed or upset that they spent the extra money. I might say something like "Let me know when you need anything else and I might be able to save you some on shipping." Of course I would also offer to send a catalog and suggest that free shipping is available with a show. I would take it slow though. Many people who order on line do not want to be "pushed".

Also remember that they knew the shipping cost before they paid. I have had people use the lead system instead of ordering so they could pay less shipping (they TOLD me that). I would not send them something else just because they paid that extra shipping - it's all out of pocket and most of the time it's a dead lead anyway - when I order online I always check the shipping so I can see how much I can buy and keep the same level of shipping price. They weren't spending more.

It all really depends on the conversation you have with them though.
 
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Frequently Asked Questions

What strategies can I use to minimize shipping costs for my customers?

Consider offering a flat-rate shipping option or free shipping on orders over a certain amount. You can also negotiate shipping rates with carriers or use a fulfillment service that offers discounted shipping rates. Additionally, encourage customers to combine their orders to take advantage of bulk shipping savings.

How can I communicate high shipping costs to my customers effectively?

Be transparent about shipping costs by including them in your product descriptions or during the checkout process. Use clear language to explain why shipping costs may be higher, such as the quality of packaging or the speed of delivery. Providing a breakdown of shipping fees can also help customers understand the charges.

What are some ways to enhance the perceived value of my products to justify shipping costs?

Highlight the unique features and benefits of your products, such as their quality, versatility, or exclusivity. Use testimonials and reviews to build trust and demonstrate value. Additionally, consider bundling products together to create a package deal that feels more valuable to customers.

Should I offer local pickup options to offset high shipping costs?

Yes, offering local pickup can be a great way to reduce shipping costs for customers who live nearby. This option not only saves them money but also allows you to build stronger relationships with your local clientele. Make sure to clearly communicate the pickup process and any associated timelines.

How can I leverage promotions to offset high shipping costs for customers?

Run promotions that include discounts on shipping or offer free shipping during special events or holidays. You can also create loyalty programs that reward repeat customers with shipping discounts. This not only encourages sales but also enhances customer satisfaction and retention.

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