A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Ship Products to Customers
March 1, 2025
Ramin Popal
When running a successful eCommerce store, shipping products to customers is vital to the operation. Consider this scenario: You’ve made a sale, and the money is in your account. But before you can celebrate, you must locate your product, package it, and get it shipped to your customer.
If this process takes too long or goes poorly, your customer won’t be in a celebratory mood when they receive their order. Instead, they’ll be frustrated. Maybe they’ll take that frustration out on you and leave a negative review.
Or, worse, they’ll request a refund and never buy from you again. How to Find a Supplier for Your Product? This guide will show you how to ship products to customers. We’ll break down the steps so you can understand how to ship products, avoid costly mistakes, and keep your customers happy.
Now that we understand how shipping impacts your business, let’s look at a tool that can help. AI store builder can help you automate your shipping processes and keep your customers happy.
Why Shipping Is Important in E-Commerce
Shipping is more than just getting a product from your warehouse (or supplier) to the customer—it directly affects your business’s success, reputation, and profitability. Here’s why:
Customer Expectations Are Higher Than Ever
Thanks to Amazon Prime’s fast shipping model, customers now expect quick and reliable delivery when shopping online. They may choose another seller if your shipping is too slow or expensive.
Impacts Customer Satisfaction & Loyalty
Late deliveries, damaged products, or unexpected shipping costs can lead to negative reviews and lost sales. A good shipping experience, however, increases customer trust and repeat purchases.
Affects Conversion Rates
Studies show that unexpectedly high shipping costs at checkout cause abandoned carts. Offering competitive shipping options can help reduce cart abandonment and increase completed sales.
Can Make or Break a Dropshipping Business
If you’re using a dropshipping model, choosing the right supplier with reliable shipping times is crucial to avoiding delays and maintaining quality control.
How AI Store Builder Helps
Instead of manually searching for suppliers with reliable shipping, AI Store Builder provides 20 trending products with pre-vetted dropshipping suppliers, ensuring faster shipping and hassle-free fulfillment.
Types of E-Commerce Shipping Methods
There are three main types of shipping methods used in e-commerce, and each has its advantages and challenges:
1. Standard Shipping
The most common and cost-effective shipping option.
Typically, domestic orders take 3-7 business days.
Ideal for businesses looking to offer free or low-cost shipping options to customers.
Used by major carriers like USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL, and local postal services.
Faster shipping options like 2-day, overnight, or same-day delivery.
Used by businesses looking to compete with Amazon Prime’s fast delivery model.
Costs more than standard shipping, but customers are willing to pay extra for faster service.
Best For: Businesses that sell high-value or time-sensitive products or those that want to offer premium shipping options for extra revenue.
3. International Shipping
Allows businesses to expand their market globally by delivering to international customers.
It requires businesses to deal with customs and import duties and longer delivery times.
Some carriers, such as DHL, FedEx, and UPS, specialize in affordable international shipping.
Best For: Businesses looking to sell products worldwide and reach a global audience.
How AI Store Builder Helps
If you're worried about international shipping logistics, AI Store Builder’s pre-vetted suppliers handle global shipping, making it easier to sell worldwide without dealing with complex customs regulations.
Dropshipping vs. Self-Fulfillment: Which Is Right for You?
Before setting up your shipping process, you must decide how to fulfill orders. The two most common models are dropshipping and self-fulfillment.
Option 1: Dropshipping (No Inventory Needed)
How It Works
You sell a product online, and your supplier ships it directly to the customer on your behalf.
Pros
No need to store or manage inventory.
Lower upfront costs and risk.
Easy to scale and sell trending products quickly.
Cons
Longer shipping times if suppliers are overseas.
Less control over product quality and delivery times.
Best For
Entrepreneurs who don’t want to handle inventory or warehousing prefer an automated fulfillment process.
How AI Store Builder Helps
AI Store Builder takes the guesswork out of dropshipping by providing 20 trending products with pre-vetted suppliers offering fast and reliable shipping.
How to Package Your Products for Safe & Cost-Effective Shipping
Why Packaging Matters in E-Commerce
Packaging protects your product, enhances the customer experience, and reduces shipping costs. In e-commerce, packaging isn’t just about wrapping and sending an item. Poor packaging can lead to significant damage, increasing refund requests and bad reviews.
Types of Packaging Materials
The type of packaging you choose depends on your product’s size, fragility, and shipping method. Below are some of the most common e-commerce packaging materials:
1. Poly Mailers (Best for Clothing & Small Non-Fragile Items)
Best for: Stickers, greeting cards, artwork, and legal documents.
How to Pack Products Safely for Shipping
No matter what packaging material you choose, properly packing your products ensures they arrive in perfect condition. Follow these steps to package items securely:
Step 1: Choose the Right Box or Mailer
Use a snug-fitting box to prevent excessive movement inside.
If using a poly mailer, ensure the product inside won’t bend or tear.
For fragile items, use a box at least 2 inches larger than the product to allow room for cushioning.
Step 2: Add Protective Cushioning
Use bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or air pillows to prevent fragile items from breaking.
Layer fragile items so they don’t rub against each other.
Use dividers for multiple items in one box to keep them from shifting.
Step 3: Seal the Package Securely
Use strong packing tape to reinforce the box’s seams.
Avoid regular scotch or masking tape, as they don’t hold well in transit.
For poly mailers, ensure the self-adhesive is fully sealed to prevent opening.
Step 4: Label the Package Correctly
Ensure the shipping label is clear and securely attached.
Use “Fragile” or “Handle with Care” stickers if needed.
For international shipments, include customs forms if required.
Shipping labels contain all the necessary information for your carrier to deliver packages to the correct destination. If a label is incorrect or has damaged or missing details, your package might get delayed, lost, or returned.
What Should Be on a Shipping Label?
Every shipping label should include
Sender’s address (Your business or supplier’s address).
Recipient’s address (The customer’s name and address).
Package weight and dimensions (Required for cost calculations).
Tracking barcode and number (Allows the package to be scanned at different checkpoints).
Carrier information (FedEx, USPS, UPS, DHL, etc.).
Customs declaration (If shipping internationally, include a description of the contents and their value).
Tip
Your supplier will usually handle labelling if you're using dropshipping or third-party fulfillment. AI Store Builder’s pre-vetted suppliers care about labeling and ensure shipments are processed correctly.
Tracking Improves Customer Experience
Customers expect real-time updates on their orders. If they don’t receive tracking information, they may assume their package is lost or delayed, leading to frustration and refund requests.
Why Tracking Matters
Provides customers with updates on their package location and estimated arrival.
Reduces customer service inquiries, as customers can track their orders.
Builds trust in your brand, showing you have a reliable shipping process.
Helps resolve lost or delayed shipments by checking real-time tracking history.
How to Provide Tracking to Customers
Automatic Tracking Emails – Email customers their tracking number once their order is shipped.
Tracking on Your Website – Use apps or Shopify plugins to allow customers to check their order status.
Carrier Tracking Pages – Direct customers to USPS, FedEx, UPS, or DHL tracking pages.
How AI Store Builder Helps
AI Store Builder’s suppliers provide tracking numbers for every order, so customers always know where their package is.
Reduce Shipping Costs and Maximize Profits
Shipping costs directly affect your bottom line; they can quickly eat into your profits if you don't optimise them. Here are some key strategies to keep shipping costs low while maintaining fast, reliable delivery.
1. Use the Right Packaging Size to Reduce Dimensional Weight Fees
Shipping carriers charge based on package weight and size (dimensional weight pricing).
Use the smallest packaging possible to fit your product.
Choose lightweight packaging materials (e.g., poly mailers instead of boxes).
Avoid oversized boxes—they increase shipping fees even if your product is light.
Example: A small item shipped in an oversized box may cost 30-50% more in shipping fees than using the correct-sized package.
2. Offer Flat-Rate or Free Shipping (and Adjust Pricing Accordingly)
Customers love free shipping, but offering it without planning can hurt profits. Instead:
Include the shipping cost in your product price so customers don’t feel they’re paying extra.
Offer free shipping for orders over a certain amount to encourage higher purchase values.
Use carrier flat-rate shipping (USPS, FedEx, and UPS offer flat-rate boxes at a fixed cost).
Tip: If you’re dropshipping, ensure your supplier’s shipping costs are built into your pricing strategy to maintain profit margins.
3. Negotiate Bulk Shipping Discounts with Carriers
If you ship a high volume of orders, you can negotiate lower shipping rates with major carriers like UPS, FedEx, and DHL. Many carriers offer discounts for businesses that ship regularly.
Use shipping software like ShipStation or Shippo to get discounted rates automatically.
Example: Businesses shipping over 300 monthly orders may qualify for 30-50% lower rates than standard pricing.
4. Use Local Warehouses or Third-Party Fulfillment Centers
Using a local warehouse near your customers can reduce shipping time and costs if you ship globally or across different regions. Fulfillment centers store inventory and ship orders on your behalf. Customers receive orders faster, improving satisfaction and reviews—cheaper domestic shipping options for U.S., Europe, and Asia-based customers.
How AI Store Builder Helps: AI Store Builder eliminates the need for warehouse management by providing dropshipping suppliers that handle shipping for you.
5. Compare Carrier Pricing and Choose the Best Option
Different shipping carriers offer different pricing for various package sizes, delivery speeds, and locations.
Use shipping rate calculators (UPS, FedEx, and USPS provide online calculators).
Compare multiple carriers for the best pricing on each package.
Offer different shipping speeds (Standard, Express, and Overnight) so customers can choose.
Example
USPS is often cheapest for small, lightweight packages, while FedEx or UPS are better for heavier shipments.
Tip
Consider using a multi-carrier shipping tool (like ShipStation or EasyShip) to select the lowest-cost shipping option for each order automatically.
Managing Shipping Returns & Refunds
No matter how well you handle shipping, returns and refunds are inevitable. A transparent and fair return policy helps avoid customer disputes and improves trust.
1. Have a Clear Return Policy
State your return conditions clearly (e.g., within 30 days, item must be unused, etc.). Specify who pays for return shipping—you or the customer. Offer store credit or exchanges as alternatives to refunds.
2. Provide Easy Return Labels
Use carrier-generated return labels so customers can print them easily. If using dropshipping, check your supplier’s return policy to ensure smooth processing.
3. Automate the Refund Process
Use Shopify or other platforms to process refunds quickly. Ensure customers receive refund confirmations and updates.
How AI Store Builder Helps: AI Store Builder’s pre-vetted suppliers handle returns and refunds for you, reducing the hassle of managing returns manually.
At AI Store Builder, we create a complete Shopify store for you in under 10 minutes. We include 20 trending products, trusted suppliers, and a dropshipping course that others charge thousands for. Plus, you get live support calls and community access. Skip the headaches of store setup, product research, and supplier hunting - we handle it all so you can focus on growing your business. Get your store built for you in less than 10 minutes today!
A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Ship Products to Customers
Choosing the Best Shipping Method: What Are My Options?
Before shipping products, decide how you will fulfill customer orders. The three most common shipping methods are:
Self-Fulfillment (Handling Shipping Yourself)
You store, pack, and ship all products from your home or warehouse.
You buy shipping labels and packaging from carriers like UPS, USPS, FedEx, or DHL.
You manually handle order tracking, customer support, and returns.
Best for small businesses selling handmade, boutique, or customized products that need branded packaging and control over quality.
Dropshipping (Supplier Handles Shipping for You)
No need to store inventory—your supplier ships products directly to customers.
You focus on marketing and sales while dropshipping suppliers handle fulfillment.
Shipping times vary depending on supplier location (e.g., China-based suppliers may take 7-20 days).
Best for entrepreneurs who want a low-risk, automated e-commerce business without handling inventory.
AI Store Builder provides 20 trending products with pre-vetted suppliers, ensuring fast, reliable dropshipping fulfillment.
Third-Party Fulfillment (Using a Warehousing Service)
Products are stored in a fulfillment center (like Amazon FBA, ShipBob, or Deliverr).
Orders are automatically picked, packed, and shipped by the fulfillment center.
Faster shipping than dropshipping because warehouses are located near customers.
Best for businesses that want speedier shipping than dropshipping but don’t want to manage their warehouse.
Selecting the Right Shipping Carrier: What Are My Options?
Choosing the best shipping carrier depends on cost, delivery speed, and destination. Below is a comparison of significant airlines:
USPS (United States Postal Service)
Best for small, lightweight packages and affordable domestic shipping.
Offers cheap rates, free packaging, and PO Box delivery.
Slower shipping times compared to private carriers.
UPS (United Parcel Service)
Best for businesses needing fast, reliable shipping.
Provides strong tracking systems and is suitable for international shipping.
Higher shipping costs for small businesses.
FedEx
Best for fast express shipping and fragile items.
Reliable overnight delivery and suitable for high-value shipments.
More expensive than USPS for domestic shipments.
DHL
Best for international shipping and cross-border logistics.
Faster international delivery than USPS.
Higher shipping rates for domestic U.S. orders.
AI Store Builder’s suppliers automatically handle shipping logistics, so you don’t have to worry about selecting the right carrier.
Packaging Your Products Securely: What Should I Do?
Proper packaging ensures that products arrive safely and in perfect condition.
Choosing the Right Packaging Type
Poly Mailers – Best for clothing, accessories, and non-fragile items.
Corrugated Boxes – Best for fragile or bulky products.
Bubble Mailers – Best for small delicate items like jewelry and gadgets.
Using Protective Cushioning
Bubble wrap, air pillows, or foam inserts for fragile products.
Dividers for multiple items in one box to prevent damage.
Waterproof bags for moisture-sensitive products.
Sealing and Labeling Properly
Use strong packing tape for boxes and poly mailers.
Print shipping labels to avoid delivery issues.
Include “Fragile” stickers for delicate items.
AI Store Builder’s suppliers handle secure product packaging and labelling, ensuring safe and professional shipping.
Managing Shipping Costs and Tracking Orders: How Can I Stay Profitable?
To stay profitable, keeping shipping costs low while ensuring fast delivery is essential.
Reducing Shipping
Use the smallest packaging possible to reduce dimensional weight fees.
Offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount to increase sales.
Negotiate bulk shipping discounts with carriers if shipping is in high volumes.
Offering Real-Time Order Tracking
Send automatic tracking emails to customers.
Tracking plugins on Shopify can be used to let customers check order status.
Offer express shipping options for faster delivery.
AI Store Builder ensures that all suppliers provide tracking numbers so customers can monitor their orders quickly.
Handling Returns and Customer Expectations: What Do I Need to Consider?
Even with a perfect shipping process, some customers must return items. A clear return policy improves trust and prevents disputes.
Creating a Simple Return Policy
Accept returns within 30 days if the item is unused.
State who pays for return shipping (customer or business).
Offer exchanges or store credit to reduce refund costs.
Automating Refund Processing
Use Shopify’s refund system to process returns quickly.
Provide return labels for easy shipping.
Respond to customer return requests within 24 hours.
AI Store Builder’s suppliers handle returns for you, making it easy to manage refunds and exchanges without extra work.
At AI Store Builder, we create a complete Shopify store for you in under 10 minutes. We include 20 trending products, trusted suppliers, and a dropshipping course that others charge thousands for. Plus, you get live support calls and community access. Skip the headaches of store setup, product research, and supplier hunting - we handle it all so you can focus on growing your business. Get your store built for you in less than 10 minutes today!
Get Your Store Built for You in Less Than 10 Minutes Today.
Finding reliable suppliers is one of the most critical components of creating a successful dropshipping business. Without trustworthy suppliers, your customers won’t get their orders on time. This will lead to poor ratings and lost sales. A good place to find suppliers is through dropshipping apps.
For example, if you have a Shopify store, you can use an app like DSers or Spocket to find suppliers and products. Both apps allow you to find suppliers with good ratings to gauge their reliability before you start selling their products. You can also look for suppliers on online marketplaces like AliExpress and Amazon. Just be sure to research and look for suppliers with good ratings to ensure your dropshipping business has a solid foundation.
At AI Store Builder, we create a complete Shopify store for you in under 10 minutes. We include 20 trending products, trusted suppliers, and a dropshipping course that others charge thousands for. Plus, you get live support calls and community access. Skip the headaches of store setup, product research, and supplier hunting - we handle it all so you can focus on growing your business. Get your store built for you in less than 10 minutes today!
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