Shipping goods is an art, plain and simple! It’s crucial to leave nothing to chance and master every step of the process. Here are a few tips to ensure your system is optimized.

Protect Your Goods Adequately
Depending on the nature of the goods being shipped, pay close attention to the packaging you choose. To ensure the preservation and safety of your items, opt for high-quality packaging that is specifically suited to the type of goods you are shipping. This will minimize the risk of premature wear or damage due to weather, impact, or any other unforeseen event that may occur during transport.

Clearly Identify the Goods
Label all relevant information for the precise and complete identification of your goods as soon as they leave the warehouse. This step reduces the risk of loss and ensures that the goods are shipped to the correct location. Don’t forget to include the appropriate handling symbols, such as those indicating that an item is fragile or should not be exposed to heat. Supplies that present any danger or risk should also have specific symbols. Be aware that some labels are mandatory regarding applicable safety measures.

Thoroughly Inspect the Goods Before Shipping
Before your goods leave your premises, implement a control mechanism by competent and well-trained employees. This inspection helps ensure that the transport documents are correctly filled out, the items are properly labeled, and the packaging is adequate.

Choose the Right Mode of Transportation
This is a crucial step that significantly impacts both timing and costs. Select the safest and most cost-effective mode of transport based on the delivery location of your goods.

Establish Performance Indicators
After reviewing your process, and to ensure continuous improvement, we recommend setting up performance indicators that will allow you to track and evaluate:

• The costs of your shipment management system;
• The quality and efficiency of the system, such as meeting desired delivery times;
• The percentage of losses and errors.

Shipping Your Goods Internationally?
Even more attention should be paid to the various delivery steps, particularly regarding compliance with international sales conditions. In addition to choosing the mode of transport, consider whether, for certain items, it might be advantageous to hire a freight forwarder specializing in goods transportation. Depending on the risk of losing your goods during transport, purchasing insurance could also be useful and provide protection.

Lean Expert is, of course, happy to assist you in evaluating your current process and helping you improve its performance and efficiency!

Contact us for an evaluation!

(581) 680-0666