With shipping costs, delivery and pickup options as the top reasons for cart abandonment, it is so important to have a clear strategy to increase conversions, build loyalty and drive significant growth for your online store.
The checkout process is the final step in the customer journey and is the stage where many potential customers abandon their carts (according to the Baymard Institute, the average cart abandonment rate is around 69.57%), with shipping options, costs, and delivery times among the most influential factors in a customer’s decision to complete a purchase.
Using a smooth, effective checkout soluition is the first step in securing more sales – we suggest considering using One-Page Checkout as this condenses this process onto a single, user-friendly page, allowing customers to complete their purchase swiftly and efficiently.
Following checkout choice, shipping offers play a crucial role in shaping the overall customer experience – fast, affordable, and reliable shipping options can significantly enhance customer satisfaction.
Key shipping strategies to help with higher checkout conversion rates are:
- Free shipping whether you offer it on all orders, for specific products, or for orders over a certain amount, free shipping can significantly boost conversions. This not only increases your average order value but also enhances the shopping experience by providing customers with a sense of getting more value for their money.
- Flat rate shipping simplifies the checkout process by offering a single shipping fee, regardless of the order size or weight. This transparency can reduce cart abandonment caused by complicated or unexpected shipping costs.
- Expedited shipping options, such as next-day or same-day delivery, caters to customers who need their orders quickly. While these options can come at a higher cost, they can attract last-minute shoppers and those willing to pay for convenience.
- Local delivery and pickup can be a significant advantage. This not only reduces shipping costs but also provides customers with flexible and convenient options.
- Membership programs can offer exclusive shipping benefits. Amazon Prime is an excellent example of this strategy, where customers pay an annual fee for benefits like free two-day shipping. This can foster customer loyalty and generate a steady revenue stream.
To make the most of your shipping offers, it’s essential to implement them strategically. Here are a few tips:
Analyse Your Costs: Understand the costs associated with various shipping options and find a balance that works for both your business and your customers.
A/B Testing: Experiment with different shipping offers to see which ones resonate most with your customers. A/B testing can help you identify the most effective strategies.
Clear Communication: Clearly communicate your shipping options and costs throughout the shopping journey, especially on product pages and during checkout. Transparency is key to building trust.
Leverage Technology: Utilise shipping software and integrations to streamline your shipping processes, offer real-time tracking, and provide accurate delivery estimates.
By making thoughtful, customer-centric shipping decisions, you can turn a potential obstacle into a compelling advantage, ultimately leading to happier customers and a healthier bottom line.