DermPRO Shipping Guide

 

Introduction

 

This document is intended to help DermPRO store owners get introduced to simple shipping tips and techniques for fulfilling online orders.

 

Topics Covered:

• Easy Online Account Setup with three popular Parcel Carriers
• A Step-by-Step procedure for order fulfillment
• Packaging Best Practices for safe transport and customer satisfaction

 

 

I. Setting up a Shipping Account

Creating an Online Account with your selected Carrier is a one-time process. Below are links with information about current rates and packaging options for the three most popular Parcel Carriers.

• USPS Priority Mail/Priority Mail Express
  • Rates
  • Packaging & Supplies
  • Sign Up
  • Customer Support 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777)
• FedEx
  • Rates
  • Packaging & Supplies 
  • Sign Up
  • Customer Support 1-800-Go-FedEx (1-800-463-3339)
• UPS
  • Rates
  • Packaging & Supplies
  • Sign Up
  • Customer Support 1-888-742-5877 (1-888-PICK-UPS)

 

 

For each of these Parcel Carriers' Online Accounts you will need:

• Credit Card on File
• Valid email address that can be accessed for verification purposes, and notification from the parcel services

 

Benefits of creating an online account with a Parcel Carrier:

• Easy access to shipping logs
• Quick and simple shipping options
• Ability to Order Free Supplies that are shipped directly to your door
• Schedule Pick-Ups with the click of a mouse
• In some cases an Online Account with these carriers can save you up to 16%

 

 

II. Fulfilling an Order

 

Step 1: Open the Order and Print the Invoice

 

From Shop Manager > Orders you may print one invoice at a time, or print invoices in bulk if you are fulfilling multiple orders at one time.

 

 

Printing an Individual Invoice:

 

 

 

Printing Multiple Invoices at Once:

 

 

 

 

Step 2: Log in to Your Carrier Account and Create the Shipment

 

Prepare your package, and include the Invoice you printed in Step 1 as a packing slip. Use best practices suggested in section III below.

 

Then create the shipment and print the label. For example, if you are using the US Postal Service, you would follow these steps to create the shipment.

1. Open usps.com and log into your account. Select Send > Click-N-Ship
2. Select Create a Single Label, or choose Create a Shipment to create multiple labels
3. Enter the customer's information in the appropriate fields
4. Choose Shipping Date, Service Type and Package Type
5. Add to Cart
6. Print the label and attach it to the package, ensuring that the barcode is readable
7. Schedule a pickup or take the package to the nearest post office

 

 

Step 3: Mark the Order as Shipped

 

Once you have your tracking number, you're ready to Submit the Shipment in Shop Manager > Orders, and send a Shipping Email to your customer. The details of this step are covered in the article, Processing an Order with Products, Step 5.

 

 

III. Packaging Best Practices

 

When your customer receives a shipment from you, you have one chance to create a great impression. Are the products in good condition? Are they beautifully packaged, with a thoughtful thank you card from your practice? The fulfillment process is a vital aspect of your relationship with your online customer/patient. It’s an opportunity to surprise and delight. Whether it is shipping quickly, ensuring fulfillment accuracy, or enhancing the unboxing experience, these small details amount to large payouts in customer engagement.

 

61% of online shoppers surveyed felt that branded, gift-like packaging makes a business or brand seem more upscale. In addition, a survey by Dotcom Distribution found that 52% of consumers are likely to make repeat purchases from a merchant that delivers premium custom packaging. Improve your practice's brand perception by creating your own, special packaging style that reflects your brand and personality. One example we love is Jane Iredale’s packaging with their iconic lavender sprig.

 

Here are some suggested ways to spruce up your shipments to your customers and keep them coming back to you as a loyal customer.

 

Packaging Suggestions

• Always include a copy of the invoice as a packing slip
• Include a card or insert that says, “Thank You for Your Order” and includes a special offer or coupon code that can be used on their next purchase.
• Take time to include a handwritten, personalized note. Even if it’s just a few words or “thank you,” it can really make a difference. If you’re using an insert, have it printed with one side “uncoated” so you can write a brief note on it. Or jot your note on the invoice/packing slip.
• Utilize premium packaging. Custom mailer boxes really make an impact. :
  • Check out these inspirations from Packlane
  • DermPRO has designed boxes for many practices and can design custom boxes for you. Learn More
• Use tissue paper. It’s an inexpensive way to protect the product during transport, and adds a touch of class and professionalism to your package. Use tissue paper in a color that corresponds with your business logo/branding, or have DermPRO design a custom tissue paper just for you!
  • Check out the custom tissue paper from NoIssue.com
• Contact us to receive a quote for designing and/or printing postcards, insert cards, coupon cards, appointment reminders with store/coupon information, mailer boxes, tissue paper, and more. If you do these yourself, remember to let us know if you need help configuring a particular Coupon Code for your store.