Ask me anything about…sending your first orders properly

What are common sending mistakes you see new small businesses make?  

Something I often see is new businesses using random packaging instead of looking at the most cost-effective packaging for what they’re sending. Nobody starts a business because they love choosing packaging! But a short conversation with us can save you a lot of money. The other common mistake is not charging customers enough when quoting postage fees.

What should businesses know before they start sending regularly?  

I always recommend new businesses come and talk to us at the Post Office, or to their Account Manager, before they start sending to understand how Australia Post can help them. For example, there’s a MyPost Business platform which can make their sending much easier. There are also bulk packaging discounts and different requirements for sending parcels express or overseas.

What’s a simple thing a business can do to make delivery feel more professional? 

This one’s really simple but makes a big difference. Always make sure the parcels are correctly labelled with the customer’s full name, address and, wherever possible, the customer’s mobile number. That way, customers can track their parcel as it moves through our parcel network. 

What are signs that a business has outgrown its current sending process?  

When I notice a customer is bringing in a lot of parcels or making multiple trips a day, it’s a sure sign the business is growing. That’s the time for them to have a discussion with their Account Manager to see how Australia Post can help. For example, they might go onto an eParcel Contract or arrange for parcel pick-ups.

What delivery habits should small businesses build early, before orders grow? 

It sounds obvious but give yourself plenty of time to lodge your parcels before the Post Office’s daily collection cut off. Also, parcel tracking details should be shared with your customers from the outset. Giving customers visibility of their parcel delivery improves their experience and reduces calls to your support team.