Shipping Charges and Lead Time
Shipping ChargesTrade Show Tips - BeginningState your shipping terms up front. Wholesale customers do not like surprises when it comes to the bottom line. Shipping costs are a big concern to buyers, especially on large items like furniture that may cost quite a bit to deliver. They must take this into consideration when pricing their products, so be sure you let them know what they will be paying. If you give a total price on an order, be sure you include shipping, C.O.D. and any other charges that may apply. Also include shipping costs in any price sheets you hand out. This information will help the buyer decide if they can purchase your product. Without it, they may just order from your competitor.
Lead Time
Give yourself enough time fill orders. Let your customers know when an order will ship and then ship it on time. Be careful not to overbook. If you can only produce 100 floppy-eared rabbits in a month, do not schedule shipments for 500 a month. . Use of a scheduling book to help you know lead times for shipments in advance, and prevent overbooking. Remember that many crafters have had to refund orders because they could not meet their shipping deadlines. Simply put, don't sell what you can't deliver.
Related links:
Trade Shows
TSCentral Online Travel
Wholesale versus Consignment
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