One common misconception about ordering online from a foreign supplier is that it’s too much work. This is not true. Thanks to technology, ordering online is easy and convenient. People can order flags from the comfort of their homes. If you wish to get it from an overseas supplier, it’s important to understand the shipping and processing times required. Why do you need to know this? So you won’t be stressed waiting for your parcel to be delivered. You know where your order is and when you can expect it. Read this blog so you’ll have more knowledge on what happens whenever you order your flag.
What is the Shipping Time?
Shipping time, according to Amazon, is defined as the point where an order is received, confirmed, and processed in the warehouse. If you are dealing with other manufacturers, this is the time when their platform has confirmed your order, the package is ready and on its way to be delivered. This means that your order has been processed, the stocks are available, and has been forwarded to a carrier company. In a simpler concept by Shiphype, it’s defined as the time when the shipment is confirmed and the packages have been shipped.
What is Processing Time?
Processing time is defined as the amount of time needed to process an order. Appian defines this as the total time spent on manufacturing a product. According to Shopify, when we say processing time, this pertains to the amount of time once an order is received and then fulfilled. There are plenty of activities that are involved in the processing time. These activities may include the following:
- Orders being reviewed
- Printing of shipping labels
- Product packaging
- Packages sent to the shipping carriers
The shipping and processing time differs depending on the manufacturer that you are dealing with. If you are ordering online make sure to read their guidelines in terms of shipping and processing schedules. This is essential especially if you have a deadline to meet. This will also prevent miscommunication and disappointments. If you are aligned with your expectations, no reason to get stressed out about why the orders haven’t been delivered yet.
If you are ordering your flags from Everest Prints, the process is straight to the point. Below are the steps that you need to undertake to make an order.
- A request must be sent. It could be via call or through the website.
- Once a request is made, the pricing and shipping needs to be agreed and confirmed.
- Make the payment for the agreed price of the order.
- Send your final artwork which needs to be printed.
- Start tracking your shipment
In case you have any other questions related to your order, get in touch with the customer service representative. You may also connect with us if you have not fully decided yet and need a custom quote first to help you decide.
Factors Affecting Shipping and Processing Time
Several factors could affect the shipping and processing time of your orders. These factors could affect the delivery time of your ordered flags.
Weather disruptions
In some unforeseen cases, typhoons and weather disruptions can affect the shipping time of these orders. Since orders are from overseas, typhoons can prevent ships from sailing thus causing delays in the delivery. In some cases, when the shipment has already left the port but faces a typhoon along the way, there is the risk that the container could fall off and get lost in the sea.
Supply Chain Issues
This could be another factor which causes delay in delivery. This could happen during peak season or holidays. If there are too many orders coming up, there could be times when manufacturers are unable to properly handle it. Seasoned manufacturers that have been in the industry for decades know how to handle such issues. Start-ups can face this kind of issue thus the operating process needs to be in place.
Internal Issues
This pertains to manufacturers having internal conflicts with their workers. This is a major setback if you have dealt with a company with workers on strike. You can’t be guaranteed that your order will get there on time. The lack of human resources will paralyze the whole operation of the company.
Machine Breakdown
This could happen if the machines are not properly used and regularly maintained. Manufacturers need to schedule regular check-ups to make sure that all their machines are in optimal condition. Imagine having to operate during peak season with only one machine working when the order completion needs at least three machines in full operation. This will delay the processing time of your order unless the machines get fixed on time.
Fluctuation in fuel cost
There could be some instances where one fuel cost becomes significantly high that shipping companies would delay the shipment until such time it stabilizes. Almost all modes of transportation rely on fuel. This means that a staggered increase will affect the shipping of your order.
Customs Issues
The shipment can face issues with the customs office if regulations are not thoroughly followed. This means that your order could be put on hold. If this happens, there could be no assurance as to how long the shipment will stay with the customs office.
Shipping Method
Depending on your preference, the type of shipping method chosen affects the delivery time of your flags. Sea freight takes a lot longer as compared to air freight. Depending on your address, land travel could also face delays due to road accidents, traffic, and other external conditions.
The behavior of the customer
This is another factor that can affect the delivery time of your order. If you keep calling customer service to change your order date, the processing and shipping time needs to be adjusted too.
Setting Expectations
To avoid disappointments and keep a healthy relationship with your manufacturer, set the expectations right. You and your manufacturers need to be aligned when it comes to timelines. Below are some helpful tips to keep the relationship professional.
Keep an Open Communication
Make sure that you relay to the manufacturer your expected timeline and that you have agreed on it on paper. Do not rely on telephone conversations and verbal communication. A black-and-white agreement will protect both sides. Make sure also that you have provided the customer service representative with your active contact information and email address. This is important so they can reach you should there be any changes to your order. On the other hand, you have to secure the email address and contact number of your manufacturer. You can contact them right away if you need to relay things related to your order.
It is important that you can track the progress of your order and you are well-informed about updates. This gives you peace of mind and avoids unnecessary follow-ups on the manufacturer. Keep the tracking number secure so you can easily check the whereabouts of your ordered flag.
Read the product description carefully
If you don’t want to get disappointed with your order, take time to carefully read the descriptions. Some people would post items they’ve ordered online which are not what they were expecting. These items are too small or too large for what they want. The problem is that they missed out on reading the dimensions of what they are ordering. Be careful when ordering your flags and make sure that the dimensions, color, type, and other factors are the ones that you need.
Research on Custom Regulations and Delivery Policies
Be educated about the customs regulations of where you’re getting your orders from. You don’t want to be surprised that your items are on hold due to custom issues. Make sure that you’ve also read about the delivery policies of your manufacturer and the shipping company. Let’s say they try to deliver your item but you are not at home yet. What will be the next action if this is the case? Do you consent that your item be left at your neighbor’s house instead?
In addition, you should also know what to do in case of lost packages, damaged goods, or delays in shipments. Be informed as to when to request refunds or replacements. If you know, you can get these issues resolved much faster. You know how to escalate the concerns and where to find solutions.
Additional Tip
Remember, to maximize your order, make sure that you have consolidated all your orders. A bulk order will save you money as some manufacturers do offer wholesale prices. It will also save you time since all orders will arrive in a single day only.
With this information, I hope that you have gained a deeper understanding of what goes behind every ordered flag. It may seem complex but it’s a simple process with plenty of factors involved. The best way is to read and get yourself updated with the shipping regulations and processing methods. Also, make sure that there’s always open communication so expectations from both ends are aligned.
