Ever since Amazon introduced Amazon Logistics in 2018, there have been a lot of questions raised about the future of shipments on the platform. Some see this change as a direct replacement for current carriers like FedEx and UPS, while others are embracing it as an extension of the Amazon logistics network that allows for faster and more flexible delivery.
But what exactly is Amazon Logistics, how are orders tracked, and how does it impact your options as a seller? This guide will cover important best practices you should follow to address the unique challenges of this shipping option.
What is Amazon Logistics?
The Amazon Logistics network is made up of independent third-party logistics providers. These providers utilize an assortment of vehicles, including vans, motorcycles, bicycles, and in some cases, delivery by foot. There are requirements in place to manage these providers upon sign up (setting insurance, licensing, etc.), and Amazon’s software manages the whole process from pickup to delivery. The service operates from 8 am to 8 pm every day of the week.
Screenshot via Amazon
How Amazon Logistics Tracking Works
Orders are managed and tracked via Amazon’s central platform that supports typical carriers (such as FedEx and USPS), Amazon’s own Transportation Services, and the third-party Amazon Logistics providers. One unique feature that has been added solely for packages shipped via Amazon’s own delivery services is a real-time map based tracker which allows you to view the carriers progress to delivery directly.
Third-party Amazon Logistics carriers utilize Amazon’s Flex software to manage their deliveries. This software is similar to Uber or Doordash and a major leader for enabling the gig economy. There are four delivery options to which carriers respond, with Amazon Logistics and Prime Now being the two most relevant to Marketplace sellers. The other two options include Amazon Fresh for grocery delivery and Amazon Restaurants for food takeout delivery. Delivery and tracking options vary among these options, so let’s dive in to the best practices to get you started.
Best Practice 1: Help Your Customers Make the Most of This Service
Helping your customers to understand the package-tracking process and the data available to them can reduce confusion over package whereabouts and prevent shipping issues. It is as important as ever to keep your customer communications frequent, timely, and clear.
In your post order message, in addition to sharing the usual tracking info, you can also inform customers about tracking their shipment in real-time via “My Orders.” They can also sign up for text updates from Amazon regarding their shipment status.
Best Practice 2: Take an Active Role in Managing Shipping Issues and Feedback
Because the Amazon Logistics providers are third-party, it’s impossible to fully ensure the quality of their delivery. Even though Amazon has tracking in place, problems do arise and anything that does happen is still a reflection on Amazon. That said, you, as a seller, might have your rating impacted. (Few things peeve customers more than a failed promise of two-day Prime shipping.) It is important to reiterate, in all your customer communications, that they can direct all inquiries and issues to you.
It’s especially important today given the growing number of shipping options for customers; it’s easy for shoppers to get confused on who to contact. Having a single point of contact they can trust to take action is great for you and for them. Since delivery time windows can be fluid based on any logistics provider’s tracking, you should time your feedback request messages for 8 pm on the day of a successful delivery (the Amazon Logistics scheduled cutoff time) to make sure it is timely without being late.
Best Practice 3: Stay up to Date on the Latest Logistics Offerings to All Regions You Ship
Amazon Logistics offers a number of different shipping programs such as Flex, Lockers, Fresh, and Prime Air. As a seller, these services enable you to offer expedited shipping, but the availability of some services — such as Prime Now — differs based on the city and geographic area. Knowing which options your customers have available to them will keep you informed enough to answer urgent questions and manage issues properly if they arise. Any confusion can often be the start of poor feedback or customer dissatisfaction that you certainly want to avoid.
The Bottom Line
It is clear that Amazon is poised to be the dominant platform for e-commerce for the near future, so, as a seller, it’s important to keep up with the latest offerings and best practices to ensure your customers are getting what they ordered in a timely manner.
With their added focus on logistics and third-party shipments, it’s critical to help your customers place, manage, and track their orders. Ensuring consistent deliveries and understanding how all these offerings work can mean the difference between happy and confused or even frustrated customers. Happy customers are more likely to become repeat buyers and leave you positive feedback, which means more visibility to help you stand out from the competition.
The post What is Amazon Logistics Tracking? A Seller’s Guide appeared first on Learn from Teikametrics.