For those operating an eCommerce site, the challenge is always to try and provide an experience for customers that is as seamless as possible. That means making sure that they can find the products they want easily, that the product pages have all the relevant information they need in one place, and, of course, offering fast shipping options. However, there’s one more element that many eCommerce sites have found to be a powerful tool in the battle for customer loyalty: offering free shipping.
There are many advantages of offering free shipping for customers, and from a business perspective, it can pay off in a big way. Here are just a few of the reasons why free shipping could be the way to go for your online business:
1. Improved conversion rates
When customers are shopping online, they want to know exactly how much they’ll be paying before they complete their purchase. By offering free shipping, you’re taking away one of the most commonly cited reasons why people abandon their carts: unexpected fees and shipping costs. When people know that they’re not going to be hit with any extra charges, they feel more comfortable making their purchase, leading to higher conversion rates.
2. Increased average order value
Another advantage of free shipping is that it can lead to increased average order values. Customers are often willing to spend more money on a purchase if they know that their shipping costs will be covered. Offering free shipping as an incentive for customers to increase their order size can be a smart strategy for businesses looking to grow their revenue.
3. Better customer satisfaction
Customers who receive free shipping are often more satisfied with their overall experience. After all, who doesn’t love getting something for free? By offering free shipping, you’re telling your customers that you value their business and that you’re willing to go the extra mile to make their shopping experience as enjoyable as possible.
4. Competitive edge
In today’s eCommerce landscape, businesses are competing against each other for every customer. Offering free shipping can be a way to stand out from the crowd and attract new customers. Even if your prices are slightly higher than your competitors, free shipping can be the deciding factor that convinces customers to buy from you instead.
5. Repeat business
Finally, offering free shipping can help you build a loyal customer base. When customers know that they can rely on you for quick and free shipping, they’re more likely to come back to your site again and again. This can lead to higher customer lifetime value and a more sustainable business.
Offering free shipping on your eCommerce site might seem like a big upfront cost, but the advantages are clear. It can lead to better conversion rates, increased average order values, improved customer satisfaction, a competitive edge, and repeat business. If you’re not already offering free shipping, it might be time to consider it as a way to take your online business to the next level.
