For Etsy sellers, the shipping process not only affects the timely delivery of orders but also directly influences the buyer experience and the store’s reputation. The following is a systematic summary that combines platform rules and practical operation points to help you efficiently complete the shipping process. At the same time, it recommends the advantages of using a freight forwarder for shipping.
I. Preparations before Shipment
- Set up the freight template
- Location: Add the template in “Settings” → “Transport Settings” in the background.
- Key parameters:
o Place of shipment: Fill in the Chinese address truthfully (for local stores, the address of the destination country can be filled in).
o Time commitment: For domestic direct delivery, it is recommended to set a delivery time of 1-2 weeks to avoid overly high expectations from buyers.
o Free shipping Strategy: Free shipping is recommended (including shipping fees in the pricing) to enhance search rankings and conversion rates.
- Inventory and Packaging
- Customized products: Reserve sufficient production time.
- Packaging specifications: Use shockproof materials (bubble wrap/fillers), and fragile items need enhanced protection.
Ii. Shipping Operation Steps
Order processing timeliness
After receiving the order, it must be marked as dispatched within 3 days. If the operation is delayed, Etsy will automatically set the store to “holiday mode”, resulting in a sharp drop in traffic.
- Actual shipping operation
- Packaging and labeling: Print the logistics waybill containing the buyer’s address and firmly stick it onto the package.
- Delivery logistics provider: Hand over the package to the selected service provider and obtain a valid tracking number.
- Platform status update
Fill in: On the order page
Name of the carrier.
o Tracking number (required). The system automatically notifies the buyer of the shipping status.
Iii. Logistics Tracking Number and Tracking
Norms for filling in the order number
If the carrier is not on the Etsy list, select “Other” and enter the name manually.
- Malaysian/US local stores: You can directly use the shipping tracking number from China without hiding the route.
- Buyer Tracking: After the tracking numbers are synchronized, buyers can view the entire logistics information on their Etsy accounts.
Iv. Special Solutions for Local Stores/Cross-border Stores
- Malaysian local store
- Supports direct shipping from China, using the original international tracking number to control risks without any risks.
The logistics trajectory showing “China Transfer” is normal and does not affect the store’s weight.
- Stores in the United States
- High-risk plan: Direct delivery from China + filling in the US tracking number (prone to triggering review).
- Security Solution:
o Virtual Overseas Warehouse: Service providers affix US waybills on behalf of customers and generate local waybill numbers.
Direct shipping from overseas warehouse: Prepare goods in advance to the warehouse in the United States and ship locally.
V. Key Points to Note
- Timeliness and compliance
- Delayed delivery = store ranking reduction. If it exceeds 3 days, the store will definitely be banned from the holiday mode.
- Customs declaration: Truthfully fill in the category, value and HS code of the goods to avoid detention.
- Cost optimization techniques
- Light and small items: epacket (≤2kg) or dedicated line small packages.
- High-priced items: DHL/FedEx is preferred to reduce the risk of lost packages.
- Dispute prevention
Proactively inform buyers of the logistics progress (especially for customized goods).
In case of logistics anomalies, provide timely solutions (reissue/refund).
It is recommended to use a freight forwarder for shipping
The advantage of freight forwarders in shipping lies in their ability to provide one-stop logistics solutions, including services such as purchasing on behalf of others, affixing labels on behalf of others, and shipping on behalf of others. This not only saves the seller’s time and energy, but also ensures the efficiency and compliance of logistics. Especially for those sellers whose supply chains are in Chinese mainland, choosing a reliable freight forwarder service provider, such as SmartDropping, can greatly simplify the shipping process, enhance the buyer experience, and at the same time reduce operating costs.
Dear friends, if you have any questions, please leave a message in the comment section! Looking forward to your reply. Contact information: +v: rongexpress, Whatsapp:19129561508