• November 13, 2021

How to open a mail-order package store

Consulting services to open a packing and mailing store can be expensive. That is why we wrote the book in 2002 and many have taken advantage of it.

What’s the best way to open a mail packaging and parcel shipping store? Should you go freelance, hire a developer, or go franchise? We veterans suggest you learn about costs, pricing, location, shipping accounts, equipment, POS shipping software, inventory, supplies, profit centers, store layout, and then make up your mind.

Store opening expenses

Expect a minimum of $ 35,000 to open a professional store if you can do much of the fitness yourself. Most stores now open for at least $ 75,000. This includes POS (point of sale) computers and equipment, retail displays, and inventory. Of course, this all depends on your practical skills, business background, strategy, and where you are. Yes, there are many variables.

Prices for placing strategy

Check out your competition on all types of shipments and then decide on your pricing strategy. The pricing strategy depends on your target market and your profit centers.

Rental

“Location, location, location!” It is important. Make sure you have dedicated parking spaces for your store, as your customers bring packages to you. Pay attention when looking at what we call a “Power Center”. In general, your target market is the person or business that needs convenience and does not go to a major mall on the way home.

Shipping Accounts

Contact FedEx to become a FASC (FedEx Authorized Shipping Center). Your representative can inform you about the conditions that apply. UPS ASOs (UPS Authorized Shipping Points) are “vested”, which means that you may be able to get an ASO account if you purchase an existing store that has ASO status. Contact Retail Shipping Associates at http://www.rscentral.org for an account with DHL, the world leader in international shipping. Also visit RSA for information on USPS programs.

POS / Cash Register Systems

Today’s major POS (point of sale) software programs for packing and shipping stores are PostalMate, ShipRite, and ReSource. Each one has its great points and flaws. Call each one for a demonstration and ask questions. For example, can the point of sale assist you if you are in Hawaii?

Box inventory

Of course, buy a general case inventory that works great for most shipments. When purchasing their inventory of corrugated cardboard boxes, keep in mind that box manufacturers typically indicate the inside dimension of a box. What do the outside dimensions mean when shipped by a carrier both domestically and internationally? Buy boxes knowing what outside dimensions can normally be shipped under certain international size, oversize, or carrier size rules. Consider stronger corrugated (double-walled) cardboard for your larger boxes and flat sheets to reduce the chance of damage.

Profit centers

Know what your community needs with services and products. We’ve had stores that did big business with snacks and mailings, while others mostly did big shipments. Other profit centers that are generating big revenue now are custom packaging and big freight. Learn how to price correctly and provide excellent customer service to stay in business now!

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