Shipping Strategies for Hybrid Furniture Retailers

The furniture industry continues to grow, and it’s expected to continue to do so every year through 2027 at 5.31% per annum (CAGR 2023-2027, Source: Statista). Considering that, today’s hybrid furniture retailers need to develop an efficient, effective, and affordable solution for furniture shipping. Larger, heavier items tend to be some of the most difficult items to ship, but there are solutions currently empowering companies in the industry to meet customer demand and grow their operational support.

Understanding the Challenges of Shipping Furniture

Unlike a small box sent through one of the major shipping carriers, shipping furniture is more complex for several reasons. It's certainly larger and heavier, making it far more difficult to navigate than a one-person delivery driver. More so, furniture is fragile, especially when clients expect superior condition upon arrival.

There's also significant variability in shipping costs because of these and other factors, such as the size and value of the furniture, the delivery service, the delivery location, and the choice of carrier. Furniture retailers also need to consider a more extensive delivery service that brings items into the home, sets them up, or installs them.

Developing a Shipping Strategy for Hybrid Furniture Retailers

How can furniture retailers capitalize on the market's growth while navigating the common challenges related to furniture weight and cost?

Establish shipping with a reliable partner. Choose a partner that’s familiar with the industry and has a strong focus on quality customer service.
Provide customers with flexible shipping options, which could include offering a way for customers to set up furniture themselves or perhaps pay more for in-home setup such as White Glove Delivery.
Implement cost-saving shipping methods. This includes considerations for freight class shipping. Consider geographical spread and choose shipping companies that can offer the best pricing for the type, size, and level of service your customers’ demand.
Streamline the delivery process in any way. This could include improving logistics operations from the start but also offering White Glove Services to appease the unique needs of customers.

Best Practices for Shipping Furniture

There are several ways a hybrid furniture seller can improve in-home furniture delivery services. That includes:

Utilizing improved route planning software and logistics services. Route optimization for any in-house delivery service can help to streamline costs.
Provide delivery agents with the ability to connect with customers directly as well. This helps avoid the stress of being unable to provide customers with a delivery time estimate.
Prioritize quality service. It’s not always about the lowest price with shipping hybrid furniture but ensuring items don’t require repairs that increase return costs and damaged piece losses.
Ensure proper packaging and labeling of items, including protective coverings that go one step further than considered necessary. Use protective materials during the entire shipping process to safeguard items.
Establish transparent communication with customers about delivery expectations. This includes providing tracking and documentation throughout the process.

Today's hybrid furniture retailers can streamline furniture selling with careful attention to detail. Focus on understanding your customers' needs and expectations first and then find a partner to support you as you increase your services and expand your delivery process. Continue to review and improve the shipping process over time, addressing costs, timelines, and customer satisfaction along the way.

With years of experience, our team at Freight Club would be happy to help you build custom shipping strategies for your business.