Retailers that don’t provide online shoppers with a full range of shipping options risk losing those consumers to competitors, a study has found.
The research, based on a survey of 500 shoppers, determined one-third would abandon their online cart and shop elsewhere if an estimated delivery window was not provided.
Seventy-eight percent of respondents said having the ability to pick up an online order at a store is somewhat or extremely important, while 85 percent are willing to increase the size of their order to qualify for free shipping.
“Offering comprehensive fulfillment options is an essential component of the purchasing experience for modern-day shoppers,” said Sheri Petras, chief executive of CFI Group, the business research firm that conducted the study.
The Postal Service is providing businesses with more ways to ship their products, including same-day and Sunday deliveries.