Holiday Season Insights for Small Businesses: How to Prepare for Small Business Saturday

The holiday season can be hectic for businesses of any size, but especially for small to midsize businesses (SMBs) trying to keep their operations on track. Last year, an estimated $17 billion was spent on Small Business Saturday. As small businesses gear up for one of the busiest shopping days of the year, here are three essential tips and industry trends that will help to develop a successful holiday strategy.

Planning for a successful Small Business Saturday

With the right seasonal shipping strategies, shippers can reduce stress, save money, and deliver on-time for customers. Here are three tips to help optimize success ahead of this busy day:

1. Utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technology tools

Real-time tracking

Real-time tracking and quality control keep shippers and customers informed about order locations, minimizing errors and boosting trust during the holiday rush. By leveraging technology to gain access to immediate insights and satellite image validation, shippers can make smarter decisions, address supply chain issues proactively, and enhance customer satisfaction.

Automation

Using automation tools helps to streamline repetitive and daily tasks, ensuring operations run smoothly, even during the holiday rush. Shipping software that automates booking, tracking, and managing shipments can save time and reduce errors. Look for shipping options with features such as freight class calculation, downloadable pallet labels, and bills of lading (BOL).

Quoting tools

Shipping costs can be high, especially as demand surges. New tech tools can evaluate different pricing options, helping shippers compare rates from vetted carriers and suggest options based on price, transit time, and carrier preferences.

2. Take advantage of rewards programs

Inflation remains a major challenge for small businesses, with 91% reporting negative impacts over the past four years according to Bank of America. As costs rise, rewards programs can help offset shipping expenses, especially during the busy holiday season.

To maximize savings, look for logistics providers that integrate loyalty discounts directly into their shipping platforms. This creates a seamless, "one-stop-shop" experience, making it easier to access incentives without dealing with complicated offers.

3. Know your shipping options

Small companies greatly benefit from LTL shipping. Most small businesses ship fewer goods and spend less money on freight than large companies. LTL shipping allows small businesses to benefit from professional shipping services without paying high costs for unused space.

Industry trends that impact small business

Cybersecurity

For small business shipping, cybersecurity is becoming a critical aspect to manage with many small business saying that cybersecurity threats directly impact the bottom line. Using trusted suppliers, implementing strict access controls, and continuously monitoring supply chain security can help mitigate these risks.

Fraud

Especially as Small Business Saturday approaches, the impact of fraud on small businesses can be especially harmful as scammers often exploit the increased online and in-person activity during this period. It's crucial for shippers of all sizes to be vigilant against scams such as phishing emails, fake invoices, and other tactics designed to trick small business owners into revealing sensitive information.

Sustainability and green shipping

Consumers are increasingly looking to be more eco-friendly and are therefore seeking to work with companies that utilize sustainable practices, such as more sustainable packaging, throughout their businesses.

Customer service

As we lean into a heavily digital world, don't forgo customer service. The power of people combined with technology is increasingly important to help mitigate last minute disruptions and ensure a good customer experience.

C.H. Robinson is an advocate for small and midsize businesses. A recently launched rewards program by C.H. Robinson's Freightquote has saved small business shippers $150,000 ahead of Small Business Saturday. Read more about Freightquote Rewards.

Reach out to see how we can assist with your shipping needs this holiday season and year-round.

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