In this guide+
Shipping is where many new stores lose money and reviews. Get three things right — the courier setup, the weight you declare and the packaging — and most problems disappear.
Use an aggregator to start
Aggregators like Shiprocket give you many couriers through one account, with pickup from your door, labels and tracking, and no minimum volume. You pay per shipment from a wallet. Direct courier contracts make sense later, at higher volumes.
Weight and dimensions
Couriers charge the higher of actual weight and volumetric weight (length × breadth × height in cm ÷ 5000, for most). A light but bulky box can cost more than a heavy small one.
- Weigh the packed parcel, not just the product.
- Use the smallest box that protects the product.
- Declare correct weight — under-declaring leads to extra charges later.
Packaging that protects (and impresses)
- Waterproof inner wrap for clothing; bubble wrap and corner protection for fragile items.
- Tamper-evident outer polybag or taped box.
- A thank-you card with your Instagram handle and a repeat-order code.
What to charge for delivery
Free delivery sells best but must be built into prices. A popular middle ground is a flat fee on small orders and free delivery above a value. See Set delivery fees.
Handling delays and lost parcels
- 1
Share tracking on dispatch
Send the tracking link the day it ships — it cuts “where is my order?” messages.
- 2
Watch for stuck parcels
No movement for 3+ days? Raise it with the courier through your aggregator.
- 3
Keep proof
Photograph packed parcels with the label visible. It helps with lost or damaged claims.
Ready to try it?
Create your shop free and put this guide to work today.