--- title: 6 Common Shipping Challenges & How to Expertly Overcome Them description: We'll break down some of the most common shipping challenges that companies face - and how to overcome them so that you can ship packages with ease. image: https://blog.shiperp.com/hubfs/common%20shipping%20challenges%20loading%20delivery.jpg --- [![shiperp](https://blog.shiperp.com/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/ShipERP_January2021/images/header-logo.png?width=720&height=50&name=header-logo.png "shiperp")](https://shiperp.com/) Menu - [About](https://shiperp.com/about/) - [Our Company](https://shiperp.com/about/) - [News & Events](https://shiperp.com/news-and-events/) - [Our Carriers](https://shiperp.com/shiperp-shipping-carriers/) - [Our Customers](https://shiperp.com/shiperp-users/) - [Partnerships](https://shiperp.com/about/partnerships) - [Careers](https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=01941100-00e7-48f9-ab7c-eeebe5fa1386&ccId=19000101_000001&lang=en_US) - [Shipping Solutions](https://shiperp.com/our-shipping-solutions/) - [**ShipERP Core** Multi-Carrier/Multi-mode Shipping Solution](https://shiperp.com/shipping-solutions/sap-shiperp-core/) - [**ShipERP Cloud** Cloud Shipping Software](https://shiperp.com/shipping-solutions/shiperp-cloud/) - [**ShipSOI** Sales Order Integration](https://shiperp.com/shipping-solutions/sap-sales-order-integration/) - [**ShipEWM** Parcel Shipping for SAP EWM](https://shiperp.com/shipping-solutions/sap-extended-warehouse-management/) - [**ShipTM** Parcel Shipping for SAP TM](https://shiperp.com/shipping-solutions/shiptm-parcel-transportation/) - [**ShipERP Spotlight Parcel Carrier Spend Management**](https://shiperp.com/shipping-solutions/shiperp-spotlight-parcel-carrier-spend-management/) - [**AuditERP** Freight Audit](https://shiperp.com/shipping-solutions/sap-freight-audit/) - [**CarrierPORTAL**](https://shiperp.com/shipping-solutions/sap-carrier-portal/) - [**SupplierPORTAL**](https://shiperp.com/shipping-solutions/sap-supplier-portal/) - [Compliance Solutions](https://shiperp.com/compliance-solutions/) - [**ShipAVM** Address Validation](https://shiperp.com/compliance-solutions/sap-address-validation/) - [**ShipAES** Automated Export System](https://shiperp.com/compliance-solutions/sap-automated-export-system/) - [**ShipDPS** Denied Party Screening](https://shiperp.com/compliance-solutions/sap-denied-party-screening/) - [**ShipHAZ** Hazardous Material](https://shiperp.com/compliance-solutions/sap-hazardous-material/) - [**ShipATLAS** German Automated Export System](https://shiperp.com/compliance-solutions/sap-atlas/) - [Resources](https://learn.shiperp.com/shipping-resources-by-shiperp) - [**ShipERP University** Customer Training Program](https://learn.shiperp.com/shiperp-university) - [Webinars](https://learn.shiperp.com/webinars) - [Downloadable Resources](https://learn.shiperp.com/shipping-resources-by-shiperp) - [Blog](https://blog.shiperp.com/) - [Customer Success Stories](https://learn.shiperp.com/case-studies) - [Parcel Shipping](https://shiperp.com/parcel-shipping/) - [**Multi-Carrier Shipping** How ShipERP Handles Multi-Carrier Shipping](https://shiperp.com/multicarrier-shipping/) - [**Enterprise Shipping** Why Use ShipERP For Enterprise Shipping](https://shiperp.com/enterprise-shipping/) - [Shipping Tracking Software](https://shiperp.com/shipment-tracking-software/) - [Contact](https://shiperp.com/contact/) - [Contact Us](https://shiperp.com/contact/) - [Customer Support Login](https://support.erp-is.com/support/home?__hstc=106397660.63c6d9173278e0d7264effd3291fe0e5.1587107689792.1587107689792.1587107689792.1&__hssc=106397660.12.1587107689793&__hsfp=377607323) [Customer Support](https://support.erp-is.com/support/home?__hstc=106397660.8370dcb1fffd567a303f81c31fe578ef.1610618620550.1610618620550.1610623714161.2&__hssc=106397660.2.1610623714161&__hsfp=3253249625) [Schedule Live Demo](https://learn.shiperp.com/shiperp-shipping-software-demo) ![](https://blog.shiperp.com/hubfs/common%20shipping%20challenges%20loading%20delivery.jpg) # 6 Common Shipping Challenges & How to Expertly Overcome Them Published by [Vivian Vy Lam](https://blog.shiperp.com/author/vivian-vy-lam) on Jul 22, 2021, 10:38:51 AM Shipping is often one of the most challenging aspects of running any company. From navigating potential shipping carriers to knowing what shipping containers to use, shipping can be a daunting task for small and large companies alike. --- However, there are many things that you can do to increase your shipping effectiveness while also increasing customer satisfaction. The key is knowing the common shipping challenges and implementing systems that ensure that your customers or clients receive their orders quickly and without issue. In this blog, we will break down some of the most common shipping challenges that companies face - and how to overcome them so that you can keep shipping packages with ease.   [![ebook Integrated Shipping solutions to impact customer experience](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/5538017/65404f60-00fb-490e-a295-ba8c8d7c4bbc.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/5538017/65404f60-00fb-490e-a295-ba8c8d7c4bbc)   ## Top 6 Common Shipping Challenges 1. ### Understanding The Vernacular The first shipping challenge is one of vocabulary. You may be surprised to find that some of the most common shipping issues are related to a team not knowing precisely what they are looking for when they look for shipping solutions. Let's break down the shipping options so that you know which may be best for you: **Carrier Shipping:** Carrier shipping is the shipping that you can do with your own delivery company. **Shipping Carrier:** A shipping carrier is a third-party company like FedEx or UPS, specializing in moving packages from one location to another within a specific time frame and on behalf of other businesses. Shipping Containers: A shipping container is just that - the boxes (or metal containers) that these shipping carriers use for transporting items - they come in all shapes and sizes! Knowing how much you need to ship is key to ensuring you have the suitable shipping needs covered. 1. ### Insuring Shipments From The Unexpected Another common shipping challenge is knowing how to insure your shipments against potential issues. Insurance is a requirement if shipping internationally, and some carriers may require it domestically as well. There are two types of insurance: cargo insurance (which covers the contents) and transit coverage (which protects against physical damage or loss). It's important to know what type of shipping carrier you're using for any given shipment so that they can recommend the proper insurance based on the shipping challenges you may face. 1. ### Customers Can't Track Shipments Another shipping challenge is the ability to track your package. [Tracking a shipment](https://shiperp.com/shipment-tracking-software/) can be done by sending an email notification or using web-based tracking, which will provide updates on where your package is in transit and when it might arrive at its destination. Many shipping companies offer to track shipments automatically for customers once their order is fulfilled and shipped. However, you can boost your brand reputation by providing tracking from your company as well!   ![common shipping challenges loading delivery](https://blog.shiperp.com/hs-fs/hubfs/common%20shipping%20challenges%20loading%20delivery.jpg?width=700&name=common%20shipping%20challenges%20loading%20delivery.jpg)   1. ### Shipments Are Lost In Transit Once in a while, shipping challenges like lost shipments will happen. So, what can you do to overcome the unexpected? First of all, it is essential to remember that many shipping companies offer insurance for packages. (See Challenge #2!) Next, you need to make sure that you have a built-in system for handling lost shipment requests from customers. The faster you can answer customer complaints about shipping problems, the more likely you are to retain that customer. Ensure you know what to do should a customer notify you that their shipment never arrived and how you will communicate with your customer and rectify the problem. Fast service can solve most shipping challenges. 1. ### Shipments Are Facing Consistent Delays If the past year taught us anything, shipping is likely to take a bit longer than initially stated at order. However, consistent delays that frustrate customers can be a death sentence for companies. Make sure that you are clear with your customers about shipping expectations. Be in constant contact with your shipping company about any potential delays or slow shipping issues so that you can communicate with your customers with the latest shipping times. One of the best ways to overcome frustrating shipping delays and challenges is to partner with a professional solution that integrates real-time shipment timeframe updates into each order. 1. ### International Customs Forms and Duties Declarations Are Incorrect Customs forms for [shipping internationally](https://learn.shiperp.com/sap-international-shipping-ebook) can be a headache. Unfortunately, this problem is not going away anytime soon as more brands are looking to expand their reach overseas and ship globally. Ensuring that [international shipping forms](https://blog.shiperp.com/international-shipping-forms) - including customers and duties declarations - are correct is key to shipping your product internationally successfully. One of the best ways to navigate the variety of international customs processes is by partnering with a SAS solution that can help you automatically apply any customs data necessary to the correct shipment.   [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/5538017/b435a33d-c294-4700-a210-3fdb3121bae5.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/5538017/b435a33d-c294-4700-a210-3fdb3121bae5)   ## Learn From Shipping Challenges With An Expert Solution Here's a pro tip from the world of eCommerce: A shipping challenge is never a bad thing if it brings your company closer to shipping perfection! You can always grow from mistakes and build on lessons learned. When shipping challenges arise, don't get overwhelmed; there is usually an answer out there for everything with research and time. One of the best ways to overcome shipping challenges is to integrate a [multi-carrier shipping software](https://shiperp.com/multicarrier-shipping/) that can simplify and streamline freight processing. With a shipping solution like ShipERP, you can save time and money in the long run by letting shipping professionals help you overcome common shipping challenges. Best of all, if you have a current SAP solution, ShipERP will seamlessly integrate with your existing operations - helping reduce the learning curve and supercharge your shipping logistics. Check out [ShipERP](https://shiperp.com/shipping-solutions/sap-shiperp-core/) online today to learn how you can overcome nearly every shipping challenge with the power of ShipERP solutions. [![Learn How to Maximize Your Shipping Output](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/5538017/217d8664-c620-4a6f-a3fb-6312835a9893.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/5538017/217d8664-c620-4a6f-a3fb-6312835a9893) Tags: [Shipping](https://blog.shiperp.com/tag/shipping), [Parcel Shipping](https://blog.shiperp.com/tag/parcel-shipping), [Tracking](https://blog.shiperp.com/tag/tracking), [Freight](https://blog.shiperp.com/tag/freight), [Shipping Software](https://blog.shiperp.com/tag/shipping-software), [Multi-Carrier Shipping](https://blog.shiperp.com/tag/multi-carrier-shipping) [Back to Blog](https://blog.shiperp.com) ## Related Articles ## [How to Prevent Delays in Customs | Automated Export Shipping](https://blog.shiperp.com/prevent-customs-delays-shipaes) Be compliance-ready with an export shipping software that makes AES filing easy(no more manual... [Read More](https://blog.shiperp.com/prevent-customs-delays-shipaes) ## [Fly High on ShipERP Cloud](https://blog.shiperp.com/fly-high-shiperp-cloud) Bring all your shipping processes together in one place—ShipERP Cloud. [Read More](https://blog.shiperp.com/fly-high-shiperp-cloud) ## [Guide to Oracle Log Shipping](https://blog.shiperp.com/oracle-log-shipping) Oracle offers a cloud infrastructure platform with a full collection of cloud services. This... [Read More](https://blog.shiperp.com/oracle-log-shipping) ###### **ABOUT US** ShipERP, the SAP-integrated multi-carrier shipping software, is dedicated to increasing supply chain efficiencies for businesses wanting to experience seamless order-to-cash processing. ![SOC2 Type2 Certified](https://blog.shiperp.com/hs-fs/hubfs/SOC2%20Type2%20Certified.png?width=127&height=157&name=SOC2%20Type2%20Certified.png) © 2026 ShipERP [![Linkedin](https://blog.shiperp.com/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/ShipERP_January2021/images/social-linkedin.png?width=48&name=social-linkedin.png "Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/company/608932/)   [![Facebook](https://blog.shiperp.com/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/ShipERP_January2021/images/social-facebook.png?width=48&name=social-facebook.png "Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/Shiperp-172585756105537/)   [![Twitter](https://blog.shiperp.com/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/ShipERP_January2021/images/social-twitter.png?width=48&name=social-twitter.png "Twitter")](https://twitter.com/ShipERPbyERPIS)   [![Youtube](https://blog.shiperp.com/hs-fs/hubfs/raw_assets/public/ShipERP_January2021/images/social-youtube.png?width=48&name=social-youtube.png "Youtube")](https://www.youtube.com/user/erpissales) ###### **SHIPPING** - 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[Our Carriers](https://shiperp.com/shiperp-shipping-carriers/) - [Our Customers](https://shiperp.com/shiperp-users/) - [Careers](https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=01941100-00e7-48f9-ab7c-eeebe5fa1386&ccId=19000101_000001&lang=en_US) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Vivian Vy Lam", "url" : "https://blog.shiperp.com/author/vivian-vy-lam" }, "dateModified" : "2021-07-22T17:38:52.199Z", "datePublished" : "2021-07-22T17:38:51.000Z", "headline" : "6 Common Shipping Challenges & How to Expertly Overcome Them", "image" : [ "https://blog.shiperp.com/hubfs/common%20shipping%20challenges%20loading%20delivery.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://blog.shiperp.com/common-shipping-challenges", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://blog.shiperp.com/hubfs/Logos/ShipERP-email-signature.png" }, "name" : "ShipERP" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Vivian Vy Lam" }, "dateModified" : "July 22, 2021, 5:38:52 PM", "datePublished" : "2021-07-22 17:38:51", "description" : "We'll break down some of the most common shipping challenges that companies face - 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