When choosing gift selections for your bank, understanding how logistics can affect your price and delivery goes a long way to making a gifting program successful with minimal hassle. A seasoned gifting partner will consider these things for you as they are making your recommendations, but it’s still a good idea to know for yourself.

Product Size and Weight, and Carton Quantity

The size and weight of a product can have a dramatic impact on the final price. Most deliveries occur through parcel shippers, such as FedEx or UPS, and their pricing is based on weight and volume of the box. Since shippers price freight by the box, finding the right mix of weight and carton quantity can buy down the freight cost significantly. There are many “tricks of the trade” that can further reduce the freight component of the price, making the item cheaper for you. For example, many transportation providers discount freight in certain areas of the country where they have significant infrastructure investments. Keeping up with the major providers ensures that we get the price possible.

Geographic Footprint of Branch Network

The location of your branch network can make a big difference, as distance of the shipment effects price. There are several ways to reduce freight cost if you have a more remote footprint, or if your branch network is spread out.

Replenishment Strategy

Quantity and frequency of distribution is the last major freight component. Larger distributions can be done at a cheaper price, which can provide you the opportunity to buy up in product by reducing freight expense.