set-up-shipping-methods

This guide provides a step-by-step process for creating and managing shipping methods within the Afosto admin panel. These methods can be configured for different sales channels and customized to suit your needs.

Logging in or creating an account is generally accepted and it takes a lot of space before you get to sections that exactly matter.

Shipping methods

https://admin.afosto.app/shipments/shipping-methods.

After logging into your Afosto account, navigate to the Admin app by clicking the "Admin app" button located in the top-right corner of your screen.

Once you arrive on the Sales Channels page, which displays a list of your existing channels, navigate to the Shipping Methods page by selecting "Shipping" from the menu on the left side of your screen and clicking on "Shipping Methods."

On the "Shipping Methods" page, you will see a list of all the shipping options currently configured and available for shipping orders to your customers. This may include various carriers (such as UPS, DHL, or FedEx) or other shipping methods you have set up for your store.

Adding a new shipping method

Clicking on the "Add" button in the top-right corner will allow you to set up a new shipping method, such as specifying the carrier, the pricing, and other related details.

Carrier Selection

Choose the carrier that will handle the shipping of your orders from the list of available carriers. Some common carriers include:

• UPS
• FedEx
• Royal Mail
• Local courier services (depending on your country or region)

Add a shipping zone

Define where the shipping method will be valid by selecting an existing shipping zone or by adding a new shipping zone. 

When creating a new shipping zone, you need to specify the countries or regions where the shipping method will be valid. If you want to ship to multiple countries, simply check the boxes next to the desired countries.

Set additional rules

With additional rules, you can further specify where your shipping method is valid. For example, you might offer this shipping method only for certain areas within a country or exclude specific places where shipping is not available.

Name of your shipping method

When you create or edit a shipping method in Afosto, you’ll be prompted to enter a name for the shipping method. This name is important because it will be displayed in two key places:

1. In the Afosto Backend: It helps you identify the shipping method when managing your orders, shipping settings, and configuration.
2. At Checkout for Customers: The name will also be visible to customers when they are choosing their preferred shipping method during the checkout process at your store.

Description and Instructions for the Customer

When configuring a shipping method, it’s important to provide clear descriptions and instructions for your customers. This information appears at the checkout and helps customers understand the details of each shipping option, making their decision-making process easier.

Why Providing Descriptions and Instructions Is Important

1. Clarifying Expectations: Providing clear descriptions and instructions helps set the right expectations for your customers. They’ll know what to expect in terms of shipping time, cost, and any special conditions related to the shipping method.
2. Reducing Customer Confusion: Without proper descriptions and instructions, customers may be confused about the shipping options available to them. Clear explanations help customers make informed decisions and avoid dissatisfaction.

Translating the name, description, and instructions

This section allows you to provide translations for all the key fields, including Name, Description, and Instructions.

• Select a Language: (?). Choose the language you want to add or edit a translation for.
• Enter Translations for Each Field: Input the translated name of the shipping method in the selected language. Example: For "Standard Shipping" in French, you might input: "Expédition standard". Also a translation for the description of the shipping method in the selected language. Ensure it is clear and accurately conveys the shipping method’s features. Example: For "Standard Shipping: Delivery within 3-5 business days" in French, you could input: "Expédition standard: Livraison sous 3 à 5 jours ouvrables". Also any special instructions for customers in the selected language.

Set the costs for the Shipping method

This section is where you will input the cost for the shipping method. Choose the Cost Type (Fixed or Percentile) You typically have two types of cost options to choose from: Fixed Charges: This is a set price for the shipping method, regardless of the order value. Example: If you set a fixed charge of $5, the customer will always pay $5 for this shipping method, no matter how much their order totals.

• Percentile Charges: This option sets the cost as a percentage of the order total.Example: If you set a percentile charge of 10%, the shipping cost will be 10% of the total order value. For a $50 order, the customer would pay $5 for shipping.
• Additional rules for shipping costs: With additional rules for shipping costs, you can further specify which shipping costs apply based on specific conditions. For example: Weight-Based Charges, if you want to charge based on the weight of the items in the order. Or, for example: Destination-Based Charges, if you want to adjust shipping costs based on the shipping zone, charging more for international shipments or deliveries to remote areas.

Choose Additional Shipping Features

In the Options section, you’ll be able to choose from a list of additional features. Here’s an overview of common features you may want to include:

• Same-Day Delivery: If you want to offer expedited service, you can enable same-day delivery, where orders placed by a certain time are shipped out and delivered on the same day.
• Sunday Delivery: Some customers may need their package delivered on a Sunday. Enabling Sunday delivery allows you to offer this service, typically in areas with postal or courier services that operate on Sundays.
• Use Case: For customers who work weekdays and prefer to receive their orders on weekends.
• Pick-Up Points: This option allows customers to pick up their orders from a designated pick-up point (like a nearby store, locker, or local collection point) rather than having it delivered to their home.
• Use Case: Customers who are not home during delivery hours, or who prefer picking up their orders for convenience.
• Delivery to Neighbors: Some delivery services allow you to choose to have the package delivered to a neighbor if the recipient is not home. This option can be enabled for more flexibility and convenience.
• Use Case: If a customer is not home, the package can be left with a neighbor, so it doesn’t have to be returned or rescheduled.
• Signed Delivery: Enabling this option requires the customer to sign for the package upon receipt. This feature adds an extra layer of security and ensures that the product is delivered to the correct recipient.
• Use Case: For high-value items or important documents, where proof of receipt is necessary.
• Identity Check: For certain orders, especially in cases where high-value items or sensitive products are involved, an identity check may be required. This option ensures that the person receiving the package is the correct individual.
• Use Case: For regulated or age-restricted products, or for high-value goods that need to be delivered securely.
• Enable or Disable Features: For each feature you want to offer, enable it by toggling the corresponding option. If you don’t want to offer a particular service, simply leave the option disabled.

Note: The options available will depend on the carrier you have chosen. With these steps, you can create customized shipping methods tailored to your business needs and preferences.