It’s that time of the year again when Canadians are getting ready to build out their gift list. Like the old adage to work smarter not harder, according to a survey initiated by UPS Canada and Leger Market Research, six-in-ten (60%) Canadians say they are looking to shop smarter for the holidays this year. So CSL has you covered to do just that!
First here are some quick shopping hacks to consider:
- Taking advantage of free shipping, where possible (58%)
- Compare prices across different retailers (57%)
- Redeem loyalty points to purchase gifts (37%)
- Track sales for the items I’m thinking of purchasing (34%)
CSL got the chance to chat with Nicolas Dorget, VP of Strategic Alliances at UPS Canada to share some of his most helpful hacks to consider this holiday season:
- Please provide some of the most important consumer trends for holiday 2019:
In our annual Pulse of the Online Shopper study, we found that there are three important consumer trends driving customer experiences and expectations:
a. Customers want to embark on a journey filled with choice and control (consumers want to feel their preferences and opinions are valued);
b. Customers crave information at every step of the customer journey as they compare and contrast their buying options; and
c. Customers expect more than just fair pricing on products – they want retailers to offer an experience that makes the entire shopping process easier and more enjoyable.
2. Why is UPS the ultimate holiday shipping go-to?
Canadians are relying on online shopping this holiday season, and finding convenient and safe shipping options are key to reducing holiday stress. With our growing adoption of digital technology, including tools like the UPS My Choice app, we provide customers with greater visibility and control of their incoming packages. Consumers can use UPS My Choice for Home to make payments, select alternative delivery options and redirect to one of +1,200 UPS Access Point locations, including The UPS Store and local neighbourhood businesses. These locations are safe and secure and many have evening and weekend hours, empowering consumers to pick-up and drop-off packages at their convenience and away from porch pirates. Those shipping to and/from a UPS Access Point location are eligible for special pricing online and at The UPS Store.
3. Do you have any specific hacks or tricks from UPS to speed up the packing/wrapping time for parcels?
Packing and wrapping parcels can be one of the trickiest components of the shipping process. That’s why we have a Packaging Advisor on our website that provides tips based on the item, size and weight of consumers’ specific packages. We also have tips to help package irregular shaped items.
An alternative option for those who don’t have time, or just want to leave it to the experts, is to use The UPS Store’s packaging services.
4. Any tips from UPS regarding holiday shipping time (what type of shipping method is best for which type of parcel), or how to make the most out of UPS services for holiday?
According to our Pulse of the Online Shopper study, 86% of Canadian customers conduct research prior to making a purchase, with 53% researching specifically for delivery costs. We encourage Canadian consumers to review shipping options before making a purchase, and make the best decision for themselves when it comes to time and cost.
Don’t forget to check out the retailer’s return policy as well, just in case the item isn’t quite right. 57 per cent of Canadian shoppers indicated they look for a retailer’s return policy before purchasing an item.
5. UPS Holiday hours
From December 2, 2019 – January 10, 2020, the UPS Standard service modification will be in effect. This means that during this time, a limited number of UPS Standard service packages, with transit times of three or more days, and with certain origins and destinations throughout Canada, may experience additional time in transit. A full list of our holiday hours can be found on our website for both December and January.
6. Last minute holiday shipping hacks from UPS
Remember 3 key things this holiday season:
Be prepared – View the UPS Year-End Holiday Schedule to ensure all of your holiday shipments arrive when you need them.
Keep the surprise – If you are ordering a gift for someone you live with, utilize one of over 1,200 UPS Access Point® locations across Canada, to keep your shipments safe and away from prying eyes – and since many are open late, you can pick up your packages on your schedule.
Take control – Sign-up for UPS My Choice® or UPS My Choice® for business. It’s free to register and gives you complete control over your shipment. From Delivery Alerts to a Delivery Planner, ensure your packages are delivered when and how you’d like.
Read the Winter2019/20 issue of City Style and Living Magazine.
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