Global Freight Solutions (GFS) has called on online retailers to increase the number of delivery options they offer consumers and consider using more third party carriers, as demand from internet shoppers and pressure on carrier capacity continues to grow.
The GFS Review 2012 shows that B2B volumes fell by 2% last year, whilst B2C deliveries rose by 15%. The average daily volume entering the network throughout November and December was 4.25 million, an increase of 3.5% on the previous year.
Based on these results, GFS predicts that 2013 will see retailers attempt to generate more online sales with faster delivery as shoppers demand ever more, providing opportunities for parcel carriers with the capacity to take on more work.
GFS director Simon Veale said: “With the potential for more overseas’ orders to fulfill and the added complications with delivery that might represent, retailers tell us that they appreciate the premium that should be placed on customer service to retain and not lose future business.”
It also predicts that carriers themselves will prioritise delivering for specific clients during the peak period, as they wish to provide them with a successful service.
Online retailers and parcel carriers saw a number of peaks throughout 2012: Valentine’s Day, Easter, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the new academic year, as well as the Christmas peak.
