This article is a part of a serie:
Ignite Loyalty: Post purchase customer journey explained
🗺️ Retailers guide to “Label created not yet in system” shipping status.
As we explore the initial stages of the package delivery process, the “Label Created Not Yet in System” or “Label Created Not Yet Shipped” phase stands out as a critical early step in the post-purchase customer journey.
In this phase, the “Label Created Not Yet in System” status indicates two potential scenarios: it may indicate that the order is prepared for shipment, with the shipping label generated, signalling readiness for transit, or it might denote that although the label is created, the order is still in the fulfillment process within the warehouse. In this second scenario, the transition to actual shipment may take longer. Thus, managing customer expectations is crucial, as the length of this phase can vary significantly depending on these circumstances.
Understanding this phase is crucial. In this article, we delve into the nuances of this stage, emphasizing how accuracy in tracking updates and proactive communication can substantially strengthen customer trust and maintain interest.
Employing advanced communication strategies at this juncture allows retailers to enhance the customer experience significantly. Continue reading to learn strategies that ensure customer satisfaction and keep the anticipation high, right from the moment the label is created until the package is fully in transit.
What does “Label created Not yet in system” mean?
“Label Created Not Yet in System” status indicates the initial step taken by the retailer in the shipping process, where the shipping label is generated and the shipment details are submitted to the carrier. It plays a pivotal role in the journey of a package from the seller to the customer as it helps to manage customer expectations about the shipment process and reduce WISMO inquiries.
Note that the status ‘Label Created, Not Yet in System’ doesn’t mean the package is moving through the carrier’s network. It simply means the retailer is getting ready for order to be picked up from the warehouse.
What is the process once an item is marked as “Label created not yet in system”?
Retailer creating and printing a shipping label, usually before, during or after by package preparation.
The Process Behind the Status:
- Shipping Label Creation: The retailer initiates the creation of the shipping label. This process involves inputting shipment details into the carrier’s system, which generates a unique tracking number.
- Label Printing and Package Preparation: Following the creation of the label, it is printed and affixed to the package. The package is now ready to be handed over to the carrier.
- Carrier Pickup and Scanning: Once the package is in the carrier’s possession, it is scanned, marking the transition to the next status, often “In-Transit,” “En-Route,” or “Shipped.” This scan is crucial as it updates the package’s status in the tracking system, providing real-time visibility to both the retailer and the customer.
Communication and Expectation Management:
Retailers must clearly communicate this stage to the customer. This involves:
- Explaining the Status: Educating customers on what this status means and what to expect next.
- Providing Estimated Delivery Times: Offering an estimated delivery date is crucial. This should factor in the time taken for order processing and fulfillment, as well as the carrier’s pickup schedule.
Leveraging post-purchase communication platform for Accurate Delivery Estimates:
Post-purchase customer experience platforms can provide a reliable solution for estimating order delivery times and enhance retailer efficiency with its advanced marketing and communication automations. Even during the initial ‘Label created not yet in system’ stage, WISMOlabs platform achieves precise delivery date predictions by integrating various factors, combining:
- Order Placement Date: The date when the customer places the order.
- Order Processing and Fulfillment Time: The duration taken by the retailer to process and prepare the order for shipment.
- Average Shipment Time Based on Carrier Time In Transit and Historical Data: Analyzing past shipment data to determine the average time it takes for orders to travel from the warehouse to the customer’s location.
By integrating these data points, WISMOlabs provides retailers with a powerful tool to offer precise delivery estimates, enhancing customer satisfaction and managing expectations effectively. This approach not only reduces customer anxiety during the waiting period but also helps in building trust and loyalty towards the retailer’s brand.
Overcoming Obstacles: The Challenges of the “Label created not yet in system” Phase in Order Delivery
The “Label created, not yet in system” phase presents several typical challenges for both retailers and customers. Understanding and addressing these challenges is crucial for enhancing the overall post-purchase experience:
- Customer Anxiety and Confusion: This phase often leads to customer confusion and anxiety, as they may not understand why there’s a delay in seeing their package’s progress. They might worry that their order has been lost or forgotten.
- Communication Gaps: Retailers may face challenges in effectively communicating the meaning and implications of this status to customers. Failure to provide clear, timely information can result in an increased volume of customer service inquiries, often referred to as “Where Is My Order” (WISMO) calls.
- Delay in Carrier Scanning: Sometimes, there can be a significant delay between the label creation and the carrier’s first scan. This delay can be due to various factors such as carrier workload, processing times, or logistical issues, leading to customer impatience and dissatisfaction.
- Inaccurate Delivery Estimates: Providing accurate delivery estimates during this phase can be challenging, especially if the fulfillment process or carrier pickup is delayed. Inaccurate estimates can lead to customer frustration and a lack of trust in the retailer.
- Handling Customer Expectations: Retailers must manage customer expectations realistically during this period. Overpromising on delivery times or under-communicating can negatively impact customer satisfaction.
- Technical Issues in Tracking Systems: Technical glitches in either the retailer’s or the carrier’s tracking systems can lead to incorrect or delayed updates, further complicating the situation.
- High Volume Periods: During peak shopping seasons or sales, the volume of orders can lead to longer processing times and delayed updates, intensifying the challenges in this phase.
- Resource Allocation for Customer Support: Retailers need to allocate sufficient resources to handle customer inquiries and concerns during this phase, which can strain customer support teams, especially for smaller retailers.
To mitigate these challenges, retailers should focus on clear and proactive communication, robust tracking systems, realistic expectation setting, and efficient customer service response strategies. Leveraging technology solutions like WISMOlabs can also play a crucial role in addressing these challenges by providing more accurate delivery estimates and streamlining communication with customers.
Can customers expect any delays in delivery because “Label Created, not yet in the system” status?
Typically no. Delays can occur if the package is not handed over to the carrier promptly or if there are logistical issues at the carrier’s end. Keep monitoring the tracking updates for further progress.
What should I do if the status doesn’t change for several days?
If the “Label Created, Not Yet in System” status doesn’t change for several days, retailers should take proactive steps to resolve the issue and maintain customer trust:
- Check Internal Processes: Verify that the package has indeed been handed over to the carrier. Delays can sometimes occur within the retailer’s own processing or handling.
- Contact the Carrier: If the package was handed over, reach out to the carrier to inquire about the delay in scanning and updating the tracking status. This will help identify if the issue lies with the carrier’s processing.
- Update the Customer: Communicate with the customer about the delay. Honesty and transparency are key in maintaining customer trust, especially in such scenarios.
- Monitor the Package Closely: Keep a close watch on the package’s progress to ensure it moves through the carrier’s system. Quick intervention can be crucial if further issues arise.
- Review and Adjust Processes: If delays like this are frequent, review your shipping and handling processes for potential improvements. This could involve choosing a different carrier, adjusting pickup schedules, or streamlining internal logistics.
- Offer Compensation if Necessary: In cases of significant delay, consider offering the customer a form of compensation, such as a discount on future purchases or expedited shipping on their next order. This gesture can go a long way in preserving customer relationships.
By taking these steps, retailers can effectively manage the situation where the “Label Created, Not Yet in System” has not updated and maintain customer satisfaction, and improve their logistical operations.
Conclusion
In the dynamic landscape of e-commerce, the “Label Created Not Yet in System” phase is a crucial touchpoint in the post-purchase journey, representing a bridge between order processing and the physical journey of a package. This phase, while often causing customer anxiety, presents a unique opportunity for retailers to reinforce trust and transparency.
Retailers are encouraged to leverage this phase as a moment of engagement, utilizing tools like WISMOlabs to provide accurate and timely information, thereby setting realistic expectations and enhancing customer satisfaction. The key lies in clear communication, efficient logistics, and proactive customer service. By mastering these elements, retailers can transform this early stage of shipping into a positive and reassuring experience for customers, ultimately fostering loyalty and elevating the overall brand experience.
Embracing the challenges and opportunities presented during the “Label Created, Not Yet in System” phase is more than just a logistical necessity; it’s a strategic move towards building lasting relationships with customers in the ever-evolving world of e-commerce.
This article is a part of a serie:
Ignite Loyalty: Post purchase customer journey explained
FAQ: Understanding the “Label Created Not Yet in System” Phase
Let’s addresses common questions and concerns, providing concise yet comprehensive answers.
What does “Label created Not yet in system” mean?
“Label Created, Not Yet in System” typically means that the shipping label for the package has been generated, usually by the sender, but the package hasn’t been scanned into the carrier’s tracking system yet. This scan usually happens when the carrier first receives the package for shipment. Until this scan occurs, the package is not officially in the carrier’s system for tracking purposes. This status is common and generally indicates that the package is in the early stages of the shipping process.
Has my package actually been shipped?
When the status of a package is “Label Created Not Yet in System,” it usually means that the shipping label has been generated, but the package has not yet been scanned and entered into the carrier’s tracking system. This does not necessarily mean the package has been physically shipped. It could still be with the sender, awaiting pickup or drop-off with the carrier. Once the carrier scans the package, the status will update, and tracking information will become more accurate.
When will the carrier receive the package from the sender after “Label Created Not yet in the system” is assigned?
The time it takes for the carrier to receive the package from the sender after the “Label Created, not yet in the system” status is assigned can vary. Typically, it should happen within a few days, but it depends on the sender’s processing times and the carrier’s pickup schedule. If the sender is efficient and the carrier has regular pickups from the location, it could be as soon as the same or next business day. Delays may occur due to the sender’s internal processes or carrier-related issues. If the status doesn’t update within a few days, it’s advisable to contact the sender or the carrier for more information.
Why is tracking not updating after label created?
Tracking might not update after “Label Created” for several reasons:
Package Not Yet Picked Up: The carrier might not have picked up the package from the sender. This can happen if the label is created outside of pickup hours or if there’s a delay in the pickup schedule.
Scanning Delay: The package might have been picked up but not yet scanned into the carrier’s system. Sometimes, initial scans are missed, or there are delays in updating the tracking system.
System Issues: Occasionally, there can be technical issues or delays in the carrier’s tracking system, leading to a lack of updates.
High Volume Periods: During busy times like holidays, carriers handle high volumes of packages, which can slow down processing and updates.
If the status doesn’t change for an extended period, it’s advisable to contact the sender or carrier for more information. They can provide more specific details or look into any potential issues.
How can retailers handle increased customer inquiries related to “Label Created Not yet in the system” status?
To efficiently handle increased customer inquiries related to the ‘Label Created, Not Yet in the System’ status, retailers can leverage the WISMOlabs post-purchase experience platform. This platform automates customer communications throughout various shipment stages – from ‘Label Created, Not Yet in the System’ to ‘In-Transit’, ‘Out for Delivery’, and ‘Delivered’. WISMOlabs is designed to proactively manage exceptions, delays, and other shipping-related issues, ensuring both consumers and retailers are continuously informed about the order and shipping process. This approach not only streamlines communication but also enhances the overall customer experience by providing timely and accurate updates.
