Seller Control over Shipping Time DSR Scores

February 28th, 2008

Like a lot of sellers, I believe eBay did a questionable job in creating the Detailed Seller Rating (DSR) system.  The Shipping Time score is open to a lot of buyer interpretation.  Are they supposed to rate us on how quickly we get the package to the carrier after receiving payment, did we ship on-time based on our promises in the listing, or are they supposed to rate us purely on how quickly the package arrives?That said, I take minor exception to so many sellers saying they have absolutely no control over how fast a package is delivered by the carrier.

I firmly believe there are things sellers can do to influence transit time. Here are two lists of packaging traits, guess which group’s packages will arrive faster?

Group A Packaging Traits:

• Handwritten addresses
• Addresses using improper abbreviations
• Addresses poorly formatted
• Non-validated addresses
• Frankenstein school of box building (i.e. irregularly shaped parcels, 2 or more pieces taped together, frequently created from re-used boxes, many with other labeling on them)
• No indication of carrier service class
• Packaged in other carrier’s free supplies
• Poorly sealed
• Fluid stains or excessive rattling
• Wrong class of postage used (i.e. Media Mail rate for non-qualified items)
• For International, wrong Customs Forms or improper information on forms

Group B Packaging Traits:

• Computer printed shipping labels
• Fully validated and properly formatted addresses
• Clean, new boxes in standard shapes
• Labels on multiple sides of the package indicating class of service (if appropriate)
• Concatenated Delivery Confirmation Barcode (USPS trick, adds the destination ZIP Code to the barcode information)
• Well sealed with appropriately sturdy tape
• Proper void fill and cushioning
• For International, appropriate Customs Forms accurately filled out

I agree that once we hand off the package it is an act of faith. But if you give the carriers good raw materials, they have a better chance of delivering great service.

Yes I have had my share of wacky delivery delays.  Fortunately those are the rare exception because of how I package and label my shipments.

Submitted by Chris of sun-bits

Entry Filed under: Secrets to Success, eBay