3 Things E-Commerce Customers Expect – No Matter What

Thinking about starting an online retail business? Great! You’re certainly not alone. In fact, there are currently around 24 million e-commerce sites on the web today. 

Don’t let that number deter you – there is always room for more! But, because there are so many online retailers, it’s important to not only understand your niche but to give your potential customers what they really want. 

In this world of same-day deliveries and artificial intelligence taking care of customers, you have to stay competitive if you want your business to stand a chance. 

So, what are a few things your customers will expect from your e-commerce site, and how can you make sure you’re fulfilling their needs? 

1. Transparent Pricing and Shipping

Thanks to major retailers like Amazon, most online shoppers have gotten used to getting their items quickly. Most people will order an item and receive it the next day. Depending on where you live, you might even be able to get an item the same day it’s ordered. 

While most consumers understand that smaller companies might not be able to do that, it’s still important to keep your customers in the know when it comes to pricing and shipping details. If they have to pay for shipping, let them know upfront. No one wants to be surprised by a shipping fee after they place an order. 

Additionally, make sure you’re constantly updating your customers on their delivery. You can  utilize different courier uk options to make their order trackable. You don’t need to be as fast as a major corporation, but you do need to inform your customer of where their order is. 

2. A Trustworthy Brand

Believe it or not, there are still people who are hesitant to shop online. There is some validity to that, considering the fact that even major online retailers have fallen victim to data breaches and information hacks. 

One of the best things you can do to make your store seem more secure and safe is to build a trustworthy brand. People need to understand what your business is, who you are, and why they can feel safe buying from you. Don’t make the branding mistakes of switching focus or lacking consistency. Instead, focus on who you are and build your brand based on that reality. The more consistent you are, the more trustworthy you will appear to potential customers. 

3. A Site That is Easy to Navigate

Because there are so many e-commerce sites online, customers won’t waste their time trying to navigate an online store that is difficult to get through. It’s incredibly important to make sure your site is easy to follow and navigate, and that your products are clear, visible, and promoted on your homepage. Think of your site like a storefront, and push your products forward as much as possible. 

It’s never a bad idea to start an e-commerce site when you’ve got a great idea and an even better product. Keep these thoughts in mind and put yourself in the customer’s shoes when it comes to e-commerce. By having a better understanding of what people expect, you can make sure your site lives up to those expectations.