Mail order service
A mail order service is a business that allows customers to purchase products or services by mail, phone, or online, without the need to physically visit a store. Here are some key characteristics of a mail order service:
- Remote ordering: Customers can place orders by mail, phone, or online, and the products are shipped directly to their doorstep.
- No physical store: Mail order services do not have a physical storefront where customers can visit to make purchases.
- Catalog or online catalog: Mail order services typically have a catalog or online catalog that showcases their products, allowing customers to browse and select items to purchase.
- Shipping: Products are shipped directly to customers, often with a flat rate shipping fee or free shipping on orders above a certain amount.
- Customer service: Mail order services typically have a customer service team that handles customer inquiries, returns, and exchanges.
Types of mail order services:
- Catalog shopping: Companies like L.L.Bean, Lands' End, and J.Crew offer catalogs that customers can browse and order from.
- Online shopping: Companies like Amazon, Walmart, and Target offer online shopping with shipping to customers' homes.
- Subscription services: Services like book clubs, wine clubs, and monthly delivery boxes offer products or services on a recurring basis.
- Direct response marketing: Companies like QVC and Home Shopping Network offer products through television or online infomercials, with customers ordering by phone or online.
Benefits of mail order services:
- Convenience: Customers can shop from the comfort of their own homes, 24/7.
- Wide selection: Mail order services can offer a wider selection of products than a physical store.
- No crowds: Customers don't have to deal with crowds or long lines.
- Easy returns: Mail order services often have easy return policies, making it simple for customers to exchange or return items.
Challenges of mail order services:
- Shipping costs: Shipping costs can add up, especially for heavy or bulky items.
- Quality control: It can be difficult to ensure product quality when customers are not physically inspecting products before purchase.
- Customer service: Mail order services must have effective customer service systems in place to handle customer inquiries and issues.
Examples of successful mail order services:
- Amazon: One of the largest and most successful e-commerce companies in the world.
- L.L.Bean: A classic catalog shopping experience with a wide selection of outdoor gear and apparel.
- QVC: A popular direct response marketing company that offers a wide range of products through television and online infomercials.
- Blue Apron: A meal kit delivery service that offers a convenient and easy way to cook at home.