If you’re like me, you’re probably doing a lot of online shopping these days to avoid going out in public. But sometimes, certain items just need to be bought in person – like groceries! A curbside pickup is a great option for when you need to buy something but do not want to go to the store. What does curbside pickup mean?

When you order something online or over the phone from a store that offers a curbside pickup service, they’ll bring your purchase out to your car when you arrive. You don’t even have to get out of your vehicle!

What does curbside pickup mean for your safety? This contact-free method is much safer than going into the store since it minimizes exposure to others. Plus, it’s more convenient than delivery because you can get your purchase right away instead of waiting for it to arrive at your door.

I’ve been using curbside pickup a lot lately – especially from my local grocery store. It’s so easy and convenient, and I know that I’m staying safe while still being able to get the things I need.

What does curbside pickup mean?

With curbside pickup, you can place your order and pay for it ahead of time, then simply drive up to the store and an employee will verify it and hand it to you. This is a good option if you’re in a hurry or don’t want to carry around your heavy purchase.

When picking up an order at a retail store, you may be asked to walk outside to a tent, outdoor box, or nearby desk to pick up your item.

Carside vs. Curbside Pickup

Carside pickup is the ideal way to get your order without having to leave your vehicle. Guests simply park and pop their trunks and the store staff will place the order inside the vehicle. This quick and easy process saves time and delivers true convenience.

Shopping online is a convenient way to get what you want without having to wait for shipping or stand in a long line. The goal is to have guests be able to seamlessly hand over their purchases when they arrive.

Retail Curbside Pickup

Curbside pickup is any purchase that is made outside of a physical store. This includes purchases made over the phone, through an app, or on an e-commerce website.

A client only has to make their way to a pickup location, and an employee will hand over their order.

The benefits of curbside service during the coronavirus outbreak are undeniable, and it’s sure to become a permanent fixture in many businesses.

Have you tried curbside pickup at your favorite retail store? This pandemic has caused a 208% increase in this type of shopping, according to Adobe Analytics.

The normal expectation for retail stores is to offer online purchases with in-store pickups. For stores that participate in this, it’s becoming increasingly necessary to have this option available.

By not offering a service like curbside pickup, you could be missing out on sales.

How to Implement Contactless Curbside Pickup Procedures

The first step for launching a successful retail curbside pickup is having the correct software in place. After that, staff training is necessary to educate employees on the correct pickup procedures.

The best way to provide consistent workflows for picking up customers is to train your staff well. This will ensure that everyone is on the same page and following the same procedure.

When teaching your employees how to perform your contactless curbside pickup, make sure they know the order of operation. Each employee should have a distinct role, such as taking the customers’ orders and packing them up. Packaging should be ready to go before accepting the order. Finally, offer your customers the option to pay through an online payment.

Because your shopper’s time is precious, it’s important to make them feel like you’re giving them your full attention. The impersonal nature of the transaction can come across as cold and uncaring if not handled properly.

Small, local businesses and individual sellers can encourage customer loyalty and increase sales by personalizing the customer experience.

When you personalize the curbside service experience, you let your customers know that they are more than just an order number. You show them that you value their business and appreciate their loyalty. By taking a few extra steps, you can turn one-time shoppers into lifelong fans.

WooCommerce: How to Avoid Cart Abandonment

Businesses that operate online and also offer in-store pickups must be extra careful to prevent shoppers from leaving their shopping carts before checking out.

Cart abandonment is the act of window-shoppers is when they add items to their shopping cart, only to close the browser before completing the purchase.

Studies have shown that 21% of Americans have ditched their shopping carts in the last quarter due to an overly lengthy or complex checkout page.

By simplifying the ordering process, you can reduce shopping cart abandonment.

If you want to reduce shopping cart abandonment, you should simplify your checkout procedure. This means not requiring customers to register an account or enter their email address before completing their order.

While building an email marketing list is incredibly important, it’s even more important to make a sale now. So don’t ask for customer information until they’re happy with their purchases.

Make sure the process of ordering online is as seamless and painless as can be. Have a friend or family member test out the process and note any confusing or frustrating parts. Then, make those sections as clear as possible.

Consumers hate when their favorite payment method isn’t available. That’s why you should offer a wide variety of payment methods, such as credit cards and Paypal.

Tips for a Safe and Efficient Curbside Pickup Service

If you’re planning on offering curbside pickup service at your business, there are a few things you’ll need to do to make sure it runs smoothly.

First, you’ll need to designate a specific area for curbside pickups. This will help to keep the flow of traffic moving smoothly and efficiently. You may also need to get approval from the city if necessary. Either way, taking these steps will help to ensure that your curbside pickup service is a success.

Curbside pickup is a great way to provide customers with the convenience they crave, but it’s important to make sure you’re following all local regulations. A parking ticket would put a damper on anyone’s day, so be sure to do your research before offering this service.

As concerns for customer safety continue to grow, it’s important to consider implementing a safe, efficient, and streamlined process for picking up items. By doing so, you can show that you value your customers’ safety and are taking steps to create a seamless, hassle-free service.

COVID-19 has everyone on edge, especially when it comes to their health and safety. Curbside pickup is a great way to shop without having to worry about close contact with others, but it’s important to take some extra precautions to ensure everyone stays safe.

• Mark off your curbside pickup space. This will help customers know where they should go and maintain a safe distance from others.
• Use signs to clearly mark the appropriate pickup zone information, including 6 feet distance markers. This will help customers know what they should do and where they should go.
• Send electronic instructions to customers on how to pick up curbside. This will help them understand the process and what they need to do.
• Staff should wear gloves when handing off goods. This will protect both the staff and the customer from potential exposure.
• Supply masks for staff. This will help protect them from exposure to the virus.
• Wipe down the designated pickup zone frequently. This will help keep the area clean and free of potential contaminants.

Investing in your safety protocol isn’t just a health and safety issue, it’s a marketing tool that can show your customers that you really care about them.

Promote your retail curbside pickup service

If you want more people to take advantage of your amazing new curbside pick-up services, you’ll need to get the word out. You can do so by using a variety of different tools, including print and digital advertisements, social media, and even your neighborhood’s online forum.

By implementing all of these strategies, you’ll reach the largest audience possible and spread the word about your great new services.

There is no single marketing tactic that you shouldn’t use. Using multiple tools will maximize your reach. But, don’t underestimate the value of word of mouth.

According to a survey by Bright Local, 88% of customers say they place as much trust in online customer reviews as they do in recommendations from friends and family.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a safe and efficient way to shop during the COVID-19 pandemic, curbside pickup is a great option! What does curbside pickup mean? It’s a contact-free and convenient way to get your purchase right away. So next time you need to buy something in person, be sure to look for stores that offer this service.