The Automotive Aftermarket Defined

The automotive aftermarket broadly refers to the market for parts, accessories, or services related to vehicles after the original sale. This includes replacement parts, accessories, lubricants, appearance products, tires, collision repairs, audio systems, in-car technology, and more. The aftermarket has historically been resilient despite downturns, as vehicles require ongoing maintenance and repairs regardless of the economy.

Exploring the reasons why investing in the automotive aftermarket could be a smart move.

1. Growing Demand For Customisation

The desire for personalised vehicles has fuelled a significant uptick in the demand for aftermarket accessories. Consumers no longer view their vehicles as mere modes of transportation but as extensions of their personalities. This trend is particularly evident in the popularity of Tacoma accessories, where truck enthusiasts seek to enhance their vehicles’ aesthetics and functionality. As an investor, recognising and capitalising on this growing market can lead to substantial returns.

2. Technological Advancements

The automotive aftermarket is not just about aesthetics; technological advancements are crucial in driving its growth. From advanced GPS systems to cutting-edge entertainment options, aftermarket products offer consumers the opportunity to upgrade their vehicles with the latest technology. Investors can tap into this tech-savvy market by supporting innovative aftermarket companies that develop and produce state-of-the-art automotive accessories.

3. Shifting Consumer Behaviour

The way consumers approach vehicle ownership has evolved, and the automotive aftermarket industry has adapted accordingly. Instead of trading in vehicles for new models, many consumers opt to keep their cars longer and invest in upgrades to extend their lifespan. This shift in behaviour presents a significant opportunity for aftermarket investors as the demand for replacement parts and accessories continues to rise.

4. E-Commerce Growth

The rise of e-commerce has revolutionised the way consumers shop for aftermarket products. Online platforms provide a convenient and accessible marketplace for buyers to explore and purchase various automotive accessories. Investors looking to capitalise on this trend should consider supporting companies with a solid online presence and a seamless e-commerce strategy.

5. Environmental Considerations

The increasing focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility has increased demand for eco-friendly aftermarket products. From energy-efficient lighting solutions to environmentally conscious interior upgrades, consumers seek ways to minimise their environmental impact while enjoying customised driving experiences. Investing in companies prioritising eco-friendly practices and offering sustainable automotive aftermarket solutions aligns with evolving consumer values.

6. Diversification In Product Offerings

The automotive aftermarket is not limited to a specific category of products. It encompasses a wide range, including performance parts, exterior accessories, and interior enhancements. Investors can diversify their portfolios by supporting companies that offer a comprehensive suite of aftermarket products catering to various customer needs and preferences.

7. Global Market Expansion

The automotive aftermarket is not confined to a single geographical location. With the global expansion of the automotive industry, investing in the aftermarket provides access to diverse markets. As emerging economies witness a surge in vehicle ownership, the demand for aftermarket products will likely follow suit, offering investors the potential for substantial returns.

Thus, the expansion and versatility of the automotive aftermarket, marked by consumer demand and global reach, underscore its potential as a lucrative investment field. Next, the discussion turns to the challenges and considerations important in navigating this rapidly evolving market.

Challenges And Considerations

While the automotive aftermarket presents attractive opportunities, challenges and risks must be considered.

One is that the industry is highly competitive, with players ranging from large national chains to small local repair shops all vying for business. It can be difficult for investors to identify and invest in the most promising companies that will gain market share over time.

Additionally, consumer preferences and trends can shift, potentially lessening demand for certain accessories or parts. Investors must stay on top of emerging technologies and developments in vehicle designs that could disrupt established products.

Rapid advancements in electric vehicles and autonomous driving technologies could also disrupt traditional aftermarket businesses. However, this also opens new avenues for investment in developing aftermarket solutions tailored to these emerging technologies.

There is also some exposure to economic cycles, as large-ticket aftermarket purchases may decline more than routine maintenance during downturns. And OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) are trying to capture more aftermarket business themselves. While the independent aftermarket has advantages, OEM competition is a factor to monitor.

In Conclusion

Investing in the automotive aftermarket holds significant promise. The industry’s growth is fuelled by the increasing demand for customisation, technological advancements, shifting consumer behaviour, environmental considerations, and diverse product offerings.

As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, savvy investors may find the aftermarket sector an innovative and strategic avenue for investment. This sector offers the potential for substantial returns in the long run.

The post Investing In Automotive Aftermarket: A Smart Move? first appeared on Economic Journal.

The Anecdote of “Allowed”

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of battery chargers, let me share a little anecdote about the word “allowed.” It’s a word that often has the power to change our lives.

Imagine this: you’re a teenager, itching to get your driver’s license, but you need to pass that dreaded driving test. Your parents, the ever-watchful duo, give you one piece of advice – “You’re allowed to drive only when you know how to maintain your car.”

Those words planted a seed of curiosity, leading me to explore car maintenance, and it’s what brings me here today to enlighten you about battery chargers.

Understanding the Omission

Have you ever wondered what keeps your car’s lights on and your engine purring? It’s your battery! Your vehicle’s heart, pumping life into every ride. But here’s the thing – we often overlook this essential component until it lets us down. That omission, that lack of attention, can lead to those dreaded dead battery moments. That’s where the magic of a battery charger comes into play, but not just any charger, the right charger.

Types of Battery Chargers: A Brief Overview

Now, you might be thinking, “Which battery charger should I go for?” There’s a multitude of options, but the two primary categories are standard battery chargers and trickle chargers.

Standard Battery Chargers:

These are the workhorses of the charging world. They pump your battery full of electricity at a faster rate. If you’re in a hurry, a standard battery charger is your go-to choice. However, be cautious not to overcharge, as it can lead to battery damage – an omission you definitely want to avoid.

Trickle Chargers:

Now, let’s talk about trickle chargers. Picture them as the gentle, caring grandparents of the charging world. They provide a slow, steady stream of power, which is perfect for long-term battery maintenance. A trickle charger helps to prevent your battery from draining when your car is parked for an extended period. It’s your constant companion, ensuring that your battery is always in its best shape.

Choosing the Right Charger for Your Needs

The caprice of your vehicle usage plays a significant role in determining the charger you should invest in. Are you a daily commuter who rarely lets your car rest, or do you have a cherished classic sitting in the garage?

Your needs are unique, and it’s essential to select a charger that aligns with them.

Daily Driver’s Delight

If you’re driving your car regularly and your battery tends to die more often than you’d like, a standard battery charger is a perfect choice. These chargers are quick, efficient, and can get you back on the road in no time. They’re your savior when you’re in a hurry, preventing that allowed time you have to be late.

Classic Car Connoisseur

For those of you who own classic cars, you know the value of an old gem. To ensure your beloved vehicle retains its glory, a trickle charger is your best bet. It maintains your battery’s health without overcharging, saving you the anguish of a ruined battery due to an omission of proper care.

The Modern Solution: Smart Chargers

In our technology-driven world, smart chargers are a fantastic innovation. They’re like the Swiss army knives of battery chargers, offering multiple modes, from standard charging to trickle maintenance. Plus, they come with advanced safety features, making them an ideal choice for everyone. They’re easy to use, ensuring that even if you’ve omitted regular battery care in the past, you won’t do so in the future.

Maintaining Your Charger

Now that you’ve picked the right charger, remember, your work doesn’t end there. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your charger performs at its best. Clean the terminals, check the cables, and store your charger properly when not in use. Don’t omit these simple steps; they can prolong the life of your charger and keep it ready when allowed usage.

A Word on Safety

Your safety is paramount. When using a battery charger, follow the instructions carefully. Avoid any caprice in handling the charger and your battery. Be cautious with the cables and keep them away from water. Overlooking safety precautions is an omission that can lead to disastrous consequences.

The Power of Knowledge

In this guide, we’ve explored the world of car battery chargers, delving into the allowed and omitted aspects of maintaining your vehicle’s battery. We’ve also seen how choosing the right charger can be as unique as your driving habits. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a classic car enthusiast, there’s a charger for you.

So, my fellow drivers, the next time you hit the road, don’t let a dead battery dampen your spirits. Armed with the knowledge of battery chargers, you can confidently face any situation that comes your way. Make that charger your trusted companion, and drive on, worry-free, and full of confidence.

The post Recharging Your Knowledge: A Closer Look at Car Battery Chargers first appeared on Economic Journal.

How can you reduce your fleet total cost of ownership while balancing immediate spending and long-term investments?

What contributes to the full price of owning work vehicles, and how can you optimize these to keep direct fees low and long-term value high?

What Creates a Fleet Total Cost of Ownership?

Balancing your immediate spending and long-term value requires understanding the core factors that contribute to fleet’s total cost of ownership. There are two general types of expenses — fixed and operating.

A fixed cost is a static amount of money that does not change or fluctuate over time. For example, the price of a commercial van or the monthly lease payment on it is a fixed cost. Insurance and taxes are also considered fixed costs. All these expenses are consistent — regardless of how much use each of your vehicles gets, you will still need to pay your fixed fees every month.

Interestingly, vehicle depreciation is also considered a fixed cost. The value of your vehicle can decrease faster if a driver gets into an accident or the machine suffers significant body damage.

However, the value of any fleet vehicle generally decreases at a regular monthly rate. While this is considered an expense, you can claim a tax deduction for miles driven in business vehicles, which can help recoup some of that spending.

Operating or variable costs are less predictable. This type of expense is anything that fluctuates based on activity. For example, driving on roads with toll booths will add toll fees to your operating pricing.

Likewise, repairs and maintenance are also usually considered operating expenses since they change depending on usage.

Usually, the most expensive operating cost is fuel. More fuel-efficient vehicles can significantly reduce fleet total cost of ownership by lowering fuel expenses. On the other hand, if you have fuel-intensive machinery, fuel can quickly consume a third or more of your TCO.

Immediate vs. Long-Term Fleet Costs

If you want to improve your fleet total cost of ownership, you must find a balance between immediate spending and long-term investments. The long-term value of your fleet depends on how well you maintain it over time, which can get expensive. If you only have so much money to operate your fleet each month, it can be challenging to balance immediate needs with expenses that will improve the overall value of your vehicles.

A few strategies can help. First, try to choose highly fuel-efficient machines if possible. This is a great opportunity to minimize operating costs if you’re still building your fleet. Fuel will likely be your largest expense, so reducing it frees up more funds to invest in long-term upgrades.

Next, consider how you can increase vehicle value and address immediate issues simultaneously. For example, adding internal accessories to commercial vans can resolve messes, clutter and damage during transit. Features like interior lighting strips can improve safety as well as ease of use. Thanks to the additional convenience, these accessories will make the van more valuable to current and future users.

Of course, there are sometimes situations where you may need to make an immediate spending decision. If one of your drivers gets into an accident and a machine is damaged, it can create a significant direct cost. Is it worth it to repair the van or should you simply invest in a new one?

In scenarios like this, consider a few main factors to determine whether the immediate fee contributes to long-term value. Factor in the age of the vehicle and the extent of any damage — for example, repairs are probably more economical in the long run if it’s only a few years old and the damage is relatively minor.

On the other hand, a van that is already seven to 10 years old or more might not be worth pouring more money into. Accidents and regular wear and tear contribute to a vehicle’s depreciation, so investing more in an old or battered one is not usually wise since it is no longer a valuable asset. At that point, purchasing a new machine or a trade-in would decrease your fleet total cost of ownership over time.

How to Maximize Long-Term Value

You can minimize your fleet’s TCO and maximize long-term value through strategic maintenance and monitoring. The easiest way to lower TCO is minimizing spending you can control, mainly operating costs like fuel consumption. You can also reduce fixed costs,like maintenance expenses through good vehicle care.

Technology can help with this process — for example, you can use fleet telematics sensors to track key metrics for each of your vehicles, such as performance and fuel efficiency. This data will help you identify which machines or drivers consume the most fuel. Behaviors like excessive idle time can waste large amounts of gas, so eliminating those habits is a great way to reduce operating costs and TCO.

Likewise, using predictive maintenance strategies will reduce your fleet’s maintenance prices and extend the life of your vehicles, increasing long-term value. IoT telematics sensors can help with this, too, by monitoring mechanical health and performance. By analyzing this data, you can catch developing issues early and perform small tune-ups to prevent a breakdown.

Maximizing the Value of Your Fleet

A wide array of expenses contribute to your fleet total cost of ownership, from vehicle leases to insurance to fuel consumption. By carefully optimizing certain fees, you can minimize your total owning prices. Keeping TCO low requires carefully considering immediate spending and weighing their long-term value. Remember — every expense on a vehicle should be an investment.

The post Have You Mastered the Balance Between Immediate Fleet Costs and Long-Term Value? first appeared on Economic Journal.

One of the biggest questions when it comes to car shopping is whether you should buy or lease. Let’s take a look.

Buying

There are a couple of options when it comes to purchasing a vehicle outright. You can either buy new from a dealership or choose to buy second-hand from a dealer or private seller. In doing so, it gives you outright ownership and dominion over the vehicle. This is, of course, the pricier option. However, buying a vehicle outright is often cheaper in the long run because you do not have to deal with interest added, as you would when you make repayments.

You might also be able to get a deal if you choose a second-hand model. The car is also yours to do with what you like. That being said, you do need to have the cash up-front for the sale, which is often not possible for most people on an average income. The car is also likely to depreciate in value which means that when you come to sell it, you are likely to need to take a loss.

Leasing

Leasing a car is effectively renting. You are expected to pay monthly to use the car for however long the term of the contract is. Within the contract, the mileage will also be specified, among other terms. At the end of the leasing period, the car is then returned to the provider. You never own the vehicle. However, the specifics might vary depending on the car, the provider and even the fuel type. This is why doing your research is paramount before you sign any contracts. Finding resources can help.

Try being specific in your research, looking up things like ‘how does leasing an electric car work?’ Luckily, LV ElectriX has some great advice, so you should start looking there. Leasing has a number of benefits.

Firstly, you can drive a newer car for far cheaper than it would cost to purchase. Depending on the contract and the provider, you might also find that they have included other things in the monthly repayment, like maintenance, servicing costs, road tax and even insurance. Having all of these payments consolidated can be advantageous.

However, you are, of course, unable to modify the car in any way without having secured permission from the leasing company. Exceeding the mileage stated on your contract can also be costly. Finally, the payments will also impact your credit score, so you need to make sure that you keep on top of them.

The Final Verdict

So, should you choose to lease or buy your next vehicle?

In truth, there are pros and cons to both options. It should all come down to your personal preferences and your finances too. If you can afford to buy, this often makes more sense because you own the vehicle in the end, and you can do what you like with it. However, leasing is also a solid choice for those wanting to use a car without being tied down by vehicle ownership.

The post The Car Owner’s Guide: Buying vs Leasing first appeared on Economic Journal.

Consequently, travel is an essential part of life as an executive. And there’s reason to suppose that one type of travel is superior to the alternatives – despite the higher costs associated with it. We’re talking about private jet charter, which is increasingly attractive not just to FTSE100 executives, but to those running smaller businesses, too.

So, why exactly might a private jet be worthwhile?

Avoiding Public Terminals

Travelling on a commercial airline involves going through a public terminal along with hundreds of other passengers. This introduces an element of risk into every trip. You’ll have security checkpoints to get through, virus checks to undergo, and the potential for unforeseen delays to develop.

This is a source of stress you might not consider worthwhile, especially if you’re taking many trips.

Time Efficiency

One of the biggest drawbacks of traditional flight (and other forms of travel) is the time investment involved. Most airlines recommend that you arrive at an airport an hour or more ahead of the departure. If delays should happen, you could be waiting significantly longer.

If you’re a high-ranking executive, then these hours of your time could almost certainly be spent more productively. The time you save alone might justify the money that you might spend on hiring a private jet – even in situations where private jet prices are higher.

Comfort and Functionality

When you’re travelling privately, you’ll enjoy a degree of comfort and luxury that you wouldn’t get on a commercial airliner, even if you were travelling in business class. This is not only a good thing in and of itself; it’ll also mean that you perform better when you actually arrive at your destination.

You might even find that you’re able to sleep comfortably on the plane.

Flights on your Schedule

If you’re travelling using traditional methods, then you’ll be bound to the departure and arrival times set by the airliner. This means that you may find yourself having to adapt your schedule to suit your travel arrangements, rather than adapting your travel arrangements to suit your schedule.

You might easily imagine circumstances where this could make a big difference to the success or failure of a trip, or even a business as a whole. As such, being able to set your own schedule must count as a big point in favour of private jet hiring.

The post Why Executives are Choosing Private Jet Charters over Business Class first appeared on Economic Journal.

But shopping for a car on a budget doesn’t mean you’ll end up with an old banger.

Here are our top tips for driving off in a decent car without breaking the bank.

Think about what you need your car for

Before you start trawling the internet for ‘Which’s Best Car for 2022’, you should think about what you need your car for.

With the average car journey only 8.4 miles, you should consider if you really need that 4×4 for driving around your local town. Or, if you have kids and a dog, perhaps a car that has ample boot space with interiors that are easier to clean is more in keeping with your needs than a two-door coupe.

Once you’ve written a list of how you’ll use your car on a daily basis, you’ll be able to narrow down the type of car you need.

Go second-hand

Buying a brand-new car might be your dream – but if you’re on a budget (and even if you’re not!) – brand new cars aren’t known for being investment-friendly. Instead, consider looking at second-hand cars from reputable companies and look for makes and models that hold their value.

Second-hand cars don’t depreciate as much as brand-new models and you can often grab a bargain. Dealerships tend to be the best place to find second-hand cars that are in good condition, with many offering service and finance plans which are particularly useful if you’ve got enough for an initial deposit.

Factor in additional costs

When shopping around for a car on a budget, it’s not just the vehicle itself you should think about. Some makes and models are expensive to insure, and if they run on diesel, you may be shocked at how much it is to fill up at the pump.

Once you’ve narrowed down the types of car you want to buy, do some research to find out what the MPG is, how much it could cost to insure, and what the tax is.

Finding out this information ahead of purchasing can highlight what you can and can’t afford.

Test drive

As tempting as it can be to buy the first car you can afford – avoid making any rash decisions, and instead take the time to shop around.

Where possible, test drive as many vehicles as you can. What might seem like a decent car on paper, may be uncomfortable to drive, or might not have the space that you need.

The post How to Shop for a Car on a Budget first appeared on Economic Journal.

Autonomous Driving Technology Exists

The fundamental technology which would allow a car to drive itself is, for the most part, already in place. You can give a car a set of instructions and have it navigate from one place to another, with the help of a combination of machine-learning, LIDAR and many cameras.

Unfortunately, machine-learning is only as powerful as the learning material you provide the AI with. Many rarely-seen situations, like a cyclist unexpectedly walking out from behind a parked car, or roadworks in the street, can result in erratic behaviour from the machine driver.

Despite Tesla calling their technology ‘full self-driving’, it’s actually only a level 2 (out of five) system. This means that the human driver needs to supervise it constantly. Level 3 would allow you to take your eyes off the road in certain circumstances; level 4 would allow you to divert your attention elsewhere; level 5 wouldn’t even offer you a steering wheel.

How Self-driving Cars Might Change the World

With all of this said, there’s reason to be optimistic about the impact that self-driving cars will have on our roads. They’ll reduce the number of accidents and help to ease congestion. Since all of the cars on a given road will be able to communicate with one another, they can adjust their speed to provide the optimal outcome for everyone.

We might also see a new model of car ownership. Rather than parking a car at work for the day, you might have it go out and act as a taxi service, granting you a passive income. This will free up huge amounts of space in city centres, where parking is at a premium, and reduce the cost of motoring substantially. New cars are already starting to become autonomous.

Of course, a car doesn’t have to be fully autonomous to confer benefits. Newer models of cars come equipped with a whole range of helpful technologies, like automatic parking, emergency braking, lane assist and adaptive cruise control. If you were to lease a new car today, the chances are good that you’d benefit from one or more of these technologies.

All these technologies mean a safer, more economical, and more convenient driving experience. There might come a day soon when you won’t have to learn to reverse parallel park – because a machine will be able to do it for you. It’s a matter of time before this advancement reaches every aspect of the driving experience.

The post How Close Are We to Autonomous Cars? first appeared on Economic Journal.

Buying a New Car

Obviously, buying a new car will be more expensive than buying a used car in terms of price. In addition to the cost of the car, you also have depreciation to factor in as new cars lose around a third of their value after just one year. While new cars are expensive to buy, you must also remember that they will feature all the best technology and latest features. Often, this means that these cars are more reliable and could encounter fewer issues. On top of this, new cars can be highly efficient and help to keep your running costs down. An electric car may cost a lot upfront, but you must look at the big picture and the savings that you can make over the long term.

Buying a Used Car

When buying a used car, you can make big savings and also get more for your money. On top of this, you can avoid the biggest depreciation hit, which means that you will lose less if you decide to sell the car down the line. While there are clear financial perks of a used car, you must also factor in that they may not be as efficient or reliable as a new car. A used car could be more likely to breakdown and, if you do not have a warranty in place, then you will be the one that foots the bill.

Running Costs

In terms of keeping the car on the road, it is not always clear what the best option is. Research suggests that motorists can save 23% on running costs if they buy a new car instead of a used one. Fuel, road tax, insurance and MOT are the key costs to factor in and you might find that new is cheaper, but whether this works out as cheaper overall when you factor in price and depreciation is another matter. Insurance is one of the major running costs to cover and you should always shop around to get the best policy whether buying new or used.

Ultimately, it is important for motorists to crunch the numbers and consider what their budget is. There are financial benefits and drawbacks of both new and used cars, but it will also vary depending on the make, model, MPG, and various other factors that can influence the price and running costs.

The post New Or Used Cars – Which Are Better Economically? first appeared on Economic Journal.

The pandemic drove many people to open their own e-commerce businesses. Selling second-hand items for a profit or flipping things one finds at garage sales has become even more popular in recent months.

According to IBISWorld, the reseller industry is a $5.8 billion business, with an expected 5.1% increase in 2022. However, straight e-commerce sales of new items – as well as small businesses that own a brick-and-mortar location but also take online sales – grow just as steadily.

Here are some quick tips to improve your small business shipping process.

1. Invest in Good Scales

If you plan to print postage from any of the shipping providers available, you must have a good set of scales. You may even want to take your small scale to your local U.S. Post Office or UPS Store and see if they’ll calibrate alongside yours to ensure your scale matches the weight they get.

2. Know When to Use Poly Mailers

Poly mailers are lightweight and perfect for sending out items that won’t get damaged en route, such as clothing, shoes, some books, and plastic items. You may want to wrap the item in a bit of bubble wrap if you’re worried it might break along the way, but you can save a lot of money on postage and materials, and even lessen your environmental impact,  by using this type of package.

3. Always Round Up

Keep a tape measure handy. Stuffing a box full can cause the sides to bulge and change the sizing. The measurements indicated on the box information may not always be correct. You could be charged extra and incur higher fees if you don’t use the correct measurements.

Your best bet is to always round up. If a box weighs 2 pounds and 14 ounces, round up to 3. However, never round down.

4. Ramp Up Your Warehouse Systems

As businesses scale up, they sometimes find they don’t have the inventory or warehouse system they thought they did. There’s nothing worse than having an order to fill and realizing you have no idea where the item is amidst rows and rows of products.

Start small with a numbering or dated system for placement and utilize current artificial intelligence and sensors to keep track. One day, you might even upgrade to warehouse robots to pick your items for you. Experts believe as many as 50,000 warehouses will use autonomous robots by 2025.

5. Save on Shipping Supplies

If you use the USPS to ship packages and send a lot of items out via Priority Mail, you can use their flat-rate boxes and padded mailers to save a bit on the cost of shipping supplies. You can only use these items for shipping via Priority.

Some small-business owners make the mistake of using the padded mailers for packing material. Be aware the USPS can and sometimes does open boxes. If they catch you using their Priority material to ship at a lower rate, you’ll be charged for the difference. There is also the concern the Post Office will take away the perk of free items if people abuse the privilege.

6. Use Right-Sized Packaging

Anything over 12 inches throws you into higher pricing tiers with the Post Office. Other providers charge at varying rates, based on cubic inches.

If you have too much space in a package, look for ways to cut that space down. Use a smaller box or even take an Exacto knife and score the box, cutting and reshaping until it’s the size you need.

7. Avoid Damage

Retail Dive recently looked at the issue of consumers receiving damaged packages. They found around 21% of oversized online purchases arrive damaged on the consumer’s end. How can you ensure heavy items arrive safely on the other side?

Using enough padding and adequate box strength is part of the equation. Bubble wrap and air pockets are almost a must in most shipping situations. Make sure you wrap the item securely and then add enough padding to withstand the jostling that occurs during shipping. Don’t leave any extra space for the item to bounce around.

8. Double-Box Fragile Items

Perhaps you’re reselling vintage vases or you sell brand-new figurines you designed. Any type of fragile item needs a bit of extra care. Always wrap in bubble wrap, place inside a tight box, and then put that box inside another box with two inches of space around all sides and padding between the outer and inner box.

9. Get a Discount

Shipping costs add up quickly for smaller businesses that might not do a lot of volume. Fortunately, you can get a discount on your shipping costs through sites such as Pirate Ship and Easyship. They get the volume discounts and you get the savings without jumping through hoops.

10. Brand Your Box

Get your company’s name out there by labeling the outside of your packages. Every person who encounters the box along the way sees your logo or website address. It’s like bonus marketing for mere pennies.

Refine the Process

Keep working on your shipping process until you find the right balance. Ideally, you’ll get packages out quickly upon receiving an order. You also want to improve the damage rates so things arrive unscathed on the other end.

The post The Top 10 Shipping Tips for Small Business Owners first appeared on Economic Journal.

Industry filters designed to protect your engine

An industry filter from Siguna Industri og Marine Aps is not like other filters. The company’s industry filters have proven to perform up to 30 % better compared with other filters on the market, making the brand a good choice if you want the best industry filter for your engine. At sigunafilters.com you can see and read about the different industry filters the company offers. An industry filter from Siguna Industri og Marine Aps are made of only genuine parts and produced within the EU. Due to a strict selection process the company only works with some of the best and biggest manufacturers in europe. This ensures that Siguna Industri og Marine Aps always deliver a faultless product in premium quality.

OEM filters in premium quality

Siguna Industri og Marine Aps is a manufacturer of high-quality OEM filters, made to protect and prolong the life of your engine. Siguna Industri og Marine Aps specializes in filtration products and have more than 30 years of experience in the filter industry. Siguna Industri og Marine Aps is located in Denmark. A country known for developing products where smart design, technology and high-quality fuse together. This is also the case for the OEM filters you find at sigunafilters.dk. With smart technology and expert knowledge, the company has been able to produce a range of OEM filters with superior performance. At sigunafilters.com you can read about the different OEM filters they offer and which engine types they are compatible with.

The post High quality industry filters and OEM filters first appeared on Economic Journal.