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7 IoT and OT Cyber Risks in the Transportation Industry

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7 IoT and OT Cyber Risks in the Transportation Industry

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The transportation industry is quickly adapting to the internet of things (IoT) and operational technology (OT). But with this adaptation comes a new set of cyber risks. IoT and OT have a well-documented history of cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Thus, the transportation industry is not safe as it adopts these technologies. This article will explore seven of the most pressing cyber risks in the transportation industry today.

1. Lack of Security in Third-Party IoT and OT Devices

Many transportation companies outsource developing and maintaining their IoT and OT devices. This reliance on third-party vendors creates a single point of failure. This can be exploited by cybercriminals. IoT and OT devices are often not developed with security in mind. This makes them soft targets for cyberattacks.

Moreover, these devices are often not updated with the latest security patches. This leaves them vulnerable to known exploits. This is a severe problem in the transportation industry. Many companies do not have the resources to secure their IoT and OT devices properly.

For example, the WannaCry ransomware attack in 2017 took advantage of a known vulnerability in Windows XP, which was no longer supported by Microsoft. The ransomware infected over 200,000 devices in 150 countries. It caused billions of dollars in damage.

Transportation companies must ensure that their IoT and OT devices are properly secured to avoid such disasters. This includes working with OT security vendors to ensure that devices are developed with security at the center stage.

2. Lack of Visibility Into the Attack Surface

IoT and OT devices are often spread across a transportation company’s network throughout the country or even globally. This can make it difficult for IT and security teams to get a complete picture of the company’s attack surface.

Transportation companies cannot properly secure their networks without visibility into their attack surface. This lack of visibility also makes it difficult to detect and respond to attacks on time.

For instance, the 2017 NotPetya attack crippled Maersk, the world’s largest container ship operator. The attack spread through Maersk’s network, causing over $300 million in damage. Maersk was forced to shut down its operations for weeks while it recovered from the attack.

Transportation companies must gain visibility into their attack surface to prevent such attacks from taking place. This can be done by collaborating with reputable, reliable, and experienced OT security vendors. Such vendors can help prevent attacks through the use of IoT and OT security platforms. The platforms provide visibility into all devices on a network, making it easier to detect and respond to attacks.

3. Insecure Communications Protocols

While highly unsafe, IoT and OT devices often communicate with each other using insecure protocols. These protocols are often outdated. They do not support modern internet and network security features. This makes it easy for attackers to sniff network traffic and intercept communications.

For example, the Mirai botnet attack in 2016 took advantage of insecure IoT devices to launch a massive DDoS attack. The attack took down several major websites, including Twitter and Netflix.

An easy way to solve this issue is to ensure that the IoT and OT devices use secure communications protocols. This includes using protocols such as TLS/SSL or IPSec for communication purposes.

4. Lack of Industrial Control Systems (ICS) Cybersecurity

IoT and OT devices are often used to control industrial systems, such as production plants, power grids, etc. These systems are often poorly secured, making them easy targets for attack.

For example, in a related instance, the Stuxnet worm took advantage of poorly secured industrial control systems. The attack destroyed centrifuges in Iran’s nuclear enrichment facilities. The worm spread through the facilities, causing millions of dollars in damage. A similar attack can take place in the transportation industry.

Thus, transportation companies must have the highest security for their industrial control systems to avoid falling prey. This includes using OT security vendors and security controls such as firewalls and intrusion detection/prevention systems.

5. Insufficient Security Controls in Place

IoT and OT devices often have minimal security controls in place. This is often because these devices were not designed with security at center stage. As a result, many IoT and OT devices are easy targets for attack.

The 2014 Jeep Cherokee is a rather (in)famous example of such attacks. The hack took advantage of insufficient security controls in the vehicle’s entertainment system. The hack allowed the attackers to take control of the vehicle’s steering, brakes, and engine.

To avoid such attacks, transportation companies must have adequate security controls to protect their IoT and OT devices.

6. Lack of Staff Training and Awareness

Many transportation companies do not provide adequate training and awareness for their staff. This can lead to employees using IoT and OT devices in an insecure manner. For example, employees may connect devices to the network without proper security controls in place.

Thus, to prevent a cyberattack from taking place due to human error, transportation companies must ensure that their staff is properly trained and aware of security risks. This includes providing training on how to use IoT and OT devices securely.

They can conduct training on a monthly or quarterly basis. This ensures that their staff is up-to-date on security risks and preventive practices. They can ask their OT and IoT vendors to provide training to their staff to ensure that the devices are protected to the highest degree.

7. Lack of Incident Response Plans

Many transportation companies do not have adequate incident response plans in place. This can lead to delays in responding to attacks. It can also lead to further damage being done by the attacker.

To prevent such mishaps, transportation companies must have adequate incident response plans in place. Have a plan for how to deal with attacks and what to do in the event of an attack.

Conclusion

The transportation industry increasingly relies on IoT and OT devices to improve efficiency and operations. However, these devices come with several security risks. Without proper security in place, these technologies could do more harm than good. Thus, transportation companies must be aware of these risks and use the right industrial cybersecurity solutions to mitigate risk.

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How to Start a Logistics Company and 7 Digital Marketing Strategies for Your Transport and Logistic Business

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Are you starting a logistics company? Is the logistics industry too competitive for small businesses? No, it isn’t. Due to the increasing demand for global delivery, you can find many business opportunities. Different digital marketing strategies will help your transport and logistic business gain exposure. This guide will walk you through starting a transport and logistic business. It will also give you a good understanding of what is required in running a logistics company.

How to Start a Logistics Company

A logistics company is a business that transports goods and services from one place to another. The process of transporting cargo includes many steps, including;

  • Loading and unloading of goods
  • Shipping
  • Inventory management
  • Delivery

A logistics company must handle these tasks efficiently while maintaining customer service standards. So how do you start a logistics company?

Analyze the Target Market

Are you wondering how to start a logistics company or a transport and logistics business? Look at other businesses that are providing similar services in your area. Find out their customers, how much they charge for their services, and their marketing strategies. 

This will help you understand how you can compete with them and what methods have worked for them in the past. You can use this information to create a unique strategy for marketing your business.

Set a Goal

You must set goals before you start your business. A common mistake that many people make is that they do not have any goals set for their business. This can be very damaging to the growth of their company. You need to know what you are trying to achieve and how you will get there. Setting these goals will help you focus on what needs to be done and how much time it will take for you to reach them. 

Prepare a Business Plan

You need to prepare a business plan. This will help you decide on the best action to start your transport and logistic business. The plan should include details about: 

  • How much money are you willing to invest?
  • What equipment and staff do you need?
  • Where will you operate?
  • How much profit do you expect to make?

It should also include information about what customers you want to attract and how much time it will take for them to start using your services.

Get the Necessary Licenses and Permits

You must get the necessary licenses and permits to run a successful business. This is especially true if you plan to operate within specific business areas. Or if you’re providing services requiring special permissions from government agencies. For example, suppose you plan on transporting goods across state lines or international trade. You must ensure that you have all the required paperwork before starting operations.

Obtain Funding

Before starting your transport and logistics company, you need to get funding. You can apply for a loan or ask friends and family members for help. You could consider crowdfunding platforms if you don’t have access to these options. Many websites allow you to raise money from investors, but some require you to pay them back with interest. Once you have the funds, it’s time to think about how you will use them. Your business plan should include how much money you need for each aspect of your business. 

Choose a Business Location

You should select a location that offers easy access to major transportation routes, rail services, and airports. The best locations will also access ports, warehouses, and robust infrastructure. This can be crucial for businesses that ship products worldwide or deliver goods locally.

Securing Insurance Coverage

You’ll also need to get adequate insurance coverage before opening your business. This is especially important when dealing with dangerous materials such as hazardous chemicals or heavy machinery. You may need special liability insurance if customers are permitted on your premises, such as in an office or warehouse setting.

Digital Marketing Strategies for Logistics Companies

To get started with your own logistics company, here are some digital marketing strategies that will help expand your reach:

1. Performance Marketing

What is performance marketing? Performance marketing for logistic companies is a form of paid advertising on search engines such as Google, Bing, or Yahoo! It allows you to bid on keywords that relate to your products and services. When someone searches for these keywords, your ad will appear at the top or bottom of the page for a short period.

You can also purchase sponsored links on websites and blogs with high traffic levels. Suppose you have an article about shipping services on your blog. You could pay to have it featured on other sites with similar topics. This way, you can reach new customers seeking information about shipping services.

2. Create an Attractive Website

An attractive website is essential because it is one of the first things people see online searching for services like yours. Your website should include all the information about your company, including; 

  • What services do you provide
  • How much they cost
  • Contact information
  • Clear pictures or videos
  • Testimonials from previous customers

You should also include pictures of yourself or employees and any awards or recognitions your company has received in the past year or two.

Infographic explaining different digital marketing strategies for logistic business

3. Focus on a Quality Local SEO Strategy

To ensure you get more visibility online, you must focus on a quality local SEO strategy. You will need to create high-quality content that will rank well in search engines like Google and Bing. The more people find your website when they search for similar keywords, the better off you will be as far as getting new customers is concerned.

4. Use Technology to Your Advantage

The Internet has been a game changer for businesses in many industries. It allows people from different parts of the world to communicate, share ideas and find new partners for business ventures. A transport and logistics company can benefit by using social media platforms to connect with potential customers.

5. Create Top-Notch Content

You should always create new content on your website that will help educate your potential customers. You should show them what makes your company unique. You want this content to be exciting and helpful so that people will share it online or through social media platforms. People who like what they see on your site are more likely to purchase from you.

6. Social Media Marketing

Social media is one of the best ways to connect with potential customers and build trust. You can use social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter to share interesting stories about your company or products. You could post images and videos that people will find attractive. This will help increase brand awareness and build trust with potential customers who want to do business with you.

7. Email Marketing

Email marketing is another excellent way to get more leads for your transport and logistic business. You can send newsletters or promotional emails on behalf of your business to people who have signed up. Mostly, they can sign up through your website, social media platforms, or Google AdWords advertisements. These emails should include helpful information about your company.

Conclusion

If you are planning to start a logistics company, you should prepare a digital marketing game plan. Developing a digital marketing strategy is essential to grow your business, sell more products and services, and get more clients. These days, the competition is exceptionally high. Even small businesses can compete with big companies in their respective industry.

 

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7 Important Aspects of Personal Finance

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Personal finance is an umbrella term for financial management practices. It is essential to manage your money by budget planning, spending, and saving. Also, it encompasses all of the financial decisions you make throughout your life. 

Personal finance is the planning and management of individual financial processes such as:

How you handle debt and loans is also part of your personal finances. 

While it’s important to reduce your debt, loans like pre-settlement funding are needed. Pre-settlement funding or pre-settlement loan is an advance given to the victim of a personal injury by pre-settlement loan companies. These funds will help you pay your bills and cover your expenses before the court approves your settlement from the at-fault party.

You need to gain an early mastery of your personal finances. This will translate into better long-term financial prospects for things like retirement planning. You can improve your finances by understanding the elements of personal finance. This understanding can help you budget for current needs whilst still organizing for long-term financial goals.

1. Income

Income is a source of cash inflow received by an individual and used to sustain themselves and their household. It is the core of your financial planning process. A person’s income serves as the foundation for personal finance. Income includes all sources of earnings, whether direct or indirect. Salary or profits from a business or profession are examples of direct income. 

Indirect income, on the other hand, refers to other extra sources of income like dividends, investments, rent income, and so on. The income from all of these sources is combined to determine total spending power and create a budget plan.

2. Loans

To avoid being in debt, it’s advisable to spend less than you earn. However, it is inevitable for most folks to borrow when necessary. Going into debt can sometimes be necessary. For instance: if it leads to the acquisition of an asset, or getting a mortgage to buy a house.

In other cases, getting a loan might be your best option. As stated above, a pre-settlement loan is a perfect instance. In the case of an accident caused by the negligence of another, one may be hurt and lose their job. Since trials take long, you may be out of cash before a case is over. 

However, with a pre-settlement loan, you can keep your head above water during your ongoing case. 

3. Savings

Savings management is an essential aspect of personal finance. Saving refers to extra money set aside for future investing or expenditure. If there is a difference between what you earn and what you spend, the extra can be put towards savings or investments. 

Savings can become necessary when there’s an emergency. You may need to fix your car, pay a hospital bill or attend to any pending issues. Having too many savings, on the other hand, can be viewed as undesirable because it earns little to no return when compared to investments.

Nevertheless, you must aim to save a portion of your monthly earnings, no matter how little. This practice will assist you in gradually increasing your savings for long-term expenses or investments. This will assist you in constructing a strong and secure financial future in which you will not be dependent on others.

4. Investments

Most people mix up investing and saving or find them to be similar. While saving is the act of putting money aside, investing is the act of putting money/purchasing assets in order for your money to grow. Investments could include stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and so on.

You must select investments that match your risk-return preferences and, ultimately, your investment goal. Mutual funds, fixed deposits, real estate, and so on are among the most popular kinds of investments. Such investments can provide you with good returns. 

You can also seek professional assistance in developing the best investment portfolio and maximizing your returns.

5. Expenditure

This includes all expenses you incur when purchasing goods and services or anything consumable. Your expenditure can be cash or credit. The majority of people’s income goes toward spending. 

Expenses decrease the funds available for saving and investing. You will be at a loss if your expenses exceed your income. Managing expenses is as important as earning money. Also, people typically have more grip over their discretionary expenses than they do over their income. Nevertheless, good spending habits are essential for effective personal finance management.

6. Insurance

Insurance is a vital component of personal finance that is frequently overlooked. Even today, most people don’t have basic insurance of any sort. Insurance is an important tool for ensuring the family’s survival in the event of a disaster. 

Insurance provides financial assistance and reduces the risks you may face. It is an excellent risk-mitigation mechanism against events that could cause financial hardship. You need insurance, especially if there is only one primary earner in the family. Property insurance should also be considered to protect your family’s assets.

7. Retirement Planning

Retirement is a phase that you will pass through. It can be as delightful or as hopeless as you plan for it. Retirement financial planning is now a two-step process. The first is to save for retirement, and the second is to generate income from your assets during retirement.

Saving for retirement is critical for two reasons: income loss and a longer life expectancy. Also, with inflation, your spending will be much higher after retirement than they are now. As a result, the earlier you begin saving, the better.

As it is important to save for retirement while working, it is equally vital that you make smart plans for your post-retirement. Making the right investments will ensure that you have a consistent income for the rest of your life.

Bottom Line

Ignorance is a primary reason why many people are unable to secure their financial future. Ignorance about what they should and should not do. However, it is critical that you understand the key components. You will need it in developing a road map for your personal finances.

You must manage your personal finances to some extent. The key is to strike the appropriate balance between earnings, expenditure, savings, and investments. This balance will ensure that your personal financial planning and management are at their best.

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 9 Benefits of Trading Forex

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Forex is setting a high trend among millennials. It has been always recognized as a high-potential investment instrument. In fact, 46% of younger investors traded derivatives more than the average. With the entry of AI into trade, it has been a true game changer.

Trading strategy software gives you a competitive edge in the market like a trading pro. When it comes to forex trading, it’s not only about making the right trade, but also about making it at the right time and place. With trading automation software, you can shape your strategies based on real-time information.

Trading forex is unpredictable, but it can be a profitable way to make money. If you’re here, then you’re interested in what you can get from trading forex. This article will tackle some of its benefits, but first, let’s understand what it means.

What is Forex Trading?

The essence of forex trading is the act of buying and selling currencies for financial gain. As a forex trader, you will predict whether the value of a currency pair will rise or fall. The decision to buy or sell the pair depends on this choice.

Most forex transactions have a forex broker. With the advent of online trading, you can now use software for trading. To put it another way, when you use trading tool software, you can let the program handle your trade.

AI in Forex Trading

Does AI trade actually work? Trading automation software makes trading easier and stress-free. The majority of AI trading uses “trading robots.” They can do market research and execute transactions on a user’s behalf.

The AI trading system software has no emotions or psychological biases. As a result, applying AI makes transactions far more effective. When combined with fast execution, the outcomes are better profits.

If you are a beginner, AI trading platforms can help you develop and earn more money. The trading robots use machine learning and artificial intelligence in their trading strategies. It enables them to predict eventualities in real-time, resulting in the best trades.

The AI forex trading program places a trade after seeing a trading opportunity. It also uses the best stop loss and takes profit settings. You can use the entire method to trade the FX market with no manual input.

What Are the Benefits of Forex Trading? 

Forex trading has benefits that make the market appealing to traders. You should understand all that it has to offer before jumping in. Here are nine of its most significant benefits.

1. High Volatility

You can’t completely avoid currency volatility. But, you can prepare for how you handle unstable markets. To do this, you need to use different risk-management measures, including:

  • Trade ideas charting software. Earning a profit during a market slump is a good opportunity to take advantage of. Some trading analysis software offers charting software to members at no extra cost. You can check the charts for any period or view the current price fluctuations. This makes it simpler to see everything at once.

 

  • One-click trade. It recommends the position size to match your risk management rules based on the stop loss. It is a practical way to increase the efficiency of your order entry. You can place trades with a one-click transaction right away, so you don’t miss out on market prices.

 

Prices for some currencies vary because of the large volume of daily currency trades. And sometimes, it amounts to billions of dollars each minute. Speculating on price changes has the potential to result in significant rewards.

2. Fast Liquidity

Most forex traders use AI trading platforms, which improves the efficiency of order fulfillment. With these trading platforms, you can easily find a buyer or seller. Using one means you won’t have to worry about price manipulation and anomalies any longer.

3. No Regulator

Regulating foreign exchange is a difficult task since it takes place in a global and digital environment. Fortunately, this benefits traders like you. Without a centralized exchange system, independent organizations regulate each nation.

These consumer protection organizations make sure that brokers have valid licenses. They also have strict regulations for brokers to safeguard the interests of traders who use their services. Licensed forex brokers assure you that they are fair, transparent, and strictly monitored.

4. Works for all Trading Styles

Your trading approach will depend on your goals and resources for FX trading. There are many trading approaches you can try, including:

  • Swing trading
  • Scalping
  • Day trading
  • Price action method

Short selling (exchanging one currency for another) is a necessary component of forex trading. Earning or losing money will depend on your forecast. As a result, it is possible to make money regardless of how the market performs.

5. Large and Global Market

If you don’t know already, the foreign currency market is large. These merchants come from all around the world, connected through trading automation software. This market has a daily average currency transaction of more than $6.6 trillion. This makes it an even more profitable trading venue.

6. Round the Clock Market Hours

The currency market is always open 24 hours a day, 5 days a week. Plus, it is not based on what the market demands. That means you won’t have to wait for the opening bell. You can trade as long as a market is open somewhere in the world.

But to make the most of it, you should know the weekend forex trading hours. Consider putting stops and limits in place to mitigate gaping risks. Using AI trading software can help you manage your different trading systems.

7. Easily Accessible

One of the main benefits of forex trading is accessibility. It’s really simple to start trading forex, even with a small amount of money. This makes it a great avenue if you’re just starting on your journey with trading.

In short, money will not be an issue if you want to invest in forex trading. While that is the case, successful trading requires you to have enough trading knowledge and skills.

Luckily, you can practice forex trading with free demo accounts without taking any risks. Demo accounts let you practice using a trading platform. This will, then, help you become familiar with market movements.

Aside from this, some practice trading platforms work like real trading platforms. This way, you can create a risk management strategy without putting any money on the line.

8. The Use of Leverage

The best part of FX trading is that you can use margin trading with a large leverage factor. Leverage, or multiplier, allows you to open large trading positions with little capital. It works by borrowing money from a broker so that you can trade large positions in the currency. 

If you want to use leverage, maximizing your prospective rewards is your best strategy. And by using trading analysis software, you can better manage the risks that come with this. It offers running balances, stop losses, guaranteed stops, and price alerts.

9. Low Transactional Charges

For deals with high volume, there are sometimes no fees, or if there are any, you can still afford them. And you can thank forex brokers for that. If you want to know how they can do that, they use the spread to make money. This makes forex trading a cost-effective investment method.

AI Trading Platforms Makes Trading Forex a Rewarding Experience

Trading in the forex market is an exciting and rewarding practice. Remember that Forex is not a simple game that you can play with a few simple tricks. The most lucrative strategy for forex traders is to let money ride.

In the forex markets, volatility is the name of the game. Prices swing, and trends can turn on a dime. Trading needs a healthy amount of patience and discipline.

With that said, it’s hard to go wrong with a reliable AI trading platform. Research your options and ask the experts. With the right platform, you’ll see all that forex trading has to offer.

 

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Investing in Passive Income: 13 Ideas

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Since Covid-19 hit us, the world has been in recession. In uncertain times like these, it can become challenging to sustain a luxurious lifestyle when inflation is on the rise. That is why passive income can be a very effective way to help you generate wealth in the long term while you’re occupied with your day job.

Investing in passive income is more like damage control. If ever you hit a significant setback financially, these investments can help you sail through. With the help of passive income, you can have additional cash flow without disrupting your day job.

If you’re looking for ideas, keep reading. 

13 Passive Income Ideas For Growing Financially

If you are wondering what some of the ideas for investing tips for beginners are, we have covered you. We have some fantastic ideas to share where passive income is concerned. 

Let’s take a look.

1. Social Media Videos

Videos on YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram stay on these channels for a long, long time. Among all, YouTube has the biggest potential to give you the audience and fan following for your videos. 

If you create your own channel and post a bunch of videos there. When these videos start getting views and shares, you can decide to monetize them.

Interesting and entertaining content is long-lasting. Later, the most interesting chunks from your videos can be converted into memes, which is another revenue-generating source. Creating videos on social media can be an easy route to earn passive income, because:

  • Easy to create: you don’t need a lot of preparation; a smartphone with a good camera should be enough
  • No money involved: All you need is solid content ideas to get your audience’s attention
  • Free-to-use Channels: You can sign up for free channels like YouTube and start uploading videos

2. Invest in Stock Market

Investing in the stock market is a great way to create a backup monetary resource. Stock markets allow individuals to purchase shares in public corporations. Once they buy shares,  the investors will begin to receive monthly dividends based on the company’s performance.

Here are some useful investing tips for beginners you need to keep in mind:

  • Before investing, you need to understand different types of products and learn about different ways to buy and sell these stocks
  • Start with a little amount because there might be risks you don’t know about.
  • Always diversify your investment. It means you should invest in different stocks and trading markets
  • Don’t expect to get returns overnight. Be patient till you start earning profits.
  • To be successful, always be ready to learn and gain more insight. 

3. Rent A Property

Renting a property is the first thought to cross our minds whenever someone mentions generating passive income through real estate.

Depending on what property you may own, you can rent out family homes, studio apartments, and even luxury condos at tourist destinations. This will create an additional stream of money every month.

4. Launch a Course

Launching your audio or video course is one of the most popular strategies for generating passive income. Different sites like Skillshare, Udemy, and Coursera will distribute your course. We think it is a brilliant passive income tip since a course is quickly sold.

5. Affiliate Marketing

As affiliate marketing grows, you can use it to generate side income without putting too much effort into it. After Amazon, even eBay, ShareASale, and Awin launched their affiliate marketing programs.

Facebook and Instagram both are excellent platforms for promoting products. All you need is to build an audience, and when people purchase a product from your link, you will get a commission.

6. Write an E-Book

Another passive income idea we have is writing an E-book. First of all, it will save you from the cost of publishing. Secondly, your e-book will be able to find its target audience globally when you publish it on Amazon.

You must be an expert on a given topic, and then you can share your expertise on it via writing a short book. Do well to market your product, and once people start buying it, you will have additional income in your hands.

7. Sell Images

Photography is a skill you can also sell online and generate passive income. It may be a bit difficult, but if you have a stellar portfolio, you may sign up with GettyImages, Unsplash, or Shutterstock.

These platforms will verify your work and, anytime someone purchases your image from the website and you will then have money in your account.

8. Dropshipping

Find available products at cut prices and sell them online through powerful platforms like eBay and Amazon. You will be able to salvage the profit of your purchase, and once you know your target market, your sales will grow.

9. Peer-to-Peer Loan

A Peer-To-Peer loan, or as most people call it, P2P, is an amount you lent to a borrower through a third-party channel such as LendingClub or Prosper.

In this passive income strategy, you earn profit from interest received on monthly dividends. However, you can lose if there is a default because this is an unsecured loan. But there are ways to make it more secure you can look into.

10. Launch an App

For a mobile app developer, this can be a very convenient way to generate a side stream of income. Create a useful mobile app that you think will help users. It can be anything like a game or a dating app, whatever you can design efficiently.

It does require a bit of solid investment initially, but once the app is available to be downloaded by the public, you can reap your fruit for the long haul.

11. Rent a Parking Lot

Do you have a parking space that you have no use for? Rent it out. Trade your location for cash. Especially if you have a more extensive area, it can be rented to different venues so they can solve parking problems when there is an event.

12. Paid Posts on Social Media

Do you have a public social media account with an excellent following? You can use it to leverage brands and get paid projects. Collaborate with different brands and post about their products in return for monetary allowance.

You will have to keep your social media account up-to-date. Be consistent and load it with valuable content to keep your audience engaged. This way, you won’t lose your account’s credibility, and the audience will always wait to see what you have in store for them.

13. Car Advertising

Do you see those public vehicles with advertisements? Well, it can be another passive income tip you can use for your benefit. Get in touch with an advertising agency and let them know your car can be used for advertorials. You can earn some extra cash just by roaming your vehicle around town.

Final Thoughts

So, these were some of our most creative and beneficial passive income ideas to help you generate more cash flow. We know most of these tips might seem challenging to get started with.

However, keep in mind that it is always tricky in the beginning. You will have to spare time to write an e-book, and you will have to make an effort to create a social media presence. But, in the long run, you will be able to maintain your cash flow by these means very effectively, with little to no effort.

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How to Deal With a Truck Accident

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Trucks are a critical component in the transport industry. A significant amount of freight travels by road to its final destination. The same applies even if you use other means of moving cargo like trains or ships. The last leg of the journey will still be via trucks. 

Trucks can handle tons of goods, making them very efficient. Suffice it to say that many economies would fail without the trucking industry.

 But, there is also the less pleasant side of the trucking industry. The sector is a significant contributor to road accidents. In the US alone, over 4,000 people die every year due to truck accidents. 130,000 suffer from injuries due to the same. 14% of light truck fatalities occur due to speeding. 

Other significant contributors are distractions and impairment. Since 2009, there has been a 50% increase in truck accidents. If you put these statistics into context, the ramifications are staggering. Yet the reality is that we cannot do without those giant monsters on wheels on our roads. 

 Now, what happens if you find yourself in the unfortunate position of being in a truck accident? We will share some constructive tips below.  

Assess the Situation

Any type of road accident will be traumatizing. So it is understandable that you may not be in your right mind in the first few minutes. Once you’ve had the opportunity to settle down a little, assess the situation. 

The first thing to do is to check if everyone is alright. If there are injuries, please resist the temptation to move anyone. Unless, of course, there is a danger of explosion or further injuries. If the accident occurred on a highway, move to a safe location. Turn on the hazard lights as a warning to other road users.

Call for medical attention to take care of any injured parties. Your quick action could save lives.  

Call the Police

The next step is to call the police. They will need to come in and file a report of the accident. Stick to facts when talking to the authorities. The documentation will prove useful if you, for example, decide to file a personal injury lawsuit. 

 You will also need to notify your insurance underwriters about the accident.  

Understand Your Rights 

Please note that you have some rights at the scene of the accident. You have the right to refuse to append your signature on any documents. You also have the right to request legal representation if you feel the need. A truck accident lawyer has the expertise to deal with such cases. 

Also, do not accept liability for anything. The reason is that common causes of large truck accidents are attributable to the driver or trucking company. These include:-

  • Driving under the influence
  • Distracted driving
  • Fatigue or lack of sleep due to long working hours
  • Road rage
  • Texting while driving
  • Improper maintenance of the vehicles and more.

You can be sure that their insurance underwriters would do anything to get out of paying for the damages. That is why you should not say anything they can use to turn the case against you.

Your truck accident attorney would also advise against apologizing. The other party can interpret your good manners as an admission of guilt.  

Also, do not accept any settlements at the scene of the accident. It may be tempting to get over the inconvenience as fast as possible. But, what you agree to may not be sufficient to cover the cost. You can’t, for example, know how much you will spend on medical bills without knowing the extent or type of injuries.  

Document the Scene and Gather Evidence 

In the best-case scenario, you can walk around if you don’t have any severe injuries. Use this time to gather evidence. 

Nowadays, we have the advantage of smartphones that come with cameras. Take pictures and video footage as evidence of the damages. The damages apply to you and the vehicles. 

Taking photographs of bruises, for instance, can be valuable evidence in a personal injury lawsuit. The other team’s lawyer may argue that you sustained the injuries later. But, the on-the-scene pictures will prove otherwise.

It also doesn’t hurt to speak to witnesses. Please remember to get contact information from everyone involved in the accident, including the reporting officer and the truck driver. Also, remember to take insurance information from the truck drivers. 

Seek Medical Attention 

As soon as you can leave the accident site, seek medical attention. This is important even if you have no visible injuries and feel fine. A thorough examination may unveil injuries you may not experience right away on first inspection. Remember, you may still be in shock or have an adrenaline high at this stage. 

Another reason for seeking medical treatment is for the documentation. Remember, insurance companies don’t make money or huge profits by paying out claims. If they can find any way to discredit your claims, they will do it. Lack of a medical report would be a perfect way out for them. 

Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer

We have touched on legal representation as one of your rights at the accident scene. Now, if you sustained injuries due to negligence on the truck driver’s part, you can file a personal injury lawsuit. This allows you to seek monetary compensation for any losses arising from the accident. If you sustained injuries, you can be sure of substantial medical bills. You may also have to take time off work, meaning lost wages. 

Hiring a lawyer is crucial because you can be sure the trucking company will not want to accept liability. They also have more money to release a barrage of lawyers on you, so they don’t have to pay. 

Also, please remember the point we made earlier about insurance companies. The truth is they will look for a way not to pay a lot of money in compensation. Whatever they offer may not be enough for the pain, injuries, and loss of income post-accident. 

There is another factor you must keep in mind as well. And it falls under the strict liability tort. You see, the accident could have nothing to do with the truck driver at all. It could be due to a product defect which traces the problem back to the truck manufacturers. 

The trucking company may also be at fault. Lack of sufficient truck driver training would be a breach of duty of care. As a layman, you may not understand the nuances of personal injury lawsuits after a truck accident. 

A truck  lawyer has the investigative knowledge and resources to uncover such issues. They will go after the right defendant, thus increasing your chances of getting a settlement. 

There are specific factors to pay attention to when looking for a truck accident lawyer. 

  • Industry Reputation

Take time to check the reputation of the truck accident lawyers. The internet has made it easy to check for information. A few hours in front of your computer and the correct search query will yield tons of information. 

See what other clients have to say by reading reviews and testimonials. Check what industry bodies the attorneys or firms belong to. That is a good indication that they are authentic and worthy of consideration.  

  • Expertise

Experience in truck accidents is a must. A commercial lawyer may have a general understanding, but that is not their area of specialty. Also, the truck accident attorney should have a good grasp of state-specific laws, as each has its own interpretation. 

The same knowledge is necessary for truck regulation laws and industry guidelines. An example would be the FMCSA or Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Any company contravening the rules as per the policy is liable to penalties and more. The information will be critical for the accident lawyer to develop a strong case for you. 

  • Litigation Experience

Not every lawyer has litigation experience. Some will have a sterling record with out-of-court settlements. But they may not do so well If your case ends up in court. Jury and trial experience must be some of the factors you consider when hiring an attorney. Do ask for the trial record and see how many cases they have brought to a successful conclusion.   

  • Resource Allocation

Litigating truck accidents is a resource-intensive process. Does the lawyer have the necessary team to handle your case? Reputable ones have in-house investigators, medical experts, and more. They will also avail a representative who you can talk to anytime you need to. Someone who will keep you updated on the case proceedings, so you are always in the know.  

Final Thoughts

We have looked at critical steps that you can take after a truck accident to ensure your post-accident claims and to aid you in the process of personal injury litigation. The first step is to ensure that you are alright. Getting medical attention should be a priority if there are any serious injuries. Call the police, gather evidence, and seek medical treatment. No one should force you into signing any documents or accepting any settlement. 

We have also touched on hiring a personal injury or truck accident attorney. They will come in handy if you decide to pursue any compensation from the trucking company. Proper due diligence is critical to ensure that you are hiring the right team. 

 

 

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Archives, Commentary, Education, Global Logistics, Global Trade Daily

5 Things an HR in Supply Chain Management Must Know to Find the Right Talent

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Supply chain management is the whole process that a product or service goes through before reaching the consumer. Depending on the type of business, supply chain management may include planning, sourcing, manufacturing, delivering, and returning goods and services.

The primary focus of supply chain management as a whole is to minimize cost and maximize productivity. Sacrificing one for the other isn’t considered an optimum solution and can be implemented without any planning. 

If you install more machinery and hire more laborers, you can increase productivity. No surprise. But achieving that without investing the presumed resources is the job of supply chain management. 

An HR professional working in supply chain management, while finding the right talent, must be aware of several facts that contribute to the effectiveness of supply chain management. This list includes the general principles of hiring, supply chain orientation (SCO), and organization-specific guidelines. 

We are going to focus on the last two components. As an HR manager in the supply chain, you need to learn and apply these elements in your recruitment process to find the right talent. 

1. Creating Strategic Partnership

Working in a supply chain requires individuals to work in various fields that overlap with each other. An HR professional needs to know about the importance of strategic partnership between the suppliers & organization and between employees. 

When hiring the right talent, you need to verify that the person is capable of analyzing a situation and making logical judgments depending on that. They might also have to take responsibility for each other and solve issues that arise. You may also need to work with workforce retention solutions that hire frontline workers for you. They can hire a talent for the supply chain management through their experience and sources. 

As an HR manager in the supply chain, you also need to take into account the long-term organizational goals while choosing the right talent. If a talent isn’t capable of respecting and adhering to the organizational goals, they wouldn’t be the right choice despite their experience. 

Traditional relationships in other fields are replaced by strategic partnerships in supply chain management. The right talent for supply chain management needs to look beyond opportunism and embrace a co-dependent, firm-specific approach that focuses on long-term partnerships rather than short-term gains. 

2. Building Trust

Just like a strategic partnership, the supply chain employees need to trust each other and the process. This is achieved by making sure that every member of the supply chain works towards a common goal and can fulfill their obligations. 

Your job as an HR manager in the supply chain is to maintain trustability and hire a talent who is responsible for what they do. Experienced employees are somehow better in this aspect. They know how to gain trust and make others comfortable around them. 

A key aspect of hiring the right talent is listening to the employees. HR professionals in supply chains are required to listen to the existing teams and workers to incorporate their feedback into the hiring process. Since supply chains are dependent on coordination between members, it’s important to listen to them before making a decision on hiring. 

To increase trust between parties, you need to know and embrace a philosophy that encourages joint planning, transparent information sharing, and risk reduction activities. When hiring a new talent, you need to consider these elements too. If they aren’t a team player and don’t value the opinions of others, they aren’t the ones for your organization. 

3. Protecting Organizational Confidentiality

Supply chain partnership relies on trust and long-term mutual benefits between suppliers and the organization. The supply chain management system predominantly focuses on protecting supply chain partner interests. Protecting specialized assets, proprietary information, and other sensitive assets need to be maintained by your organization. 

Since your organization requires confidentiality about the partners, the right talent must have the integrity to not fall prey to external influence and greed. In many cases, businesses have faced huge monetary and reputational losses due to sabotage. Especially if you are hiring talent for a management role, consider background checks. 

As an HR professional in supply chain, you are responsible to hire a talent who can comply with the organizational requirements and are capable of maintaining confidentiality. They also are expected to share common goals, common norms, and economic integrations. 

4. Strength of Dependence

Supply chain management systems strongly depend on various partners and services. For example, if your organization runs on Windows PCs, you are dependent on Microsoft for its services. 

Your dependence may also extend to particular suppliers that you source your raw materials from. For example, car manufacturing sectors source their raw materials from metal and electronic industrial partners. 

Whatever be the case, you need a talent who can sustain and operate within the bounds of that symbiotic relationship. Especially if you are hiring a talent for management and executive roles. Make sure that the talent has the necessary certification and skill to function properly. 

You, as an HR manager in supply chain, must know the compliances and the stronger and weaker dependencies to hire the right talent. If your prospect was unable to comply with the norms in their past jobs, consider reviewing their skill levels to understand if they are fit for this job or not. 

5. Interdependence Between Departments

Automobile assembly lines are examples of pooled interdependence. As HR professionals in industries with pooled interdependence, you are looking for a talent who functions perfectly without structured coordination and guidance. 

Sequential interdependence requires the processes to be done sequentially. In the clothing industry, spinning fibers, knitting, dyeing, cutting, and sewing need to happen sequentially to make a complete product. The right talent needs to work in a dependent environment and in collaboration with other departments for the best outcome. 

The IT industry is the best example of reciprocal interdependence. The teams need to perform in coordination with each other daily and process information that’s available through other teams. This kind of complex interdependence is fit for a talent who can communicate and collaborate with different teams on a regular basis. 

Depending on the requirement of the interdependence of your organization, you must hire a talent who can embrace the coordination levels and work accordingly. 

The Bottom Line

Being an HR professional in supply chain management needs you to be mindful of the organizational goals and partner interests. In addition to adhering to the basic hiring practices, you need to hire a talent who can maintain trust, manage partner information, and nurture synergy. The dependence on partners and interdependence on other teams within the same organization also needs to be considered when hiring the right talent.  

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Archives, Education, Global Trade Daily

Have Trouble Checking Your Finances? Check Out These Tips

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Money is a touchy subject for most people. Many people are uncomfortable talking about their financial secrets, let alone taking time to sit down and make sure they’re on track. But it’s essential to know where you stand financially at all times. This can help you make wise spending decisions and save and invest your money. 

Here are some tips to help you be on top of your financial difficulty:

Check Your Credit Score and Report

A good credit score can help you get approved for loans or credit cards, which can help you save money on interest payments. Checking your credit report can alert you if someone has opened an account in your name. You can see any other problems with your credit history could hurt your ability to get approved for a loan. 

If something is wrong with either of these, look into getting it fixed as soon as possible. This ensures that it doesn’t affect your ability to get approved for loans down the road.

Use Financial Planning Tools

These days there is no shortage of apps and websites that can help you cash solve your financial problems. Some are free; others require a small monthly fee but offer more comprehensive services. Some are aimed at specific groups, while others cater to everyone from novice investors to seasoned pros looking for an extra edge in their portfolios. 

Ultimately, a financial planning tool aims to help you learn how to spend money wisely!

Set Up Automated Bill Payments

It’s easy to forget to pay bills that aren’t due for months or years in the future. Set up automatic bill payments through your bank, so they’re paid on time every month. That way, you won’t have to worry about missing payments or paying late fees, and it’ll be easier to track how much money you have left over at the end of each month. 

Automated bill payments are among the reliable financial problems solutions you can use. They can help keep tabs on your spending without much effort; just set up automatic deductions from one account to pay another and let the bills roll in! 

If you’re worried about overdraft fees from this strategy, consider using an online savings account with no minimum balance requirement. This way, all of your automatic bill payments will be made from there.

Create a Budget

People who have a budget are far more successful at solving money problems than those who don’t. A budget management tool is your solution as you will be able to solve your financial distress. 

To create a budget, list your income, including wages, bonuses, dividends, and interest, and then list all your expenses. Add up both columns and subtract the expenses from the income until you know how much money is left each month. Then make sure that amount goes directly into savings or investments on payday instead of spending on groceries and entertainment. 

This way, you won’t be tempted to spend everything you earn each month and will be able to save for emergencies or future purchases such as home renovations or college tuition for children.

Set Financial Goals

If you have no financial goals, it’s time to set some to grasp money handling skills. An excellent start is by writing down what’s important to you, such as buying a house or paying off debt. Once you’ve written down those goals, write down the steps needed to reach them, such as saving up for a down payment or finding extra income to pay off debt faster, and then make a plan for achieving them. 

Check your progress monthly and ensure your plan is still working. As time passes, adjusting the course based on what has changed in your life may be necessary, but having a plan will keep you moving forward.

Track Your Spending

If you want to know where your money is going, the first step is tracking what comes in and goes out. You can set up an account at an app like Mint. This app lets you connect all your accounts in one place to see how much money is coming in and going out each month. 

They also let you set up budgets to better manage your spending over time. And they’ll send alerts when there’s an unusual charge on any of your accounts or someone uses your credit card without permission.

Pay Off Debt

If you have any outstanding loans, pay them off as quickly as possible. The interest charged by most banks is often far higher than the return on a savings account, so it’s worth getting rid of debt early to save money in the long run. If you’re struggling to make your repayments, speak to your bank or credit card provider about setting up an affordable repayment plan.

Get Insured

Having the right insurance cover in place for your family is vital. This will protect you against unexpected events such as illness and injury and cover belongings such as furniture and electrical appliances if they’re lost or damaged by fire or flood. 

You should also consider life insurance if someone depends on your income for their living expenses. This can be cheap but worth every penny if it means their future is secure after your death.

Save for Emergencies

Make sure you have money to cover unexpected costs like medical bills or car repairs. The amount you should save depends on many factors. For instance, how much debt you have, how much money is coming in each month, and whether you have dependents. But, making regular deposits into an emergency fund will make it easier to handle any financial surprises that come up in life.

In Conclusion

An overwhelming number of financial objectives can make it tough to stay on top of finances. But if you have that big picture in mind and the knowledge that the little daily efforts will add up over time, it can help you stay motivated. It’s important to make checking your finances a regular part of your routine so that you can quickly identify where any potential issues may be and handle them in a time. With the right tools in your hands, you can track your finances without a hassle. You’ll never be in the dark again!

 

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Archives, Commentary, Global Trade Daily, Technology

How Can You Reduce Your Fleet’s Operating Costs?

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We all know how expensive operating a fleet is. If unchecked, the operating costs can shoot up significantly. This can lead to increased expenses and decreased profits. Something that you obviously don’t want.

So, how can you reduce your fleet’s operating costs? You can start by following the tips mentioned in the blog. The recommendations cover topics ranging from safety and repair to efficiency, and are easy to implement in your daily operations.

While the changes may seem insignificant, they can dramatically reduce your fleet’s operating costs. So, without further adieu, here are ten ways to control your fleet operating expenses.

1. Installing GPS

Having a GPS device installed in your vehicles helps you monitor them at all times. You can check whether your drivers drive at optimum speeds to reduce fuel usage. You can also check whether they are taking the shortest route possible, which helps reduce fuel consumption. Both these factors help reduce the operating costs by bringing down fuel usage.

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For example, a vehicle driving at eighty miles per hour uses twenty-five percent more fuel than a vehicle going at seventy miles per hour. A GPS device can send vehicle speed information continuously, including when the driver exceeds speeds. 

You can then ask the driver to reduce the speed immediately via phone or radio and keep the fuel consumption in check.

2. Leasing Your Fleet

Buying many vehicles all at once can prove a costly affair for most businesses. Moreover, ensuring vehicle maintenance, tracking, efficiency, and safety for every vehicle can drive up the operating costs. Thus, leasing your fleet from a fleet management services provider is the best possible solution.

The service provider will provide the vehicles as and when needed. Thus, you won’t have the issue of ideal vehicles sitting in your company. Moreover, the services provider also takes care of fleet risk management and fleet assessment. They ensure that the vehicles are well-maintained, have well-trained drivers behind the wheel, and can deliver your goods on time.

You can also track the vehicle employed through a mobile app easily. Thus, you can hire the vehicles at an economical cost without worrying about your goods being damaged, lost, or delayed.

3. Reducing Vehicle Loads

Vehicle loads have a direct relationship with fuel efficiency. The heavier your vehicles are loaded, the lower will be your fuel efficiency. 

Heavier vehicles have:

  • Greater inertia, and 
  • Greater rolling resistance

Both these factors can reduce your fuel efficiency and increase fuel consumption.

Thus, try to reduce the weight of your vehicle as much as possible. Get rid of unnecessary things before you begin a trip. Empty the truck of any items from the previous trip. Similarly, if your vehicle has roof racks, remove them if not needed. 

4. Practicing Fuel-Efficient Driving Methods

Driving at optimum speeds isn’t the only way to reduce fuel consumption and your fleet’s operating costs. You can ask your drivers to practice other fuel-saving techniques discussed below.

  • Using gears efficiently

Drivers should try to change gears early when accelerating. They can also use the block method under appropriate conditions. For instance, they can go from third gear to fifth directly when accelerating and vice versa.

  • Driving at optimum/low speeds

We have already discussed this topic in an earlier section. The slower you drive, the less fuel will be consumed. This will help bring down your operating costs significantly.

  • Switching off the air conditioner

Whenever possible, the air conditioner in the vehicle should be switched off. Using air conditioning at low speeds can increase your fuel consumption. So, if it’s a hot day, just roll down the windows for some fresh, cool breeze to soothe you. You may use air conditioning at high speeds.truck

5. Switching off the Vehicle When Not in Use

You should switch off the engine whenever your vehicle is stationary for a considerable time, such as in traffic jams or signals. Why? Because this practice can help save your fuel.

Research has shown that switching the engine off for as brief as ten seconds can help save fuel. The amount may be small, but it can make a significant impact if you have a large number of vehicles that are constantly on the road.

P.S. Shutting down the engine also helps reduce carbon dioxide emissions and lower your carbon footprint.

6. Choosing the Right Vehicle

Whenever possible, downsize to a smaller vehicle. This will help reduce fuel costs as you can use a vehicle with better mileage to transport the items. The vehicle choice must be based on the type of material handling equipment to be transported, their weight, distance, and other factors.

For example, if possible, you can use a small pickup truck instead of a trailer truck to reduce your operating costs. Smaller vehicles provide better fuel efficiency, have fewer maintenance costs, and can complete more trips in the same period as they are relatively faster to drive.

7. Abandoning Unwanted Vehicles

You can cut down your fleet size and keep only the vehicles providing a high return on investment. For example, if you have vehicles that you don’t use often, you can sell them immediately. 

This will help you earn a few thousand dollars and spare you from unwanted expenses on their annual maintenance. You can save $5,000 to $8,000 per vehicle annually.

If you can’t sell them, see if some routes can double up. See if the drivers in the morning and afternoon shifts both can use the same vehicle.

8. Reducing Accidents

Having your vehicle get into an accident is the last thing you want in your transportation strategy. Accidents can lead to significant repair costs. The vehicle and the driver, too, are rendered out of service for many days, which lowers your operating capacity. This naturally leads to financial loss.

Moreover, you can also get entangled in costly lawsuits, which can add salt to the wound.

Thus, provide drivers training regarding safe driving practices. Have strict rules regarding driving methods. If you find a driver rash driving and getting into accidents repeatedly, fire them.

Parting Thoughts

By taking these small steps, you can cut down your fleet’s operating costs significantly. You can use the increased profit to expand your business operations, or focus on other areas of your business. However, you must remember that this is a continuous process rather than a one-off thing. So, always check your fleet to ensure that the operating costs are kept to a minimum.

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Archives, Education, Global Trade Daily, International Trade, News

9 Tips to Ship a Diamond Bracelet Safely

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Do you plan on sending your loved one a gift for the holiday? Maybe you need to send it to a client. Diamond bracelets are great choices. They are elegant, luxurious, and versatile. While they may be a lot of fun, shipping the bracelets can be complicated. 

Here are a few ways to safely ship your diamond bracelet. 

  1. Photograph Your Bracelet

Start by taking a photo of your diamond bracelet. Knowing how it looks before shipping could help you know if it is damaged. It also gives you photographic evidence of your shipment. In the unfortunate event that your bracelet is misplaced during shipping, the photo can help you find it. 

2. Bag Your Diamond Bracelet

Diamonds may be forever, but packing them incorrectly could damage them. Your tennis bracelet may be costly, but it is very fragile. Here are a few tips for packing all kinds of diamond bracelets:

  • Pack your bracelet in a spacious but compact box or pouch. It should be big enough to hold your bracelet but small enough that it doesn’t take up much space. Travel jewelry boxes are ideal for larger pieces.
  • Use a pouch or travel box with internal hooks if your bracelet is long.
  • Put the bracelet inside a plastic bag before putting it in the jewelry box for extra protection. 

3. Wrap Your Pouch or Box Securely

Wrap your pouch or box securely before shipping. Use protective foam, tissue, or other packaging material to fit the bracelet securely into your shipping box. Jewelry pouches need to be placed in heavy-duty shipping envelopes or small boxes. Wrap them securely before they go into the final shipping box. 

Try to avoid weighing your package down, as packaging costs can add up pretty fast. Use just enough packaging material to protect your jewelry. 

When the little box is snugly fitted into the bigger one, it is time to seal it with heavy-duty packaging tape. Avoid labeling your box as ‘valuable’ or ‘fragile’ lest it becomes a target for foul play. 

4. Seal With Water-Activated Tape

Using water-activated tape to seal your cartons will seal your package firmly. In addition, it can protect your bracelet from damage. The tape forms a physical bond with the surface of the carton, ensuring that the only way to access your bracelet is by cutting off the tape. 

This tape discourages press-and-grab thefts. Pushing on the flaps of the carton does nothing. It doesn’t help the thief open the carton. 

5. Insure It

No matter how safe you think your diamond bracelet may be, risk management is always a good idea. Get shipping insurance for the bracelet to avoid financial losses should anything go wrong. The piece of jewelry is expensive, and replacing it can put a massive dent in your budget. 

Use a delivery option that allows tracking. It should require that the recipient signs upon delivery. There should be no way for onlookers to identify what is inside. Contact the recipient of the bracelet upon delivery. 

6. Use Free Shipping Software to Save Money

Consider using online shipping software to buy labels. This trick will help you save a lot of money. The best free shipping softwares sell labels at amazing discounts. They are known as Commercial Pricing rates.

USPS reserves the discounts for big shippers that send out at least 50,000 packages every year. However, with free shipping software, you can get the discounts with minimal trouble. You can save up to half of what you would pay at the Post Office. 

Another benefit of using the software is that you can print labels from wherever you are. You even have the option of scheduling free pickups by your letter carrier. You get the chance to run your business contactless. 

7. Choose the Right Shipper

Whether you are an individual or business, choosing the right shipper could make things easy for you. The biggest ones include FedEx, UPS, Brinks, and the USPS. However, plenty of smaller couriers may also be reliable. 

Your choice depends on whether you will be shipping domestically or internationally. You also need to consider the level of security that different shippers impose. Your shipper should be able to:

  • Provide a signed receipt as soon as the recipient gets the bracelet
  • Give you sufficient insurance coverage for lost, damaged, or delayed shipments.

8. Track Your Package

Tracking your package gives you some control over the shipping process. It is a safety net since you get to see where your package is and when it has arrived. If there are any issues, you can contact the carrier and let them know that the package arrived at a certain location on a certain day. 

That way it is easy to look for your package should it go missing. If you cannot track your package, you have no control over the process. If the package goes missing, finding it could be nearly impossible.  

9. Add a Thank You Card

Don’t use a branded box to ship out your diamond bracelet. It lets everyone know what your shipment contains and could set you up for theft. Instead, use a thank-you card to pass your message across. Custom tissue paper is perfect for creating an unboxing experience. Discretion promotes safety, and your customers will love it. 

Conclusion

Shipping diamond bracelets safely is a matter of common sense and research. While you may be excited about your shipment, other people don’t need to know about it. Use discreet packaging and avoid labeling your shipment as ‘fragile.’ The less attention you draw to your package, the better. 

Work with a reliable shipping company and track your shipment from the time you ship it until it gets to the recipient. That way, if problems arise, you know where to look.  Free shipping software is reliable and can help you save money. 

Get the appropriate shipping insurance to protect yourself from financial losses should anything go wrong. You don’t want to be stuck with the cost of replacing the bracelet if it is damaged or lost when shipping.