Cyber Monday Tips for Your Small Business:

Supply Chain, Packaging and Shipping

The big box stores aren’t the only ones to profit from Cyber Monday. Your small business can reap the rewards of this day, too, but don’t forget some key points about your supply chain, product packaging and shipping for the busy holiday season ahead.

The Supply Chain

The holiday shopping season typically begins on Black Friday/Cyber Monday and may run up until December 24, depending on your business¹
Review your processes, resources and equipment that comprise your supply chain. Are there weak spots or any gaping holes? Check on your orders and make sure you know where they are and when you can expect them.
If you advertise a deal or run a special promotion, make sure your suppliers know the quantities you need and when you need them, so you don’t disappoint customers.
Give your customers a realistic schedule for the delivery of goods.
Make sure you test your ordering and other computer systems to ensure they can handle the increase in volume during the busy times.
Finally, review whether you have the space to store your goods. Look over your physical location now to ensure that there aren’t space constraints and that you can attractively display your goods.

Packaging

Package Design: Many businesses offer similar products, so a good package design can make your product stand out from the crowd. Packaging with colorful and eye-catching design also helps with brand recall, which helps your bottom line2. Make your package design reflect your brand’s “personality”. For example, with more delicate products, use subtle colors and designs, and if your brand is more “rugged”, bold designs with strong colors typically work better.
The Size and Weight of Products: The size and weight of your shipment can affect the packaging you need. You’ll also need to factor in the room needed for materials to protect your product, such as foam, airfill or paper cushioning. Small or delicate items, such as jewelry or skincare, can be sent in shippers or mailers^3.

Shipping

Policies: At this time of year, it’s especially important to review your own shipping policies, as well as the policies and deadlines of your shipping company^4.
Timing: Give your customers accurate shipping information so they know when they’ll receive their orders. Make sure you follow up with the shipping provider if any customer issues are reported.
Volume: How often you ship can greatly affect the price you pay to ship. Businesses that have hundreds of shipments per month can usually negotiate cheaper rates than businesses that have a lower shipping volume^5.
Weight: Weigh your products with a postal scale so you know how much your shipment weighs, which will help determine shipping costs.
Type of Product: The actual item you ship impacts the price you pay. You’ll likely pay more to ship hazardous materials or food items, both of which need special attention.
Delivery Time: The faster you need something to reach its destination, the more money you will pay. While many factors can figure into the timing of delivery, standard transit time is usually between one and five business days.
Distance of Shipment: The destination of the product will also affect shipping costs. Most shipping services offer an estimation of costs to a specific destination based on your point of origin.
Insurance: The value of your shipments will determine the amount of insurance offered by your shipper. The origin, destination, and shipping method will also come into play.
Claims: Different shippers have different claims procedures, so review each company’s claims process so you know what to do if problems arise.
Your Shipping Policies: No matter how you ship, it’s critical to make your shipping policies clear on your company website, especially your policy on shipping returns.

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Crisis Management

California Wildfire Relief: A Collaborative Effort by Lawmakers and Insurance Leaders

California’s recent wildfires have highlighted the urgent need for action to address the growing insurance challenges in the state. With insured losses estimated at $30 billion, leaders are working tirelessly to provide relief and ensure resilience. Protecting Policyholders Amid Wildfire RisksCalifornia Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara has taken swift action, issuing a one-year moratorium on insurance companies canceling or non-renewing residential policies in wildfire-affected areas. Additionally, those who received non-renewal notices within 90 days before the fires are now protected.“If you’ve received a non-renewal notice between October 9 and January 7, your insurer should retain you as a valued policyholder,” Lara emphasized during a press briefing. Lara also proposed a future grant program to assist low-income homeowners in reducing wildfire risks by installing fire-resistant roofs and creating defensible spaces around their homes.“This initiative is crucial for protecting homes and building long-term resilience,” he noted. Legislative Action for Stability and Faster ClaimsCalifornia lawmakers introduced the FAIR Plan Stabilization Act, aiming to bolster the California FAIR Plan with catastrophe bonds to address potential liquidity shortfalls. Speaker of the Assembly Robert Rivas also announced plans to advance legislation that would streamline insurance claims for homeowners affected by the wildfires. The Financial Toll and Industry ResponseAccording to Wells Fargo Securities, insured losses from the wildfires are projected at $30 billion, with homeowners’ insurance accounting for 85% of those losses. High-value properties and extensive damage underscore the financial strain, as the Palisades Fire alone has burned over 23,000 acres and destroyed 4,500 buildings. Despite the magnitude of the disaster, industry leaders assure Californians that the insurance sector is equipped to handle the recovery. Sean Kevelighan, CEO of the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I), affirmed that “all claims will be covered, whether through private insurers or the California FAIR Plan.” A Call for Resilience and ReformThe devastating wildfires serve as a wake-up call for California to rethink its preparedness and insurance strategies.“This catastrophic event underscores the need for greater resilience,” Kevelighan said. “It’s time to reevaluate how we manage risks and sustain a functional insurance market in this state.” At Skyscraper Insurance, we are committed to supporting our clients in navigating these challenges, ensuring access to reliable coverage, and fostering resilience for the future. Together, we can weather any storm. #WeShareYourVisionForABetterTomorrow

Workers' Comp

2025 Workers’ Compensation Trends: What to Expect

As the workforce continues to evolve, workers’ compensation is at the forefront of addressing new challenges and opportunities. By 2033, nearly one in four U.S. workers will be 55 or older, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This marks a significant increase from just over 15% in 2003. The aging workforce brings new complexities, including a rise in chronic health conditions, comorbidities, and longer recovery times following workplace injuries. At Skyscraper Insurance, we understand that these trends require adaptive strategies. Tailored safety programs, ergonomic solutions, and a focus on preventive care and health maintenance are vital to ensuring the health, productivity, and safety of older employees. These measures don’t just mitigate risks—they also create a supportive and efficient workplace environment. In parallel, advancements in technology are revolutionizing the workers’ compensation landscape. Innovations like artificial intelligence and telemedicine are enhancing the customer experience, from streamlining underwriting and claims processes to providing injured workers with immediate access to medical professionals. The rise of the gig economy further underscores the need for dynamic, tech-driven solutions to keep pace with an ever-changing workforce. The importance of risk management is also reflected in recent executive surveys. In 2024, 23% of global executives identified employee risk as their top concern, surpassing all other business risks. Additionally, 42% believed they were operating in a high-risk environment, a notable increase from 31% in 2023. This sentiment highlights the growing recognition of the need for proactive and comprehensive workers’ compensation solutions. Looking ahead to 2025, businesses should prepare for potential shifts in workers’ compensation costs. Factors such as wage inflation, increased claim sizes, and market dynamics may lead to rising premiums despite a softer market. At Skyscraper Insurance, we are dedicated to helping businesses navigate these changes effectively. By staying ahead of industry trends and leveraging cutting-edge solutions, we empower our clients to maintain robust, compliant, and forward-thinking workers’ compensation programs. Together, we share your vision for a safer and more prosperous tomorrow.

Cyber Monday Tips for Your Small Business: