LugLess is one of the startups competing in the door-to-door luggage shipping space, and was covered in a startup pitch last year.
In an update chat with the team, Tnooz learned how the startup has fared over the past year - most especially given that startup's accolade from Entrepreneur magazine in its 100 Brilliant Companies coverage.
What has happened in the year since we covered you?
Several things, ranging from small to large:
- We changed manufacturers for our luggage tags, which are now much easier to use and have a life-long guarantee!
- We have improved our technology and system to add more automation and make it easier and quicker for customers to sign-up
- We have now shipped to many more countries and have greatly increased our expertise in shipping to remote locations and handling customs processes of remote locations!
- We have received varying recognition and accolades, including most recently being named to Entrepreneur Magazine's 2014 100 Brilliant Companies!
- Lastly, we have expanded our operation; we have hired additional staff and are servicing more customers than ever!
How many people have used the service?
We have shipped luggage from approximately 5000 customers total. Thus far in 2014, we are usually serving about 5 to 10 customers per day (sometimes only one or two, sometimes 15+, but this is our average range).
What continues to be your brand differentiator?
Our brand differentiator truly is our customer service. We believe, and many of our customers believe, that our service far exceeds that of our customers and we will go above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction and painless travel experiences.
Additionally, we usually tend to be cheaper than our competitors as well. Just today, a customer stated their reason for using LugLess was that we were the cheapest Luggage shipping company.
For validation of our customer service, see our TrustPilot reviews: https://www.trustpilot.com/review/lugless.com
Why should people use your service?
We provide customers with door-to-door, hassle-free luggage shipping for luggage, golf clubs, skis/snowboards, bikes, and boxes.
With how often airlines lose, delay, and/or damage luggage and the ever-increasing baggage fees, our services can give travelers a much easier, more convenient, stress-free experience. Lastly, our prices are usually 20% - 40% cheaper than directly shipping through UPS, DHL, or FedEx.
What has been the biggest unexpected challenge this pas year?
Our biggest challenge this past year has been trying to offer the same level white-glove service internationally that we do domestically. Obviously, pickups abroad bring with them additional issues and uncertainties, so it has been challenging at times to maintain our quality of service while also expanding our target geographies.
Everything ranging from communication barriers to varying customs procedures and protocols increases the difficulty of international shipping, yet we strive to offer the same level service and reliability, and feel that we have done so successfully. In short, increasing quantity and reach, without sacrificing any quality.
What has been the best thing to happen this year?
I don't know if there is any single best thing, but overall 2014 has been an incredible year thus far.
This year, LugLess has really been gaining a lot of traction in several different ways. We've been getting more accolades and recognition, including being named to Entrepreneur Magazine's 2014 100 Brilliant Companies and being featured on ABC's national news.
We've been generating more partnerships with other travel related agencies and companies, and have been generating interest from different suitors and larger partners/companies.
NB: Luggage image courtesy Shutterstock.