Guide to Sucessful Ecommerce Fulfillment

        Many companies have been increasingly outsourcing their order fulfillment in order to cut costs, alleviate the hassles and to allow more time to focus on marketing, management and growth.  But in order to successfully partner with a company and actually cut your shipping costs there are several factors to consider.

1.) Proximity of the fulfillment house to your customers is more significant than your proximity. 

2..) You should choose a company that has a big enough warehouse to accommodate your needs and will accommodate your growth.   But you also don’t want to choose a company too large.   Some larger companies have a minimum order amount and may penalize you if your numbers are too low.            
 
3.)Your fulfillment company should be able to give you answers right away and help you stay completely informed.   They should be able to provide you with your entire inventory and order information over the web.  

4.) They should also have multiple shipping options such as UPS, FedEx and DHL is imperative.  

5.) Ideally a business that is at least five years or older shows they know the business and can handle the unexpected.   These companies will be able to provide references of satisfied customers.   

6.)  You should be able to verify all charges without relying on your fulfillment company to provide a lengthy explanation.    Over charging is a common practice so stay away from companies with hourly charges for receiving and assembly since it’s almost impossible to verify time spent.

7.) Some companies try to lock you in a long term contract which can be a dilemma if their service isn’t as expected.  Make sure there is a way out by choosing companies without a long term commitment
          
8.) Similar to FedEx guaranteed overnight delivery; a high-quality fulfillment company should guarantee order accuracy and shipping time. 

9.) Regardless of what company you choose, make sure they are as committed to your customers as you are.  


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