eCommerce Fulfillment

Top 10 Best eCommerce Order Fulfillment Companies to Grow your Online Business in 2024

E-Commerce fulfillment is an important business component to ensure that orders are delivered to customers on time. Receiving inbound wholesale shipments, sorting stock, and shelving inventory for efficient picking and packaging before it gets to the customer's doorstep is all part of order fulfillment. Order fulfillment setbacks for startups and SMEs can harm their business and operational efficiency. As the company grows and attracts customers worldwide, creating an order fulfillment system has gotten more difficult. Customer satisfaction and income can suffer if the order fulfillment procedure is inefficient. As a result, the company's reputation is also affected. Read along to understand how eCommerce fulfillment companies and dropshipping fulfillment companies can help eCommerce & D2C brands to grow their business and list of top fulfillment companies for eCommerce. What Do eCommerce Fulfillment Companies Do? E-commerce fulfillment companies specialise in order processing and delivery. This procedure includes receiving and storing goods, processing orders, picking and packing, inserting packing slips, and eCommerce shipping. These companies use software that connects to the seller's website. Companies providing eCommerce fulfillment services inspect the products, pack them, and ship them to the consumer once an order is placed. They also help retailers with inventory management and tracking. Orders are also stored at eCommerce fulfillment facilities. eCommerce fulfillment services can be performed by third-party order fulfillment companies that will manage all of the eCommerce operations when an order is placed, allowing businesses to focus on marketing and product development. Order fulfillment helps startups/small businesses, and SMEs alleviate the burden of having a physical location or a dedicated storage facility to fulfill orders. [contactus_uth] Self-Shipping vs eCommerce Fulfillment - What is Right For You? [table id=10 /] What are the Benefits of Using Fulfillment Companies? Key benefits of using eCommerce fulfillment companies for the order fulfillment process include Remote inventory management: With the service provider's warehouses, businesses will not require dedicated physical storage spaces. For a flawless order fulfillment experience for the customer, fulfillment companies for eCommerce can be accessed on-demand or long-term at any preferred location.A shorter distance between source and delivery location: By shortening the distance between the product's source and the customer's location, eCommerce fulfillment centers can ensure speedier order fulfillment. Optimised storage: Businesses can easily store stock goods in areas with the largest volume of orders using eCommerce warehouse fulfillment technologies provided by the service partner. (Note that different types of eCommerce warehouses are used for different functions)Improving customer satisfaction: Positive feedback from customers about a speedy and flawless delivery process. Businesses may improve brand loyalty and promote repeat purchases by providing a pleasant client experience. Must-Have Features of eCommerce Fulfillment Companies When businesses partner with 3PL fulfillment companies for eCommerce order fulfillment, the following features should be provided with the help of an app integration for better order management: Warehousing: The fulfillment center should store and manage inventory and process them based on customer orders.Order Picking: When a customer places an order, the fulfillment center should promptly pick up the required order items from the warehouse to process them for delivery.Order Packaging: Once the required items are picked up from the warehouse, the fulfillment center should work on packing them appropriately to ensure that they arrive undamaged at the customer's location. If the customer has placed multiple orders, they should also work on clubbing all the SKUs to have a combined package created with a single shipping label to deliver it easily.Shipping: Once the order is packed and ready to go, they should have it shipped from the fulfillment center to the customer's location to ensure a quick delivery. Fulfillment companies for eCommerce should share real-time tracking details with the seller and the customer for order visibility.Returns management: In case an order is undelivered or is returned by the customer, the same should be processed by the eCommerce fulfillment center and accordingly added back into the business's inventory (if the products are undamaged and unused).eCommerce platform and multi-channel integration: Integration with all eCommerce platforms is critical for eCommerce fulfillment software. This ensures that no orders are overlooked, which leads to decreased customer satisfaction.Access to a customer portal: The software of fulfillment companies needs to provide a good platform for customers. Customers that order frequently may choose to use a customer portal to alter invoicing and delivery options, track order fulfillment status, and examine prior orders. This feature also helps detect anomalies, identify frequent returners, and other factors that can be looked into to improve logistics and customer satisfaction. Technology-driven 3PLs simplify businesses to integrate their online store with their system. This creates a two-way information flow, allowing business owners to monitor inventory levels in real time. They also have access to dependable, accurate, and transparent data. Top 10 eCommerce Fulfillment Companies for Growing Online Stores [Updated List for 2024] WareIQDHL FulfillmentShipBobDeliverrShipMonkFBA (Fulfilled by Amazon)Falcon FulfillmentRakuten Super LogisticsFedEx FulfillmentRed Stag fulfillment WareIQ Fulfillment Company Source WareIQ, one of the top fulfillment companies in India is a category-defining, best- in class full-stack eCommerce fulfillment tech platform (with inbuilt inventory planning, order management & shipping system) for modern brands to accelerate online sales/ expedite revenue growth & profits with same/next-day delivery. A few of the important features of WareIQ are as follows: Pan-India Fulfillment & Darkstore NetworkPlug & play with no minimumCompliant with Amazon Seller Flex, Myntra, Flipkart Assured & other marketplacesRegional Sourcing hubs to cut first mile costsIn-house managed warehouses – no outsourcingInventory & Network Planning ExcellenceBest-in-class AI models for sales forecasting & auto-replenishment triggersProduct segmentation according to product type (Regular, Non-Regular, Seasonal, etc.) to improve sell-through focusVertically Integrated Fulfillment Tech StackIntegrated with 20+ top marketplaces (national and international marketplaces) & D2C platformsIntegration with National, Regional and Hyperlocal couriers, covering 27k+ pin codesOne unified tech stack for OMS & WMSSupply Chain Productivity ApplicationsRTO Shield – 100% RTO protectionBranded Tracking – Create the BEST post-purchase experienceEngage – Alert customers on shipment status through Whatsapp, SMS, and EmailCustomer Feedback – Gather feedback, improve customer experience & trustWareIQ RushOffer same-day delivery at no MOQ or distance-based billingJump in revenue conversion up to 30%Near-zero RTO%NDR & COD Verification via WhatsappReduced Cost per Shipment (CPS) DHL Fulfillment Company Source DHL Supply Chain, a division of Deutsche Post DHL, introduced the India fulfillment network (IFN) to enable businesses to power their e-commerce business models by providing access to omnichannel distribution capabilities across major markets, according to a press statement. Through additional ready-to-use hubs, their fully integrated end-to-end fulfillment solution on a 'pay per usage' basis helps firms de-risk. Some of the features of DHL IFN fulfillment company for eCommerce are: One-view tech platform for processing orders, inventory management, order fulfillment & delivery to the end consumersNext-day delivery in over 80 citiesRange of B2B & B2C warehousing servicesSeamless logistics managementInventory optimisation, smoothing, and synchronisationIn-plant logistics; just-in-time inventory and Kanban replenishment of raw materials/components to manufacturingVendor-managed inventoryInbound handling, consolidation, and global distribution to outstations ShipBob Fulfillment Company Source ShipBob has no order minimums and aside from Amazon, has the largest network of domestic and international fulfillment centers on our list, allowing it to provide high-level distribution capabilities. ShipBob provides several eCommerce-related services. Businesses can obtain quick access to a variety of web integrations, eCommerce inventory features, and advanced filter capabilities. ShipBob, which has been in business since 2014, delivers great customer service and assigns each online business its dedicated account manager. Some features ShipBob has are Affordable pricingB2B fulfillment with EDI complianceItemized billing format for transparencyFDA-certified climate control and handlingFBA prep services Deliverr Source Deliverr is an excellent option for startups, especially if the majority of their customers are located in the United States. Deliverr, like Amazon Prime, offers 2-day shipping across several shopping channels. What sets them apart is their transparent pricing. Sellers may find out exactly how much their estimated spend will be by inputting product information into the cost calculator on their website. Deliverr has some drawbacks, such as the lack of return processing and subscription box kitting. Some of the features include: All-in-one fees include receiving and fulfillmentReal-time inventory and order trackingFree trials for limited SKUsFast-shipping tagsSmart algorithm to allocate inventory across Deliverr's fulfillment warehouse network intelligently ShipMonk Fulfillment Company Source ShipMonk's platform is tailored to match the business' scalability needed to accommodate growth. But they do not provide batch fulfillment services and require a minimum of $250 in pick and pack fees. ShipMonk has been around since 2014. ShipMonk specialises in B2C eCommerce, subscription boxes, and crowdfunding projects and offers a wide range of fulfillment services. They also provide access to a vast list of integrations from which to choose while assessing the best possibilities for your business. ShipMonk is recognised for its subscription fulfillment services, but that's only a small part of what they do for customers, and its services may be customised to meet their specific needs. Key features include: Amazon seller-fulfilled prime eligibilityOnline billing portalWarehouse automationRobust customisation & branding optionsTax benefits and cost reductions for volume importersNo setup or inventory receiving feesDiscounted shipping ratesClaims managementInternational order processingPhotos of packed orders before they’re shipped FBA (Fulfilled by Amazon) Source Because of its automatic Prime designation, FBA gives sellers better access to Amazon's over 150 million Prime subscribers. FBA is a good option for Amazon retailers since it handles all customer inquiries, administers returns and refunds, and automates order fulfillment, saving time. However, FBA's pricing and procedures are more complicated than those of many other fulfillment warehouses, particularly when selling large or heavy items, so do your study to avoid paying excessive fees. Its key features are: No order minimumsHandling all customer inquiries, refunds, and returnsFBA can fulfill non-Amazon ordersUses inventory pooling that groups identical products from different sellers Falcon Fulfillment Source Falcon is one of the leading eCommerce fulfillment & warehouse service providers specialising in health and wellness and cosmetics fulfillment and was founded in 2015. Falcon Fulfillment provides straightforward pricing and a simple platform to scale as your company grows. The company presently only covers the United States. Due to the 4,000 minimum monthly order requirement and the lack of overseas Warehouses, Falcon is a good choice for established eCommerce vendors who have their customer base in the US. Another disadvantage is that some integrations necessitate the use of ShipStation. Some of their features include: Live order editingCustom packaging optionsEco-friendly packaging optionsKittingReturns management Rakuten Super Logistics Company Source Rakuten Super Logistics provides packaging and shipping services and is one of the best eCommerce fulfillment services suited for enterprises. They also assist eCommerce sellers with marketing. As a company that serves enterprises, Rakuten offers personalized pricing quotes and tailors services to meet the needs of the enterprises. Rakuten does not have global fulfillment centers, specialised packaging, or DHL integration, despite being a favoured fulfillment provider for enterprises. Key features of Rakuten include: Tailored services for enterprisesIntegrated marketing services at additional costs1-2 day ground shipping in the United StatesSpecialty fulfillment centersKitting and subscription box services FedEx Fulfillment Company Source For international delivery and order management, FedEx Fulfillment is the best option. FedEx Fulfillment Services are modular and adaptable, allowing businesses to develop and customise options to meet their specific requirements. In the extremely competitive aftermarket and critical inventory business, FedEx Fulfillment Services offers a strategic advantage. The FedEx Global Distribution Centre (GDC) provides hub-based warehousing for both forward and reverse logistics, with the capacity, environment, and experience to store, organize, and ship orders when it's needed. FedEx, on the other hand, does not offer product-based batch fulfillment, and while there are no setup fees, it does levy account fees when orders fall short of the minimum requirement. Features of FedEx fulfillment are: Global footprintRange of eCommerce integrationsEasy-to-use platformExtensive delivery networkFast shipping and returns management Red Stag fulfillment Company Source Red Stag can handle a wide range of product orders, but it specialises in packing and shipping larger, heavier items. They have remarkable scalability, allowing them to fulfill the needs of both small and large businesses. Red Stag Fulfillment's extended services provide various elements that eCommerce business owners may make use of to assist them to get products to their intended destinations quickly and efficiently. Red Stag excels at handling complicated shipping requirements and heavy cargo. Key features include Video monitoringExcellent customer supportA pallet delivery systemSame-day shipping and order completion guaranteefulfillment warehouse networkExcellent scalability Costs and Challenges of Partnering with Fulfillment Companies Having an eCommerce fulfillment partner for order fulfillment does not require any upfront capital. While the costs of fulfillment services can vary based on the provider being chosen, most of their revenue comes from long-term storage costs. However, other associated costs include Setup feesWeight ChargesPackaging feesProcessing and Returns costsAccount ManagementCustomer Support costs Additional one-time costs for other things may also be a part of the fulfillment center fees. Examples are order cancellations, SKU labeling, barcoding, payment card processing, marketing inserts, product assembly, etc. A few challenges that businesses can experience when partnering with an eCommerce fulfillment center are Limited inventory of what the business ownsStock replenishments to the fulfillment centerThe upfront investment for services like warehousing and distributionBad service from the 3PL partner affects the business reputation 5 Questions to Ask While Choosing New 3PL Fulfillment Provider in 2024 You have to consider a bunch of factors while choosing a fulfillment provider. Here are some important questions to ponder before you make your decision: Does the eCommerce fulfillment company have a PAN-India presence? It is your key takeaway in partnering with a 3PL and cannot be compromised. For instance, WareIQ has a network that can cover 90% of cities in India with over a million population for next-day delivery. That’s the kind of presence you should look for. How easy is it to scale? Traditional 3PLs that have vertical integrations face certain limits in this aspect. A decentralized inventory network that WareIQ has, allows us to scale to new demand centers quickly. Does the fulfillment provider have minimum requirements or rigid contract sizes, terms, etc? You will find that most providers would have certain criteria which may not be favorable for all parties and at all times. A good provider must be flexible with client requirements. For example, WareIQ provides the option of micro-fulfillment where you can start with something as small as a single rack. Does the provider give technology-powered value-added services? In today’s data-driven world, analytics on inventory placement and supply chain can be extremely helpful in staying efficient and cost-effective in all our operations. WareIQ is able to provide the same with its in-house software platform. How easy is it to integrate your business into the supply chain of your 3PL partner? When you are shifting to your new partner, you might not want to wait for too long before the end-to-end flow is set up. A traditional 3PL firm might take from 3 to 6 months for the same. WareIQ is able to onboard new partners within a week! Why WareIQ should be your Preferred Fulfillment Company in India for eCommerce Business? WareIQ, is a leading provider of full-stack eCommerce fulfillment services in India for some of the most reputed brands in India. WareIQ, a fulfillment company for eCommerce offers a full-stack platform for eCommerce companies to enable same-day delivery and next-day delivery to customers – an Amazon Prime-like experience but accessible to everyone. The immediate and most important benefit you can get when you choose WareIQ as your preferred order fulfillment company is the ability to safely deliver your products across the country (including tier 2 and 3 cities) faster than ever before. It will give you the wings needed to provide an Amazon-level service. Beyond this, there are other interesting benefits. Once you hand over the management of eCommerce logistics to the right 3PL provider like WareIQ, you will be able to make time to focus on other important aspects of your business like brand marketing, launching new products, etc. The job of getting them to your customers is out of your concerns with a trusted partner.WareIQ platform is powered by cutting-edge technology that makes it super easy to track and monitor your orders in real-time.Features like smart inventory placement offered by WareIQ can further help your business drive sales on time at high-demand locations. [signup] eCommerce Fulfillment Companies FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) What is an eCommerce fulfillment company?The component of your eCommerce company that involves operations after receiving an order till the delivery of that order to the end customer is known as eCommerce fulfilment. These include picking, packing, shipping, and delivery of product to the customer's door. What are the different types of Order fulfillment?Order fulfilment is divided into four categories: in-house, outsourced, dropshipping, and hybrid. Why should you outsource fulfillment to 3PL Fulfillment Companies?· Ready Infrastructure that can handle the ups and downs of your ecommerce operation· Processing orders efficiently· Focus on your core expertise to build your ecommerce business.· Reduce costs of ecommerce delivery· Get actionable information and best technologies· Expand your geographic footprint with warehouses across India· Leverage existing integrations to your advantage What is the Fulfillment cost?Fulfillment costs in warehousing are the total of all charges incurred throughout the process of moving merchandise from receiving to distribution.Fulfillment costs can include:i) Warehousing and storage costs: These are the expenses associated with storing and managing inventory, including rent, utilities, and staffing.ii) Picking and packing costs: These are the expenses associated with preparing orders for shipping, including labor, materials, and equipment.iii) Shipping and handling costs: These are the expenses associated with actually delivering orders to customers, including the cost of shipping labels, packaging materials, and carrier fees.iv) Return handling costs: These are the expenses associated with processing and handling returns, including labor, materials, and any restocking fees.Fulfillment costs are a key factor to consider when running an e-commerce business, as they can have a significant impact on your bottom line. It is important to carefully manage and track these costs to ensure that they are as low as possible while still providing a high level of service to your customers. How do we calculate fulfillment costs?Fulfillment cost per order = Total warehouse cost per order - total warehouse costs divided by annual orders shipped. Are there any affordable eCommerce warehousing options for small businesses?Yes, there are affordable e-commerce warehousing options for small businesses. Here are a few options to consider:i) Self-storage units: Renting a self-storage unit can be a cost-effective way to store inventory if you don't need a large warehouse space. This can be especially useful if you don't have a lot of inventory or if you only need storage on a temporary basis.ii) Shared warehousing: Some companies offer shared warehousing space, where businesses can rent space on a per-pallet basis. This can be a cost-effective option if you don't need a lot of space or if you only need storage on a short-term basis.iii) Third-party logistics (3PL) providers: Third-party logistics providers offer warehousing and fulfillment services at a lower cost than some larger fulfillment centers. They may be a good option for small businesses that need a more comprehensive solution.iv) Online marketplaces: Some online marketplaces, such as Amazon and eBay, offer fulfillment services for a fee. This can be a convenient option for small businesses that sell products through these platforms.By carefully considering your storage needs and shopping around for the best options, you may be able to find affordable e-commerce warehousing solutions for your small business. What are the best eCommerce warehousing companies?There are many e-commerce warehousing companies in India that offer a range of services. Here are a few companies that are known for their quality and reliability:i) WareIQii) Ecom Expressiii) Delhiveryiv) E-Courierv) GoJavasvi) XpressBeesvii) Aaj enterprisesIt is important to research and compare different companies to find the one that best meets the needs of your business. Factors to consider include the services offered, pricing, location, and reputation. What is the future of eCommerce fulfillment?The future of eCommerce fulfillment is poised for innovation and efficiency. With advancements in automation, AI, and robotics, we anticipate faster order processing and delivery. Sustainable practices, personalized experiences, and strategic collaborations with logistics partners will be key trends. Expect a future where eCommerce fulfillment seamlessly integrates technology, sustainability, and customer-centric solutions for a more streamlined and responsive experience.

January 22, 2024

What is Physical Distribution in Supply Chain Management? A Detailed Guide in 2024

The Covid-19 pandemic has largely shifted the purchasing behavior of consumers from offline to online. The Indian online retail market is growing at a very fast pace and is expected to reach approximately $1.2 trillion (95 lakh crore). As an eCommerce seller, you need to grab this opportunity and establish your business by utilizing the required business tactics. Getting listed on multiple channels and receiving orders are not the only things you should do when it comes to the long run. To not only be in the game but also win, you need to make your end customers happy. That is possible with the perfect placement of your product from the very first impression by the buyer to delivering it to them as they expect. To achieve recognition from your customers, you must take care of fulfillment services and all of its processes which involve processing orders, controlling inventory, eCommerce warehousing, and eCommerce shipping. All of these factors fall under physical distribution in supply chain management. This has been the primary focus of most eCommerce brands in recent years. To ensure you as a seller are handling the physical distribution of goods properly and what the available options are to become more productive, you can read further. What is Physical Distribution? Physical distribution is the movement of finished goods and products from a company's distribution center, using its eCommerce fulfillment network, to the end-user. It includes warehousing, inventory control, order processing, retail fulfillment, and shipping, among other eCommerce supply chain tasks. Customer satisfaction is directly affected by the physical distribution of goods and the capacity to get a product to a consumer rapidly and affordably. Business owners can ensure sustained success in a continuously changing, competitive global market by keeping items in handy places and developing dependable means of moving those items. [contactus_gynoveda] What are the Components of Physical Distribution? Processing Orders During the physical distribution of goods in huge quantities, a uniform system for handling and executing orders should be established. The time period to process orders must be reasonable. Any delay in order execution causes resentment and may result in economic loss. The customer always expects guaranteed delivery within a certain time frame. The degree of customer service is shown in the speed by which orders are fulfilled. Even a small improvement in customer service can result in a 15 to 25% gain in revenue. In marketing, order serving time can also be used as a USP. Controlling Inventory Inventory control is always a crucial part of the order fulfillment process. Physical distribution channel management, including the amount, location, handling, and transportation of physical inventory, plays a distinctive role. Inventory consists of all the items stored in warehouses that are waiting to be sold. Production activity (purchasing activity) and customer orders are linked via inventory (sales activity). As the customer service level approaches 100%, inventory costs rise at a faster rate. The inventory cost and the level of customer service must be correlated and balanced. All that has to be maintained with a proper inventory report. To meet client demand, you need to have a well-balanced range of products for sale. Stockouts and missed sales can result from having an insufficient inventory. Too much inventory entails a lot of money upfront, poor turnover ratio, and greater inventory operating costs. Inventory control's major goal is to ensure minimal capital investment and inventory variations, as well as rapid order execution in response to client demand. You May Also Read: How does multiple channel inventory management work? Warehousing The act of storing and conserving commodities is known as warehousing. It can balance supply over time. Nowadays, micro fulfillment centers are located around markets rather than the supply-chain network. Under one roof, a fulfillment center can handle orders and deliver goods directly to customers where better and faster customer service can be initiated, resulting in a cheaper cost of distribution. Efficient distribution systems can cut delivery and storage times by half. The focus should be on selling rather than the store. Many businesses are moving away from storage facilities and toward fulfillment centers. For material handling, data processing, and inventory control, fulfillment centers employ cutting-edge technology. The services provided by fulfillment companies are directed by a wholesaler through direct fulfillment or drop shipping fulfillment. Here the wholesaler act as a merchant intermediary and a distribution/fulfillment center could be considered as an inventory of a shop nearby the delivery area. Handling Material Modern warehouses have automated material handling equipment instead of relying on labour. The cost of physical distribution has been dramatically reduced because of new packaging, containerization, and palletization techniques. We now have access to machineries such as conveyor systems and forklift trucks. In Western countries, material handling is almost entirely automated. Standard-size containers for packing and transporting items can be stored on pallets or small platforms and then moved by mechanical means. Automated physical distribution of goods and protective packaging enhance customer service, reduce distribution costs and accelerate order fulfillment. Shipping Physical Distribution consists of all the steps that ultimately lead to this final step that is responsible for getting orders to the buyer. The process of shipping is a network of activities that consist of storage at multiple sites coupled with a series of transport linkages during the distribution process. These multiple modes of transport can be through road, rail, water, air, etc. It is a very complex activity in which orders are divided into batches and groups and then forwarded to the person responsible for the order to be delivered. This complexity is usually handled by logistics companies. The different transportation methods of physical distribution are listed below: Road Transport: Trucking is the preferred shipping option for most businesses across the world. Trucks, which generally transport manufactured goods rather than bulky commodities, provide faster, more frequent, and cost-effective distribution to more locations across the country than any other logistical alternative. Trucks are very useful for short-distance shipments and they can carry both large and small cargo with relatively fast and consistent service. Intermodal Transport: Intermodal shipping arrangements, which combine rail and truck transportation for specified stages of the journey, are frequently used by a small business for fulfillment. This combination generally results in cheaper overall expenses than single-mode transportation. Air Transport: Enterprises often use air freight for the transportation of valuable or perishable goods due to comparatively high transportation costs. Reduced inventory-holding expenses and increased sales that may accompany speedier customer service can occasionally balance the high cost of air freight. Courier Shipments: The delivery of shipping containers, parcels, or high-value mail as discrete shipments is known as package or parcel delivery. Most postal systems, express mail services, and private courier businesses offer courier shipment services or eCommerce courier services. Water Transport: Shipping containers are routinely used to transport products via sea. Importers and exporters in the country and around the world use ocean freight as their primary form of transportation. You can check the best shipping companies for your business here. What are the Objectives of Physical Distribution? Utilizes Time and Place Physical distribution contributes to the efficient utilization of time and resources. Transportation and warehousing are used to accomplish this. The transportation system creates place utility by delivering items to the exact location where they are needed. Storing products and releasing them when needed utilizes time. Reduces Costs of Distribution Physical distribution costs make up a significant portion of the product's cost. If these costs are managed in a systematic manner, production costs can be reduced. Transportation schedules and routes, warehousing location and operation, material handling, order processing, and other cost-cutting measures can all be simply implemented. Enables Market Expansion Mega investments in the form of a strong promotional campaign may prove worthless if the physical distribution channel continues to fall behind the market expansion. Firms will be in a great position to take full advantage of market expansion with prior planning for the launch of multiple warehouses, adding new distribution points, and extending the capacity of existing distribution points, as needed. Maintains Market Share The market is highly saturated. In a climate of fierce competition, firms expect to increase market share, while maintaining current market share would be a primary success. This is carried out with the use of proper eCommerce logistics systems. Logistics must be closely monitored by businesses. Companies should detect distribution flaws and take quick corrective action. Stabilises Pricing Physical distribution contributes to price stability. Buyers anticipate pricing constancy over time. The effective utilization of transportation and warehousing infrastructure can aid in matching demand with supply, ensuring price stability. Offers Better Consumer Experiences By using a physical distribution channel, consumer service is made more efficient by making products available in the correct quantity at the right time and in the right location, i.e. when a client needs them. 6 Factors That Affect Physical Distribution in 2023 Every manufacturer must figure out how to get their goods to the end-user. In today's economy, a variety of distribution channels are accessible. A producer needs to keep the following points in mind while choosing one or more distribution channels to ensure smooth operation and lowers logistics costs. Transportation Source Distribution is always dependent on the supply chain and its efficiency. There are many factors to consider to enable faster delivery in a country like India, where customers are scattered across the country. Product Size Source Product size is a matter of concern when it comes to cost-cutting and delivering on time. A heavy item cannot be delivered quickly and easily without prior planning. It needs more manpower, warehouse space, and larger vehicles which directly affect the cost of logistics and delivery. In a similar way, smaller and more perishable products also require their own precautions such as proper storage facilities, extra care, etc. Product Durability Source These days, food delivery applications are claiming to deliver orders in just 10 minutes. This is because food is a perishable product. Sellers need to identify the perishability of their products and plan physical distribution processes accordingly. Delivery Preferences Source Customers often have preferences for the delivery of their product such as the location, time, etc. It is the responsibility of the retailer to ensure that these preferences are respected to achieve a positive delivery experience for the customer. Suggested Read: What is retail logistics? Delivery Partner Reachability Source It is nearly impossible to deliver across the country and make it smooth. A seller can partner with different logistics companies in different locations based upon their area specializations, better workforce, good manager, etc. So here, a seller needs to be smart and choose the best order eCommerce fulfillment company for specific areas. The delivery partner should also be easily contactable by the customer in case of any query, instruction relays or emergencies. Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) Source To perform complex supply chain tasks, handing hundreds-thousands of orders, moving thousands of miles in multiple vehicles, successfully delivering the product and minimizing the cost to do it is not an easy task for a retailer and consists of multiple variables. To make this more simple and efficient, a business needs high-tech software like Warehouse Management Systems (WMS). It also gives them tracking and transport abilities. Conclusion: Why Should You Outsource Physical Distribution to WareIQ? Physical distribution is a series of complex tasks and if even one of them goes slightly wrong, it can have a drastic impact on the entire supply chain. Businesses not only need to figure out the best way to accomplish this but also in the most cost-effective way possible, which takes away precious time and activity that could be spent on trying to grow the business. 3PL fulfillment companies such as WareIQ can take away some of that burden by enabling you to offload the entire process of physical distribution. Some features that may entice you are listed below: Cost-Effective With so many delivery options and an endless amount of envelopes, bubble wrap, double-walled boxes and tape needed to keep your items safe in transit, distribution is more complicated than you think, which is why outsourcing can save you a lot of money, not just on the physical costs but also on the costs to your reputation. Trusting WareIQ to handle and deliver your goods will provide you with a competitive advantage and keep your partners satisfied since you'll benefit from our years of experience and deep industry knowledge. Without costly overheads and adaptability to individual needs, WareIQ provides you with a single location for your material to be stored, managed, developed, and provided. Because of the high amount of parcels shipped each year, WareIQ has wholesale accounts with more than 20 dependable couriers, airmail and freight partners, allowing you to save up to 50% on your distribution costs when compared to other suppliers. Flexible & Efficient Outsourcing gives you more flexibility, which is important if your firm is seasonal or has peaks and valleys. Inventory levels and delivery requirements can fluctuate from month to month as your company expands. WareIQ empowers you to adapt to required changes and continues to provide a professional and reliable service with more productivity to your business. We are dedicated to our role and create solutions that add value to your business as well as your brand image. You can manage your stock remotely and view historical statistics for each order using our online system. It also gives you accurate stock data so you can avoid wasting money and make better judgments about printing and distribution during each marketing season. Focus on Core Operations Preparing to send something overseas takes time that you and your team could spend elsewhere. Few people outside the distribution industry are aware of the constantly changing customs restrictions and complexities of international and local distribution. This is also not common advice given by large courier firms; nevertheless, WareIQ has an experienced team that is available to advise, educate and support you. It's much easier to outsource your distribution than to do it yourself. You can completely concentrate on your core business and you will never have to worry about fulfillment again. Suggested Read: Retail Distribution With WareIQ [signup] Physical Distribution FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) What is physical distribution management?The movement of finished items from a company's distribution and fulfillment network to the end-user is referred to as physical distribution management. Physical distribution in eCommerce includes warehousing, inventory control, order processing, retail fulfillment and shipping, among other eCommerce supply chain tasks. Why is physical distribution important?A company's physical distribution function provides the location and time dimensions that contribute to a fundamental aspect of the marketing mix. Transportation and warehousing are the two most important aspects of physical distribution that help in faster deliveries for a better customer experience at affordable prices. What is the objective of physical distribution?Physical distribution's main goals are to get the appropriate items to the right client at the right time and place. In other words, while efficiency and quality service are important goals of physical distribution, they may compete with one another. How can WareIQ help with your physical distribution requirements?WareIQ offers services for the whole range of fulfillment requirements including all the processes that physical distribution comprises such as storage, shipping, order fulfillment, and customer satisfaction.

March 10, 2023

Beginners Guide: What is Retail Fulfillment? Definition, Types, Challenges, and Strategies for Fulfilling Retail Orders in 2024

In some scenarios, customers may go to a shop and enquire about a product that is currently out of stock at the shop. The shopkeeper would have a few different ways to convey the news to the customer, without displeasing them. They could say that the stock is overdue to high demand and that fresh stocks of the product would be available in 2-3 days or something of that nature. This example encapsulates what retail fulfillment is, where a seller is trying to obtain the product for the customer. Similarly, the same process is followed by online retailers. You, as a seller, should work according to the supply and demand of relevant products. These days, a lot of sellers have gravitated to selling products online. You can see the same products with the same benefits at similar rates offered by different sellers on multiple selling channels. All of them may not have the product physically at their eCommerce warehouse but they still continue to sell it. The question is, how? The reason behind it is that they all take advantage of retail fulfillment. What is Retail Fulfillment? The process of assembling and eCommerce shipping a customer's order is known as retail fulfillment. After a consumer places an order online, an eCommerce merchant is responsible for packaging the shipment with the correct products and placing the box into transit, which is the primary difference from conventional stores, where customers browse and purchase items themselves. It is a specialized branch of logistics that is more intricate, complex, and distinct from DTC (direct-to-consumer) fulfillment. Sending goods to stores necessitates a higher level of quality control, precision, and attention to detail. You will need the necessary tools to interact with each merchant separately to ensure a pleasant encounter. [contactus_lilgoodness] What are the Types of Retail fulfillment? Retail fulfillment can be classified into 3 categories: In-House Fulfillment ModelDropshipping ModelThird-Party Fulfillment (3PL) Model In-House Fulfillment Model In-house fulfillment model is where an eCommerce seller provides order fulfillment on their own. It is either done by a small-scale business, where the scale is small enough for it to be done in-house, or a huge business which has its own resources such as in-house warehouses, human resources, and its own supply chain network. Here are the pros and cons of the In-house fulfillment model Pros: Ability to focus on individual product delivery: A small business with few delivery orders can easily focus on individual deliveries they need to fulfill. A big business can also focus on individual delivery with its in-house fulfillment system. They can customize delivery according to the buyer's preference. Opportunity to save costs on bulk orders: If a buyer orders more than a single product and wants it to be delivered to the same address, the cost of delivery decreases due to taking advantage of economies of scale. Access to door-step branding: An employee with a company that does in-house fulfillment can contact customers directly, on behalf of the company. It will increase the brand presence and add extra value to your orders. Access to direct feedback: Similarly to the point above, company personnel can contact customers directly to solve any query, issue or get customer feedback. They can directly guage the customer’s preferred experiences and solve any issues on the spot. Cons: Increase in prices: In the case of a small business where the seller has to fulfill every order themselves, prices can definitely add up. For big businesses, it can be expensive if they have to deliver products to different places. Need for dedicated resources: Sellers have to put in all their effort to provide suitable order fulfillment. They need to invest in dedicated resources in order to provide a good retail experience to their customers. Increase in time consumption: Good retail fulfillment takes time. A delivery initiated from South India that has to be delivered to North India could take at least 3 days if you are not an expert, which would seem like ages in todays world of same-day and next-day delivery. Limited growth potential: If you are taking care of an essential aspect of your business such as retail fulfillment, you may end up neglecting other tasks such as product development and marketing. Suggested Read: What is Small Business Order Fulfillment? Dropshipping Model Dropshipping Model is where a seller does not stock inventory in their own warehouses. They get orders from their website and other selling platforms and dispatches them from an OEM warehouse or a fulfillment center. The seller functions as an aggregator. What does OEM Means? Here are the pros and cons of dropshipping model: Pros: Requires less space: A physical seller's storage space is required to showcase their shop and to store their products. An online seller can showcase their products on online selling platforms or their dropshipping website, negating the need to have a huge store. Removes the need to manage inventory: With no storage needed for products, a seller does not need to manage inventory. Sellers also do not need to hire resources for such work. Provides flexibility to your business: It gives you the benefit of running your business remotely from anywhere on the globe. It does not matter if you are working from your office or any other location. You can still do all the same things you could if you were physically present such as confirming and fulfilling orders. Cons: Lack of self-branding: Under the dropshipping model, a seller cannot do self-branding as per their requirements. They never handle the product directly. The only thing they can do is provide customised order invoices. Difficulty in quality control: The product is never accessed by the seller because orders are just confirmed and sold through dropshipping. The chances of poor quality control measures can increase without the seller's knowledge. Reduced profit margins: The model is quite cost-effective and maintenance-free so many sellers are adopting similar business models. Thus. competition is higher than in other models so profit margins are lower. Dependence on OEMs: Here, sellers do not have the freedom to fulfill the items according to their preferences. They will have to accept guidelines from the manufacturers regarding their timing, working style, rate fluctuations, etc. Differences Between B2B Fulfillment and Retail Fulfillment B2B fulfillment is not the same as retail fulfillment. It's a general term for sending things in bulk to any company. Shipping boxes from one business address to another is what B2B fulfillment is all about. It could entail delivering items to a store or a corporate facility for staff to utilize, such as shipping documents from one office to another. B2B fulfillment includes retail fulfillment. Traditionally, this meant things would end up on store shelves, but with the growth of eCommerce, it can also mean products would end up on the pages of a retailer's online shop or marketplace. If a merchant sells their goods to a retailer, they could end up in the seller's shop, godown, warehouse or fulfillment center, or micro-fulfillment centers. On the other hand, in retail fulfillment, the seller plus retailer never asks merchants to deliver products to them. The retailer can directly send it to the buyer or a third-party fulfillment center. [table id=3 /] In order to know about other types of fulfillment, you can read direct order fulfillment and D2c fulfillment here. What are the 6 Steps Involved in the Retail Fulfillment Process in 2023? There are several steps involved in retail fulfillment and they are listed below: Receiving New Inventory New inventory must be sent to your fulfillment center for storage. Each SKU will require its own storage area (bin, shelf, or pallet). You must process, organize, document, and stow inventory once it arrives at a fulfillment facility. You'll need to order additional inventory as you are continuously selling products. Reorder quantity management for retail fulfillment needs a deeper grasp of inventory forecasting as well as strong collaboration with manufacturers. If you want to opt for retail fulfillment, you'll need a warehouse management strategy that includes organization, infrastructure, software, and processes for inventory tracking, as well as stations dedicated to each retail fulfillment process. Warehousing You'll be able to use those products to fill customer orders after inventory storage is complete. To avoid stockouts, keep an eye on stock levels and set reorder points so that you can order more inventory if it falls below a certain level. Your shipping costs will be heavily influenced by where you keep and ship your things (i.e., the farther away from the shipping destination, the more expensive the delivery will typically be). Picking and Packing Orders When a customer places an order, a picking list should be generated. The seller must start gathering the items needed to complete the request. Items from one order must be stored separately from those need for other orders. You can pack an order once all of the products have been selected. To save money on shipping, use boxes, poly mailers, and packaging materials that will both protect your products and add up to the smallest possible dimensional weight. Shipping Orders When you ship orders, keep an eye on the ship date as well as the promised delivery date or estimated timeline. If your online store's delivery policy requires orders to be shipped the same day, make sure you are in line with fulfilling the policy. Processing of Returns Customers will almost certainly return eCommerce orders at some point, and you must be prepared. Reverse logistics management that is well-designed can cut expenses and mitigate problems connected with returns and exchanges. Retail Ratings, Issues, and Chargebacks A logistic company is judged by its retail fulfillment process which includes the duration of delivery, accuracy, and rating by others. These days, if a fulfillment company does not meet the retailer’s expectations, the retailers may fine them which is called cashback. This cashback can be fixed or a percentage of the chargeable amount. Suggested Read: Beginner's Guide to Retail Distribution. What are the Challenges and Solutions in the Retail Fulfillment Process? Growing Order Volume With the passing years, online shopping is growing so the number of orders is increasing proportionally. This is leading to an increase in order fulfillment demands and handling thousands of orders is not an easy task. If you are providing a bad experience to your customers, there are high chances that you will lose them in the long run. In this situation, it is better to opt for 3rd party fulfillment companies. Lack of Visibility of Delivery Routes The retailers who fulfill the customer's demand through dropshipping methods have the pain of lack of visibility of the delivery route and it is amplified by partnering with any third party fulfillment company. Inefficient Manual Processes With a high number of orders which need to have 100 % accuracy at the scheduled time, manual processes need to be reduced as much as possible. Manually it is nearly impossible to manage retail fulfillment centers, track inventory, navigate, assign drivers and manage any other logistical processes. This reduces efficiency, kills time, and hinders growth due to which the customer experience suffers. Choice Between One or Many Retail Fulfillment Providers As a seller, when you choose multiple channels to sell your product on, you should also tie-up with several logistics companies. They offer fulfillment services in different locations, for different kinds of products and have different specializations. You can also partner with fulfillment companies, that will track the record and accuracy of different retail logistics companies and will give you the best option. Scheduling with Customers These days, many people shift their locations for work, studies and other purposes, which is also a reason for buying products online. Time is of the utmost importance to them which means that the sooner they receive their parcel, the more satisfied they will be and the more positive reviews your business will receive. Conclusion: Does Your Business Require Retail Fulfillment? Technology has driven our life into a different world. Today in India, we have 100s of unicorns. Each of them caters to new technology and has similar ideas and creative goals which are usually to encourage eCommerce retailers like you, to partner with them to outsource various requirements. For this, you need them to plan your investment budget and set a timeline. You just need to play it smart and you can also earn revenue. A great example of this is Amazon. As we know it is the biggest online retailer in India but doesn't have a single physical store and offers only a few core products that they sell using their own brand while offline sellers like BigBazar went bankrupt. The pattern of bankruptcy shows BigBazar invested millions in procuring products, investing in new physical stores, warehousing, hiring in-house experts, etc. As a business, when it comes to increasing sales or expanding your operations, you should always be open to adopting new trends and technology. If you are a seller, you should opt for multiple selling options and if you choose to sell online, retail fulfillment is one of the necessities to sustain your growth and increase your reachability over the nation and across the globe if you aspire to do so. WareIQ is one of the emerging players in the retail fulfillment space. WareIQ, a Y-combinator backed startup, has rapidly grown to be the leading full-stack eCommerce fulfillment company for some of the most reputed brands in India. WareIQ offers a full-stack platform for eCommerce companies to enable same-day delivery and next day delivery to customers. WareIQ manages the entire range of complex operations in the eCommerce fulfillment process, such as inbound functions like scanning and quality check, 100% accurate Pick and Pack, and inventory management across all channels, with a centralized platform for core fulfillment and shipping operations and post-shipping apps for a delightful experience and zero to minimal supply chain leakages. WareIQ has customised offerings for merchants experiencing different order volumes as well as having different delivery speed expectations. WareIQ is probably one of the very few fulfillment tech companies in the world that have same-day delivery service for their customers under their product “WareIQ RUSH”. WareIQ’s Ecommerce WMS, a centralised tech platform helps to better manage undelivered orders by reducing NDR processing time by 12 hours – a multifunctional NDR dashboard helps to track and take immediate action for undelivered orders in real-time, thereby reducing RTO by up to 10%. Automatic retail replenishment recommendations and easy purchase order creation capabilities on the WareIQ platform further empower eCommerce companies to leverage all possible ways of increasing their ROI. [signup] Retail Fulfillment FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) What is fulfillment in retail?The process of preparing, organizing, and shipping an order so that it reaches its intended destination, which is usually the location of the person who placed it, is known as retail fulfillment. A fulfillment service can handle some or all of this procedure. What is the most important aspect of retail fulfillment? Order Fulfillment is the most important aspect of retail fulfillment. Having your orders delivered on-time, accurate, and in line with the specifications of the ordered items is paramount to a continued relationship with the customers. Is retail fulfillment an approach?Yes, retail fulfillment is an approach. By this we mean, it is an approach to manage inventory, customer orders, and shipping in a retail setting and making sure that orders to customers are delivered quickly and efficiently. Is there any benefit with a third-party logistics company (3PL) in retail fulfillment? There are many benefits to working with a 3PL provider, especially one that specializes in retail fulfillment. What are the steps involved in the Retail Fulfillment Process?• Receiving New Inventory • Ecommerce Warehousing• Picking and packing • Shipping Orders• Post shipping experience What is the process of optimization in Retail Fulfillment?• Selecting a fulfillment Center • Integrated Fulfillment Software • Shipping Time WareIQ, as a retail fulfillment partner, optimises the entire fulfillment process for same/next day delivery.

March 06, 2023

Warehouse Vs Fulfillment Center: 5 Key Differences to Help You Choose the Best Storage Solution For Your Business in 2024

Companies that solely take care of a fulfillment warehouse, usually partner with businesses that work with non-commercial, or B2B orders that deal with large amounts of products. More substantial companies & retailers have their own warehouse and fulfillment center facilities, where they can store their redundant products, or rent storage to partake with other businesses. Generally, it's a cost-effective idea for small and medium-sized businesses to lease warehouse and fulfillment center space, depending on the terms of the contracts. Read along to know which storage infrastructure works best for your online business: Warehouse vs Fulfillment Center. In case you're looking to store your business’s inventory until they’re in demand, or small warehouse and fulfillment spaces aren't working out for you, a fulfillment warehouse distribution services is what your business requires. What are Warehouses and When are they Needed for your Business? It is common to compare a warehouse and fulfillment centers although they have significant differences. An eCommerce warehouse is a structure where goods and products are stored for a huge period of time. It is a facility designed to store the inventory of a business in large volumes until they are needed to fulfill an order. The warehouse layout is designed in a way to ensure efficient fulfillment of orders. A fulfillment warehouse is equipped with high shelves, piled with numerous goods, forklifts, and employees moving all around the structure. Operationally, what happens in a warehouse is a static job. Supply chain management includes warehouse management and fulfillment services. [contactus_lilgoodness] What are Fulfillment Centers & When are they Needed for your Business? In the product supply chain, warehouse and fulfillment centers are two distinct but equally significant components. A fulfillment center, like a warehouse, is a huge structure that houses a company's goods. It does, however, serve a variety of other uses. Unlike warehouses, where products are stored for longer durations, fulfillment centers, and micro fulfillment centers only hold items for brief lengths of time before shipping them out. These centers fulfill B2B and B2C orders for retailers, eCommerce companies, corporations, and other businesses. Fulfillment centers are responsible for the complete order fulfillment process in terms of operations. Order fulfillment is the process that begins with the sale of a product and ends with the customer's post-delivery experience. It includes all you need to know about receiving, processing, and delivering orders. After a customer purchases a product from an eCommerce site, inventory is selected, boxes are packed, and labels are applied before being dispatched to the customer's address. Fulfillment centers can handle both B2B and B2C orders, which either refer to large volumes of products sent to a big-box retailer or orders delivered directly to a customer's home. Outsourcing eCommerce fulfillment is a great option because it covers everything from inventory management to negotiating prices with carriers. Outsourcing order fulfillment to a third-party logistics provider can help sellers manage inventory, improve customer experience, and enables more time to be spent on the core activities of the business. The goal of eCommerce fulfillment services is to respond rapidly to incoming requests and deliver products efficiently. Unlike a warehouse, inventory in a fulfillment center does not sit around for long. While startups and small businesses may initially fulfill orders in-house, using a fulfillment warehouse is an important element of scaling up. These terms are sometimes used interchangeably, and warehouse and fulfillment services are frequently provided by the same organization. However, there are significant disparities between the two. Understanding the relationship between a warehouse and fulfillment center, as well as the necessity for both, can help order processing and inventory management greatly. Warehouse Vs Fulfillment Center: 5 Key Differences in 2024 Although the terms warehouse and fulfillment center are sometimes interchangeable, they have very different meanings. Both of these structures house inventory for firms that sell products online. Every fulfillment center is a warehouse, however, a warehouse and fulfillment center aren't always equal. Fulfillment and warehouse logistics are quite similar and can be easily mistaken. Consider geometry courses to help you remember the difference. A fulfillment center and a warehouse are like squares and rectangles when compared. Rectangles are squares, but squares are not rectangles. The main distinctions are the degree of tasks completed inside and the requirements of clients they are each expected to serve. There are many differences between warehouse and fulfillment center services, which are listed below. [table id=2 /] What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of a Warehouse? Advantages of a Warehouse Products are always available: The primary advantage of warehouses is that products are available at all times, so companies need not worry about running short of stock when a need arises. As a result, retailers can focus on other vital issues rather than worrying about product shortages. In other words, just as a salaried individual who saves money does not have to worry about liquidity during a contingency, corporations with warehouses do not have to worry about the supply of goods since they have enough stock to fulfill any increase in customer demand. Sales are never lost: If a company does not have a warehouse and receives a large order from a customer unexpectedly, it has no choice but to refuse the order because there is a limit beyond which it cannot produce goods unannounced, which will result in lost sales and customers gravitating to competitors, causing the company to lose market share. Wastage is reduced: Warehouses have all of the facilities needed to safely store perishable items for extended periods, resulting in less wastage. If commodities are not housed in a warehouse, the possibilities of them being damaged are higher. In other words, because of warehouses, a corporation does not have to worry about wastage if sales are lower than expected. Disadvantages of Warehouses High setup costs: The most significant disadvantage of having a warehouse is the high initial setup cost, which many small businesses cannot pay, forcing them to rely on public warehouses or rented warehouses to store their goods. Simply said, high setup expenses are one of the most significant barriers to a company establishing its own warehouse for storing its items. Additional administrative costs: Another disadvantage of warehouses is that, in addition to the initial setup costs, the company must also pay regular expenses such as warehouse employee salaries, electricity bills, and other administrative fees, all of which lower earnings. The benefits of having a warehouse must outweigh the ongoing administrative costs for the warehouse to be successful. Negligible increase in sales: Warehouses can only assist in keeping a steady supply of items to match consumer demand; however, if a firm believes that establishing warehouses will aid in raising sales, it is incorrect; When a company has a solid product and a good marketing strategy, there will be an automatic reflection in the sales volumes. In other words, warehouses can help ensure that a company's product never runs out, but if the company's product isn't good, owning a warehouse is pointless and wastes resources. As can be seen from the points above, owning a warehouse has both advantages and disadvantages, which is why a firm should weigh the key factors before deciding whether or not to either set up its own fulfillment warehouse or rent out a warehouse from a dedicated company. Suggested Read: Types of Warehouses in eCommerce What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of a Fulfillment Center? Advantages of a Fulfillment Center Enables the company to focus on core aspects of the business: Using a fulfillment center allows you to delegate the fulfillment process to a trusted partner, allowing you to concentrate on growing and promoting your business, increasing sales, and sourcing products. You can enhance the growth of your business when your eCommerce warehouse and fulfillment services are streamlined. Reduction in payroll and benefits costs: Even if you have internal fulfillment personnel, as your business grows, more manpower will be required, which means increased payroll costs and benefit packages, which will eat into your profits. You may also have problems with employee turnover, which can be costly when you consider the time it takes to train personnel to do their roles properly. Minimizing overhead costs: There are numerous fees associated with managing your fulfillment requirements. Warehouse rental, additional employees & salary, equipment, utilities, and warehouse management software will all be expenses. You can forecast your budget and estimate earnings if you choose a warehouse and fulfillment company to manage these areas because you will know the ongoing costs associated with the collaboration. Enables huge shipping discounts: You will almost certainly incur more shipping charges as an individual business than if you partner with a fulfillment center. Because of the volume of goods they manage, fulfillment centers can negotiate lower shipping prices with numerous carriers. Furthermore, because of their proximity to your consumer and how carriers calculate shipping prices, shipping rates would be lower as a whole. Management of Inventory: Inventory management must be done correctly. Managing the inventory of your business can be time-consuming and expensive. Partnering with a fulfillment company relieves you of that load. To monitor and report inventory, the most advanced inventory management systems and software systems are utilized. You always have real-time access to information, so you know how much inventory you have and what you need to reorder. Disadvantages of a Fulfillment Center Although there are a few disadvantages to working with a fulfillment center, certain customers have unique reasons for keeping their fulfillment operations in-house. These are the most significant barriers that hinder business owners from working with a fulfillment center. Relinquishing control: Business owners prefer to have complete control over every element of their daily operations, including warehouse fulfillment services. If you collaborate with a top-rated fulfillment company, the shift will be seamless. All of the advantages will become apparent in a short period, and the ultimate results will speak for themselves. Limitations on customization: When it comes to fulfilling orders, some businesses want to put their distinctive spin on things. The most prevalent areas of customization include handwritten or personalized notes, as well as brand-specific packing materials. It’s true that when you outsource to a fulfillment center, some of these nuances may have to be sacrificed but the lower prices which you can pass on to your clients, coupled with the extra time you can spend building your business, will make up for these tiny things. Possibility of increased costs: While most clients will save money by working with a fulfillment center, there are times when doing so may increase costs, even if shipping fees are saved. This is especially common among merchants who trade in modest amounts and volumes. In the end, these smaller customers may benefit from a fulfillment center collaboration since it allows them to focus on sales, marketing, and overall business growth. Mistakes made by vendors: When you outsource to a fulfillment center, you may not be aware of an issue right away, whether your vendor sends too little or too much product, the wrong product, or worse, damaged items. You may not even be aware of an issue until you receive complaints from a customer. Working with a fulfillment center will help you avoid these problems because we'll keep track of your warehouse and fulfillment process from start to finish. Customers should keep in mind, though, that these things do happen, and that they should be prepared when they do. Fulfillment Warehouse and Fulfillment Center: Which Storage Solution is Suitable for Your Business in 2024? Source Each warehouse and fulfillment service has a distinct purpose. Making the best decisions for your company is critical as a business owner. The capacity to reach a wider network with full operational integration to sustain customer satisfaction is the difference between a fulfillment warehouse and a regular warehouse. Unless the purpose is only to store products for a long period, a fulfillment center's consolidated services are more valuable. Companies who choose to run their fulfillment in-house, limit their options. They're trapped with a limited number of locations if they rely on only one or two warehouse and fulfillment centers, and they struggle to optimize for speedy shipping, which can impair the customer experience. The capacity to pivot fast and go where the people are has become increasingly vital to fulfilling the changing needs necessary for customer satisfaction today. Customers demand the convenience of quick shipping at no additional expense. A warehouse simply lacks the capabilities to provide speedy, flexible fulfillment in a long-term manner. If you want to take advantage of warehouse and fulfillment services, WareIQ can be of great help. WareIQ is one of India’s leading and fastest growing full-stack eCommerce fulfillment companies that offers a variety of services from same-day and next-day delivery, shipping badges and RTO Shield, to state-of-the-art technological solutions such as our custom WMS and our intuitive, well-designed app store. We can take care of your brand's entire fulfillment requirements and ensure that you and your customers get the best order fulfillment in the country with our pan India fulfillment network and have a hassle-free experience and raise satisfaction levels to new heights. [signup] Difference Between Warehouse and Fulfillment Center FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) What is the relationship between Warehouse and Fulfillment center?A fulfillment center is a sizable structure that houses inventory for a company, much like a warehouse. However, it also has a number of other uses. In contrast to warehouses, where products are kept for longer periods of time, fulfillment centers keep items for only a brief time before shipping them out. What is fulfillment in a warehouse?Fulfillment in a warehouse refers to the process of receiving, processing, picking, packing, and shipping orders to customers. It involves managing inventory, organizing products, and coordinating the movement of goods within the warehouse to ensure that orders are processed accurately and efficiently. Does WareIQ have its own warehouse and fulfillment services?Yes, WareIQ has its large network of warehouse and fulfillment centers which helps to store inventory closer to your customers enabling same day or next day delivery services. What is the difference between warehouse, distribution center and fulfillment center?While the terms warehouse, distribution center, and fulfillment center are often used interchangeably, the key difference is;-The primary function of a warehouse is storage of inventory.-The primary function of the distribution center is to distribute products to their final destination.-The primary function of the fulfillment center is to fulfill customer orders. Do fulfillment centers manage inventory? Yes, fulfillment centers do take care of sorting inventory and keep track of inventory in the warehouse but their main goal is to efficiently ship the orders out to customers as soon as possible. How many square feet are required for a fulfillment warehouse?It will depend upon your growth plan and business type because eventually you would not want to move into, or rent or lease a space that you will immediately outgrow. How are WareIQ’s fulfillment centers and warehouses? WareIQ has an extensive and elastic network of fulfillment centers present across tier-1, tier-2 & tier-3 cities in all zones. Few of the features:• Rapid ramping up of fulfillment infrastructure as required (21 days to go live)• Warehouses of various sizes available - large-sized, medium-sized & small-sized• Highly capable warehouse operations team to enable custom kit creation when required• Temperature controlled fulfillment centers to reduce spoilage of temperature sensitive products• Dark Stores for inventory placement near demand centers, enabling faster delivery Is the Amazon warehouse and fulfillment center the same?Amazon warehouses are called fulfillment centers too because Amazon warehouses not only store products but also serve as distribution centers where associates pick, pack, and ship orders to the end customer.

February 25, 2023

What is Pick and Pack Fulfillment Service in eCommerce? A Detailed Guide on Warehouse Pick and Pack Processes in 2024

It is a known fact that selling is not an easy task and when it comes to online selling, retailers need to make a lot of effort to sell a product. You could create a website or go on multiple channels, list products, take care of doorstep delivery, and a lot more. Among all the selling processes, order fulfillment is one of the most important tasks after a buyer places an order. Receiving and sending orders entails a complicated set of interconnected procedures known as Order Fulfillment. In the process of fulfilling an order, storage, picking, packing, distribution, and receipt of the product by the customer are the important stages. Pick and pack fulfillment services are one of the earliest and most crucial stages in order fulfillment. It not only guarantees that the product can be sold to the buyer’s preferred location but is also useful in branding, marketing, and tracking the product. This article will introduce you to the principles of pick and pack fulfillment, pick and pack warehouses as well as show you how to handle picking and packing process. What is Pick and Pack Fulfillment Service in eCommerce? An online seller, after receiving an order on their website or another channel, sends an order confirmation message to the customer and then initiates order fulfillment. In the order fulfillment process, eCommerce pick and pack warehouse fulfillment is the earliest process that a seller initiates. As the name pick, pack, and ship fulfillment suggests, it is the process where ordered products are picked and packed, following a standardised process. In a fulfillment-providing company, the supply chain must be streamlined with picking and packing fulfillment to reduce logistics costs. Picking is choosing the appropriate product from storage, in the least amount of time, after an order has been placed. Dedicated companies that provide picking and packing fulfillment, have a sophisticated way of doing it. It is further classified into piece picking, batch picking, zone picking, and wave picking. Packing is placing the things in the correct sized box with the proper packaging materials to ensure that they arrive at their final destination unharmed and at the lowest possible cost. Packing should involve efficiently placing orders within the fewest number of boxes, putting packing slips, and using the right type of packing material(s) for each product to reduce shipping costs and maintain order accuracy. Many warehouses include a warehouse management system (WMS) that can assist in determining which box is the best fit for the order at hand. Source [contactus_lilgoodness] What are the Methods of Pick and Pack Fulfillment services? Methods of pick and pack fulfillment may vary depending on the size, location, tie-ups with fulfillment centers, registration on different selling platforms, etc. A seller can change the picking and packing styles as per business requirements. Here are the standard pick and pack logistics fulfillment methods and strategies that most companies do to fulfilling orders. Piece picking method In this method of pick and pack fulfillment service, a single product is picked and sent for packing and further processes. The retailer’s pick-and-pack fulfillment partner picks the order from the seller's shop, warehouse, or fulfillment center and initiates the order fulfillment process. Mostly piece picking is done by small businesses, luxury or heavy product sellers. For them, piece picking is the easiest pick and pack logistics method. Batch picking method The batch-picking method of pick and pack fulfillment service is an organized way of consolidating numerous orders to deliver to different locations. It is done, once a seller receives orders in large numbers. The orders are picked up in batches according to the pick-up location of the fulfillment center and the location of the customer. You can have a single SKU for several orders, it makes sense to bundle those orders together which will save time and resources. It is also done by small retailers, once they get a good amount of orders. Zone picking method In this method of pick and pack fulfillment service, objects are picked up zone-wise and later transferred to another zone till it is delivered. It requires a strong fulfillment network, complex coordination, and technology to achieve the most accurate results by the fulfillment center. Zone picking will need a good pick and pack Warehouse Management Software to handle and automate all the complex processes involved. Wave picking method It is a combination of batch-picking and wave-picking methods. Here, a person arranges the batches of products according to their zonal movement. Then they transfer the batches to the respective delivery personnel in different zones. These days, most of the good fulfillment centers are doing the same. It saves time, energy, and cost. What are the Benefits of Pick and Pack Fulfillment Services for eCommerce Businesses? Suppose you are an eCommerce seller and do multi-channel selling, you get orders across the nation, and you can fulfill hundreds of orders in a single day. While focusing on your core work of selling, you will have to take up a new responsibility of pick and pack fulfillment and also keeping track of hundreds of orders. You will need dedicated resources and capital for it. You might not be able to solve disputes across the country, so this is where pick and pack warehouse fulfillment companies can help. They will store your inventory in their fulfillment centers. From the fulfillment centers, they will pick, pack and transport it to a shopping aggregator or courier service provider, which will then distribute it to the final location. In case you are a small seller, you can focus on the core aspects of your business such as expansion, marketing, development of new products and refining existing ones, instead of spending time and resources fulfilling orders miles away from your shop or godown. The benefits of pick and pack fulfillment through the pick, pack, and ship services are listed below: Fulfillment of orders 24x7: A seller through online selling sells 24x7 so they should also have access to pick, pack, and ship services fulfillment 24x7 for faster delivery and customer satisfaction. Pick, pack, and ship services receive, pick, and pack items around the clock. Access to branded packing: Most fulfillment companies provide branded packing services that help you with customized packing. It saves you the cost of packaging and transportation and also the hassle of trying to make your packaging appealing to attract more customers. Transportation to the best courier service: To make pick and pack eCommerce fulfillment a better experience for both the seller and their customers, these pick, pack, and ship services drop off the ordered items to the best logistics providers and courier services in a certain delivery area. They have enough experience to know who offers better delivery service in that area/city/state/region where orders need to be shipped. Customized pick and pack fulfillment service methods: Orders are picked and packed after analyzing and bifurcating the ordered items according to their demand and estimated delivery time. They use the wave-picking method which saves cost, time, and energy. Professional fulfillment staff: These pick and pack fulfillment companies are professionals in the field of pick, pack, and ship services and order fulfillment. They have a number of solutions for any mishap that could occur and contacts to resolve them in the shortest amount of time possible and at the cheapest rates. WareIQ's Reverse Logistics Enhanced reverse logistics: After selling the product, companies need to have a comprehensive reverse logistics service in place in order to combat any wastage that could occur. Pick and pack fulfillment services take care of the entire reverse logistics process. Why Should You Choose a 3rd-Party Pick, Pack & Ship Service? In the era, where multiple unicorn start-ups are mostly outsourcing resources, there is a huge demand for pick, pack and ship services. Oyo outsources rooms, Ola outsources cars, etc. So the idea here is to not get stuck in micro-management and distract from the core task. Some services which you are able to outsource to pick and pack logistics fulfillment companies are: Branded Shipping Branded shipping is the shipping of a product by a seller to the buyer’s address which includes packing, packaging slips & shipping labels, sending order confirmation messages with tracking details, highlighting product presentations and adding various personalized touches. It is an opportunity to brand your business which can be done by an expert to reiterate the proper message to the target MQLs that may become SQLs in the future. WareIQ Branded Tracking Technology and automation Pick and pack businesses use cutting-edge technology and have well-trained service teams to provide high-quality, professional pick and pack fulfillment services among much more. Most pick, pack and ship services provide access to an online management system that allows you to monitor, authorize, and cancel purchases that are submitted by your company at any time. Order fulfillment Pick and pack fulfillment service providers are experts and equipped with high-tech devices, and software to mitigate any errors in the order fulfillment process. They pick items in batches, according to various metrics which makes it more accurate when transferring goods from one place to another. They also use dedicated vehicles customized according to the product size, area of delivery, freight charges, and much more. Multi-channel selling If you are a multi-channel eCommerce seller, choosing a pick and pack fulfillment service partner is beneficial from your business’s point of view. They provide multiple options to you such as custom picking and packing where all the sales done on multiple platforms can be fulfilled from the same location and packed in a customized manner according to the requirements of the channel. Streamlining processes Because a pick and pack fulfillment service company’s major duty is to execute the supply chain in the most efficient and cost-effective way possible, there are fewer distractions for them and their employees, as well as other obligations that get in the way. When organizations have to manage major processes themselves, it isn't usually the case because individuals are continually pushed in different directions. The supply chain can be reconfigured considerably more readily if required. Pick, pack, and ship services are knowledgeable about the most recent technologies and procedures, as well as the full process from start to finish. This is especially useful if there are any problems or unexpected events along the way. A 3PL pick and pack fulfillment service can put your mind at ease if you're unsure about the capabilities or requirements of your business. Assistance and scalability Scalability refers to a company's ability to handle increasing workloads and the potential for expansion. The capacity to alter space and labor based on inventory and products is another advantage of employing a 3PL fulfillment company. Many pick and pack logistics companies have deliberately established facilities throughout the country to ensure efficiency and nationwide delivery at low prices that enable higher profit margins. This can lead to a re-engineering of distribution markets, which might be a blessing in disguise during periods of rapid expansion. Reverse logistics Pick and pack fulfillment cannot be completed without a return policy. Pick, pack, and ship services are done by dedicated fulfillment companies. In case of a return, they will have to perform all the similar steps in the regular supply chain, but in reverse. If a bad delivery is a bad experience for a buyer then a bad return is similar for a seller. What are the Main Points to Consider While Choosing a Pick and Pack Fulfillment Service in 2023? Hidden Fees & Additional Costs You are in a business so you have to record the expenses. Before you choose a fulfillment partner for order fulfillment, you should know all their terms and conditions. Read twice about the minimum fee, storage costs, and pallet fees are all possible fees. Inquire about fees and compare them. Also, keep an eye on any hidden costs. Knowledge About Your Pick and Pack Fulfillment Partner Visit the warehouse of your potential pick and pack fulfillment service if at all feasible, or at least contact prior and current clients to learn more about the company. Pay attention to your encounters with them; the way they respond to you will most likely be similar to how they respond to your clients after you start working with them. Also, request a demonstration of any systems that will be used. Before committing, it's a good idea to thoroughly understand their skills. Contract Duration Check their terms and conditions regarding the duration of the contract they are offering. If you want a long-term contract then how long they can offer a partnership contract with you would be important and in case you do not feel like continuing with them then how easily can you discontinue the contract is just as important. Prior Track Record Always check online for any positive or negative evaluations of your potential pick and pack fulfillment service. It is always a good idea to get a sense of how other vendors and customers feel about a firm before committing. Check how long they have been in business and other metrics such as prior mishaps and how they were handled by the company. Handling Bad Situations A business is always accountable. Before going ahead with a pick and pack fulfillment company, it is important to know what the company's procedure is if your product gets misplaced, whether they keep track of damaged goods, and how often they count them. There should be full transparency between you and your pick, pack and ship fulfillment service. Software and Technology Check to see if your potential pick and pack fulfillment service has a reliable warehouse management system (WMS), if they can link to your sales channels to automatically retrieve orders, and can provide real-time data. It should all be automated by technology and all the information about your products in the warehouse or the process of fulfillment should be at your fingertips. It will help you to be answerable to your customers directly. Conclusion: Should You Outsource Your Pick and Pack Fulfillment Service Needs? When you grow as a business, you start delegating the work to your manager, supervisors, and other employees. You hire experts with years of experience in certain fields, so similarly, you should do the same with your company’s requirements. You need to choose a cost-effect pick and pack fulfillment company for all your eCommerce shipping and eCommerce warehousing needs. They provide adaptable solutions for organizations of all sizes. If your firm is short on space, manpower, or time-related resources, a pick and pack fulfillment service company can relieve tension while also saving you time and money, all of which affect your bottom line. Examine your alternatives and select the one that best suits your company. WareIQ has emerged as one of the trusted Order Fulfillment companies equipped with all the resources in pick, pack, and ship services, warehousing, logistics, and much more. Established in 2019, WareIQ, a Y-combinator-backed startup, has rapidly grown to be the leading full-stack eCommerce fulfillment company for some of the most reputed brands in India. WareIQ offers a full-stack platform for eCommerce companies to enable same-day delivery and next-day delivery to customers – an Amazon Prime-like experience but accessible to everyone. WareIQ manages the entire range of complex operations in the eCommerce fulfillment process, such as inbound functions like scanning and quality check, 100% accurate Pick and Pack, and inventory management across all channels, with a centralized platform for core fulfillment and shipping operations and post-shipping apps for a delightful experience and zero to minimal supply chain leakages. WareIQ has empowered brands to sell more, sell faster & sell everywhere due to: Access to WareIQ’s strong nationwide network of fulfillment centers, micro-fulfillment centers & urban dark stores near their customersAccess to all major national & hyperlocal last-mile courier services at discounted rates for making same/next-day deliveries possibleEasy integration across multiple online platforms & marketplaces enhancing multi-channel sellingHorizontal marketplaces: Flipkart, Amazon, etc.Vertical marketplaces: Nykaa, Myntra, etc.D2C platforms: Shopify, Magento, WooCommerce, etc.Social commerce platforms: BikayiAccess to a superior centralised tech platform for eCommerce operationsML-based prediction engine for efficient warehouse network design & smart inventory placementCentralised platform for core fulfillment & shipping operationsPost-shipping apps for a delightful experience & zero to minimum supply chain leakages (Branded tracking page with smart marketing placements; Trigger-based updates & smart communication platform) WareIQ has customised offerings for merchants experiencing different order volumes as well as having different delivery speed expectations. WareIQ is probably one of the very few fulfillment tech companies in the world that have same-day delivery service for their customers under their product “WareIQ RUSH”. With world-class WMS functionalities, WareIQ handles the entire range of intricate operations in the eCommerce fulfillment process, ranging from Inbound Operations such as scanning and quality check, through 100% accurate Pick and Pack fulfillment service, to Inventory Management across all channels. At the same time, WareIQ customers realize significant cost savings and wider reach due to better negotiations with shipping partners, strategically placed warehouses, economies of scale and scope in warehousing and data-driven decision-making. WareIQ’s WMS, a centralised tech platform helps to better manage undelivered orders by reducing NDR processing time by 12 hours – a multifunctional NDR dashboard helps to track and take immediate action for undelivered orders in real-time, thereby reducing RTO by up to 10%. Automatic replenishment recommendations and easy purchase order creation capabilities on the WareIQ platform further empower eCommerce companies to leverage all possible ways of increasing their ROI. [signup] Pick and Pack Service FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) What is the meaning of a pick and pack service?In the order fulfillment process, pick and pack is an important stage. All items in a customer's order are first picked (collected) from their respective storage locations. Following that, the things are packed (packaged) and are then ready to be shipped to the consumer. How do you define pick and pack warehouse?Warehouses have inventory stored that will be picked and packed as soon as an order is placed. What is the meaning of pick and pack fee?The fee associated with picking a piece of inventory out from a warehouse and packing it for shipment is called a pick and pack fee. How much do the Pick and pack warehousing services cost?The cost of pick and pack warehousing services can vary depending on several factors, such as the volume of orders, the complexity of the items being picked and packed, the location of the fulfillment center, and the level of automation used in the process.Generally, pick and pack services are priced on a per-order basis, which means that the more orders you have, the lower the cost per order. Additionally, some fulfillment centers may charge additional fees for storage, inventory management, shipping, and other value-added services.To get a better estimate of the cost of pick and pack warehousing services, it's best to contact a fulfillment center directly and provide them with information about your business, products, and order volume. They can then provide you with a customized quote based on your specific needs and requirements. To get a quote for WareIQ, check here. What other services does WareIQ offer?Apart from picking & packing products in WareIQ’s fulfillment centers, WareIQ offers full stack fulfillment services to eCommerce businesses, starting from cold storage facilities, customised packaging, access to tech platforms with easy integrations with 20+online marketplaces & platforms, ML-based inventory forecasting, analytics, order tracking, shipping & last mile delivery, post shipping apps like RTO insurance, weight lock, customer feedback, branded tracking, etc. In shipping, what does pack mean?Before the product is labeled and dispatched to the end consumer, the items are packed i.e. items are placed into the proper box, together with the packing materials and documentation. What is the difference between picking, packaging, and shipping?In fulfillment, "pick, pack, and ship" are the three essential steps that take place in the order fulfillment process. Here are the differences between the three:Picking: This refers to the process of selecting the ordered items from the inventory and bringing them to a designated area for packing. Picking can be done manually by a person who walks around the warehouse or through automation, such as using robots or conveyors.Packing: This refers to the process of preparing the picked items for shipment. It involves putting the items in the right box or container, adding protective materials like bubble wrap or packing peanuts, and labeling the package with the shipping address and other necessary information.Shipping: This refers to the process of handing over the packed and labeled package to the carrier for delivery to the customer. This can involve arranging for a shipping service to pick up the package from the fulfillment center or drop it off at a designated location.

February 25, 2023

iThink Logistics vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Which is the Best Option for a Fulfillment Partner for eCommerce in 2024?

3PL fulfillment companies play a vastly important role in today’s eCommerce environment. It used to be the case that only the largest and most experienced companies had access to the latest technology and features, while smaller and medium-sized companies would be left behind. However, with the expansive growth of the fulfillment industry and eCommerce as a whole, every eCommerce retailer can get access to advanced technology and services that make it possible to give their customers a positive experience. Facilities such as ultra-fast delivery, order tracking, a nationwide physical distribution and fulfillment center network, eCommerce marketplace integrations, and inventory management have all become part and parcel of the type of services that 3PL companies provide. This, in turn, allows sellers to provide a hassle-free delivery experience to their customers. In this blog, we will comprehensively go through some of the best options - iThink Logistics vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ - and compare the companies themselves and their feature sets, and help you decide which one is the right option for you. Read along. Introduction to WareIQ Source WareIQ is one of India’s fastest-growing eCommerce fulfillment companies and is based in Bangalore. Since its inception in 2019, its use of technology has been at the forefront of providing a vast array of eCommerce solutions. In addition to the conventional suite of features that one usually expects from a 3PL company, such as a nationwide network of fulfillment centers, distribution facilities, order fulfillment, and last-mile delivery, the company also offers many additional features that add value to different areas, such as an app store, a custom WMS that can integrate with a variety of eCommerce selling platforms, an RTO Shield that protects retailers from the negative effects of returns, smart inventory placement recommendations and much more. The company also does not impose any minimum order requirements so you can just choose and pay for the facilities that you need. Some of the reasons that make WareIQ a good choice are listed below: It offers a pan-India network of fulfillment centers and uses smart inventory placement to recommend the best locations based on proximity to areas of high demand and transport hubs. Additionally, they also provide a network of dark stores that aid in hyper-local fulfillment for fragile products such as food products, nutrients, organic ingredients, and more.It has no minimum order requirements, so you do not have to opt for every service in a bundle package if you do not need it. You can simply choose what you need and can always upgrade your plan in the future based on your company's growth.It has partnered with more than 12 of the largest shipping companies in the country, which enables ultra-fast same-day and next-day delivery. The company will also automatically allocate the quickest and cheapest option for every order.It provides a custom WMS that can monitor and provide real-time updates to inventory and order data across multiple eCommerce selling platforms, such as Amazon, eBay, Flipkart, and more, as well as different fulfillment center locations through a centralized dashboard.It provides an app store with a simple and intuitive user interface and offers a vast catalog of simple-to-download apps that improves the productivity of different facets of your business, such as customer feedback generation, branded order tracking, and shipping badges to convey the delivery speed. [contactus_lilgoodness] Introduction to iThink Logistics Source iThink Logistics was founded in 2017, in Mumbai, Maharashtra and is currently headquartered there. It is primarily a shipping and logistics company. One of its headline features is that it does not have any initial down payment or subscription charges, so it is pitched as a “free” shipping solution. However, once retailers start making use of their services, they will need to pay a fee accordingly. Like most shipping aggregators, its main services include consolidating multiple shipping companies together to help customers make a choice, automating multiple shipping processes, providing order tracking facilities and more. Its current order volume is more than 25,000 orders a day and it offers international shipping in addition to domestic services. Some of the reasons that make iThink Logistics a good choice are listed below: It services more than 26,000 pin codes and currently operates in 180 countries across the globe.It has a customer base that exceeds 5000 sellers so it has a vast amount of experience in tackling any and every shipping-related challenge that could occur.It offers multiple integrations with eCommerce marketplaces, such as Amazon, eBay, Shopify, WooCommerce and more, as well as shipping and logistics companies, such as BlueDart, FedEx, DHL and many others.It provides an AI-powered recommendation engine to help retailers choose the best option to fulfill each order individually.It offers automatic delivery reattempts in the event that customers aren’t able to receive their orders during the first attempt which reduces confusion and the frequency of returns. Introduction to Shiprocket Source Shiprocket is one of the most well-known and positively-regarded shipping aggregation platforms in India. The company was founded in 2012 in Delhi, where it is presently headquartered. Being a shipping aggregation company, its primary services include the amalgamation of shipping companies to provide a simplified choice to its partners, the automation of various shipping and logistics services, and integrations with various eCommerce platforms. It also offers value-added features, such as cost estimation, to help retailers more transparently understand the total amount they would be paying and order management across multiple selling platforms. The company’s current order capacity sits at 200,000 daily orders and it operates in more than 200 countries worldwide. Some of the reasons that make Shiprocket a good choice are listed below: It provides value-added services, such as shipping label printing facilities and insurance for every order, which cement it as one of the most comprehensive shipping platforms that are available.It offers a calculator for custom shipping rates that will help you determine which distribution partner is offering the best and most affordable service for particular orders depending on factors such as product specifications, distance and more.It offers a choice of upwards of 17 shipping firms and you can manage and integrate your logistics and order data using a user-friendly interface.It provides a comprehensive platform for analysing and keeping track of crucial order-related information, allowing you to simply analyse your rates of success and identify areas that are in need of improvement.It enables you to access all of your important data through a centralised dashboard and it provides synchronization with a variety of eCommerce marketplaces. iThink Logistics vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: 10 Primary Differences in Features and Services in 2024 iThink Logistics vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Core Offering WareIQ: The flagship offering of WareIQ is its eCommerce fulfillment services which are made possible through a heavy investment in technology. These services encompass product storage, inventory management, marketplace integrations, packaging services, shipping facilities, a custom WMS, last-mile delivery and much more.iThink Logistics: The main services offered by iThink Logistics are centred around eCommerce shipping and logistics. The company provides many services that make shipping easier and more efficient, such as integrations with both eCommerce marketplaces and shipping carriers, an AI-enabled recommendation engine, automated shipping processes and more. Shiprocket: The core offering of Shiprocket is its shipping aggregation services. By giving its users a choice of multiple carriers and even providing an AI-based recommendation service to help them make an informed decision, they try to offer the fastest and cheapest shipping among all its competitors. iThink Logistics vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Customer Onboarding Time WareIQ: WareIQ’s customer onboarding takes just 7 days from start to finish.iThink Logistics: iThink Logistics offers a dedicated customer onboarding team and provides a fast onboarding process though the exact time isn’t specified.Shiprocket: Shiprocket also provides a quick onboarding process but again, the exact speed isn’t mentioned by them. iThink Logistics vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Pricing WareIQ: WareIQ offers flexible and transparent pricing plans as well as perks such as no minimum order requirements and the ability to only opt for the services you need. Additionally, the company provides many features in-house, such as a custom WMS and a choice of shipping carriers.iThink Logistics: One of the highlights of iThink Logistics’ pricing model is that it claims to offer “free” shipping. However, this only refers to the fact that retailers do not need to pay any upfront or initial costs. Instead, they only pay once they start utilising a service.Shiprocket: Shiprocket offers huge discounts of up to 50% for their customers in addition to offering some of the most competitive prices in the industry. iThink Logistics vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Technological Features WareIQ: WareIQ seeks to differentiate itself from its competitors by using advanced technology, a sentiment which is backed up by features such as an app store, a custom WMS, integrations with multiple eCommerce platforms, real-time inventory updates, automated replenishment triggers, branded order tracking and much more.iThink Logistics: iThink Logistics offers a suite of technological features that come as standard for most shipping aggregation companies, such as an AI-powered recommendation engine, automated shipping processes, integrations with most eCommerce platforms and shipping companies, an automated setup process and much more.Shiprocket: Shiprocket offers many advanced technological features, such as NDR management, a recommendation engine, automated shipping services, SMS notifications and order tracking services. iThink Logistics vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: App Store WareIQ: WareIQ provides an intuitive and well-designed app store that is designed to be familiar to conventional app stores, such as the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. There is a heap of apps that enhance the productivity of various business functions, such as customer feedback, branded tracking, and shipping badges.iThink Logistics: iThink Logistics does not have its own app store or provide support for in-house apps.Shiprocket: Shiprocket does not offer an app store or first-party app support as well. However, it provides support for API integrations. iThink Logistics vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Services Offered WareIQ: WareIQ provides solutions to most major eCommerce requirements, such as order fulfillment, inventory management, product storage, distribution facilities, last-mile delivery, a custom WMS, an app store, shipping badges, branded order tracking, packaging facilities and much more.iThink Logistics: iThink Logistics mainly offers shipping-related services, such as shipping aggregation, an AI-powered recommendation engine, early detection of issues, automated re-delivery attempts, auto-generated reports, and much more.Shiprocket: Shiprocket is a logistics and eCommerce delivery partner you can rely on, they offer multiple facilities, zero monthly fees, no minimum shipment requirements, packing services, prepaid COD, API integrations, and much more. iThink Logistics vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Integrations WareIQ: WareIQ’s WMS integrates with many online selling platforms, such as Amazon, Meesho, Flipkart, Myntra, and many more. It also integrates with website-building platforms, such as Shopify, Magento, and WooCommerce, among others. This assists customers in monitoring their inventory and order data across platforms and fulfillment center locations.iThink Logistics: iThink Logistics offers integrations with multiple eCommerce marketplaces as well as shipping services to be able to keep an eye on all shipments in one location. Shiprocket: Shiprocket provides seamless integrations to most major global fulfillment platforms, such as Amazon, Shopify, and eBay, among others. This enables tracking order data, syncing data across platforms, and much more. iThink Logistics vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Unique Selling Point (USP) WareIQ: WareIQ’s unique offering is its widespread use of technology to tackle a variety of eCommerce challenges and requirements. The company makes use of advanced technology in almost every aspect of its operations, such as order fulfillment, inventory management, SKU storage, order tracking and reverse logistics.iThink Logistics: iThink Logistics seeks to provide affordable and easily-accessible shipping aggregation solutions to a wide audience. It also reduces the financial burden on sellers but only collects payments after they make use of any facilities.Shiprocket: The goal of Shiprocket is to make quick and efficient shipping easily available to a large audience. The company offers advanced features and technology for some of the most competitive rates in the sector. iThink Logistics vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Customised Packaging WareIQ: WareIQ offers sellers the utility of customised packaging where each element of the unboxing experience, such as brand logo, design, size and materials, can be tailored according to their preferences.iThink Logistics: iThink Logistics does offer customizable packaging facilities where different aspects can be personalised according to your liking.Shiprocket: Shiprocket also offers customised packaging services as per the preferences of its customers. iThink Logistics vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Cold Storage Facilities WareIQ: Cold storage facilities are provided in most of WareIQ’s fulfillment centers.iThink Logistics: Cold storage facilities are not offered by iThink Logistics.Shiprocket: Cold storage facilities are not provided by Shiprocket in any of their warehouses. iThink Logistics vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Feature Comparison Summary Table [table id=55 /] Suggested Read: Shiprocket vs Shyplite vs WareIQ Conclusion: Why is WareIQ the Best Fulfillment Company Among iThink Logistics vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ in 2024? Making a choice between iThink Logistics vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ is a tough prospect. iThink Logistics and Shiprocket are mainly shipping aggregation companies that don’t offer many other fulfillment services. WareIQ, on the other hand, is primarily an order fulfillment company that provides comprehensive, all-encompassing solutions to almost every eCommerce requirement that you may have. To make an effective decision, you need to chart out and analyse your own short-term and long-term goals and where you envision your company to be. If you just need shipping services and nothing else, you can consider opting for all 3. However, if you need solutions for any other eCommerce requirements, WareIQ will definitely be your best bet. WareIQ is a homegrown eCommerce fulfillment provider that uses advanced technology to offer a vast suite of eCommerce services. Some of the key ones are listed below: Warehouse Management: We have an in-house WMS that can automate many fulfillment center operationsSKU Storage: We offer a pan-India dark store and fulfillment center networkApp Store: We provide an intuitive and well-designed app store with many different appsOnline Selling Platform Integrations: We enable integrations with 20-plus eCommerce marketplaces, such as you can sell on Amazon, sell on Flipkart, sell on eBay, and many moreBranded Order Tracking: We offer branded tracking facilities that will enable you to personalise your order tracking pages with any information you want to get across to your customers.Reverse Logistics: We handle returns management and shield you from the adverse effects of returnsMultiple Shipping Companies: We offer more than 12 courier partners to choose fromCustom Packaging Facilities: We provide custom packaging facilities that can be tailored according to your preferences.Shipping Badges: We enable you to add Prime-like shipping badges that showcase shipping times on your product listingsUltra-Fast Delivery: We have lightning-fast same-day and next-day fulfillment services Shiprocket vs iThink Logistics vs WareIQ: FAQs When and where was iThink Logistics founded?iThink Logistics was founded in 2017, in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Does Shiprocket provide a nationwide network of fulfillment centers?Yes, Shiprocket does offer a pan-India fulfillment center network, although it is limited to major metropolitan areas. When and where was WareIQ founded?WareIQ was founded in 2019, in Bangalore, Karnataka. What are the factors you should consider when making a decision between iThink Logistics vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ?Some of the key factors to take into account while choosing between the 3 companies are listed below:- Your current business requirements- Your current demand levels- Your present order volume- Your current product catalogue- Your available financial budget- Your operations team size Does WareIQ also offer shipping aggregation services?Yes, WareIQ offers a choice between more than 12 of the biggest shipping companies in the country and always assigns the fastest and cheapest option for every order. Which logistics company is the best alternative to iThink Logistics in 2024?WareIQ is the best alternative to iThink logistics because WareIQ provides end-to-end fulfillment service to eCommerce, D2C, B2B brands, starting from warehousing, a unified fulfillment platform (WMS+OMS+inventory management), shipping aggregation services for last mile deliveries, etc. But iThink logistics works only as a courier aggregator platform only for eCommerce clients. iThink logistics also works mostly with entry-level clients but WareIQ works with all kinds of clients, ranging from entry to mid-market to enterprises. Name a few alternatives and competitors of iThink Logistics.Few iThink Logistics competitors and alternatives are as follows:i) WareIQii) Easyshipiii) Shippoiv) Nimbus postv) Shipwayvi) Shiprocketvii) Delhivery

February 24, 2023

Shiprocket vs Delhivery vs WareIQ: A Detailed Comparative Analysis to Help You Choose the Right Fulfillment Company in 2024

It would be easy to think that the primary focus of eCommerce is to have an attractive website that also performs well, a smooth checkout process, and the ability to encourage customers to make multiple purchases at your store. However, one of the core tenets of the industry is order fulfillment. The operations involved in order fulfillment comprise all the necessary steps to ensure that a parcel reaches the customer that placed it. Generally, large firms have access to plenty of financial resources and technology that enables them to provide facilities such as same-day delivery, free shipping, attractive custom packaging, and much more, relatively easily. Historically, local firms have lagged behind their multinational counterparts due to a lack of access to these facilities and the resources which makes them possible. However, in today’s hyper-competitive eCommerce environment, there is no dearth of 3PL fulfillment companies that can provide these facilities and much more to eCommerce retailers at a quarter of the price than if they had to do it themselves. In this blog, we will compare 3 of the best options in the country - Shiprocket vs Delhivery vs WareIQ - and help you identify which would be the right choice for you. About WareIQ Source WareIQ is an eCommerce fulfillment company that has emerged as one of the fastest-growing options in the country. With a heavy emphasis on the use of technology to provide solutions to a wide range of eCommerce requirements, the company is able to offer some of the most comprehensive services in the industry. WareIQ was founded in 2019 in Bangalore, where it is currently headquartered. While it is still a relatively young company, it not only provides all the conventional facilities that are offered by companies that have been around for longer but also provides value-added offerings that are unique to it, such as a custom app store, no minimum order requirements, a network of hyper-local dark stores and much more. Some of the services offered by WareIQ that warrant your consideration are listed below: It provides a nationwide network of fulfillment centers and dark stores and also offers smart inventory placement recommendations to help you store your products closer to your customers and major transport facilities, enabling faster and more efficient delivery.It provides comprehensive inventory management through its custom WMS, which can monitor and provide real-time updates regarding the order and inventory data, across fulfillment centers, in a central dashboard. It offers integrations with more than 20 of the biggest eCommerce marketplaces, such as Amazon, Flipkart, eBay, Meesho, Nykaa, and many more. Order information across all platforms is consolidated in a single account that can be accessed by you from anywhere.It enables ultra-fast same-day and next-day delivery by partnering with more than 20 shipping carriers and automatically designates the quickest and most cost-effective option for every order.It reduces the damage caused by returns by providing an RTO Shield that insures every product and also offers reverse logistics facilities to inspect the product and ensure it is transported safely back to the warehouse. [contactus_uth] About Shiprocket Source In India, one of the most experienced and highly acclaimed shipping aggregation services is a company called Shiprocket. The business was established in Delhi in 2012 and is also presently based there. As a shipping aggregator, its main services include combining shipping providers to offer a more straightforward selection to its customers, the automation of multiple logistics and shipping operations, and connections with different eCommerce platforms. It also provides merchants with additional services like cost estimation, which makes it easier for them to see upfront how much money they will be spending overall and order management across several selling platforms. With a daily order capacity of 200,000, the organisation currently serves customers in 200-plus nations globally. Some of the services offered by Shiprocket that warrant your consideration are listed below: It offers a thorough system for analysing and monitoring vital order-related data, enabling you to quickly analyse your success rates and pinpoint areas in need of reassessment.It offers auxiliary facilities, including insurance for every order, shipping label printing, and much more. This makes it one of the most complete eCommerce shipping platforms currently available.It gives you access to critical data pertaining to your orders and inventory levels through a single dashboard and also provides integrations to a number of online selling platforms.It enables you to choose from up to 17 shipping companies and its user-friendly interface lets you manage and combine your order and logistics data across all of them.It provides a bespoke shipping rate calculator that can assist you in determining which distributor is providing the highest-quality and most inexpensive service for every order based on variables like product characteristics, distance, and more. Suggested Read: Check Out Top Warehousing Companies in Delhi NCR. About Delhivery Source Delhivery is primarily a shipping and logistics company that provides a wide range of supply-chain-improving facilities, such as order fulfillment, courier services, and warehousing facilities. The company was founded in 2011 and although you would think that the company was pioneered in the nation’s capital judging by its name, it was actually set up and is currently headquartered in Gurgaon, Haryana, a short distance to the south. The main goal of the company is to provide reliable infrastructure that enhances the day-to-day operations of eCommerce as a whole. It does this by leveraging technology to provide coverage to more than 18,000 pin codes, offers 24/7 customer services, has a vast network of warehouses and fulfillment centers, and much more. Some of the services offered by Delhivery that warrant your consideration are listed below: It provides round-the-clock customer support for any inquiry throughout the year, which makes sorting out any issues or delays extremely simple and quick.It offers a vast fulfillment and storage network comprising sort centers, fulfillment centers, shipping gateways, and direct-delivery centers.It provides same-day and next-day delivery for conventional orders and 48 to 96-hour deliveries for long-distance orders across the country.It offers returns management to mitigate the damage and delays caused by returns.It provides global B2B and B2C shipping facilities to many different countries using carriers like FedEx and DHL. Shiprocket vs Delhivery vs WareIQ: 10 Main Differences in Services and Facilities in 2023 Shiprocket vs Delhivery vs WareIQ: Core Offering WareIQ: WareIQ’s core offering is centred around its eCommerce fulfillment offerings and all the processes involved in it, such as product storage, inventory management, packaging services, distribution facilities, and last-mile delivery, among others. The company uses advanced technologies and automations to speed up and optimize these procedures.Shiprocket: Shiprocket’s core offering is providing shipping aggregation services which involve bundling together shipping carriers so that their customers can make a well-informed decision. To help with this, the company employs the use of an AI-enabled recommendation engine. The company seeks to make fast and efficient shipping available to a wide audience at an affordable price.Delhivery: Delhivery is branded as a shipping and logistics company. Their core offering is focused on shipping aggregation and distribution services. However, the company also provides various fulfillment facilities, such as a fulfillment center network and returns management. Shiprocket vs Delhivery vs WareIQ: Customer Onboarding Time WareIQ: WareIQ’s entire customer onboarding procedure is done in a mere 7 days. Shiprocket: Shiprockert offers customer onboarding services but an exact timeline isn’t mentioned.Delhivery: Delhivery’s customer onboarding process is almost instantaneous, as you only need to sign up and can start shipping products immediately. Shiprocket vs Delhivery vs WareIQ: Pricing WareIQ: WareIQ offers pricing benefits, such as no minimum order restrictions and the option to only select the services you require, in addition to cost-effective and flexible payment plans. It also offers a variety of options internally, including a personalised WMS and a selection of shipping carriers, that mitigate the need to purchase those services elsewhere.Shiprocket: Shiprocket offers multiple payment plans with the base subscription starting at ₹20 per 500 grams. There is also an option to customize your plan with specific services you require.Delhivery: Some perks of Delhivery’s pricing model include no sign-up fees or monthly subscriptions. Instead, the company imposes charges based on the weight and dimensions of each order and payments can be determined using the in-house pricing calculator. Shiprocket vs Delhivery vs WareIQ: Technological Features WareIQ: One of WareIQ’s main selling points is its broad use of technology in every facet of its services. The company offers technological facilities, such as a custom WMS, automated replenishment triggers, an app store, real-time inventory updates, integrations with multiple eCommerce platforms, branded order tracking, and much more.Shiprocket: Shiprocket provides its customers with access to many essential technologies, such as an AI-powered recommendation engine, NDR management, SMS alerts, automated distribution facilities, order tracking, and much more.Delhivery: Delhivery also employs some advanced technological features, such as smart inventory placement, multi-channel integrations, real-time order visibility, documentation management and much more. Shiprocket vs Delhivery vs WareIQ: App Store WareIQ: WareIQ has a simple and well-designed in-built app store that has an entire suite of apps that provide the ability to enhance various business functions, such as generating customer feedback, providing shipping badges to indicate delivery speed, and using branded tracking pages to improve the order tracking experience.Shiprocket: Shiprocket offers API integrations and some in-house platforms but does not have an app store.Delhivery: Delhivery does not offer an app store or first-party app support. Shiprocket vs Delhivery vs WareIQ: Services Offered WareIQ: WareIQ provides almost every facility relating to eCommerce fulfillment, such as SKU storage, shipping facilities, a custom app store, inventory management, an in-house WMS, last-mile delivery, shipping badges, packaging facilities, branded tracking, and much more.Shiprocket: Shiprocket mainly offers shipping aggregation and other subsidiary services, such as packaging facilities, prepaid COD, no monthly charges, no minimum order requirements, API integrations, and much more.Delhivery: Delhivery offers a wide range of shipping and fulfillment services, such as domestic and international shipping, trucking facilities, specialised transit facilities, order tracking, fulfillment centers, no monthly fees, and much more. Shiprocket vs Delhivery vs WareIQ: Integrations WareIQ: WareIQ offers multiple integrations through its custom WMS with eCommerce marketplaces, such as Amazon, Flipkart, eBay, Nykaa and more, as well as with website builders, such as WooCommerce, Shopify and Magento, among others. Historical order data can also be imported and information from all platforms can be accessed through a single dashboard.Shiprocket: Shiprocket can integrate with most large-scale eCommerce selling platforms, such as eBay, Amazon, Shopify and more, to successfully monitor and consolidate order data in one location.Delhivery: Delhivery can integrate with most major shipping carriers as well as eCommerce selling platforms. Shiprocket vs Delhivery vs WareIQ: Unique Selling Point (USP) WareIQ: WareIQ uses technology to provide a vast array of eCommerce solutions that encompasses almost any requirements that an online seller would need. The company also allows retailers to edit their plans and only opt for the services they need, so it is highly flexible.Shiprocket: The flagship offering of Shiprocket is its shipping aggregation services that utilize advanced technology and are easily affordable for eCommerce sellers en-masse.Delhivery: Delhivery not only provides shipping aggregation solutions both internationally and domestically but also offers many fulfillment-specific services, such as a fulfillment center network and order tracking. Shiprocket vs Delhivery vs WareIQ: Customised Packaging WareIQ: Customised packaging facilities are provided by WareIQ where every aspect of the parcel, such as its dimensions, design, materials and logo, can be changed according to your requirements.Shiprocket: Shiprocket does provide customised packaging facilities that can be edited as per the customers' preferences.Delhivery: Delhivery also offers customised packaging solutions where most elements of the parcel can be personalised. Shiprocket vs Delhivery vs WareIQ: Cold Storage Facilities WareIQ: WareIQ provides cold storage facilities in most of its fulfillment centers.Shiprocket: Cold storage facilities are not provided by Shiprocket.Delhivery: Delhivery does offer temperature-controlled warehousing and shipping solutions. Suggested Article: NimbusPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ Shiprocket vs Delhivery vs WareIQ: Feature Comparison Table [table id=56 /] Conclusion: Why WareIQ is the Best Choice Among Shiprocket vs Delhivery vs WareIQ As a Fulfillment Service Provider in 2023? Choosing a 3PL fulfillment partner that encompasses all your requirements and considerations is imperative to the success of your business. Your goals can vary depending on factors such as the nature of your products, the sector your business is in, your short-term and long-term goals, the financial resources you have access to, your growth estimation, and much more. You need to ascertain what facilities are the most important to you and whether you can afford the services of the company you want to partner with. If you need a solid shipping aggregator, Shiprocket could be a good choice. If you need access to a vast fulfillment network, Delhivery could be the right call. However, if you need a blend of both in addition to plenty of other eCommerce facilities, such as a custom WMS, with no minimum order requirements so you can be flexible with your finances and bespoke packaging facilities, there is no better option than WareIQ. WareIQ is one of India’s fastest-growing eCommerce fulfillment companies. We offer a variety of eCommerce services, from inventory storage to last-mile delivery and everything in between. Some of the key facilities we provide are listed below: We offer a SaaS application for AI-based inventory optimization that avoids out-of-stock and overstocking problems.We provide reverse logistics support and have an RTO Shield that covers every product against the possibility of damage caused by returns. We have custom packaging capabilities where you can customise every element of the parcel, such as the logo, materials, design, and more, to your taste.We have a strong team of customer support specialists who provide 24/7 help for the swift resolution of customer inquiries.We impose no minimum order requirements, so you are free to choose and pay for what you need and you can always upgrade or edit your plans according to future circumstances. Delhivery vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: FAQs When and where was Delhivery founded?Delhivery was founded in 2011, in Gurgaon, Haryana. Does Shiprocket provide a network of fulfillment centers?Yes, Shiprocket does provide a fulfillment center network. However, its expansiveness is limited compared to Delhivery and WareIQ. What are dark stores?Dark stores are like micro-fulfillment centers that are located in close proximity to cities and towns to be able to aid in hyper-local delivery. Thus, products can be delivered in under 30 minutes and even 10 minutes on some platforms. Why are shipping aggregation services important?Shipping aggregation is important as it provides retailers with a choice among the best shipping companies. Certain companies may be better than others for specific orders so being able to choose the appropriate option can reduce costs, delivery times and result in higher customer satisfaction. What sets WareIQ apart from Delhivery and Shiprocket?While other companies may provide specific services relating to different aspects of eCommerce, WareIQ provides most services that retailers would need in order to successfully fulfill orders and maintain contact with their customers, post-purchase. We use advanced technology to increase speed and efficiency and reduce the overall operational cost for our eCommerce customers. What is the main difference between Delhivery and Shiprocket?Delhivery is primarily a courier service provider with ancillary services like online courier pick-ups, shipping services, truckload freight, cross-border services etc. Delhivery is also a courier service partner for Shiprocket.While, Shiprocket is a shipping aggregator that provides last-mile delivery for B2C and B2B companies, via its partnership with all the major national, regional and hyperlocal courier service providers like Delhivery, Blue Dart, Xpressbees, E-Kart logistics etc. Shiprocket also provides warehousing for retailers.

February 23, 2023

Shopify Fulfillment: How to Fulfill Shopify Orders with WareIQ, a 3PL Fulfillment Service in 8 Easy Steps in 2024?

The big challenge for an eCommerce retailer who wants to establish itself in a competitive online market such as India’s is to come up with a product that people want and need and to also be able to market that product so it is visible to the customer base it is meant to target. While most retailers are able to find solutions for these challenges, there is another big challenge that often doesn’t get the same recognition - How can they provide the best shipping experience to customers, at the lowest cost? The answer isn’t complicated because large companies like Shopify offers users integrations with other fulfillment platforms that can help propel their order fulfillment and distribution process. There are a variety of options available and sellers will have to choose one depending on their product type, sales volumes, target market, and budget. Integrating Shopify Order Fulfillment with WareIQ’s WMS offers advantages such as: Utilization of WareIQ's full-stack fulfillment platformFull order tracking and return management facilitiesChoice of multiple courier partnersAdvanced ML-based algorithm that smartly assigns a courier partner based on priorityComplete integration with Shopify store & 20+ other online marketplaces & platformsSmart network design & inventory placementConsistently low shipping costs on all platformsSyncing of previous, current, and future orders What is Shopify Fulfillment? Shopify Fulfillment is a service offered by Shopify Inc. that encompasses important eCommerce logistics fulfillment processes such as picking, packing, inventory management, eCommerce shipping, and distribution. Online retailers who choose to partner with the Shopify Fulfillment Network gain access to a global network of warehouses and fulfillment centers, where inventory is stored securely and the number of units is monitored until they are sold, after which, each order fulfillment is packaged and distributed to the end customer and can be tracked using tracking software tailored for providing a seamless experience to customers. Shopify has created a central fulfillment platform that can be integrated with existing eCommerce fulfillment companies. Online retailers are able to send inventory to Shopify's 3PL fulfillment partners, who in turn take care of any orders that are received and thus, simplify the entire fulfillment process for these retailers, who can focus on promotion and marketing their products to their target consumer base. Shopify Fulfillment verifies every fulfillment center in its network to ensure the provision of a standardized level of quality and efficiency. [contactus_lilgoodness] How Can You Fulfill Orders from Shopify? There are multiple steps involved in partnering with Shopify Fulfillment. The process begins with an application through your admin account, that lists out details about your store and fulfillment requirements and is then reviewed by Shopify Fulfillment. Steps to Partner with Shopify Fulfillment Determining the products You should determine which products from your inventory will be fulfilled and distributed and get them approved by Shopify. Choosing product packaging You can consult with Shopify Fulfillment to determine how you want products to be packaged and if you require customized boxes, stickers, labeling, etc. You can opt for free packaging provided by Shopify Fulfillment services or choose branded shipping to send them your own brand-specific packaging. Determining inventory locations You can choose where and how much inventory you want to store at a specific location and get recommendations from Shopify Fulfillment to locate your products closer to your customers. Fulfilling orders through multiple channels When a customer makes a purchase from any of your Shopify Fulfillment platforms such as your website, Amazon, Instagram, etc., Fulfillment by Shopify will determine which fulfillment partner will pick, pack and ship the order, based on convenience. Using the admin panel to gain insights You can use the admin panel to get insights into the demand for each type of product you offer and their inventory levels, so you can always be ahead of the curb and restock depleted inventory. (Also read how to Continue Selling When Out of Stock on Shopify) A huge advantage that Shopify Fulfillment services offer to its users is the simple and intuitive interface and lack of any complicated and tedious process to be followed. Insights and other indicators can be accessed directly from the admin panel, where any observations or changes to be made, can be accessed in one place. It may not offer the levels of customization that dedicated 3PL fulfillment companies offer but it does include all the information you would need, in order to make well-informed decisions. Fulfillment Services Handled by Shopify Fulfillment Receipt of shipments and storing inventoryPicking of orders in real-time, across multiple sales channelsPackaging of orders with standard packaging or customised packaging, depending on the order typeAutomating the delivery tracking process for both the retailer and customerManaging inventory by recommending the most efficient methods of allocating, supplying, and re-stocking inventory, based on the volume and demandProcessing of returns and taking care of the exchange process by verifying the condition of goods and adding them back to the inventory count You can read our blog on shipping aggregators to understand the importance of partnering with top 3PLs who provide these services. Suggested Read: List of top Shopify Shipping Apps Benefits of Using 3PL Fulfillment Services with Shopify for Retailers in 2023 Multi-Channel Fulfillment By partnering with a 3PL fulfillment company, you open your business up to the possibility of fulfilling orders from multiple online selling platforms, in one centralized location. Orders and inventory levels are synced across each and a change made in one will instantly reflect on all. This aids in a more seamless experience compared to juggling multiple accounts and passwords. Cheaper and More Transparent Pricing Opting to use Shopify’s fulfillment services can be quite expensive and if you operate on a tight budget, it can be difficult to manage all the different costs associated with running an online company. However, 3PL retailers offer much more simple and more transparent pricing, without reducing any of the features or quality of their services. Custom Packaging Services Shopify has strict rules and regulations when it comes to packaging and orders are usually packaged with Shopify-specific packaging. While you need to not worry about the quality and security of your orders, it can take away valuable brand imaging from your company when a customer receives their order with Shopify packaging. 3PL fulfillment companies sort this out by providing multiple options to customize your packaging with different themes, materials, and styles so that you can make sure your brand is at the front and center for every unboxing experience. Order Management Services 3PL companies usually have custom order management software to aid in the ease of use for order management, across multiple channel-selling platforms, which is something that Shopify’s offering cannot do. Retailers can also get access to advanced order tracking facilities to mitigate any unwanted errors or delays. Inventory Management Services Most 3PL fulfillment companies offer highly advanced Warehouse Management Software (WMS) that assists in providing automated, efficient, and standardised inventory management processes across all of their warehouses and fulfillment centers. This helps their customers better manage and forecast their inventory according to present and future demand. Nationwide Network of Fulfillment Centers 3PL companies offer a nationwide network of fulfillment centers and warehouses so that retailers can choose to store their inventory according to different factors such as areas of high demand, proximity to transport facilities, proximity to their manufacturing units, etc. Ultra-Fast Shipping These days, 2-day, same-day, and even 10-minute shipping have become the norm. Most 3PL companies offer a variety of different shipping methods and speeds, all at much lower prices than Shopify’s fulfillment service. You can hop on the bandwagon to ensure that your customers are never left waiting long periods of time to receive their orders. 8 Easy Steps to Integrate WareIQ, 3PL Fulfillment Service with Shopify in 2023 Retailers who opt to integrate WareIQ with Shopify will instantly get access to a host of facilities such as a nationwide network of fulfillment centers, consolidated order details in one place, choice of courier partners, and integration with 20+ other online selling platforms. Integrating Shopify Fulfillment with WareIQ WMS can be done in 6 easy steps: Step 1: Go to WareIQ's WMS Dashboard and Click on the Hamburger Menu in the Top Left Corner Step 2: Click on the “Account Settings” Option Step 3: Click on the “Add Channels” Option Step 4: Select the “Shopify” Option as the Website Builder Note: After selecting it, you will get the following popup: “You are required to enter your Shop Domain”. Select the “Yes” option to include tax in the item price. Unselect the “Create products Automatically” option and select the “Add Channel” option. You may read more about how to sell on Shopify here. Step 5: Enter the Shop Domain of the Shopify Account of Your Online Store in the “Shop Domain” Option Note: Please enter this in the “Shop Domain” field. You can open your Shopify account in another tab to easily copy the Shop Domain. Log in to Shopify.com using your registered email & password for Shopify. Once you log in, the URL is your Shopify domain. For example, in the image below, the selected portion in the URL is your Shop Domain - "wareiqtest" Step 6: Enter the Shop Domain in the “Shop Domain” Option After adding Shop Domain in the pop-up, select the “Yes” option to include tax in the item price. Unselect the “Create products Automatically” option and select the “Add Channel” option. Step 7: Install WareIQ App on Shopify After clicking on "Add Channel" in WareIQ WMS, click on the “Add Channel” option. You will be redirected to Shopify Log in using your Shopify admin credentials and click on "Install app" on Shopify Click on Apps in the left side navigation bar after you have logged into Shopify. You can see the list of all apps you have installed already Click on “Create an App” & you get a pop up to fill up App Name & App Developer’s email ID Fill up the App name as WareIQ & add the app developers ID to install WareIQ as one of the apps. Step 8: Select the Location to Integrate the Shopify Store Successfully Go to WareIQ's WMS again & select the required location and click on the “Submit” option You have successfully integrated Shopify with WareIQ WMS & are ready to fulfill orders on Shopify with WareIQ. Read More: All about Shopify Websites Top 5 Fulfillment Companies for Fulfilling Orders on Shopify in 2023 WareIQ Source WareIQ is a category-defining, best- in class full-stack eCommerce fulfillment tech platform (with inbuilt inventory planning, order management & shipping system) for modern brands to accelerate online sales/ expedite revenue growth & profits with same/next-day delivery. We at WareIQ can help with Shopify fulfillment Services. We not only help you reduce your logistics costs but also your delivery timelines – this could be the game-changer your business needs! WareIQ offers centralised tech platform for your entire eCommerce operations ML-based prediction engine for efficient warehouse network design & smart inventory placementCentralised platform for core fulfillment & shipping operationsPost-shipping apps for a delightful experience & zero to minimum supply chain leakages Deliverr Source Deliverr is an eCommerce fulfillment company that was founded in 2017 in the United States of America. They offer integrations with eCommerce marketplaces, such as Amazon, Walmart, Shopify, eBay market, and many others. It offers 2-day delivery services and express delivery badges. It has a network of strategically placed warehousesIt offers a 2-day delivery service for 95% of shoppers in the USIt offers transparent and affordable pricing Amazon Multi-Channel Fulfillment (MCF) Source Amazon Multi-Channel Fulfillment (MCF), is one of the many services that is offered by Amazon. It is a fulfillment service primarily targeted at brands that sell outside of the Amazon Marketplace. It offers varying shipping options in addition to the conventional same-day and 2-day delivery services. It offers an extensive fulfillment network that is built with Amazon’s comprehensive eCommerce infrastructureIt offers multiple delivery services, such as next-day and 2-day shippingIt offers simple and transparent pricing with competitive rates that are marginally more expensive than FBA FedEx Fulfillment Source FedEx Fulfillment is one of the many services offered by FedEx. It is a world-renowned third-party logistics (3PL), contract logistics services provider that offers storage, fulfillment status, and order fulfillment services. They have a vast amount of experience and offer a global network of fulfillment centers and shipping facilities. It offers international shipping servicesIt consists of more than 600 facilities in the US and CanadaIt offers to ship pre-ordered items that don’t need to be stored eFulfillment Service Source eFulfillment Service (EFS) is a fulfillment company that was founded in Michigan, in the United States of America. It primarily seeks to cater to small to mid-sized eCommerce retailers, as they don’t require order minimums or long-term contracts. It offers cross-docking capabilities for crowdfundersIt provides a 30-day test option for their servicesIt offers competitive and transparent pricing and doesn’t consist of any long-term storage feesIt offers services such as competitive product storage, order fulfillment, and returns handlingIts web-based software allows sellers to view inventory, check orders and shipments, and request additional services or support Conclusion: How can WareIQ’s Shopify Integration Help Your Business? There are many different aspects of an eCommerce business that contribute to the overall success in the online marketplace that it is competing. A major one is having access to a global fulfillment infrastructure and state-of-the-art technology. Integrating your WareIQ fulfillment platform with Shopify Fulfillment gives you access to these facilities and much more. WareIQ is a best-in-class, full-stack technology fulfillment platform that assists its customers in stepping up their eCommerce services to their customers. From the complete fulfillment process to providing your customers with grade-A experience, we are guaranteed to help your business offload your logistics requirements effortlessly, reduce costs, and increase overall customer satisfaction. WareIQ was established in 2019 and has emerged as one of the leading eCommerce fulfillment companies in India. Making use of our highly advanced technology platform, we offer a wide range of services that encompass any and every requirement that you have in terms of eCommerce order fulfillment. A few of the services that we offer are listed below: Nationwide Network of Fulfillment Centers We offer a pan-India network of warehouses, micro fulfillment centers, and dark stores that enable users to choose which storage solution works best for their requirements. Additionally, we offer intelligent inventory-placement suggestions to store your products in fulfillment centers that are located in proximity to areas of high demand and transit hubs. Custom WMS We provide custom Warehouse Management Software (WMS) that integrates with every major eCommerce marketplace. Users can track their inventory across multiple fulfillment centers and automate many warehouse management tasks to mitigate errors and increase speed and efficiency. App Store We offer an easy-to-use and well-designed app store where users can choose from a variety of applications to boost productivity across departments, that can easily be downloaded and installed with the click of a button. You can check this if you are looking to know more about Shopify Applications for online stores Choice of Shipping Aggregators We have partnered with more than 20 of the most renowned courier services in the country and automatically assign the fastest and most cost-effective shipping service for each order so that orders will always be fulfilled in the shortest time while spending the least amount of money. [signup] Suggested Read: 10 Ways To Execute Shopify Speed Optimization Effectively in 2023 Shopify Fulfillment: FAQs What is fulfillment in Shopify or Fulfillment by Shopify? After your customer orders online, the ordered items are picked, packed, labeled, and then delivered by Shopify and this entire process is known as Shopify fulfillment. Does Shopify offer fulfillment?Yes. Infact, fulfillment services offered by Shopify are amongst the best. Shopify Fulfillment Network offers a dedicated network of fulfillment centers to retailers who run a Shopify store that offers timely deliveries, lower shipping costs and customer satisfaction. What are the disadvantages of using Shopify fulfillment?The only service that Shopify fulfillment doesn't cover is multi-channel fulfillment. If Shopify sellers sell on other marketplaces as well, they would have to do it on their own or reach out to a 3PL fulfillment partner like WareIQ which offers a horizontal & full-stack OMS & WMS platform that integrates easily with 20+ marketplaces like Amazon, Flipkart, Myntra etc. & website builders like Shopify, Magneto, WooCommerce etc. How do I use a Shopify fulfillment center?This is quite easy. Firstly, you have to add the Shopify Fulfillment Network app to your app store or play store and choose which products you want Shopify to fulfill. You then need to share your inventory details with the relevant fulfillment centers and Shopify will take care of the rest. Does Shopify provide warehousing?Just like Amazon, Shopify also relies on a network of 3PL warehouse providers to carry out their plan with storage operations. WareIQ is one of those 3PL providers that offers a huge network of warehouses & fulfillment centers across India. Every Shopify seller can store their inventory in warehouses closest to their customers & offer the fastest delivery in 1-2 days. Does Shopify automatically fulfill orders?Yes, orders received at the store are fulfilled automatically.

February 22, 2023

What is Seasonal Demand Forecasting? The Necessity for eCommerce Companies to Forecast Seasonal Demand and 7 Ways to Predict it in 2024

Some products may increase or decrease in demand depending on the season; this variation is known as seasonality. Therefore, the need for some products might experience significant peaks and valleys due to this phenomenon, making inventory monitoring extremely difficult. When Americans shop most of the time during the holidays, most industries experience a massive increase in demand. 45% of survey participants who planned to spend more than $100,000 this holiday season planned to indulge, according to a McKinsey study. Seasonal items need to be carefully managed to account for any events or trends that could affect their popularity. Even though it may seem unpredictable, businesses can manage these changes by fine-tuning their seasonal demand forecasting with reliable estimates. Product demand forecasting is one of the most critical responsibilities for eCommerce organizations to optimize inventory management. The B2B, B2C, and DTC sectors fall under this category. Demand forecasting traditionally uses an algorithm to examine historical sales data to anticipate future sales. However, a characteristic that might be challenging to forecast—seasonality—complicates this projection. 126" measures can significantly impact inventory averages and are more challenging to identify. As a result, forecasting seasonal demand might resemble tossing darts into the dark and praying they land close to the board for most eCommerce firms. The guessing games associated with predicting seasonal demand can be put to rest for eCommerce firms with suitable forecasting approaches, processes, and technologies. Learn how to improve your eCommerce business, handle seasonal requests, and drive development. What Exactly is Seasonal Demand? A time series having recurring or predictable patterns of demand as a result of seasonal events is said to have seasonal demand. These patterns frequently make it more difficult for firms to predict demand correctly because they might recur over days, weeks, months, or quarters. In India, examples of seasonal demand include religious holidays like Deepawali, Christmas, or Ramadan, yearly celebrations like Valentine's Day or Friendship Day, and seasonal weather patterns like snow in the winter and a scorching environment in the summer. This all is taken care of separately under the fulfillment strategy for the holiday season. [contactus_uth] What Does Seasonal Demand Forecasting Entail? One of the trickiest aspects of your inventory management systems to master is seasonal demand forecasting. It's annoying to say, but it happens every year: a product's demand will be consistent throughout the year, but then, out of the blue, you'll notice orders soar or collapse. Of course, you are not alone in your challenges, so rest assured. Additionally, we have some guidance from a top professional to assist you in handling your forecasts. Inventory teams use seasonal demand forecasting to track the peaks and troughs in demand that particular products experience throughout the year. For instance, demand for traditional gifts will spike sharply before Christmas but decline quickly. While organizations may be aware of seasonal demand variations, controlling them can frequently be more difficult. Additionally, the entire supply chain may be impacted promptly if seasonal demand is not considered early in the ordering cycle. Why is it Necessary for eCommerce Companies To Forecast Seasonal Demand? Understanding the seasonal ebb and flow of product demand is essential for every eCommerce firm. However, this procedure is simple in some circumstances. For instance, a company that sells Christmas confectionery will anticipate a rise in sales as the holiday season approaches. This inevitably means that they will require a unique holiday inventory plan. However, seasonality can also be far more complicated in other situations. For instance, it might be more challenging for an online retailer of flower seeds to identify distinct seasons when sales will rise. Seasonal demand may cause severe problems with inventory planning depending on where the purchasers are located, the weather that year, and the market for specific flower species. Nevertheless, predicting seasonal demand is essential to an online company's profitability. Based on seasonal demand insights, brands can: Include future labour requirements.Model ideal supply levels based on the season and plan effective advertising campaigns.Make plans to address supply chain issues. Why is Forecasting Seasonal Demand So Complicated? The difficulties retailers have with forecasting are suggested by the following instances. The following are some difficulties in predicting seasonal demand: Seasonal Peaks and Short Life Cycles It is too late for a retailer to fix a seasonal forecast issue. The seasons and lifecycles of seasonal products should be longer to make changes. Due to inventory constraints, retailers either lose sales and consumer satisfaction or must make significant and expensive markdowns. Suggested Read: How to prepare for Peak Season Shipping in 2023? Seasons Vary From Year To Year Product seasons frequently don't adhere to exact patterns year after year. In addition, other lunar holidays, like Easter, can occur on different days, weeks, or even months. In truth, some events only take place in specific years. It could be more reliable and result in an unexpectedly expensive sales season to forecast seasonal products using historical sales data. No Previous Sales Data The seasonal schedule for this year varies from previous years, more often than not. For instance, evolving consumer tastes necessitate brand-new Halloween costumes every year, fresh seasonal goods, or even entirely new product lines that are popular this season. Retailers may need to make planning decisions in the dark with previous data. Concealed Seasonality There are occasions when a product category doesn't typically peak during a certain period of the year yet has specific products whose demand does. Because they are not obvious candidates for seasonal products because most retailers don't operate at the product level, products that you would ordinarily consider evergreen may experience sales increases. For instance, even though electrical products might not initially seem to be Christmas-related, demand for power bars increases over the holiday season. Retailers lose sales because more product is needed to satisfy demand. How Can Seasonal Demand Forecasting Help You Increase Your Competitiveness? Businesses needing help to predict seasonal demand effectively frequently need help with their stock levels. They risk stockouts and lost revenues during periods of peak demand if they underestimate. Additionally, if they overestimate, companies can avoid having extra inventory at the end of a season that needs to be sold off. As a result, if you can predict seasonal demand precisely, you'll have an advantage over your rivals and enjoy the benefits. They are listed below: Leverages Seasons of Increased Demand By planning for seasonal variations, you can ensure you have enough stock to capitalize on spikes in product demand throughout the year's busiest seasons. However, you primarily rely on your busy seasons to generate revenue. In that case, you must be at the top of your game and provide the best possible product availability throughout these times. Prevents Having Too Much Stock Additionally, avoiding overestimating seasonal demand variations in your estimate is crucial. Instead, it would be best if you made the appropriate inventory investments to maintain a healthy balance sheet and flowing cash flow. By preventing surplus stock at the end of a season, you avoid deciding between selling it off at a loss or bearing the weight of high carrying costs while waiting for demand to pick up again. Places Orders and Notifies Suppliers in a Timely Manner It's simple to overlook how crucial it is to prepare your suppliers ready for changes in seasonal demand. Intelligent companies will collaborate closely with their suppliers, letting them know precisely what they need and giving them plenty of time to respond. In addition, your suppliers can help ensure deliveries to satisfy consumer demand by scheduling orders in advance. Makes Wise Stock Selections You can optimize stock levels and make informed judgements on safety stock levels and replenishment procedures with realistic demand estimate that take seasonality into account. How Can Seasonal Demand be Predicted in 2023? Forecasting seasonal demand is a continuous activity. Your requirements may alter annually depending on the best-selling items and even what goods consumers require at any particular time. You can, however, employ several techniques to enhance your seasonal demand forecasts. They are listed below: Identify The Products Whose Demand Is Affected By The Season Source Remembering seasonality only relates to the percentage of demand variation explained by a recurring pattern is crucial. As a result, you need to find demand patterns that regularly occur over time. Consider these inquiries while analyzing seasonal demand for each stock item: Do you notice a consistent demand pattern over time? If there is a seasonal pattern, you can rely on it by analyzing the association between each year.Are you sure that the shift in demand is a seasonal variation rather than merely a long-term increasing or decreasing trend? De-seasonalize the demand by, for example, ignoring the seasonal pattern and determining whether demand is still rising.Does the seasonal demand require a different approach to the product? Examine the variance's amplitude. Know the Seasons of Your Customers Source Make sure you thoroughly understand your clients' seasons as you get ready to estimate seasonal demand effectively. When should you stock up on those essential supplies? For instance, in 2021, Christmas gift-buying began as early as the end of October. Even in regions where students might return to school in mid to late August, almost 59% of back-to-school expenditure may occur before the end of July. Learn about the seasons of your clients and how they have changed. For example, many people have started shopping earlier due to adjustments related to the pandemic to avoid supply chain issues and shortages that could prohibit them from receiving their essential supplies. In addition, many individuals instinctively begin planning and purchasing early for significant seasons and changes. Therefore, a key component of forecasting seasonal demand is understanding the seasons of your clients. Predict Those Peaks' Respective Sizes About Average Demand With Accuracy Source Before employing it in a forecast calculation, you should alter the demand if an item's seasonality is significant. To keep the data precise and straightforward for future forecasting, it is best practice to keep seasonal demand and other variable components distinct from your base demand estimates. Keep an Eye on Your Supply Chain Source It's crucial to consider your supply chain when you predict seasonal demand and client needs. In many circumstances, you need to account for longer-than-usual shipment durations or more work for shipping professionals, which could cause shortages. You can better meet client needs and ensure you're ready for upcoming sales increases by paying close attention to supply chain difficulties. Describe Current Trends in Your Reporting Source Looking at historical seasonal demand, you can get a fair indication of what sales might be like in the current year, but it needs to tell the complete story. Current trends, shortages, and consumer needs can significantly impact spending and the inventory you may need on hand. For instance, during the years of the epidemic, technology sales increased, which surprised many businesses. Many homes made investments in technology to make it easier for parents and workers to connect digitally. During stay-at-home orders, when more people chose comfortable clothing and athletic gear over the typical office trends, fashion sales also changed significantly. You can more accurately predict the anticipated shape of sales for the upcoming season and better manage your inventory by integrating information about current trends in your seasonal demand forecasting. Recognize the Degree of Uncertainty Surrounding the Predicted Peaks Source A demand forecast is rarely 100% correct, especially when seasonality is included, because markets are more dynamic than ever. It is crucial to take your forecast's accuracy into account. Finding demand outliers and looking into how they affect your calculations is only one method for increasing forecast accuracy. Calculating forecast error can also determine the degree of mistake in your earlier demand projections. This allows you to account for it in subsequent ones and modify stock rules, such as safety stock levels or reorder points. Streamline the Procedure Source You should automate the process of estimating seasonal demand wherever feasible. What you need is software that will examine current patterns and directions, previous seasonal shifts, and other data about your overall sales and incorporate that data into thoroughly examining what your seasonal needs will probably include in the upcoming year. Automating the process can eliminate the uncertainty surrounding your seasonal inventory requirements. Your platform can inform you of what you need when to order it, and whether you need to make adjustments to your plans in response to supply chain problems or look for new suppliers for some of the raw materials you require. By automating the procedure, you can also be sure that you'll get important reminders when it's time to order seasonal goods—a process that, this year, might need to be started earlier than usual. Conclusion: Utilize WareIQ To Anticipate Seasonal Demand If predicting seasonal demand still seems complicated, consider investing in inventory optimization solutions. You can save time and avoid the headache of manually calculating seasonality and forecasting demand with the help of automation solutions. With the help of these automation technologies, you can get up-to-date, precise, and thorough demand forecasts that consider seasonality, trends, supplier lead times, and delivery dates. The secret to managing seasonal demand changes is accurate demand forecasting. You can obtain precise demand forecasts using WareIQ's unique methodology based on previous sales data and customer purchasing patterns. This enables you to plan your inventory reorders so that you don't unintentionally run out of stock or wind up with too much inventory. WareIQ enables you to track performance down to the SKU level, allowing you to predict which products may experience a spike in demand during particular seasons. You can then focus your inventory planning on a select few items. Additionally, the inventory management software continuously monitors your inventory levels. It uses data analysis to forecast how long the stock will last and when you need to order more inventory. Additionally, the automated reorder point notifications ensure you always remember to place a reorder. One of the best features is that WareIQ provides a full-service fulfillment solution, allowing you to entrust WareIQ with managing and storing your inventory and fulfilling your orders. Additionally, the team will be able to effectively handle seasonal demand spikes if you let WareIQ know about impending increases in order volume. This will save you from having to hunt for last-minute solutions. Seasonal Demand: FAQs What is forecasting seasonal demand?Business owners and managers use seasonal demand forecasting to predict how sales will fluctuate throughout the year or over different seasons. The needs of consumers drastically alter from season to season. Which demand forecasting technique is better suited for seasonal products?The best demand forecasting technique for seasonal products will rely on the nature of your particular industry. However, depending on statistics is frequently the most thorough, dependable, and economical course of action. Regression analysis and trend predictions can be combined with statistical forecasting to forecast demand based on seasonal variations. What is the simplest way to predict demand?Trend projection is the most basic forecasting technique. Your historical sales data is used in this forecasting technique to project future demand and sales.However, as it only considers some variables, depending solely on the trend projection method can result in inaccurate inventory forecasting. This may result in incorrectly detected seasonal trends.

February 18, 2023

ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: The Ultimate Comparison to Help Simplify Your 3PL Fulfillment Company Decision in 2024

Choosing an eCommerce fulfillment company can be one of the hardest and most important decisions you will have to make as an eCommerce retailer. The benefits 3PL companies provide to budding sellers are exponential as they provide assistance in closing the gap to larger, more experienced, and financially-abled companies in terms of fulfillment, features, and technology. By ensuring that every seller that partners with them have these resources, they have enabled every seller to be successful, as long as they have a good product and are targeting the right audience. Gone are the days when local sellers had to sit idle while large firms acquired chunks of their market. However, not all 3PLs offer the exact same feature set. Some focus on shipping aggregation, while others provide services that encompass the entire array of eCommerce fulfillment processes. In this blog, we will compare 3 of the best fulfillment companies in the current day - ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ - so you can handily choose one that fits the bill and your requirements. Let’s get started. About WareIQ Source Since WareIQ’s inception in 2019, the company has steadily emerged as one of the leading fulfillment options in India. Currently headquartered in Bangalore, a city known for its technology and start-up-friendly environment, WareIQ has used its own technological prowess to inspire innovative solutions to a wide range of eCommerce requirements. The company provides every eCommerce-related service under the sun, such as order fulfillment, inventory storage, warehouse management, shipping aggregation, last-mile delivery, and much more. Additionally, it offers advanced software solutions in-house, such as a custom WMS and online app store, so you don’t need to purchase these items additionally from an external source. It also offers extremely cost-effective and transparent pricing along with no minimum order requirements and the ability to add or remove features from your plan. Some notable points that should make you consider WareIQ among the ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ are listed below: It has connections with more than 12 of the region's largest shipping companies, allowing for dependable, ultra-fast same-day and next-day delivery, and always designates the quickest and most cost-effective alternative for every purchase.It consists of an internal WMS that can track inventory levels and order-related data and generate real-time alerts across storage facilities and B2C, b2b eCommerce marketplaces.It offers an RTO Shield to lessen the impact of returns and provides insurance for each product, in addition to managing the complete reverse logistics process.It can interact with more than 20 online selling platforms, including Amazon, eBay, Flipkart and others, in addition to website builders like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento.It offers intelligent inventory placement and a nationwide storage network comprising of fulfillment centers and dark stores to assist you in keeping your inventory close to customers and transportation hubs. [contactus_lilgoodness] About ClickPost Source ClickPost is a fulfillment and 3PL logistics company that is primarily known for offering a comprehensive technology platform that simplifies and speeds up the ability for eCommerce companies to integrate with online selling platforms and shipping carriers so that they can access all their important information pertaining to orders, fulfillment, and shipping in one place. The company was pioneered in 2015 and is currently headquartered in Gurgaon, Haryana. It offers integrations with industry-leading 120-plus shipping carriers, in addition to features such as a smart courier allocator, branded order tracking, automated real-time updates via email, Whatsapp and SMS to customers, seamless management of delays, and much more. Its current daily order volume sits at more than 10 million shipments. Some notable points that should make you consider ClickPost among the ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ are listed below: It can integrate with more than 120 shipping carriers which enables you to monitor all your shipping data in a centralized location.It can send automated alerts to customers whenever an important event occurs, such as when an order moves to a new phase in the delivery process or if it has reached the same city as the customer.It provides a tool to automate the management of any unforeseen circumstances that could cause a disruption in the supply chain and provides the quickest and easiest solution to offset it.It provides complete returns management to help reduce the negative implications of returns.It has a Shopify app that can enhance the functionality of selling on Shopify. About Shiprocket Source Shiprocket is a shipping aggregation company in India that is one of the most experienced and best-regarded in the industry. The company currently has an order volume of more than 200,000 packages a day and operates in over 200 countries worldwide. It was founded in Delhi in 2012, where it is currently headquartered. As a shipping aggregator, its key services include automating several logistics shipping eCommerce operations, consolidating shipping services to provide customers with a more easy selection, and integrating with various eCommerce platforms. It also offers retailers other services such as cost estimation, which allows them to understand ahead of time how much money they will spend overall and order management across many selling platforms. Some notable points that should make you consider Shiprocket among the ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ are listed below: It provides a comprehensive platform to track and analyse critical order-related data, allowing you to swiftly assess your rates of success and spot areas that require revision.It provides additional services such as shipping label printing, order insurance and much more. This makes it one of the most comprehensive shipping platforms available today.It provides access to key data about your inventory levels and orders via a unified dashboard and also integrates with a variety of eCommerce marketplaces.It gives you the option of selecting up to 17 shipping carriers, and its intuitive UI allows you to manage and aggregate your order and logistical data across all of them.It offers a custom shipping rate calculator to help you choose which distributor is offering the best and most affordable service for each purchase depending on variables such as product attributes, distance, and more. ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Key Variations in Their Set of Services ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Core Offering WareIQ: WareIQ's primary offering is eCommerce fulfillment that leverages its technology-based offerings such as online integrations, an ML-powered predictive engine for intelligent inventory placement, a custom WMS that can track and provide real-time updates across online marketplaces and storage locations, and connectivity to nationwide fulfillment facilities and last-mile delivery partners.ClickPost: ClickPost’s central objective is to make use of advanced technology to seamlessly consolidate important data, across online selling platforms and shipping carriers, in one easily-accessible dashboard. To make this possible, the company offers a variety of online, storefront and WMS integrations.Shiprocket: Shiprocket's core service is shipping aggregation, which primarily consists of grouping many shipping firms in an organised manner so that their clients can make a proactive choice. To help with this, the company employs an AI-powered recommendation engine. Shiprocket's major goal is to make speedy and efficient delivery available to a big audience at a low cost. ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Customer Onboarding Time WareIQ: It takes just 7 days for the entire customer onboarding process to be completed.ClickPost: ClickPost does offer dedicated customer onboarding facilities but does not specify a duration.Shiprocket: Shiprocket claims to offer quick customer onboarding but does not explicitly mention a timeline. ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Pricing WareIQ: WareIQ offers lower pricing than its competitors, as well as cost-effective features such as billing per usage and no additional down payments, as well as customers not needing to additonal money on 3rd-party WMS and shipping software because it provides in-house solutions for these specific purposes.ClickPost: ClickPost charges its user a base amount to be paid on a monthly basis and imposes additional fees for every feature that is used. This can make subscription plans quite expensive once all the costs are added up.Shiprocket: Shiprocket's base subscription is ₹20 per 500 grams of merchandise, with other payment options available. In addition, you can add specific services that you require to your membership. ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Technological Features WareIQ: WareIQ aspires to be known for its technology platform in addition to being a fulfillment provider, It offers technologically advanced services, such as an in-house WMS, comprehensive order monitoring software with SMS, Whatsapp, and email updates, a control center with a dashboard view so that users can monitor and analyse key performance metrics, automated restocking triggers and much more.ClickPost: ClickPost utilises technology in many different aspects of its portfolio, such as being able to integrate with multiple online platforms and shipping companies, integrated order tracking, a Shopify app, and much more.Shiprocket: Shiprocket provides its customers with an NDR control, AI-powered suggestion engine, SMS order alerts, order tracking, automated distribution sites, and many other key technologies. ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: App Store WareIQ: WareIQ offers a well-designed, intuitive and easy-to-navigate app store with a full suite of downloadable apps to improve the fulfillment experience of sellers and their customers by unifying branded tracking solutions, recommendations to enhance optimization in various areas, order alerts, shipping badges, prompting customer feedback and much more, in a single location.ClickPost: ClickPost has its own Shopify app and other apps to manage various functions but do not have an entire catalogue consolidated together in an app store.Shiprocket: Shiprocket provides API integrations and has first-party apps. However, it does not specifically offer an app store or support for 3rd-party apps. ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Services Offered WareIQ: WareIQ provides services for many different business functions, such as B2B and B2C fulfillment, FBA preparatory facilities, Nykaa fulfillment, Flipkart preparation, custom packaging, an in-house WMS, a pan-India distribution network, ultra-fast delivery, inventory management, branded tracking and much more.ClickPost: ClickPost offers technology-related features, such as integrations with multiple selling platforms and shipping companies, consolidated shipping services, returns management, NDR support, order tracking, COD reconciliation and much more.Shiprocket: Shiprocket offers packing services, prepaid COD, no order thresholds, no monthly charges, API connections, and a variety of other services in addition to its shipping aggregation services. ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Integrations WareIQ: In addition to numerous well-known B2C and B2B markets like Flipkart, Amazon and eBay, WareIQ also provides WMS integrations to web-building platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce and more. This enables customers to manage inventory, keep track of orders, and migrate and export order and inventory data across several platforms without any issues.ClickPost: ClickPost offers different types of integrations, such as with shipping providers like FedEx and DHL; with WMS providers, such as NetSuite and Increff and with digital storefronts, such as Shopify and Magento.Shiprocket: To properly track and gather order data in one location, Shiprocket can be integrated with the majority of the main eCommerce selling platforms, including eBay, Amazon, Shopify and more. ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Unique Selling Point (USP) WareIQ: In order to provide solutions at every level of the supply chain, WareIQ offers a full-stack technology platform. Customers can choose the exact services they need, starting with warehousing, packing, inventory management, order tracking, shipping and everything in the middle.ClickPost: ClickPost uses technology to give sellers access to all their prime information in a simple and seamless way. The company offers multiple integrations in addition to most post-order fulfillment services.Shiprocket: The key selling point of Shiprocket is its shipping aggregation services, which are easily accessible to eCommerce sellers in bulk at reasonable pricing and make use of cutting-edge technology. ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Customised Packaging WareIQ: WareIQ offers sellers the utility of customised packaging where each element of the unboxing experience, such as brand logo, design, size and materials can be tailored according to their preferences.ClickPost: ClickPost does not provide customizable packaging options.Shiprocket: Shiprocket does offer bespoke packaging where different parcel elements can be tailored according to the customer’s requirements. ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Cold Storage Facilities WareIQ: WareIQ offers cold storage facilities in several of its fulfillment center locations that span the entirety of its network.ClickPost: ClickPost does not provide cold storage facilities.Shiprocket: Cold storage facilities are offered by Shiprocket in specific warehouses. ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Feature Comparison Table [Updated 2024] [table id=61 /] Related Article: Which is Better: Ecourierz vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ Conclusion: Why Should WareIQ be Your Go-To Option for Fulfillment Among ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ in 2024? Choosing an appropriate eCommerce fulfillment company that reflects the values of your business and encompasses all the requirements you have can have majorly positive implications regarding customer perception and satisfaction when they purchase from your company. To do this, you need to chalk out what your goals are, how you plan to achieve them, what services you should prioritize from your 3PL partner, and what your available financial resources are to take the plunge. The choice between ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ is a difficult one because each company specializes in different aspects of eCommerce. Shiprocket is mainly a shipping aggregator that can help you up your shipping game. ClickPost offers cutting-edge technology and integrations, and WareIQ offers a seamless blend of both, with shipping aggregation services and its own suite of advanced technological solutions, and everything in between. That is why it receives our pick for the best fulfillment company out of the bunch. If you need access to a vast amount of eCommerce services and a company that offers terrific scalability, look no further than WareIQ. WareIQ is an eCommerce fulfillment that specialises in every eCommerce activity that you can think of. Some of our primary services are listed below: Branded Packaging: We provide custom packaging services that can be adapted to your needs.App Store: We provide a complete, well-optimized app store with a diverse range of apps.Inventory Storage: You can store your merchandise anywhere you need it with our pan-India network of dark stores and fulfillment facilities.Shipping Badges: Similarly to Prime, we allow you to add shipping badges that provide delivery estimations on your online listing pages.Returns Management: We handle returns and shield you from any negative repercussions associated with them.Branded Order Tracking: We offer branded order tracking so that any information you want to highlight can be added to your order tracking pages.Collaborations with Shipping Companies: We collaborate with more than 12 courier companies and automatically assign the optimal alternative for each order.Marketplace Integrations: We can connect over 20 online selling platforms and web-building platforms, including Amazon, Magento, eBay and more.Inventory Management: We have a custom WMS that can automate a variety of functions and provide real-time updates.Ultra-Fast Fulfillment: We provide same-day and next-day delivery alternatives that are both speedy and dependable. Suggested Read: Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs Wareiq: Ultimate Comparison ClickPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: FAQs When and where was ClickPost founded?ClickPost was founded in 2015 in Gurgaon, Haryana. Does ClickPost offer a nationwide network of fulfillment centers?No, ClickPost does not offer its own network of fulfillment centers or any storage solutions. What is shipping aggregation?Shipping aggregation is the amalgamation of multiple shipping companies in an easy-to-view way to make comparing their pricing and features as easy as possible so as to help customers make an informed decision as to which company they should go with. Does ClickPost have an app store?No, ClickPost does not have an in-house app store. It does have a Shopify app and can integrate with various 3-party platforms. Does WareIQ provide returns management?Yes, WareIQ not only provides returns management but also has an RTO Shield that can protect your business and products from the hassle and financial damage that can occur while dealing with returns.

February 10, 2023

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