eCommerce Fulfillment

eCommerce Fulfillment 101: A Detailed Guide to eCommerce Fulfillment Processes, Costs, Challenges, Types, and Factors to Select a Fulfillment Partner For Your eCommerce Business in 2024

The number of people who are opting to shop online as opposed to the more traditional way of shopping at traditional brick-and-mortar stores has skyrocketed. It is in the best interest of eCommerce fulfillment companies and online retailers to have a system in place that gives customers the ability to keep track of orders every step of the way until it is delivered to the correct location. This also enables both sellers and buyers to know if each process has gone smoothly and can follow the outline set by this process. Read further to know about what is eCommerce fulfillment and all about the eCommerce marketplace fulfillment process. What is eCommerce Fulfillment? eCommerce fulfillment refers to the process that begins when the customer places the order and that ends with the product being delivered to the customer’s address. This involves order management, picking, packing, sorting, storage, inventory management, transportation, post-order tracking, and managing returns. eCommerce fulfillment service companies provide sellers with the most efficient and cost-effective way of transporting the goods from the Sellers’ fulfillment service company’s warehouse to the customer. It basically comprises the post-order placement experience of the customer. Thus, the fulfillment stage is integral to both the B2B market and B2C segments and the entire eCommerce industry. [contactus_uth] How Does eCommerce Fulfillment Work? eCommerce fulfillment is more of an umbrella word to include the various stages and actions undertaken to deliver a package. It is not limited to just picking and sorting a product from the warehouse shelf. The process can be justified by breaking it down into the following components. 6 Processes that are involved in eCommerce fulfillment are mentioned below: Inventory Management Source No or low stock or high inventory costs due to excessive inventory can cause huge losses for a seller. Thus, inventory management and accurate inventory forecasting are crucial to maintaining adequate inventory, no matter what kind of fulfillment model is employed. Storage/Warehousing The warehouse layout, the ideal aisle width, and other minute details like the availability of cold storage facility, forecasting order volumes & labor demand, etc affect the entire picking, packing & shipping process and count towards the overall fulfillment duration. Also read shopify fulfillment. Order Management Inventory and Warehouse Management must be in sync to ensure that a customer does not place an order for an out-of-stock product. Thus, order management does not include just receiving an order; it also involves coordination with the warehouse management team to ensure the customer orders a product in stock. Picking, Sorting, and Packing Source This phrase determines how fast the product is ready to be shipped. Numerous models are prepared to ensure that the picking process can be made more efficient. Many warehouses use completely automated processes to reduce time spent picking, sorting & packing in order to improve efficiency. Logistics/Shipping This covers the entire first-mile delivery to last-mile delivery and involves 3PL fulfillment companies with expertise in providing logistical solutions. This phase of the eCommerce fulfillment cycle depends on multiple external factors, and thus, the term “AGWWP (All goes well, weather permitting)” is commonly used here. This stage ensures the product's safe delivery to the customer’s doorstep without damage. Returns Certain product categories, such as clothing, account for a very high return percentage (75%). Thus, ensuring the product is returned intact from the customer to the seller is crucial. This phase of the eCommerce fulfillment cycle is important for sellers, especially as they require the product to be received back in the best condition with no further damage and can be resold after repairs to another customer who has placed the same order. 3 of the Most Common Misconceptions Regarding eCommerce Fulfillment Services Like any industry, the eCommerce fulfillment services industry also struggles with common misconceptions held by those not so well associated with the industry. Some of these misconceptions are: The Cheapest Way is Self-Fulfillment Smaller sellers, generally with less than 50 orders per month, can afford to spend time packing, going to the courier service, and getting it posted, and may find self-fulfillment more cost-effective. But as the business expands, this could eat up the seller's crucial time, which could be utilised for more important aspects such as preparing a growth plan. Even for bigger players with an established business set-up, capital investment (leasing of new land, setting up warehouses) and maintenance costs (labour costs, machinery costs) can tremendously affect the business’s balance sheet. Fulfillment is Just Warehousing It is often assumed that fulfillment refers to just the storage of goods and their dispatch from the warehouse. On the contrary, eCommerce warehousing is a subpart of fulfillment, and eCommerce fulfillment is an end-to-end process that involves storage and distribution. It also means efficiently picking the product and shipping it to the customer most efficiently and cost-effectively. Fulfillment Centers in Rural / Tier 2 or 3 Cities are Better or Closer to the Seller’s Business Location While the land costs may seem cheaper, most of the customer base still exists in metro and tier 1 cities. Thus, over time, the seller will have to pay more in shipping charges to cover the distance from the warehouse to the bulk of customers. What are the Various Challenges in eCommerce Fulfillment? eCommerce fulfillment endures significant challenges and issues, primarily due to the involvement of multiple stakeholders and parties in the entire process. These issues lead to additional costs incurred by the eCommerce fulfillment service company and the sellers. Some of the challenges in eCommerce fulfillment faced are listed below: Returns Returns continue to be one of the biggest challenges faced by eCommerce fulfillment services, as it involves capital investment into establishing a reverse supply chain and ensuring the product reaches back to the seller without any damage. Information Inaccuracy A wrong address, or a wrong pin code, is often realized in the last-mile delivery phase of the supply chain, leading to irreversible delays and costs. Because of this wrong information, inaccuracy can occur at any stage, be it during order placement or while sorting, and it is realised only during the last-mile delivery stages. Last-mile delivery software can help better manage this process. Inventory Management Issues Inventory Management is every seller’s most common issue, be it choosing between the Newsvendor Model, the Economic Order Quantity (EOQ), the Continuous Review (ROP), or the Periodic Review. The lack of appropriate forecasting leads to significant inventory management issues at the beginning of the supply chain, which travels down, eventually causing the Bullwhip Effect. Related Article: Inventory Management in Supply Chain Delays During Pre-Shipping In some supply chains where the Push-Pull boundary is extremely high up in the chain, delays during the pre-shipping stage, caused by processing and producing the order, put added pressure on eCommerce fulfillment services companies to fulfill the order within the promised time. This is often seen with customizable products. Exceptions These exceptions can often occur from natural disasters to a massive container ship blocking the Suez Canal. Despite the best preparations by the largest eCommerce fulfillment companies, there is sometimes no getting around such situations, which eventually lead to delays or damages. Read more on delivery exceptions. How to Calculate Fulfillment Costs for eCommerce Business? You must account for all of the costs connected with storing, packing, and shipping consumers' orders when figuring up fulfillment costs. A few things to consider for calculating fulfillment costs are provided below. Asses the Storage Requirements for Inventory Take into account the number of orders you receive as well as the size and nature of the things you offer. This will enable you to estimate the amount of warehouse space you'll require as well as the price of renting or leasing that space. Determine the Order Picking and Packing Costs Take into account the time and resources or manpower cost needed to prepare orders for delivery, including the price of consumables like labels and packaging materials. Determine the Shipping and Handling Costs Take into account the price of mailing or shipping labels, supplies used for packaging, and courier fees. Additionally, you might want to think about providing your clients with other delivery options, such as expedited or international shipping, and account for the added costs related to these options. Determine the Cost of Managing Returns and Exchanges Consider the cost of processing and managing returns and exchanges, including labor, materials, pickup, and any restocking fees. To calculate the total fulfillment cost for a specific order, you can add up the costs for each of these categories. For example, if your warehousing and storage costs per order are INR 100, your picking and packing costs per order are INR 50, and your shipping and handling costs per order are INR 25, the total fulfillment cost for the order would be INR 175. It is important to regularly review and update your fulfillment costs to ensure that you are accurately accounting for all relevant expenses and that your pricing is competitive. 5 Main Benefits of eCommerce Fulfillment eCommerce fulfillment service companies are specialized companies that understand the industry and cater to the needs of both sellers and buyers. Thus, they provide an efficient and cost-effective service to the seller and enhance the end customer's consumer experience. With 38% of online shoppers willing to abandon a package if it takes longer than expected, sellers cannot afford to lose sales because of undertaking self-fulfillment. Some of the benefits of eCommerce Fulfillment are listed below: Enhanced Customer Satisfaction eCommerce fulfillment services have established infrastructure and supply chains and ensure that the customers get their products on time and in the best condition. With 33% of customers leaving after the very first bad experience and 16% of customers willing to pay higher for a better customer service experience, it is prudent for any seller to ensure they can uphold their service promise to the customer. Reduced Delivery Times Warehouses and fulfillment centers of eCommerce fulfillment services companies are spread nationwide. With the inventory stored across these warehouses, the time taken for the product to reach any customer nationwide is reduced drastically compared to having it shipped from the seller’s location. Optimized Inventory Management The importance of inventory management is something that few are aware of, and its repercussions can lead to a product’s failure. eCommerce fulfillment services provide sellers with the power to remotely manage their inventory while providing insights to them through the data collected. Thus, designing the best inventory management system for their product optimizes the shipping process for eCommerce and the storage within the warehouse for which the sellers have to pay. Improved Branding and Packaging Personalized branding and packaging is a feature of eCommerce Fulfilment that sets it apart from regular order processing and helps boost customer satisfaction by providing them with a personalized feeling. Effective Returns Management Ensures effective returns management, with certain product categories that have high returns, eCommerce Fulfilment services help cater to them and ensure a smoother overall process from the time the customer raises the return request to the product reaching back to the seller. The 3 Different Types of eCommerce Fulfillment Models eCommerce fulfillment can be carried out in multiple ways as there is no single fixed method. This is primarily due to the difference in products, inventory, and customer requirements. The 3 most commonly utilized models are listed below: Self Fulfillment The seller manages the entire fulfillment process, which starts from receiving the order, storing it on their premises, packing it, and also ensuring its transportation through established courier services. It is suitable for businesses that have just started out with a handful of orders per month. 3PL Fulfillment 3PL (Third Party) fulfillment services companies cater to sellers who outsource their fulfillment needs. 3PL fulfillment companies cater to the end-to-end service requirements of the seller by providing access to the company’s established warehouses, logistics and supply chain, and inventory management system. 3PL fulfillment companies use economies of scale by catering to multiple sellers. Thus, these companies spread the cost amongst all, proving cost-effective for each seller, both in the B2B fulfillment and B2C domains. Dropshipping In the dropshipping model, the seller does not hold any inventory, and the product is shipped directly from the seller’s manufacturer or wholesaler. Although ideal for sellers starting out, it provides no inventory management solution. Read the blog on dropshipping vs order fulfillment to know which fulfillment model is right for your online business. Differences among the three types of eCommerce fulfillment The 3 eCommerce Fulfilment models can be confusing for new and small businesses to figure out. Thus, in the table mentioned below, the salient features of each model have been mentioned for Sellers to make an informed decision. [table id=1 /] Suggested Read: What is Hybrid Fulfillment? How to Choose an eCommerce Fulfillment Provider that is Right for Your Business in 2024? Who is going to be the fulfillment company for my business? This is a question that comes to every seller’s mind and is probably one of the most important decisions that a seller has to make. Some points that should be kept in mind before taking this decision are listed below: Shipping Speed In this era of 10-minute hyperlocal delivery, it is crucial to partner with an eCommerce fulfillment service provider that keeps the seller one step ahead of the competition. Read how to increase shipping speed. Warehouse Location With eCommerce gaining confidence in Tier 2 and 3 cities, it is important that warehouses have a nationwide network to fulfill the needs of the expanding customer base. Shared Ideologies Synergy in ideology is a critical aspect that can be overlooked and realised much later after it is too late. For example, a seller dealing in organic products, who ensures that the backend supply chain is sustainable, would also want to ensure that the eCommerce fulfillment service provider is making efforts towards sustainable usage of transport for the logistics aspect and also in the warehouses. Order Fulfillment Software Data plays a crucial role in optimising the fulfillment process, along with software that understands the data generated from the orders. It is crucial that the software is easily integrated with the Seller’s order processing and data handling software. The use of AI and ML should be considered a norm in this software. Small business order fulfillment services are very important for smaller retailers. Transparency and Visibility Sellers must have full access to the details of their products at any stage in the order fulfillment process, especially during the shipping phase. This service should be extended to the customer as well because such services are now considered amongst the most basic aspects of the eCommerce fulfillment service process. Scalability The eCommerce fulfillment service provider must be able to handle demand surges as well as the fall in demand without causing significant losses to the seller by using appropriate forecasting demand methods. This ensures to the seller that the service provider is prepared for most of the events that can be faced during a demand cycle. Packaging and Branding eCommerce fulfillment service providers are known to provide customized packaging and branding options to sellers for their products. This adds to the overall customer experience and increases the customer’s trust and want for the seller’s product. Certifications The eCommerce fulfillment service provider should never compromise on quality, and a good verification of that is the company's qualifications. Customer Support The fulfillment service provider should have efficient customer support facilities that can quickly resolve issues. How Can eCommerce Fulfillment Contribute to the Success of Your Online Business? eCommerce fulfillment services in India provide the catapult that is needed by every product, regardless of how amazing it is. Some important numbers that every seller must remember are: 38% of shoppers will cancel a delivery if the delivery partner takes more than a week to deliver 73.6% of consumers believe that delivery is the most crucial part of the eCommerce shopping experience 94% of consumers blame the seller for poor delivery From the above numbers, it is evident how much the consumer is influenced by the delivery experience and also how the consumer believes that the seller is to blame for late delivery. Thus, it is extremely important for sellers to ensure that they team up with an eCommerce fulfillment services provider that propels them in order to expand their business in the eCommerce industry. Sammy Gibson’s idea of custom neon signs was a success because he managed to boost his sales through an eCommerce fulfillment services provider and deliver his products all the way to America and Canada, from Australia. Should You Outsource Your eCommerce Fulfillment? 5 Benefits of Doing it eCommerce fulfillment can often be a challenge for smaller businesses that don't have access to advanced software solutions or enough resources to provide features such as ultra-fast delivery and discounted shipping. Outsourcing eCommerce fulfillment service requirements to 3PL companies can take away a tremendous burden for these sellers, who are now able to focus on more central business activities. Here are some of the main benefits of outsourcing eCommerce fulfillment: Ability to Focus on Core Business Activities Order fulfillment often takes up a lot of time for both small and big businesses alike. The difference is that big companies have multiple teams focusing on different tasks while small businesses may have to rely on a few members to take care of a variety of processes. Fortunately, if they partner with a 3PL, they can offload the entire fulfillment process which frees up time to focus on core activities of the business such as marketing, running promotional offers, expanding their product range, and enhancing existing products. Access to Lower Shipping Costs Businesses that do not have a large number of orders to fulfill every month are often the victims of the highest shipping costs as they cannot take advantage of bulk shipping discounts. However, 3PL companies often partner with multiple shipping aggregators and offer a choice between them. Additionally, companies like WareIQ automatically assign the courier service that will deliver particular orders in the shortest amount of time and at the lowest shipping rates, enabling retailers to significantly reduce their shipping expenditures. Ability to Provide Faster Shipping Next-day, same-day, and even 10-minute delivery are becoming commonplace so it is in every retailer's best interests to provide the fastest possible shipping. While this may be hard to tackle on their own, when they partner with 3PL companies, they instantly get access to ultra-fast shipping at cost-effective rates that are guaranteed to have a positive impact on them and their customers. Access to Advanced Software 3PL companies are often equipped with highly advanced software systems that sellers would not have access to if they fulfilled orders on their own. When they choose to partner with these 3PL companies, they can take advantage of features such as automated reorder triggers, integrations across selling platforms, intelligent suggestions for placement of inventory based on areas of high demand, inventory management, and much more. Provision of Order Tracking Facilities Order tracking is a must if sellers want to keep their customers constantly updated and satisfied about the fact that the order is on its way. Some 3PLs not only provide generic order tracking facilities but companies like WareIQ offer customizable branded tracking pages that can be customized with a whole host of information that is guaranteed to keep your customer delighted and informed. How Can WareIQ be the Best eCommerce Fulfillment Partner for Your Business? Today, the coronavirus pandemic has further accelerated the already growing e-commerce economy since 2020, and customer demand is only expected to rise. The growing demand has led to supply chain management becoming more complex than ever before. However, what hasn’t changed is the customer’s expectation of fast, Amazon-like, delivery. Customers don’t want to wait for orders to reach them within 5-15 working days, instead by default, they end up comparing all shipping options to Amazon and expect their orders to reach them within 2 working days. Evidently, e-commerce stores that don’t offer this will lose customers to Amazon. To survive and remain competitive e-commerce businesses have to ‘deliver’ on this expectation. WareIQ is an end-to-end solution for eCommerce fulfillment that allows you to ship 90% of your orders across India in 1 day – just like Amazon. Also read about beauty fulfillment. WareIQ's technology prioritizes speed and scale to give you complete control over your eCommerce logistics and offer Amazon-like delivery to your customers. WareIQ unifies all your logistics operations into one platform so you can manage everything in one place – from inventory via InventoryLogIQ, orders, and warehousing, to shipping, delivery, and returns. No more wasted resources and fragmented data from a hundred different tools. 6 ways in which WareIQ helps e-commerce & DTC brands ace their logistics game: Faster reach & reduced delivery times: WareIQ allows you to reach a larger audience in a shorter period of time with storage facilities spread across India and closer to your demand centers. Our smart inventory placement ensures that your demand centers are well-stocked and enables efficient & prompt delivery. As per reports, 61% of consumers are willing to pay more for 1-day shipping speed and 40% of customers prefer to shop from stores that offer 2-day shipping. We help you evolve from a 5-15 day delivery system to the same day/next day Amazon-like delivery system and are already helping 100+ other brands in India to do so. Reduced overhead costs: WareIQ’s customers save resources that are typically spent on establishing infrastructure. We offer you the flexibility to store inventory in several or one fulfillment centers as per your business needs. Our team’s expertise in logistics and our extensive warehousing network across India enables greater influence during negotiations, resulting in volume discounts for our clients. Expert support: Given the vastness of the logistics involved we provide the expertise needed to improve and advance your supply chain for India’s ever-changing-commerce environment. It is difficult to foresee and accommodate the internal expertise required across functions and geographical regions – that’s where we come in. Our teams support your day-to-day on-ground operations along with other requirements such as transport documentation, import and export licenses, compliances, and economic regulations. Rich insights: WareIQ’s tech platform leverages real-time data to enable your organisation to predict demand. With this data, you can make wise data-driven decisions promptly thereby reducing costly delays and enabling supply chain efficiencies frequently. Scalability: When there is a surge in demand, your enterprise can upscale quickly, similarly, in the case of a slack, downscaling is effortless. Our pay-as-you-go model allows simplified and flexible scalability. There are no redundant investments or under-utilised resources. With the world evolving as it is, scalability has proved itself to be the make-or-break factor for a large number of e-commerce businesses. Improved customer satisfaction: As discussed earlier, the success of your e-commerce business not only depends on your product quality but also on the time it takes to reach your customer. With WareIQ’s real-time data and prompt response times, you can ensure timely deliveries and greater brand reliability. This translates to satisfied customers — the most crucial success metric for DTC brands in a competitive space like India. [signup] Ecommerce Fulfillment FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) What is a fulfillment service?A fulfillment service is a company that handles the storage, packing, and shipping of orders on behalf of an eCommerce business. For example, a small e-commerce business that sells handmade jewelry may use a fulfillment service to store and manage its inventory, pick and pack orders, and ship them to customers. This allows the business to focus on other aspects of its operations, such as marketing and customer service, while still being able to efficiently fulfill orders. What do you mean by eCommerce fulfillment partner?A fulfillment partner is a 3PL or 4PL logistics service provider who offers inventory, order processing, and shipping services, and delivers orders to the end customers. What is the role of a fulfillment partner?Fulfillment partners will be responsible for offloading stock deliveries, processing work orders, locating products and packaging orders for dispatch. They also operate and will train your staff on how to use warehouse equipment like forklifts, cherry pickers, and pallet jacks. How much does eCommerce fulfillment cost?The cost of e-commerce fulfillment can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the size and complexity of the orders, the distance they need to be shipped, and the services included. For example, a small e-commerce business that sells small, lightweight items and ships within the same country may pay a few rupees per order for fulfillment services. A larger business that sells heavier or more complex items and ships internationally may pay more. Sometimes eCommerce fulfillment can also charge additional fees for services such as returns processing or expedited shipping. It is important to shop around and compare different eCommerce fulfillment services to find the one that best meets the needs of your business at a cost that is reasonable. What are common eCommerce fulfillment options?Some common types of eCommerce fulfillment are:• In-house fulfillment• Third-party fulfillment• Fulfillment by Amazon• Multi-channel eCommerce fulfillment How do I handle returns and exchanges in e-commerce fulfillment?To handle returns and exchanges in e-commerce fulfillment, you will need to have a clear return/exchange policy in place and communicate it to your customers. You should also set up a system for processing returns and exchanges, which may involve creating a return/exchange form that customers can fill out and including instructions for how to return or exchange items. To learn more check returns management. How do I track and monitor my eCommerce fulfillment orders?To track and monitor your eCommerce fulfillment orders, you can use the tracking information provided by your fulfillment service or carrier. Check eCommerce order tracking for details. Are there any affordable eCommerce fulfillment options for small businesses in India?Yes, there are affordable e-commerce fulfillment options for small businesses in India. Here are a few options to consider:i) Third-party logistics (3PL) providers: Many 3PL providers like WareIQ offer 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.ii) Online marketplaces: Some online marketplaces, such as Amazon and Flipkart, offer fulfillment services for a fee. This can be a convenient option for small businesses that sell products through these platforms.iii) Self-fulfillment: Some small businesses choose to fulfill orders themselves, either by storing and packing orders in-house or by using a small warehouse or storage unit. This can be a cost-effective option if you have a small product line and don't need a lot of storage space.By carefully considering your fulfillment needs and shopping around for the best options, you may be able to find affordable fulfillment solutions for your small business in India. Read the blog on the top 10 fulfillment companies for small businesses to find your perfect 3PL fulfillment partner.

February 10, 2023

Top 10 eCommerce Fulfillment Services For Fastest Shipping and Delivery for Online and D2C Brands

With the eCommerce boom occurring across India over the last few years, consumer preferences have rapidly changed and this has led to the requirement for eCommerce businesses to choose a reliable partner from among the best eCommerce Fulfillment Services in India in 2024. Indian customers, especially during the pandemic lockdowns, have gotten a taste of express delivery or same day deliveries and compare companies based on how fast either can deliver the same product. In this era of 10-minute delivery, customers may debate the necessity of such services. But what needs not to be debated is the fact that not upgrading to meet the expectations of the customers can lead to lost ground to the competition. This is where eCommerce fulfillment companies step in. Armed with their massive infrastructure, not just warehouses and established logistics networks but also the latest software platforms, the best eCommerce fulfillment services in India ensure the products reach their desired destination in the promised time, thus ensuring the highest levels of customer satisfaction. What is a Fulfilment Centre? A fulfilment centre is a supply chain component that serves as the hub for all logistical procedures required to deliver a product from the seller to the client. It manages the full order fulfilment process, from selecting and processing orders to packaging and shipping. The fulfilment centre is used by a third-party logistics (3PL) provider, such as WareIQ, to receive, process, and complete consumer orders for online businesses wishing to optimise their operations. A fulfilment centre exists to ensure that online purchases are delivered to clients on time and to relieve ecommerce enterprises of the burden of handling this critical yet difficult operation. How do fulfillment centers work? Fulfilment centre operations include the work that gets online orders to your door, often known as the jio order fulfilment process. In order to complete client orders, an ecommerce business's inventory is strategically housed in a 3PL's fulfilment centre. After a customer makes a purchase on an ecommerce site, merchandise is selected and boxes are packed before being labelled for shipment. Fulfilment centres can handle both business-to-business (B2B) orders — often a large volume of items supplied to a big-box store — and business-to-consumer (B2C) purchases, which are dispatched directly to a consumer's house. When a seller outsources ecommerce fulfilment, the 3PL completes the fulfilment process on behalf of the shop owner. E-Commerce Fulfillment Service Key FeaturesService Offerings PricingDelivery TimeWareIQFull-stack platform for same-day and next-day delivery.Decentralized fulfillment for faster delivery.Inventory and Network planner for decreased inventory and increased revenue.RTO Prediction & insuranceMaximize share of stock for fast delivery.Decrease inventory and increase revenue.Improve item availability.Grow business by 3x leveraging WareIQ solutionCustomized pricing.Varies based on servicesSame-day and next-day deliveryShipwayPartnered with 30+ eCommerce couriers.End-to-end shipping automation.Pan India warehouses and fulfillment centers.Reliable and affordable shipping services.End-to-end shipping automation for 12,000+ eCommerce retailers.Customized pricing.Varies based on servicesQuick delivery across India.Shopify Fulfilment Services90-day trial period.Inventory Management.Same-day fulfillment.Omnichannel capability90-day trial period.Omnichannel support$79 / month for standard moduleSame-day fulfillmentDHL eCommerce FulfilmentPan India warehouses.Inventory ManagementInternational DeliveriesMinimum OrdersWarehousing and inventory management.International deliveries for cross-border sales.Varies based on services.Varies based on location.Delhivery75 fulfillment centers across India.Inventory Management.Separate channels for B2B and B2C customers.End-to-end fulfillment solutions.Inventory management.Different channels for B2B and B2CVaries based on services.Efficient and customizable.Flipkart FulfillmentFulfillment center space.Faster delivery of products.Quality check by Flipkart expertsFulfillment center services.Faster delivery and quality checksVaries based on services.Fast and quality assured.Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA)60 fulfillment centers across India.Market access to MSME, craftsmen, and artisans.Broad market access and A-to-Z Guarantee.Three months trial period.Varies based on servicesEfficient and reliable.EshopboxEshopbox Workspace software.Nationwide network of warehouses.Integration with major platforms.End-to-end eCommerce fulfillment solutions.Warehouse network and platform integrationStarts at INR 15,000 per month.Web-based integration.ShipDelightOver 55 years of experience.Services over 26,000 in the country.Order management, branded tracking, shipping automation.Shipping and distribution services.Order management and automationStarts at ₹25 per 0.5 kgs of inventory shipped.Quick and reliable.Pickrr Plus24-48 hour delivery.Zero weight discrepancy.Reduction in RTO.No capital investment in the warehouse.Fast and accurate delivery.Reduced RTO and no warehouse investment.Customized pricing.Varies based on services.Quick and efficient. What are eCommerce Fulfillment Services? eCommerce fulfillment services are defined as the most integral part of any eCommerce company’s operations that encompasses the entire fulfillment cycle once an order is placed online. The fulfillment cycle involves receiving the order, packaging, order management, storage, sorting, transportation, inventory management, post-order tracking, and returns (reverse supply chain). eCommerce fulfillment services providers are responsible for enabling delightful post-purchase experiences for online customers through the fastest delivery, dispatch & delivery of correct orders to the right customers, real-time order notifications, delightful packaging, etc. We can understand how eCommerce fulfillment services in India form the backbone of the entire eCommerce industry. Much like a 3PL logistics service provider, eCommerce fulfillment companies and fulfillment centers cater to the many logistical requirements of the sellers, especially in this ever-changing and rapid delivery expectation environment. Imagine a business run out of a flat or a garage. (Very relatable to some!) Receiving the order, packing it, transporting it, or shipping it through a courier are all handled solely by a person. Now scale it up and replace the person with a company. That is what an eCommerce fulfillment company does. [contactus_gynoveda] What Services Do the Best eCommerce Fulfillment Services Provider Offer? With eCommerce growing in India at unprecedented rates, with numbers projected at a growth of 57% in online grocery sales and 31% growth in online retail sales by IBEF (Indian Brand Equity Foundation), the need for eCommerce fulfillment companies is now more than ever. But what differentiates the best eCommerce fulfillment companies in India from the others is the presence of the following services/features: Shipping Speeds - Same Day and Next Day Deliveries With next-day and even same-day delivery becoming the norm, it is imperative that the best fulfillment company you choose can deliver on its promises, quite literally. According to a survey by Dropoff, 53% of the customers have canceled their order because of a slower-than-expected delivery time. Such canceled orders can prove to be quite a bane for many companies. Warehousing The best fulfillment companies in India for large businesses or small business share the same service promise to you, what you have promised to your customer. Upholding your service promise is the prime responsibility. Ensuring timely delivery depends highly on the nationwide presence of warehouses, thus reducing the last mile delivery pains and ensuring the middle mile delivery is faster and more cost-effective to you. The Fulfilment Software The on-ground capabilities of a fulfillment company are just not enough. What matters is also the fulfillment software given that everyone from the management team to the fulfillment warehouse staff shall be dealing with this. As sellers tend to use different tools and platforms for different processes, it is vital to ensure the software used by the fulfillment company is easy to implement and can integrate with other platforms and tools. The best fulfillment companies provide dashboards with intuitive business intelligence and easy to use user interfaces. Returns Management With about 1/3rd of orders being returned, the 3PL fulfillment company of your choice must also cater to the reverse supply chain. Handling returns and ensuring the cause of return is resolved by ensuring the package reaches back to the seller differentiates the best fulfillment companies in India from others in the market. Costs In the end, it is all about money. It is not about being the cheapest, but which eCommerce fulfillment company provides you with the best return on your investment, the best logistics cost, and more by providing the best value for the money. This involves the ability to scale up and down as the demand grows or subsides the shopping cycle weekly or monthly and even on an hourly basis. The sellers value the variety and customizations in pricing plans because it gives them the flexibility and choice they desire. Transparency The ability to track and monitor one’s shipments is highly valued by all customers, be it in the B2C or B2B segment. It prevents customers from unnecessary mental hassle and uncertainty about their package. This transparency and living up to the service promise bring back customers to the sellers. Thus, the best eCommerce fulfillment companies ensure that customers/sellers have complete transparency during the fulfillment process. How Can eCommerce Fulfilment Companies Boost Your Online Revenue? The best fulfillment companies in India ensure that your product reaches your customer no matter where they are located, be it in Ahmedabad or Abohar. With next day or two-day delivery being the new level of expectations amongst consumers, ensuring your product reaches the consumer before your competitors’ is what must be followed. However, heavy capital expenditure on numerous warehousing facilities, investment in robotic product handling, rapid order processing, and packing, and lack of transport infrastructure in remote locations are a few of the challenges to this micro fulfillment revolution. Hence the micro fulfillment model by eCommerce fulfillment services is fast evolving to provide a more customised experience for eCommerce sellers with same-day delivery and next-day delivery offerings. Top 5 Challenges Faced by eCommerce Fulfilment Companies in India eCommerce fulfillment companies have to deal with multiple parties and stakeholders, and thus this compounds the problems faced; added to that is the uncertainty factor, especially that of the unexpected. Such is the impact of these events: a term in shipping that goes “AGWWP (All goes well, weather permitting)”! The following are some of the challenges faced by eCommerce fulfillment companies and of which sellers should be wary: Returns: With a high number of returns, companies require a robust return supply chain to ensure the product is picked up from the customer on time and returned to the seller without any damages. It involves additional capital expenditure on maintaining two supply chains, even though some aspects are interlinked. Information inaccuracy: From wrong addresses to a wrong contact number, these issues are all realised in the last mile delivery, and by then, it is too late to take any corrective action. This information inaccuracy can occur at any stage, be it by the customer, wrongly printed by the seller, or improperly handled by the fulfillment center.Exceptions: Natural Disasters to a massive container ship blocking the Suez Canal, these delivery exceptions occur pretty often, ironically. Despite the best preparations by the best eCommerce fulfillment companies, there is sometimes no getting around such situations which eventually leads to delays or damages. Delays during pre-shipping: In some supply chains where the Push-Pull boundary is extremely high up in the chain, often seen with customisable products, delays during the pre-shipping stage, caused by processing and producing the order, add added pressure onto the fulfillment company to fulfill the order within the promised time. Inventory Management issues: Inventory Management is every seller’s most common issue, be it choosing between the Newsvendor Model, the Economic Order Quantity (EOQ), the Continuous Review (ROP), or the Periodic Review (FOI) and lack of appropriate forecasting leads to significant inventory management issues at the beginning of the supply chain which travel down eventually causing the Bullwhip Effect. How to Choose the Best eCommerce Fulfillment Services in India? How do you choose who should be your fulfillment provider? This is an essential question as the growth of one’s business depends entirely on how effective the service provider is. Thus, the following points shall be able to help one choose the best eCommerce fulfillment service provider. Shipping speed A fulfillment company that is capable of beating your competitors is what is essential to prevent customers from being pushed away. Warehouse location Location, Location, Location! The strategic presence of the warehouses is critical to the supply chain and forms the balance between costs and speed. Shares same ideologies Choose a fulfillment company that shares the same ideology as your company, for, e.g., If you own an organic produce company, then choosing an eCommerce fulfillment company that has no Green Policy or is not taking steps to reduce its carbon footprint could be taken highly negatively by your customer base. Order fulfillment software A cross-platform and easily integrated software that is adaptable and driven by a well-programmed ML-based prediction engine to help the companies understand the trends and prepare for them better. Scalability To handle the ups and downs of the demand cycle without adversely impacting the customers and the sellers. Customer Support Customer support that is efficient and quick to resolve issues. Packaging and Branding Providing that personal touch to the packaging can go a long way in creating the impression one needs in the customers’ eyes. All fulfillment companies provide packaging services, but only the best fulfillment companies go the extra step to ensure special packaging for special products. Certifications Never compromise on quality, and a good check of that is the company's qualifications. Transparency and visibility The best fulfillment companies ensure that the sellers have the transparency they are entitled to. The sellers and end customers alike have complete visibility of where the package is and are intimated of any discrepancies or issues. Which are the 10 Best eCommerce Fulfillment Services? WareIQShipwayShopify Fulfilment ServicesDHL eCommerce FulfilmentDelhiveryFlipkart FulfillmentFulfillment by Amazon (FBA)EshopboxShipDelightPickrr Plus The Indian eCommerce Marketplace fulfillment shows no signs of slowing down and will not for a long time to come. Thus, one must understand who are the key and best players in the market and decide on which of these best fulfillment companies for eCommerce & D2C players in India should approach to grow their business: WareIQ Source Established in 2019, WareIQ, a Y-combinator backed startup, has rapidly grown to be the leading provider of full-stack eCommerce fulfillment tech solutions 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. 7 Benefits of choosing WareIQ for eCommerce fulfillment services are mentioned below: Maximize share of stock eligible for same/next day delivery using decentralised fulfillmentDecrease inventory by 40% and drive revenue by 10% with 80%+ regional utilisation using WareIQ Inventory & Network plannerIncrease item availability to 99%+ through efficient inventory managementGrow your business by 3x in a year by leveraging WareIQ solution – fulfillment infrastructure, Inventorymanagement capabilities and Full-stack technology platformRTO Prediction & insurance through RTO ShieldCreate the best post-purchase experience using AppstoreSame day delivery using WareIQ Rush, leading to higher customer satisfaction, reduced cost & near zero RTO% No minimum order quantity requirements make it suitable even for eCommerce firms having low order quantities to take advantage of the latest trends such as next day delivery and same day delivery. The onboarding process is simple, convenient, and less time-consuming, while the pricing policy is clear and transparent. WareIQ also undertakes strict safety precautions at its warehouses and complete ownership of the operations, thereby minimising the risk exposure of WareIQ customers. Shipway Source Shipway is a newcomer that specialises in offering dependable and affordable shipping services to eCommerce businesses. This eCommerce courier services provider allows you to focus on business operations, ensuring that your customers receive the finest shopping experience. Services offered by Shipway are listed below: Has already partnered with 30+ eCommerce couriers. Currently provides an end-to-end shipping automation solution for fulfillment and logistics to over 12,000 eCommerce retailers.Pan India warehouses and fulfillment centers You Can Also Check: List of Shipway Alternatives Shopify Fulfilment Services Source The Indian arm of this Canadian company offers end-to-end fulfillment solutions for eCommerce companies. The services provided by them are as follows: 90 day trial periodInventory Management: Recommendations for inventory storageSame-day fulfillment: Orders received by 1600 Hrs are shipped on the same dayOmnichannel capability: Caters to eCommerce stores and orders from social networking platforms.Pricing: $79 / month for the standard module.You can simultaneously check Best Shipping Software for Shopify in 2024 DHL eCommerce Fulfilment Source The known international courier service has been present in India since 1979 and has an established national network of warehouses and last-mile delivery. The services provided by DHL are: Warehousing: Pan India warehousesInventory Management: A fulfillment portal with access to inventory levels and snapshots/reports.International Deliveries: For sellers with a significant chunk of cross-border sales.Minimum Orders: Country-specific minimum orders per day Delhivery Source Established in 2011 and entered the Unicorn club of India, this eCommerce Fulfilment company has upgraded warehouses to provide end-to-end fulfillment solutions. Warehousing: 75 fulfillment centers across India and integrated with courier partners for last-mile delivery.Inventory Management: Have a proprietary WMS and provide inventory management services.Separate channels for B2B and B2C customers. Flipkart Fulfillment Source Flipkart requires no introduction, but few know about the fulfillment services they offer. These services include: Fulfillment center spaceFaster delivery of productsQuality check by Flipkart expertsPackaging that will delight the end customersFlipkart Assured badgeSeamless order processingInventory placed across multiple fulfillment centres Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) Source The pioneer of eCommerce fulfillment, this heavy giant has set the industry standard for fulfillment services. Though many eCommerce companies have benefited from Amazon’s same day/next day delivery, those with a less regular rate of orders tend to suffer. Additionally, the same day/next-day delivery is available only for registered vendors. Attributes of Amazon’s fulfillment services are below: 60 fulfillment centers across 15 states in IndiaMarket access to MSME, craftsmen, and artisansAmazon’s A-to-Z GuaranteeThree months trial periodDashboard with up-to-date technologies for tracking. Eshopbox Source This Gurugram based company was set up in 2015, focusing on end-to-end eCommerce fulfillment. It focuses on helping pure-play digital sellers and D2C companies handle and solve inventory, warehousing, and logistical issues. The following are some services and features of Eshopbox: Customers use web-based software called “Eshopbox Workspace.”A nationwide network of warehouses with tie-ups with regional carriers.The software can integrate with major players like Amazon, Flipkart, etc.Additional offerings for D2C customers on specific websites for D2C growth.The monthly subscription fee starts at INR 15,000. ShipDelight Source ShipDelight has over 55 years of consolidated experience in the shipping and distribution industry. The founders of ShipDelight have supreme knowledge about how to solve the many problems related to order fulfillment and seek to fully integrate the requirements of eCommerce retailers and the logistics and fulfillment services that are provided by the company. Services offered by ShipDelight are listed below: Services more than 26,000 in the country.Offers services such as order management, branded tracking, shipping automation etc.Provides same and next day delivery.Offers the lowest rates in the industry at ₹25 per 0.5 kgs of inventory shipped. Pickrr Plus Source Pickrr was founded in 2015 with a vision to make shipping simple and seamless for businesses across the globe. Pickrr has started end-to-end eCommerce warehouse fulfillment services under the brand name - Pickrr Plus Fulfilment. Some of the Pickrr Plus’s notable features include: 24-48 hour delivery to the customerZero weight discrepancyUp to 5% reduction in RTONo capital investment in the warehouse Read our blog on Pickrr vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ to understand how WareIQ offers the best fulfillment platform among the 3. Elevating E-Commerce Fulfillment for Competitive Advantage You want an ecommerce fulfillment partner that can consistently supply services to meet and exceed KPIs. The usefulness or strength of two-day delivery as a competitive advantage has begun to decrease with the introduction of same-day and two-hours or less delivery possibilities. This is because current customers no longer perceive these alternatives to be fast enough. As a result, growth-minded e-commerce companies are progressively shifting to quick delivery, since this is a tried-and-true method for improving customer experience and boosting client acquisition and retention.If speed is important, look for a micro-fulfilment-based solution that leverages tiny warehouses (or micro-fulfilment centres) in highly populated urban areas to reduce time/distance to the end consumer. Because a delivery courier may therefore deliver one order at a time (point-to-point) instead of hundreds of orders by the truckload, having your inventory hyperlocal to clients can make the last-mile delivery experience extremely speedy. Revolutionizing E-Commerce Fulfillment with Micro-Fulfillment Centers Most warehouse ecommerce fulfillment services are often performed on big warehouses on the outskirts of cities, however, modern-day fulfilment solutions utilise a network of small-scale warehouse ecommerce fulfillment centres known as micro-fulfilment centres. These micro-fulfillment centres are located in metropolitan regions and rely on automation to meet the demands of consumers while also meeting the aims of quicker and more sustainable delivery across many geographic locations. Although traditional 3PLs and e-commerce fulfillment center services have some overlap, most 3PL companies focus on providing basic logistics functions (pick and pack, warehousing, distribution, etc.), whereas fulfillment center services offer more comprehensive services, such as customer support and returns. Another significant difference is the proximity of these contemporary e-commerce fulfilment services to end clients, which allows them to employ eco-friendly transportation (walkers, bicycle messengers, and electric cars) and decrease the need for wasteful cardboard packing. This, on the other hand, is not achievable with a regular 3PL. Ecommerce fulfillment providers specialise in order processing and delivery for online retailers. Receiving and storing goods, processing orders, choosing and packaging, inserting packing slips, and shipping are all part of this procedure. Order processing services are provided by several ecommerce fulfilment suppliers. Choosing the Right E-Commerce Fulfillment Provider When it comes time to process your online orders, you want the fulfilment centre to get them out the door and to your customers as soon as possible. When deciding which ecommerce fulfillment providers to choose, fulfilment speed is critical. When it comes time to choose an ecommerce fulfillment center for your company, keep the following ideas in mind. You will then employ the fulfilment services firm that will work best for your organisation and provide the services you require. Fulfillment.com can manage huge order amounts if you conduct a significant volume of company and wish to look at fulfilment businesses other than Amazon FBA. If you are a high-volume international ecommerce firm, Fulfillment.com might be even more beneficial as an ecommerce fulfillment center.You may limit your ecommerce fulfillment center alternatives by analysing all of these factors and how they pertain to your specific organisation. You will then be able to choose the appropriate services provider to assist your firm in meeting its diverse sales goals.Finally, it comes down to selecting the best fulfilment operation that can meet your specific requirements. You must also ensure that they interact easily with your ecommerce platform. You must also examine the sort of fulfilment you want and the quality of customer care you desire.They have software that links to your website, and after an order is placed, they assemble it into a box, scan it, and ship it off. And all of this data is relayed back to your website. Assume you're selling shampoo. You most likely have different sizes of bottles and smells. You can send them all to your fulfillment warehouse. They will select the size, smell, and quantity of your customer's order and pack it into a shipping box after they get an order. Navigating E-Commerce Fulfillment: Key Strategies and Concepts Seamless connections, multi-channel fulfilment, numerous fulfillment warehouses, and simple returns administration are some of the greatest fulfilment business characteristics. You should also ensure that you can fit everything within your monthly budget. When it comes to sending items quickly, location is critical. The most effective approach to shipping is to employ a 3PL with numerous fulfilment warehouses. You may avoid sending to the most expensive shipping zones by minimising the distance a shipment travels. This also shortens travel times and lowers freight costs. It's best to choose a 3PL that has fulfilment warehouses in significant hubs and cities near your target customer's location. Merchants in great locations have the opportunity to reach a higher number of customers.Modern terminology for a packing warehouse includes fulfillment house and fulfillment centre. But, what is a fulfillment centre? A fulfilment centre is a third-party service provider that processes and sends items ordered by your consumers. eCommerce fulfillment manages the logistics of delivering an online order to a customer's door, removing the need for you to box, address, and ship each item individually. Now that we know what is a fulfillment center, another question that pops up is how to use a fulfillment center? You must first save your product inventory with the fulfilment provider before using a fulfilment centre. When you get an order through your website, you alert the centre, which locates the ordered item, prepares it for delivery, and works with a shipping provider to have it delivered to your consumer. From the customer's perspective, your ecommerce site is the only point of interaction. These order fulfilment services are provided by a range of firms. Some services, such as Fulfilment by Amazon, are exclusively available to sellers that administer their online storefronts through specific platforms. Others, such as FedEx Fulfilment, are integrated with other logistics services, whereas Floship or James and James Fulfilment are provided by firms that specialise in third-party ecommerce fulfilment operations. Key Considerations for Selecting E-Commerce Fulfillment Services in India You should be able to choose the best "E-commerce services India" now that you understand the benefits. There are several fulfillment services India on the market, but selecting the wrong one might have a detrimental impact on your business and income.A warehouse that provides kitting services might be an excellent addition to your E-commerce services India. To increase the value of your product, fulfilment services for E-commerce might include customised labelling or just-in-time assembly.Because most ecommerce fulfillment India service providers ship in bulk, they may be eligible for lower shipping rates from freight firms. Check to see whether you are eligible for such savings. While you may presently only sell to domestic clients, why limit your future opportunities? The e-commerce business has enormous worldwide sales potential. Choose an ecommerce fulfillment India service provider who can help you take your online store to the next level Conclusion Now that you have looked at the best eCommerce fulfillment services in India and discussed some common problems with eCommerce fulfillment companies, you can well comprehend why it is crucial for you to make the right choice when selecting eCommerce fulfillment services for your business. When Should you Consider Changing your Fulfilment Provider? There are a lot of things that can hold you back when it comes to fulfillment providers. Here are some of the prominent signs that are an immediate red flag. The cost of your logistics is rising but not your profits. Your inventory is not in the right place at the right time to cater to the increasingly distributed demands of your customers.You are repeatedly failing to make those deliveries on the committed timelines.You see a rise in cancellations and return of orders.The customer reviews and ratings are plummeting. Remember that these ratings are heavily influenced by how the product is delivered to them by your 3PL partner.You are planning to scale your business to new cities but facing challenges in the same.You seem to miss out on the latest technologies and order tracking/reporting software that can collect key metrics and optimize your supply chain. All these observations are a direct result of how your 3PL provider manages your logistics. Once you notice that things are not working as expected, it is time to change your strategy and look for a new partner. So, it is best to trust WareIQ for the best eCommerce fulfillment services in India. WareIQ is one of India’s leading eCommerce fulfillment companies in India that uses an advanced technology platform to enhance the eCommerce experience of multiple online sellers. We have a fully-fledged, well-designed, and intuitive app store that consists of a vast variety of downloadable apps that enhance the productivity of different eCommerce services, depending on the requirements of each retailer. A few of the features that the apps have are listed below: Post-Purchase Notifications Retailers can send engaging notifications through email, SMS, and Whatsapp to keep their customers informed about their order status until it is delivered to their doorstep. Customisable Email Editor With our custom email editor, sellers can tailor every email according to their preferences, circumstances, and content. Just like any other text editor, you can edit the text, font, colour, size, and much more. Real-Time Updates Customers automatically receive updates about their order in real-time, such as when an order is on a new phase of the fulfillment process or if and when any delivery delay or issue arises, so that customers are not left wondering about where their order is. Incentivize Return Customers Businesses can encourage customers to return through customised product suggestions, either based on their previous orders through AI-based predictions or manually, such as when there is a product promotion running and the company wants to increase its visibility. Optimise After-Sales Interaction We offer retailers the ability to access customizable email and workflow templates, that can be automated based on multiple trigger factors. We also offer multi-lingual support for email communication. Branded Tracking Pages We offer highly customisable branded tracking pages that can be inserted with product suggestions, a description of the company and its goals, links to social media pages, and much more. This encourages customers to spend more time on the page and can even lead to additional sales. Order Analytics We record a vast array of order analytics that can be analysed to identify which processes and interactions are successful, so they can be maintained and which aren’t, so they can be improved and streamlined. Best Ecommerce Fulfillment Services India FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) What is an eCommerce fulfillment service?Ecommerce fulfillment refers to the process of getting a customer's order delivered once they place it online. Receiving and storing goods, processing orders, picking items, packing boxes, and finally shipping them to the customer are all part of this supply chain. What is the approximate cost of a fulfillment service?According to a survey by FulfillmentCompanies.net, companies providing fulfillment service charge anything from $8 to $40 per pallet per month to keep your products, with the average cost being $14.79 per pallet. Do I need to hire a fulfillment company?Outsourcing operations to a fulfillment company gives eCommerce companies access to a network of fulfillment centers across the country without any upfront investment in infrastructure. Using a fulfillment center allows you to cut inventory and delivery costs while still providing excellent service to your consumers. You might think of outsourcing fulfillment as an extra cost, but it's more realistic to think of it as a way to save money for your company. What do you mean by outsourced fulfillment?Outsourced order fulfillment is when a company hires a third party to handle some or all of the order fulfillment process, such as inventory storage, packaging, and delivering orders. Third-party logistics services, or 3PLs, offer all of the services needed to completely outsource your fulfillment services. How do I outsource shipment with WareIQ?You can Submit your request for a quote here. Which are the Best eCommerce Fulfillment Services in India?• WareIQ• Shipway• Shopify Fulfillment Services• DHL eCommerce Fulfillment• Delhivery

February 10, 2023

Best 3PL Fulfillment Companies to Manage Logistics of eCommerce Sellers in 2024

eCommerce in India is booming and correspondingly, so is the 3PL fulfillment industry. Different agencies have shown that the demand for third-party logistics companies is bound to grow steadily. Technavio, a UK-based research firm, has predicted the industry to grow at a CAGR of 8% and by $10.74 Billion between 2021 - 2025. Similarly, Mordor Intelligence has predicted a CAGR of 11% for a similar period. This growth is fuelled by sectors such as eCommerce, FMCG, manufacturing, and retail. Yet, not many sellers are aware of the advantages, features, and services of 3PL fulfillment companies. So here are a few points to help sellers get a better understanding of this industry and how a symbiotic relationship can be established between eCommerce and 3PL fulfillment companies. Different types of Logistics Solutions 1PL2PL3PL4PLA 1PL first-party logistics provider is a business or individual who requires cargo, freight, goods, or products to be moved from one location to another.A 2PL is an asset-based carrier that is in charge of the mode of transportation.Third-party logistics refers to the outsourcing of supply chain operations and logistics in order to deliver a company's products to its customers. A 4PL provider is a supply chain integrator who handles all areas of the supply chain.There are just two parties involved in first-party logistics. Shipping lines that run ships, airlines that operate flights, and haulage businesses that operate trucks are examples of 2PLs.3PLs provide logistical solutions such as receiving, storing, packaging, and shipping. A 4PL may contain components of IT, procurement, and finance in addition to physical logistics.There are two parties: the producer or distributor who ships the products (you) and the retailer or client who receives the goods (your customer). A 2PL is typically referred to as a forwarder because its primary business is transportation. Other logistical services, known as value-added services, are provided by some 3PL businesses. The distinctions between a 3PL and a 4PL may appear little, but for a firm looking for the proper match of services and support for their expanding organisation, the difference might be significant. There are no additional intermediaries throughout the entire process.For example, it may be an airline that also provides freight services to carry items from you to your consumer.Inventory management, kitting and assembly, postponed packing, and other services fall into this category.4PL may offer a higher-level data analysis to assist you in making long-term business decisions. When you utilise 3PL, you save money since the 3PL business achieves favourable prices when it pools orders together due to the enormous volume of freight.Furthermore, you must figure out how to convey your items to their destination via various modes of transportation. When you take on this task, it might be difficult to get all of the moving pieces to cooperate. A 3PL provider handles all of this for you, consolidating shipments and passing the savings on to you.Examine where you are spending money on labour to see if your present arrangement is the most effective. This can account for a significant portion of the logistical cost. A 3PL partner has firsthand knowledge of the most cost-effective ways to distribute items. They make it their business as specialist logistics providers to manage expenses in ways that you may not be aware of or capable of doing yourself. There is a continuing commitment to improving procedures that will make shipping more efficient. What are Third Party Logistics or 3PL Fulfillment Companies? 3PL Fulfillment Companies are the companies to whom the entire order fulfillment cycle can be outsourced when the online seller wants to move away from self-fulfillment or doesn't want to manage the operations in-house. These third-party logistics fulfillment companies provide eCommerce logistics, inventory management, warehouse management, packaging services, and other aspects of the fulfillment cycle for either a specific portion or the entire supply chain operation. This helps sellers maintain an asset-light and non-capital-intensive business model, thus increasing their liquid capital and allowing the seller to focus on improving their business while the 3PL fulfillment companies improve the supply chain efficiency. [contactus_gynoveda] Which are the Top Third-Party Fulfillment Companies? India is booming with all the third party fulfillment companies on offer, all competing to be the most prized and trusted by sellers and end customers alike. With a booming eCommerce sector and, subsequently, the 3PL fulfillment sector, there are many competitors. But here are 7 of the top 3PL fulfillment companies for small/medium businesses or large businesses. Each company has been mentioned along with some of its services or features which act as a differentiating factor against the other players. WareIQ Source Established in 2019, WareIQ, a Y-combinator backed startup, has rapidly grown to be the leading provider of full-stack eCommerce 3PL fulfillment tech solutions for some of the most reputed brands in India. WareIQ offers a full-stack platform for 3PL logistics companies to enable same-day delivery and next day delivery to customers – an Amazon Prime-like experience but accessible to everyone. WareIQ as a 3PL company has empowered brands to sell more, sell faster & sell everywhere due to: Access to WareIQ’s strong nationwide network of fulfillment centers & urban dark stores near their customersAccess to all major national & hyperlocal last-mile couriers at discounted rates for making same/next day deliveries possibleEasy integration across multiple online platforms & marketplacesHorizontal 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, to Inventory Management across all channels. WareIQ’s next day delivery and same-day delivery services are helping eCommerce businesses set new standards with respect to setting customer expectations and fulfilling them with high efficacy. At the same time, WareIQ customers realise significant cost savings and wider reach due to better negotiations with shipping partners, strategically placed warehouses, economies of scale and scope in eCommerce 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. 300+ brands, such as The Man Company, Future Group, Kama Ayurveda, and Wingreens Farms, have trusted WareIQ as reliable partners in their growth journeys. No minimum order quantity requirements make it suitable even for eCommerce firms having low order quantities to take advantage of the latest trends such as next day delivery and same day delivery. The onboarding process is simple, convenient, and less time-consuming, while the pricing policy is clear and transparent. WareIQ also undertakes strict safety precautions at its warehouses and complete ownership of the operations, thereby minimising the risk exposure of WareIQ customers. Suggested Read: Check out the list of best Warehousing Companies. Delhivery Third Party Fulfillment Source Company NameDelhiveryFoundedMay, 2011Founder/sSahil Barua, Kapil Bharati, Suraj Saharan, Mohit Tandon, Bhavesh ManglaniHeadquartersIndiaServicesDelivery, Express mail, third-party logistics Delhivery, since its inception, has successfully fulfilled over 1 billion orders across India. Their aim is to build an efficient operations model for business, through a combination of world-class infrastructure, cutting-edge engineering, and technology capabilities, and logistics operations of the highest quality. It is one of India’s largest and most popular 3PL logistics and fulfillment companies that is also homegrown. It offers end-to-end fulfillment solutions.It serves over 17,000 pin codes and 175 cities.It offers features such as sending tracking details to customers through SMS.It provides same-day/next-day delivery options.It provides multiple payment options at the time of delivery. Blue Dart Logistics Source Company NameBlue DartFoundedNovember 1983Founder/sTushar JaniClyde CooperKhushroo DubashHeadquartersMumbai, Maharashtra, IndiaServicesDeliveryExpress mailFreight forwardingThird-party logistics Blue Dart is a prominent transportation and distribution company that utilises air as its primary source of transport, in South Asia. It offers delivery and logistics services to 35,000 plus locations in India. A part of the DPDHL Group (DHL Express, DHL Global Forwarding & DHL Supply Chain), Blue Dart has access to the largest global logistics network that includes more than 220 countries and offers a wide range of facilities, such as air express, freight forwarding, supply chain solutions, and customs clearance. It has an unparalleled logistical network spanning over 220 countries and is one of the largest third-party fulfillment companies in the world.It caters to 35000 locations within India with a forward and returns logistical network.It has experience and expertise in regulatory and customs operations.It has a net service level of 99.96%. Ekart Logistics & Third Party Fulfillment Company Source Company NameekartFounded2009Founder/sFlipkartHeadquartersBengaluruServicesDelivery, express mail, third-party logistics Ekart Logistics is one of India's premier 3PL logistics companies. Commencing operations in 2009 as Flipkart’s in-house supply chain subsidiary, Ekart became a household name when it came to metrics such as customer experience, punctual delivery, and management processes. They offer complete end-to-end fulfillment services. It was originally created to handle Flipkart’s fulfillment but now caters to many other sellers.It is one of the more popular 3PL fulfillment companies in India because of its low rates and express delivery options.It has same-day delivery available in 13 cities and next-day delivery available in 50 cities across India.It provides end-to-end fulfillment solutions.It provides real-time data for sellers to ensure their service level promises are being adhered to. Shadowfax We Deliver Source Company NameShadowfax Technologies Ltd.Founded2015Founder/sAbhishek Bansal, Praharsh Chandra, Vaibhav Khandelwal, Gaurav JaithliyaHeadquartersBengaluruServicesCourier Shadowfax was founded in Bangalore in 2015 and offers delivery and fulfillment services that are centered around a technology-based platform and hyperlocal delivery. The company has emerged as India's largest hyperlocal delivery service and offers on-demand hyperlocal delivery services with analytical platforms to track the entire process. It serves over 7000 pin codes and 500+ cities.It provides marketplace and warehouse pickups.It offers low-cost hyperlocal delivery.It provides express contactless delivery with multiple doorstep payment options. Mahindra Logistics Ltd Source Company NameMahindra LogisticsFounded2000Founder/sJ C MahindraK C MahindraHeadquartersMumbai, Maharashtra, IndiaServicesAutomotive, Engineering, Consumer Goods, Pharmaceuticals, Telecom, Commodities, and E-commerce. Mahindra Logistics Limited is a branch of Mahindra, a name that most people will be familiar with as a major player in the automotive industry. A logistics and distribution company that has a significant presence across India, its primary offerings include technology-focused logistics solutions and distribution facilities, especially in rural areas. It is part of a reputed conglomerate company.It has India’s largest warehousing facility at a single location.It serves over 400 clients.It focuses on sustainability and, thus, has introduced Electronic Vehicles in its last-mile delivery. XpressBees 3PL Fulfillment Company Source Company NameXpressbeesFoundedSeptember 2015Founder/sAmitava Saha, Supam MaheshwariHeadquartersPune, MaharashtraServicesB2b, B2c, Cross-border logistics, 3PL XpressBees 3PL Logistics Company was formed in 2015 in Pune, Maharashtra. They have emerged as one of India's most rapidly growing companies in the logistics service sector. They offer end-to-end supply and distribution services. It caters to the end-to-end fulfillment needs of sellers.It covers 13000+ pin codes, 100+ hubs, and service centers.They are seasoned professionals, providing tech-based solutions.It has state-of-the-art logistics centers spread across the country.It provides 3PL fulfillment for products ranging from chemicals to heavy items like machinery. 3PL Logistics: Services, Benefits, and Reliable Partners in India Warehousing, inventory management, shipping, receiving, FTL and LTL freight, picking and packing, kitting, and reverse logistics (returns) are all examples of 3PL logistics services. Your third-party logistics provider is a business partner, and you must be able to rely on them to offer high-quality and dependable fulfilment. It is critical to the success of your company. Fulfilment warehouses are volume shippers with lower shipping rates with major carriers, thus your 3PL logistics partner may be able to save you money on shipping. If you are looking for the top 3PL firms in India to outsource your services to, you must choose one that is trustworthy. Many state and federal duties are known to 3PL firms in India, and they must conform to rules that might be tough to work with on a regular basis. If you're not sure where to start your search, this list of 3PL firms in India will help. What are the Typical Offerings of 3PL Fulfillment Companies? Third-party fulfillment companies strive toward offering an end-to-end solution to eCommerce companies, and all 3PL companies provide the following services: Inventory managementLogistics solutions (First mile to last-mile delivery)Warehouse managementFreight forwardingFinancial solutions for freight forwarding such as letters of credit Four Types of 3PL Standard 3PL Provider: A 3PL system that allows you to select and pack items while also providing warehousing and logistics services. 3PL Service Developer: A 3PL service developer provides IT infrastructure and administration in addition to the services provided by a normal 3PL provider, allowing you to track and trace items throughout the system. You can also benefit from unique packaging selection for your goods, and cross-docking allows for more effective logistics management. 3PL Customer Adapter: This 3PL offers the infrastructure, management, and technology required to handle all areas of warehousing and logistics. 3PL Customer Developer: This is the most comprehensive 3PL solution, and it integrates with your logistics management system directly. All warehousing and logistics activities will be 3PL Fulfillment Cost Components Costs associated with establishing 3PL fulfilment services and technology. Receiving and storing inbound inventory. Different 3PLs charge differently for receiving, such as per unit, per-pallet, flat charges, or per hour.You will be charged for storage space if you keep your merchandise in a 3PL's fulfilment centre. Fees for third-party warehousing can range from per-SKU or per-unit storage to a flat price for each bin, shelf, or pallet utilised.Some 3PLs charge per pick, which means you pay a cost for each item in an order. Other 3PLs, such as ShipBob, do not impose pick and pack costs for orders with fewer than a specific number of goods.Packing materials such as boxes and air fill may be charged separately by certain 3PLs, while others include them as part of their fulfilment services.Kitting and assembly are any special arrangements for how products are organised or packaged before transportation. Kitting rates might vary because this service is tailored to each customer.The fee charged by a 3PL to ship an order from their fulfilment centre to your customer's door. shipment expenses are determined by a number of elements, including shipment speed, shipping zones, and dimensional weight. Why is Logistics a Headache for eCommerce Players in India? India, a country with diverse geographical features, cultural practices, and infrastructural progress, is bound to present logistical challenges to eCommerce players. Some of the predominant issues being faced are: Reliance on roads for freight transport With transportation by roads being the preferred means of freight movement for eCommerce players, two dominant issues, as highlighted by a report issued by the consulting firm McKinsey and the Indian Institute of Logistics, are: India’s over-strained highwaysAcute shortage of drivers Lack of internet connectivity and digitization With low internet penetration, stages of the logistical segment remain constrained, due to the lack of technological infrastructure in certain areas. The sellers do not have access to adequate transportation facilities. With some of the older players in the industry being slow to digitalise, stages of the logistical network undergo significant delays as there is an information delay between the transportation service and the reseller. Safety concerns Deteriorated law and order situations in some regions of the country lead to pilferage, theft, or even hijacking of the cargo, leading to additional expenses and loss of inventory and time. Pay-On-Delivery is the primary method of payment With “Cash-on-Delivery” (COD) being the end customer's most preferred means of payment, additional time is spent on cash collection and handling by the last-mile delivery personnel. A high number of returns Though this is a global trend, the eCommerce players in India consistently witness a higher number of returns. This causes the logistical players to ensure a reverse logistical flow at no additional cost to the end customer. Inconsistency in postal codes and incorrect delivery locations Despite being one of the largest postal systems in the world, there can be issues with the postal code of the end-user, leading to the last-mile delivery personnel having to call and confirm with the end customer. Many infrequent or first-time eCommerce users tend to make errors in inputting their addresses, leading to subsequent issues. How can 3PL Fulfillment Companies Help with Logistics Management for eCommerce Businesses? A seller might have the product of the century and it might be the next big revolution in the tech sector. But the harsh reality is that it would all be worthless if the seller is unable to deliver the product to the customer’s doorstep without incurring significant costs. This is where 3PL fulfillment companies step in to cater to the following essential needs of the seller, which are: Being cost-effective By simply using Economies of Scale, 3PL fulfillment companies handle multiple sellers and, thus, manage to distribute the costs of transportation among many parties. This allows the individual seller to incur significantly lower costs. The seller can also maintain an asset-light model without investing capital in infrastructures such as warehouses and trucks. You May Like: Know About Types of Warehouses. Offering greater coverage Third-party fulfillment companies have established logistical networks to provide services to sellers. An individual seller may not be able to deliver a product to a customer in some location, but with established resources of 3rd party fulfillment companies, such as existing warehouses and supply chains, these companies can not only fulfill the seller’s needs but also a strategic location. Offering faster delivery time In this era of same day / next day delivery needs, 3PL fulfillment companies, with their warehouse network, trained staff, and advanced technology, meet the service levels promised by sellers and can help smaller sellers compete with their competitors who may be the bigger players in the industry. Taking advantage of scalability Demand undergoes a cyclic trend, and this trend varies weekly and monthly. Thus, to provide a cost-effective way for sellers to meet the varying need of customers during the entire year, third party fulfillment companies provide sellers with flexibility and scalability to handle the variation in demand. Thus, 3PL eCommerce fulfillment companies can help eCommerce sellers by offering a better consumer satisfaction level, overall. Customers receive their orders on time or faster, irrespective of their geographical location, and without additional shipping charges; all of these factors lead to a heightened level of customer satisfaction. Small Business Scaling and the Role of 3rd Party Fulfillment Small businesses have had the opportunity to grow throughout this period, but order fulfilment is an essential component of company success. It may be perplexing for individuals just starting out or when small business logistics services are required. In the logistics industry, automation is in great demand as a solution to complicated supply chains and labour restrictions. According to ARC Advisory Group's latest survey, 79% of respondents claimed they were "likely" or "very likely" to invest in automation in the next 1-3 years. Now, small company logistics providers are attempting to implement a number of automation solutions, such as automated picking systems and robotic forklifts. How to Select the Right 3PL Fulfillment Company for Your eCommerce Business? Probably one of the most important decisions a seller will have to take is to decide which third party fulfillment company to choose for their products. To help such sellers out, here are some questions they must ask. This shall aid them in choosing the best 3PL fulfillment company for their requirements. How technologically sophisticated are 3rd party fulfillment companies?The world is advancing rapidly and so is the logistics sector. In this era of live tracking and same day / next day delivery, a seller needs a third party fulfillment company that can keep a seller informed and ahead of their competition.Can the 3PL fulfillment company match your growth?If an innovative product does not manage to reach its target customer sitting halfway across the country, or the reach is slower, and a competitor picks up on the idea and launches a similar product with a broader and faster reach, it will be game over for the seller.Is the third-party fulfillment company financially strong?In an asset-heavy industry such as the logistics sector, it is vital for any seller to ensure their 3PL fulfillment company is financially strong, especially during unaccounted disruptions and emergencies.How deep is the third party fulfillment company’s talent & How well are they ready for adverse situations?It is crucial to understand the depth of the third-party fulfillment company’s experience pool because it shows how well they understand the industry and how good their contingency measures are. 3rd Party Fulfillment and the Competitive Edge To provide services to sellers, third-party logistics fulfilment businesses have created logistical networks. An individual seller may be unable to deliver a product to a consumer in some locations, but with established resources such as existing warehouses and supply chains, 3rd party logistics fulfilment firms may not only serve the seller's demands but also a strategic location. The world is changing quickly, and so is the logistics industry. In this day and age of real-time tracking and same-day / next-day delivery, a seller requires a third-party logistics fulfilment service that can keep them informed and ahead of their competitors.With all of the third-party fulfilment providers available in India, they are trying to be the most valuable and trusted by sellers and end consumers equally. There are several rivals in the developing eCommerce market and, as a result, the 3PL fulfilment sector. However, here are 7 of the best 3PL fulfilment firms for small/medium/large organisations. Despite the fact that there are several participants in the market, many of which have been recognised by sellers and the general public for many decades, there are still a few myths. MNCs, on the other hand, have recognised the cost-effectiveness of third-party fulfilment firms. They do have small and medium-sized enterprises that previously thought third-party fulfilment providers were prohibitively expensive.WareIQ offers full-stack eCommerce 3PL fulfilment services to some of India's most well-known businesses. WareIQ provides a full-stack platform for 3PL logistics firms to enable same-day and next-day delivery to clients, similar to Amazon Prime but accessible to everyone.Companies that provide 3pl fulfilment services leverage economies of scale to spread expenses over a large number of vendors, easing the financial load on the sellers. They lower the recurrent costs and capital expenditures that the seller would have to invest in otherwise. Common Misconceptions Regarding 3PL Fulfillment Companies Despite there being multiple players in the market and many of them known to sellers and the general public alike for many decades, there are still a few misconceptions that exist regarding third party fulfillment companies. Here, we shall address them so as to clear them out and leave no room for doubt in the minds of sellers. 3PL fulfillment companies are expensive to outsource toThird-party fulfillment companies use economies of scale to even out the costs among the many sellers and, thus, help to reduce the financial burden from the sellers’ shoulders. They reduce the recurring costs and capital expenditures that the seller would otherwise have to invest in.3PL fulfillment companies are not for SMEs but MNCsOn the contrary, MNCs have realised the cost-effectiveness of third party fulfillment companies. They do have small and medium-sized businesses that previously assumed third-party fulfillment companies to be too costly.3PL companies only handle bulk volume ordersMany third fulfillment companies do not have a minimum order quantity because they club orders of different sellers who reside in a specific location and, thus, manage to reduce the logistics costs.3PL fulfillment companies take away control from the sellerThird party fulfillment companies are extremely tech and data-driven, thus, providing numerous reports that provide sellers with better insights and knowledge. This gives the sellers more control over their products as they can understand where and how much their product is selling. WareIQ's Flagship 3PL Services in India WareIQ is one of the leading 3PL logistics businesses in India, offering a wide range of eCommerce services. We have a bespoke warehouse management system (WMS) that gives real-time information and the flexibility to automate a variety of operations. The finest 3PL logistics businesses in India provide returns management and comprehensive reverse logistics implementation, as well as specific customs-clearing capabilities for overseas shipments. The best 3pl ecommerce fulfilment services in India ensure that products reach their desired destination on time, thanks to their massive infrastructure, which includes not only warehouses and established logistics networks, but also the most up-to-date software platforms. Conclusion The product is the seller’s pride and joy and every seller wants that their hard work, investment, and ambitions, which take the shape of the product they are selling, reach the end customer as promised. So be it an FMCG, MNC, or someone who is working out of their flat, the requirement is the same and that is where 3PL fulfillment companies provide a common platform where every seller stands to gain by being part of a larger ecosystem. With the above points that highlight the features and also the common misconceptions about 3PL fulfillment companies, sellers can now make a more informed decision about their choice of a third party fulfillment company that will help the seller climb the ladder of success. We hope you found this article interesting. We recommend using WareIQ for all your third party fulfillment requirements. WareIQ is a category-defining, best- in class full-stack eCommerce fulfillment tech platform (with inbuilt inventory planning, order management & eCommerce shipping system) for modern brands to accelerate online sales/ expedite revenue growth & profits with same/next-day delivery. We not only help you reduce your logistic costs but also your delivery timelines – this could be the game-changer your business needs! WareIQ, a Leading 3PL fulfillment company in India offers centralised tech platform for your entire eCommerce operations ML-based prediction engine for efficient warehouse network design & smart inventory placementCentralized platform for core fulfillment & shipping operationsPost-shipping apps for a delightful experience & zero to minimum supply chain leakages [signup] Suggested Read: Top 10 Cold Storage Companies for Sellers in India That Deal in Warehousing of Perishable and Delicate Goods in 2024 3PL Fulfillment Companies FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) What is the difference between 3PL and fulfillment?They may seem the same, but they are different. The main difference between 3PL and full-service fulfillment is that fulfillment provides a dedicated team to provide ongoing flexible solutions and customer support, a range of marketing resources along with picking and packing, labeling, order processing, customer relations and managing returns. What is a third-party fulfillment service?The outsourcing of ecommerce logistics procedures, such as warehousing, picking and packing items, inventory management, shipping orders, and managing refunds, is known as third-party fulfillment. How are 4PL Companies different from 3PL companies?A 4PL company performs all of the functions of a 3PL company, and a lot more too. In addition to functions of 3Pl, a 4PL company handles resources, technology, and infrastructure. They may even monitor external 3PLs and assist them in improving their performance for the benefit of the ecommerce retailer. Is Amazon a 3PL company?No. Amazon doesn’t label itself as a 3PL company, but many of its features are similar to what 3PL companies offer. What are the criteria for choosing a 3PL fulfillment partner?Some of the critical criteria to consider when selecting a 3PL fulfillment partner are as follows:1. Location: Consider the location of the fulfillment center about your target market and the location of suppliers and manufacturers. This will help to reduce shipping costs and lead times.2. Capabilities: Ensure that the 3PL fulfillment partner has the necessary capabilities and resources to handle your product line, including storage, packing, and shipping.3. Scalability: Can the 3PL fulfill your current and future needs, especially if your business grows rapidly?4. Cost: Compare the cost of the 3PL services against in-house fulfillment and other providers to ensure that you are getting value for your money.5. Reputation and experience: Consider the reputation of the 3PL and its experience in the market. Look for references, reviews and case studies of businesses they have worked with.6. Technology: Look for a 3PL that has a robust technology platform that integrates with your systems and enables real-time inventory tracking and order fulfillment.7. Customer service: Consider the level of customer service that the 3PL provides, including support for returns and customer inquiries.8. Security and compliance: Make sure that the 3PL follows industry regulations and standards for security, privacy and data protection.9. Contract terms: Carefully review the contract terms, including any fees, penalties, and service level agreements (SLAs).Ultimately, the best 3PL fulfillment partner for your business will depend on your specific needs, so it's essential to take the time to thoroughly evaluate all of the options and choose the one that's the best fit for you. What are the Elements of Logistics with 3PL Providers?There is a wide and varied range of elements of logistics, they range from managing the inventory to making sure the products get to the customers quickly and efficiently. To name, these are some of the main elements of logistics:• Warehousing• Regular storage/cold storage• Supply chain management• Transportation• Materials handling• Distribution• Shipping and receiving• Customer service• Reverse Logistics

February 09, 2023

Pickrr vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Detailed Comparison to Help You Choose the Right 3PL Fulfillment Company in 2024

The eCommerce industry has taken the world by storm and this trend has been amplified in India’s already fast-growing economy. eCommerce retailers need to constantly find ways to improve their services, adapt to the latest trends and adopt advanced technological solutions to provide the best possible experience to their customers and differentiate themselves from their competitors. This is where 3PL fulfillment companies can tremendously help online sellers step up their game and provides access to resources and technology that they made not have had before. Of course, quality facilities come at a cost and retailers need to find a balance between obtaining help to the facilities they require and finding a cost-effective solution that won't break the bank. Let's compare 3 of the leading 3PL fulfillment companies in the business, Pickrr vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ, and find out which one strikes the best balance between provision of the best facilities and technology and competitive pricing. What are the Main Challenges Faced by eCommerce Retailers in 2024? COD As Preferred Payment Option This is a problem specifically faced by Indian eCommerce retailers as there are large swathes of the country, especially in remote rural areas, that don’t have access to credit cards and online payments such as UPIs. Their preferred method of payment is cash, which can be a hassle for eCommerce retailers to collect as the payments become susceptible to theft, and perishability and requires the delivery partner to collect them. Low Internet Penetration Due to a large number of people living in rural areas, it becomes quite difficult for eCommerce firms and their 3PL fulfillment partners to implement cutting-edge technologically advanced facilities due to a lack of mobile and internet infrastructure. Many regions also suffer from poor connectivity. This is improving at a rapid pace but should be taken into consideration as it still impacts retailers in the current day and age. High Product Returns Rate Since India is a rapidly growing economy, there is a significant portion of the population that are still getting accustomed to eCommerce retail and online shopping. This means that they don’t know what to expect when they order products and when it finally arrives at their doorstep, it may not meet their expectations. Thus, due to the relatively relaxed return policies of many eCommerce retailers, they are able to return the product, either for an exchange or to get their money back because they suffer from buyer remorse. These returns increase logistical costs for eCommerce girls and have a massively negative impact on their profit margins. Incorrect Delivery Addresses This is a very big challenge for eCommerce companies as a large portion of delays and unfulfilled orders come from delivery addresses not being provided correctly. Since India is a large and geographically diverse country with challenging infrastructure, wrongly entered delivery addresses can add a significant amount of time and money to each order that is affected by this. Lack of Proper Infrastructure India is improving every day in this regard but still has a large amount of unpaved and pothole-ridden roads, inadequate signage and heavy traffic, consisting of large trucks, bullercarts and everything in between. This can cause delays and result in time and money being lost, in addition to customers being dissatisfied because their orders didn’t get delivered on time. Even in urban areas, the infrastructure is not much better and this can have a significant impact on the efficiency of your fulfillment services. Lack of Security This is one of the most important challenges to tackle for eCommerce businesses and their fulfillment partners as they seek to deliver goods to customers in the best possible condition to avoid negative feedback and dissatisfaction. Security risks include pillaging of goods in transit, accidents due to poor infrastructure, theft and a lot more. Fulfillment companies need to invest significant resources to mitigate such risks as they can have dire consequences for the business. Complex Logistics and Supply Chain Processes In order for eCommerce retailers to compete with their rivals, they must seek to sell their products on as many channels and platforms as possible. Managing one channel is hard but managing multiple channels can be an unforgiving task even for experienced retailers. Partnering with 3PL fulfillment companies can mitigate these complex processes by providing access to advanced technology and software solutions that are able to chalk out the simplest and most cost-effective method that processes can be done. [contactus_lilgoodness] 6 Ways eCommerce Fulfillment Companies Can Provide Solutions to These Problems Increasing Order Fulfillment Speeds With the advent of same-day, next-day and even 10-minute delivery services, customers are spoiled for choice and anything less could cause major dissatisfaction. 3PL fulfillment companies such as WareIQ provide all of these services, in the most efficient and cost-effective way, devoid of any hassle to eCommerce businesses who partner with them. This allows retailers to stay competitive and ensure that their customers are receiving industry-leading standards when it comes to the speed at which they receive their orders. Providing Warehousing Facilities and Fulfillment Centers Warehousing facilities are of the utmost importance for small to mid-sized businesses that do not have access to storage facilities and who also have limited budgets. 3PL fulfillment companies provide a solution by providing a nationwide network of warehouses and fulfillment centers, that are equipped with all the latest technology and an abundance of storage space to ensure that your products are stored in the most secure and efficient way possible. They also rely on technology to manage inventory and provide suggestions for product storage to minimize any errors and delays. Providing Access to Advanced Software Solutions and Integrations 3PL fulfillment companies rely heavily on state-of-the-art software solutions. Companies like WareIQ offer in-house software to manage your inventory, track your orders, forecast future demand and supply of products, analyse which products are selling the most and least so that they can be placed accordingly and much more. It would be very difficult for eCommerce retailers to gain access to these software solutions on their own, so partnering with fulfillment companies helps them to stay on top of the technological heap and master their eCommerce business models. These companies also enable integrations with multiple fulfillment platforms such as Amazon and Shopify so that you can keep a track of all your orders and customers, in one place. Providing Reverse Logistics Management Facilities Product returns are an undeniable reality in eCommerce retails so sellers should arm themselves with all the facilities that enable them to be dealt with in the most efficient and cost-effective way possible. Reverse logistics is like a supply chain, but in reverse, where returned products have to be picked up from the customer, assessed for any damage and transported back to the warehouses or fulfillment center, in the shortest time possible. Fulfillment companies take care of the entire process and ensure that any wastages or delays are limited and sellers can get back returned goods in the best possible condition, so that they can be resold to another customer, either as a new or refurbished product. Reducing Logistical and Operational Costs The primary goal of every business transaction, whether online or offline, is to maximise profit and cut down on losses. This is easier said than done for small to mid-sized businesses that cannot benefit from economies of scale and have to manage the entire fulfillment process on their own. This is where dedicated fulfillment companies can significantly help to reduce the logistical and operational costs of a business by streamlining multiple resources to get the most efficient results and save the most money on each. All these savings add up and are a huge boon to any eCommerce retailer. Providing transparency to clients and their customers Tracking facilities are extremely important for any eCommerce company, especially ones that deal with multiple orders being shipped to different corners of the country and even more so, for their customers to keep track of every stage of the order process so that they will have a favourable view of the delivery experience. This results in more efficient monitoring of the status of every order and more satisfied customers, who will spread the word of the positive engagement with your business, either through word of mouth, reviews or social media. About WareIQ 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 and profits with same-day and next-day delivery. WareIQ does not only help you reduce your logistic costs but also reduce your delivery timelines – this could be the game-changer your business needs! A few of the outstanding features of WareIQ are as follows: Fulfillment InfrastructureFCs present across tier-1, 2 & 3 citiesRapid ramping up of FCs as required (21 days to go live)Warehouse of various sizes/capacities availableTemperature controlled fulfillment centersDark stores for inventory placement near demand centersInventory Management & Network DesignRecommendations to decrease inventorySegment & clean product portfolio to concentrate on products which create most profit & increase sell-throughAutomating replenishment of stockInventory transfer requests from one warehouse to another through tech platformFlagging of inventory for liquidationOptimize fulfillment network with network designer to store inventory closer to customers for same/next day deliveryFull-stack Technology PlatformManage orders coming from multiple sales channelsTrack orders across various segments – Ready to ship, shipped etc.Courier Recommendation engine to prioritize on speed/costSnapshot of order & revenue fluctuations for analysisTrack pickups, shipments & billing informationWareIQ RushOffer same day delivery using a network of pan-India fulfillment centers, urban dark stores & hyperlocal services, all at no MOQ or distance-based billing About Shiprocket Source Shiprocket is a shipping aggregation company that operates out of India. Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Delhi, its platform enables eCommerce retailers to partner with different carriers, based on their own requirements and multiple other aspects, and allows partners to automate a variety of processes in their business. The company processes more than 200,000 shipments a day and has partnered with retailers, across more than 200 countries. Shiprocket offers integrations with a variety of shipping companies. Some of Shiprocket’s services include: Order Management: Allows clients to manage orders across the entire process of creation, processing and tracking.Cost Estimation: Allows clients to estimate costs and demand for future dates.Shipping Aggregation: Allows clients to take advantage of the services of courier companies that have integrated with Shiprocket, at pre-negotiated rates.Multi-channel integration: Shiprocket integrates with popular e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, and Shopify, allowing businesses to manage their shipping process from a single dashboard.Advanced analytics: Shiprocket provides insights and analytics on shipping performance, helping businesses make informed decisions about their shipping strategy.Customer support: Shiprocket offers 24/7 customer support to assist businesses with any shipping-related queries or issues. About Pickrr Source Pickrr is an eCommerce logistics and courier service company that was founded in 2015 and is currently headquartered in Bangalore. Pickrr seeks to differentiate itself from other courier services by implementing technology such as AI and ML-based software for smart delivery partner allocation, a courier aggregation that mitigates the need for manual processes in the first-mile phase of the delivery and much more. A few features offered by Pickrr are listed below: Early Cash on Delivery (COD): This helps businesses receive payments continuously and remittance happens after 2 days.Tracking Facilities: This feature provides updates to both the buyer and seller on the status of the order in real-time.Separate Accounting Manager for Each Customer: Pickrr provides a separate dedicated account manager to each user which helps them to get attention and assistance whenever they require it. You May Like: Ithink logistics vs Shiprocket vs Wareiq Pickrr vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: 10 Key Differences in Services and Features in 2024 Pickrr vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Core Offering Pickrr: Pickrr's core offering is primarily shipping and courier services. It has partnered with multiple major shipping brands to provide services to most places within India and over 220 locations outside India as well. Shiprocket: Shiprocket’s core offering is centred around shipping and distribution services tailored for eCommerce retailers and also offers integrations with a host of other fulfillment platforms. WareIQ: WareIQ’s core offering is primarily fulfillment services that take advantage of its technology-based offerings such as WMS, marketplace integrations, ML-based prediction engine for smart inventory placement, and access to pan-India fulfllment centers & last-mile delivery partners. Pickrr vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Customer Onboarding Time Pickrr: Quick customer onboarding is offered but an exact timeline is not specified. Shiprocket: Shiprocket also offers quick onboarding, but the exact timeline is unknown WareIQ: Customer Onboarding happens rapidly in just 7 days. Pickrr vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Pricing Pickrr: Pickrr offers 3 pricing plans - below 1000 orders that starts at Rs. 29 per order, between 1000 to 5000 orders that starts at Rs. 26 per order and above 1000 orders which starts at Rs. 22 per order. Shiprocket: Shiprocket claims to offer some of the most competitive prices in the shipping industry and offers discounts of as much as 50%. WareIQ: WareIQ offers reduced pricing compared to its competitors in addition to cost-effective features like billing per usage and no additional down payments in addition to customers not having to spend extra on external WMS and shipping software as it offers in-house solutions for these requirements. Pickrr vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Technological Features Pickrr: Pickrr has technological features such as an AI and ML software platform, software integrations, automated first-mile delivery, WMS capabilities and much more. Shiprocket: Shiprocket also offers advanced technological solutions such as NDR Management, automated shipping services, order tracking facilities, SMS notifications and a recommendation engine. WareIQ: WareIQ seeks to be known as a technology company, just as much as a fulfillment company and offers advanced technological features such as a custom Warehouse Management System (WMS), decisive inventory tracking software with WhatsApp and SMS updates and a command center with dashboard access for customers to keep an eye on important metrics of the business. Pickrr vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: App Store Pickrr: Pickrr, like Shiprocket, has neither an app store not offers app support but does offer API integrations. Shiprocket: Shiprocket does not have its own app store or offer app support. It does offer API integrations. WareIQ: WareIQ provides a well designed, intuitive and easily navigable app store with a whole suite of downloadable apps to enhance the fulfillment experience of users and their customers by consolidating branded tracking solutions, suggestions to improve efficiency in different areas, notification, customer feedback, and RTO insurance in one centralised location. Pickrr vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Services Offered Pickrr: Pickrr offers services such as shipping and tracking facilities, order fulfillment, early COD orders, automated first-mile delivery, inventory management and much more. Shiprocket: Shiprocket offers a wide variety of services such as zero monthly fees, no minimum shipment requirements, API integrations, packaging, prepaid COD and much more. WareIQ: WareIQ offers a vast range of services such as B2B fulfillment, Amazon FBA preparation, Seller Fulfilled Prime, Flipkart preparation, Nykaa fulfillment, fulfillment centers, WMS, nation-wide distribution network, same-day delivery, packaging services, inventory management, order tracking software and much more. Pickrr vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Integrations Pickrr: Pickrr is primarily a shipping service and offers integrations with platforms such as Woocommerce, Shopify, Magento, Opencart, Sumtracker and others to be able to sync order, inventory management and shipping data across all of them. Shiprocket: Shiprocket offers software integrations to most of the major global fulfillment platforms such as Amazon Fulfillment, Shopify Fulfillment, Magento and others, which comes with benefits such as tracking facilities across platforms, inventory management, data syncing and much more. WareIQ: WareIQ offers WMS integrations to multiple world-renowned B2C & B2B marketplaces such as Flipkart, Amazon, Myntra, Meesho, & website builders like Shopify, Magento and many others. This allows users to seamlessly import and export user data, manage inventory and keep track of orders, across multiple platforms. Pickrr vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Unique Selling Point (USP) Pickrr: Pickrr seeks to provide delivery even to the most isolated parts of the country in a timely and efficient manner. Pickrr currently services more than 29000 pin codes in India. Shiprocket: Shiprocket provides some of the most cost-effective shipping rates in the industry and offers seamless integration with multiple other platforms. WareIQ: WareIQ offers a full-stack granular platform, which means that they offer solutions at every stage of the supply chain, with customers being able to opt for the specific services that they require starting from warehousing, packaging, inventory management, order tracking, shipping etc. Pickrr vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Packaging Pickrr: Pickrr offers packaging facilities for transporting orders to customers but lacks customization abilities. Shiprocket: Shiprocket provides branded packaging services as per their customer's requirements. WareIQ: WareIQ offers the choice between branded WareIQ packaging, custom packaging as per the requirements of their clients and standard packaging. Pickrr vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Cold Storage Facilities Pickrr: Pickrr doesn't provide cold storage facilities. Shiprocket: Shiprocket provides cold storage facilities in their warehouses. WareIQ: WareIQ provides cold storage facilities in their warehouses. Pickrr vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Feature Comparison Table [Updated 2024] [table id=28 /] Suggested Read: NibusPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Which is Better? Conclusion: Why Are Online Retailers Switching to WareIQ from Shiprocket and Pickrr for Their eCommerce Requirements in 2024? As seen above, eCommerce retailers are faced with many challenges and need to find a way to make their services as appealing as possible to their own customers and also stay within budget. There are multiple fulfillment companies available that provide a range of services and it is up to you to identify which companies' services coincide with your requirements. That being said, as we have learned above, Shiprocket vs Pickrr vs WareIQ is a tough choice. However, if you are looking for a full-stack fulfillment service, WareIQ is the best eCommerce fulfillment platform available in India. WareIQ offers a host of different services that can benefit every aspect of your business and also provides these services in a full-stack platform, so that you can opt for whichever service you require, without needing to purchase services that you don’t need. Moreoever, Pickrr, has also recently been acquired by Shiprocket in 2022. Pickrr's advanced logistics platform, which includes features such as real-time tracking and route optimization, has been integrated into Shiprocket's platform to enhance the shipping experience for its customers. This acquisition was a strategic move for both companies and was expected to bring significant benefits to their respective stakeholders. It is not uncommon for acquisitions and mergers to result in disruptions and challenges for retailers, especially if the two companies have different systems and processes in place. Some potential issues that retailers are currently facing due to Pickrr's acquisition by Shiprocket include: Changes in pricing: With the integration of Pickrr's technology and services, Shiprocket has changed its pricing structure, which has impacted retailers' budget and profitability.Disruptions in service: The integration process has led to temporary disruptions in service, causing delays and inconveniencing retailers and their customers.Learning new systems: Pickrr's clients have to adapt to Shiprocket's new systems and processes, which is time-consuming and require additional training.Loss of personalization: Retailers who were previously working with Pickrr have lost the personalized service and support they were receiving, as the company is now part of a larger organization. Hence, WareIQ can solve all the issues listed above in case you currently want to switch from Pickrr or Shiprocket. WareIQ provides a horizontal fulfilment platform, built on top of a decentralised pan-India fulfilment network. This network consists of state-of-the-art fulfilment centres and integrations with national, regional and hyperlocal shipping partners, covering 27000+ pin codes. Sellers send their stock to WareIQ’s regional distribution centre, post which based on analytics-based insights, WareIQ stores inventory closest to end customers to enable next/same day delivery, and optimization of SLAs. [signup] Pickrr vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: FAQs How is WareIQ’s Fulfillment Platform different from other 3PL companies?WareIQ’s analytics-enabled technology platform functions as the central command center for all your logistics operations. Order management, inventory management, warehouse management & shipping management – all are possible through WareIQ’s platform. Why do businesses opt to partner with 3PL fulfillment companies?Some businesses that don’t have large amounts of resources, labour, finances and technical know-how opt to partner with 3PL fulfillment companies because they can offload the entire order fulfillment process to them for a specified fee while they can focus on core aspects of the business such as marketing and R&D. What are the factors you need to consider when choosing a 3PL fulfillment provider?A few factors that you would need to know to make your decision easier are listed below:- Your own requirements- The demand levels your company has- The order volume you receive- The nature of your products- Your financial capabilitiesPost this, you need to identify which company best coincides with your requirements and make a decision. Pickrr vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Which one is the best eCommerce fulfillment company in India in 2024?As mentioned above, you would need to assess your own requirements and capabilities before making a decision. While all of them provide a vast array of services, WareIQ’s core offering is eCommerce fulfillment while Pickrr & Shiprockect specialise in providing eCommerce shipping solutions only. Although, Shiprocket has ventured into fulfillment services too from 2022, they are mostly preferred by entry level segments and lack efficient customer support services.But, WareIQ focusses extensively on seller enablement services and quick resolution of customer complaints. WareIQ provides a full stack eCommerce fulfillment platform enabling same/next day delivery through its vast network of fulfillment centers, urban dark stores etc. It also offers supply chain productivity applications that enhance post shipping experience, which helps it edge out the competition because of its unified multi-channel fulfillment platform. Does WareIQ offer only order fulfillment?No. WareIQ offers a whole range of eCommerce services ranging from fulfillment centers and inventory management to a robust tech platform & WMS software for inventory planning & management and reverse logistics and everything in between. Are Pickrr and Shiprocket the same company?Yes, Pickrr was acquired by Shiprocket for 200 million $ in 2022, and Shiprocket currently holds a majority stake in Pickrr.

February 09, 2023

10 Best Shiprocket Alternatives and Competitors for eCommerce Businesses in 2024

The eCommerce space is rife with competition, both in terms of retailers pining for business from customers and 3PL companies battling it out to be the fulfillment partners for these retailers. Shiprocket has become synonymous with providing third-party fulfillment services to eCommerce sellers. It is primarily a shipping aggregation firm that was founded in India and is currently based in Delhi. Since its inception in 2012, it has given retailers access to multiple carriers, has allowed them to automate a significant portion of their operations and allows them to tailor services according to their users’ preferences. The company currently has partners in more than 200 countries and processes upwards of 200,000 orders a day. However, there is often a case to be made for retailers to seek Shiprocket alternatives based on their requirements, financial resources and locations they operate in. Each 3PL company often performs better than its competitors in different segments of the eCommerce fulfillment chain so it is up to companies to decide which one is the best fit for their precise requirements. In this article, we will take a look at the reasons that companies search for Shiprocket competitors and other options, the top 10 Shiprocket alternatives and a feature comparison of each. Top 5 Reasons Companies Search for Shiprocket Alternatives Additional Service Requirements While Shiprocket may be known for its shipping services, it isn’t always the best option for transporting high-end commodities such as jewelry or expensive electronics and bulky products such as furniture and large appliances because its operations are centered around standardized packaging which is best suited towards non-perishable items such as clothing and smaller electronic items. If a retailer deals in expensive or perishable products that require special packaging and careful handling, in addition to other services that might be required by specialized goods, it can pay dividends to opt for Shiprocket alternatives that offer these services. Specific Industry-Related Services Shiprocket is responsible for transporting a large number of items that span many industries such as clothing, electronics, consumer goods, and much more. However, the company does not offer services that are required by specific industries such as cold storage facilities and ultra-fast delivery. If the nature of the industry a retailer operates in is such that their products need to be refrigerated or stored in a specific way such as groceries, food & beverages, and breakable items, it may be prudent for them to seek Shiprocket alternatives that offer these industry-specific services. Growing Number of Operations It would benefit retailers to look for Shiprocket alternatives if their business is growing and expanding its services and product range rapidly. While Shiprocket commands a relatively low cost for initial setup, prices can quickly rise as retailers need to take advantage of more services and have more orders to fulfill. There are many Shiprocket competitors that offer more competitive rates and faster shipping services. Quicker and More Frequent Delivery Services There are many Shiprocket alternatives that provide ultra-fast shipping and distribution services at lower rates than Shiprocket. With customers getting accustomed to next-day, same-day and even 10-minute delivery, retailers who require rapid delivery speeds would be better suited to partner with a company that offers these services. Additionally, it would greatly benefit retailers who sell their products across the country, to take advantage of services such as micro fulfillment centers and a nationwide network of warehouses so they can place their inventory in close proximity to areas of high demand and transportation facilities. All these factors will greatly aid retailers to increase the speed at which their customers receive orders and in turn, will increase their overall satisfaction. Enhanced Customer Satisfaction There are many Shiprocket alternatives in India that offer advanced customer support facilities such as 24/7 customer care, automated chatbots, and branded tracking pages with contact information, in addition to many others. Retailers who require heightened customer support services would be better off by partnering with a company that offers all these facilities so that their customers would always receive priority and would never be left wanting in regard to queries, issues, or company-related communication. 10 Best Shiprocket Alternatives & Competitors in 2024 WareIQ Source WareIQ is one of India’s most rapidly expanding eCommerce fulfillment companies that uses technology as a central pillar to enable multiple eCommerce services such as order fulfillment, inventory management, ultra-fast delivery services, customer care, reverse logistics, and much more. The company is Y-Combinator backed and was founded with the aim of bringing ultra-fast delivery to every pin code in India by building a vast infrastructure of fulfillment centers and dark stores across India that enables eCommerce sellers to store inventory closer to their customers. The company has many unique features such as a custom WMS that can integrate with multiple eCommerce selling platforms, an app store where users can download various apps to enhance their experience, and an RTO shield to protect retailers from incurring the cost of returns management and much more. A few features of WareIQ that make it one of the best Shiprocket alternative in India: Does not have any minimum order requirementsOffers a pan-India network of warehouses and fulfillment centersOffers cost-effective and transparent pricingProvides customisable branded tracking facilitiesOffers customisable packaging services Vertically integrated fulfillment platform to unify OMS & WMS [signup] FedEx Source FedEx is a global conglomerate that focuses on providing eCommerce fulfillment, supply chain, and shipping solutions across multiple sectors such as retail, consumer goods, electronics, and healthcare. Currently based in Memphis, Tennessee, FedEx currently provides shipping services to more than 220 countries across the world and equips retailers with the ability to synchronize their orders across multiple platforms in a single location in addition to warehouse and inventory management. A few features of FedEx that make it one of the best Shiprocket alternatives are: Provides a global network of servicesOffers a variety of integrations with multiple selling platformsHas an intuitive and easy-to-operate platformOffers a comprehensive delivery networkProvides fast delivery and reverse logistics services DHL Source DHL, which is an acronym for Dalsey, Hillblom, and Lynn, is a courier and shipping solutions provider that was pioneered in and is currently based in Germany. The company is renowned around the world for its courier services and warehousing solutions and it currently operates in more than 220 countries. Its distribution arm provides door-to-door delivery and freight forwarding services through air and sea. A big advantage that DHL provides to eCommerce retailers is its ability to seamlessly clear customs and other challenges that may arise during international distribution and also provides insurance on every package. A few features of DHL that make it one of the best Shiprocket alternatives are: Offers a centralised technology platform for order fulfillment, inventory management, and other eCommerce operationsProvides next-day delivery services in more than 80 cities in IndiaHas a wide variety of B2C & B2B eCommerce servicesOffers efficient logistics managementProvides integration and optimisation of inventory across sales channels Vamaship Source Vamaship is primarily a shipping aggregation and logistics company that was founded in 2016 and is currently headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It currently operates in more than 200 countries across the world and helps businesses ship their goods at the cheapest possible rates through air, land, and sea and also enables them to automate many of their shipping processes to make them faster and more efficient. It also provides users with a consolidated platform to manage shipping partners and shipping-related tools. A few features of Vamaship that make it one of the best Shiprocket alternatives are: Offers a choice of multiple shipping partnersOffers integrations with multiple online selling platforms such as Magento, Shopify, Amazon and many more Provides a centralised platform for tracking inventory and order details Provides a tool to instantly compare prices of multiple shipping aggregators to help retailers choose the cheapest oneHas a document manager that consolidates shipping documents in a searchable format Aramex Source Aramex is a worldwide courier, logistics and shipping provider that is currently based in Dubai, UAE. Founded in 1982, Aramex operates in many countries globally and provides order fulfillment services to eCommerce companies. In addition to this, it also offers marketplace integrations with platforms such as Shopify, Martjack, ShopGo and many others, warehouse and inventory management and many other specialized services such as label stitching and creation of price tags for clothing companies and packaging and kitting services, that can be purchased for an additional price. A few features of Aramex that make it one of the best Shiprocket alternatives are: Offers integrations with multiple platformsOperates in more than 58 countries worldwideProvides customer care to more than 370 locations in IndiaOffers same-day delivery servicesProvides management of facilities ShipKaro Source Since ShipKaro’s inception in 2017, it has offered shipping aggregation services for eCommerce retailers who need efficient order management. Headquartered in Gurgaon, the company also enables businesses to automate and tailor shipping processes according to their desired outcomes. It also provides services such as label printing, bulk upload or orders, customizable delivery timings, and much more. A few features of ShipKaro that make it one of the best Shiprocket alternatives are: Offers partnerships with more than 14 local and international shipping servicesProvides integrations with multiple eCommerce selling platforms such as eBay and FlipkartEnables users to avail of discounted shipping prices and provides a tool for comparing them to other servicesSyncs order information from multiple order management platforms for seamless order processingOffers detailed tracking of orders Rakuten Source Rakuten is a multinational eCommerce fulfillment company that was founded in Tokyo in 1997 and is also currently headquartered there. Often called the “Amazon of Japan”, the company offers a variety of services including shipping, packaging, kitting, reverse logistics, and much more. It also offers tracking of shipping analytics for firms to be able to analyse and improve shipping practices to increase profit margins and reduce delivery timelines. They also operate a service specifically meant for small and medium-sized businesses known as XParcel. A few features of Rakuten that make it one of the best Shiprocket alternatives are: Provides customized services for eCommerce companiesOffers synchronized marketing solutionsProvides same-day and next-day shipping in the USOperates specialised fulfillment centersProvides kitting and subscription box services Shipyaari Source Shipyaari is an Indian eCommerce logistics service and shipping aggregator that was founded in 2013 and is currently headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra. One of its unique features is its ability to handle high-volume orders from large companies. The company offers a choice of multiple shipping partners and eCommerce integrations in addition to providing detailed cash-back guarantee schemes. A few features of ShipKaro that make it one of the best Shiprocket alternatives in India are: Offers partnerships with 10 courier services that cover more than 25,000 pin codesProvides integrations to eCommerce selling platforms such as WooCommerce, Shopify and MagentoOffers a software solution that takes care of inventory management, order fulfillment and delivery servicesEnables customers to track orders through API integrationsOffers additional facilities such as RTO reduction, data analytics and NDR management ShipMonk Source ShipMonk was founded in 2014 and is currently headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, United States. With its central focus being on making technology-based eCommerce solutions as accessible as possible, the company also offers services such as pick and pack solutions, packaging facilities, inventory and warehouse management, customer care, and much more. It operates more than 100 virtual stores and also provides dedicated managers to each customer to assist them with the onboarding process. A few features of ShipMonk that make it one of the best Shiprocket alternatives are: Provides an online billing portal for customersAssists in automating warehouse processesConsists of a vast number of customisation & branding optionsOffers tax benefits and reduced pricing for bulk importersDoes not have a setup or inventory receiving fee Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) Source Amazon is synonymous with eCommerce retail and fulfillment. Its first-party fulfillment services, known as Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) pioneered the order fulfillment revolution when it was launched in 2006. Amazon uses its status to provide the best facilities it can such as operating a vast number of fulfillment centers worldwide, offering free shipping to customers, picking and packing services, returns management, and much more. It also enables retailers to limit their expenses by providing free warehousing, free order processing, and much more. However, retailers have to keep in mind that it can only be used to fulfill orders that are placed on Amazon and a few other select eCommerce selling platforms. A few features of Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) that make it one of the best Shiprocket alternatives are: Has no minimum order requirementsTakes care of all customer inquiries, refunds, and returnsCan fulfill orders on select external selling channelsUtilises inventory pooling to group similar products from different retailersOffers free shipping to customers Feature Comparison Table of Competitors of Shiprocket [Updated 2024] [table id=29 /] Suggested Read: 10 Best Prozo Alternatives & Competitors Offering eCommerce Fulfillment and Shipping Services in 2024 Conclusion: Why is WareIQ the Best Shiprocket Alternative in India in 2024? The sheer competitiveness due to the number of companies providing 3PL eCommerce fulfillment services is enormous. These companies constantly seek to provide new and improved services at lower prices to differentiate themselves from their competitors. This greatly benefits existing and aspiring eCommerce retailers because they can take their choice of companies that perfectly align with their values and requirements. Although Shiprocket is one of the biggest shipping aggregators in India, there are many areas where it is surpassed by the competition. If you are looking for Shiprocket alternatives, you don’t need to look beyond WareIQ. WareIQ seeks to differentiate itself through the use of technology by providing innovative solutions to the various eCommerce challenges that retailers face, at the most cost-effective and transparent pricing in the industry. WareIQ is a growing competitor to Shiprocket, like Shiprocket it acts like a shipping aggregator but also provides end-to-end fulfillment services to eCommerce sellers & D2C brands in India, so that businesses can focus only on their core revenue metrics while WareIQ takes care of their entire operations & logistics. The major differentiator from Shiprocket is WareIQ's vertically integrated fulfillment platform that unifies OMS & WMS and syncs inventory in real-time. eCommerce sellers don't have to face the issue of a lag of 12-14 hours for their inventory status to sync from OMS to WMS if they choose WareIQ as their 3PL fulfillment partner. Some of the other important and distinct features of WareIQ include: Nationwide Network of Fulfillment Centers and Dark stores Provides a simple plug & play setup with no minimums requirementsOffers integrations with Amazon Seller Flex, Myntra, Flipkart Assured & other eCommerce selling platformsProvides regional sourcing hubs to reduce first-mile expensesProvides in-house warehouse management Enhanced Inventory Management and Network Planning Offers best-in-class AI models for sales forecasting and thresholds for auto-replenishmentProvides grouping of products based on type (regular, non-regular, seasonal etc.) to improve sales conversions Vertically Integrated Technology Fulfillment Stack Offers integrations with 20+ top selling channels and D2C platformsOffers integrations with hyperlocal, regional, and national courier services, encompassing more than 27,000 pin codesProvides a single unified tech stack for WMS and OMS App Store With Downloadable Applications to Increase Productivity Enables RTO Shield which provides 100% protection RTOsEnhances the post-purchase experience through customised branded trackingProvides notifications on order status to customers through email, SMS, and WhatsappAssists in generating customer feedback Ultra-Fast Delivery With WareIQ Rush Provides same-day delivery with no distance-based billing or minimum order requirements Increases revenue conversion by up to 30%Provides near-zero RTO%Offers NDR & COD verification via WhatsappReduces Cost per Shipment (CPS) Shiprocket Alternatives: FAQs What is Shiprocket?Shiprocket is a shipping aggregation company that was founded in 2012 and is headquartered in Delhi. Its main offering is providing a choice of multiple shipping companies to retailers, who can choose which one they want to partner with based on their own circumstances. What is the main goal of 3PL fulfillment companies?The primary objective of 3PL fulfillment companies is to provide a range of eCommerce services including order fulfillment, inventory management, shipping and distribution at more cost-effective prices than their competitors in order to attract customers. What factors should retailers consider before making a decision when choosing a shiprocket alternative?There are multiple factors that retailers should consider before partnering with a 3PL fulfillment company which have been listed below:- Business requirements- Financial capabilities- Services offered by the company- Pricing offered by the company- Reviews from prior customers What are some alternatives to Shiprocket?1. ShypLite2. WareIQ3. EasySHip What are the top Shiprocket competitors in 2024?It’s difficult to determine all the competitors to Shiprocket in 2023 as the e-commerce market is constantly changing and new players are emerging. However here are our top recommendations;1. WareIQ2. ClickPost3. ShipKaro Why is ultra-fast delivery important?Providing ultra-fast delivery such as same-day and next-day delivery can enable companies to offer a unique selling point (USP) to their customers. Consumers have become accustomed to fast delivery and if a company doesn’t offer it, they could lose out on customers to their competitors. What sets WareIQ apart from Shiprocket & other 3PL companies?WareIQ’s core business is eCommerce fulfillment for enabling same & next day delivery for eCommerce & D2C brands who sell online. It provides end to end fulfillment services with its pan India network of fulfillment centers & dark stores and partnership with all the major shipping/courier through which eCommerce sellers can store inventory closest to their customers in any of WareIQ’s FCs & reach their customers faster through their preferred shipping/last mile delivery partner.WareIQ emphasises the implementation of technology at every step of the fulfillment process. Our custom WMS, app store and integrations with multiple selling platforms enable users to automate and enhance their operations to make them faster and more efficient. WareIQ enhances post purchase experience through its features & solutions like branded tracking, RTO shield, shipping/fast delivery badges, customer feedback etc. which are all accessible by customers in 1 location called WareIQ’s app store.

February 08, 2023

NimbusPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Which is the Best eCommerce Fulfillment Company for Sellers in 2024?

Order fulfillment is one of the most complex and important procedures in the entire eCommerce industry. Without a comprehensive and efficient fulfillment process in place, eCommerce companies run the risk of not delivering a good enough experience to their customers, which can result in a backlash against the company by existing and prospective consumers. To avoid this risk, you can always opt to partner with a 3PL fulfillment company. Explosive growth has not just taken place in the eCommerce industry as a whole but also in order fulfillment providers. Observing the increased amount of local and international players in the market, enterprising companies have sought to provide a solution to their requirements by providing exceptional features at competitive prices. The result is that you are spoiled for choice when it comes to which eCommerce fulfillment provider you seek to partner with. In this blog, we will go through 3 of the best options - NimbusPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ - by giving you important details about each and comparing their features, services, and pricing. Let's get started. About WareIQ Source WareIQ is a homegrown eCommerce fulfillment company that is one of the fastest growing in the country. It was founded in 2019 and is currently headquartered in Bangalore. Seeking to use advanced technology to tackle a wide variety of eCommerce issues and requirements, the company provides many value-added services, such as an app store, RTO Shield, specialised storage facilities, and more, along with its conventional list of facilities, such as a nationwide network of fulfillment centers, a custom WMS, ultra-fast delivery and much more. The company also offers highly flexible and transparent pricing, owing to the fact that there are no minimum order requirements and sellers can simply opt and pay for the amount of storage space and other facilities they need, which can always be upgraded according to future requirements. Some of the primary reasons to partner with WareIQ are listed below: It provides a nationwide network of fulfillment centers and dark stores scattered in most major locations across the country and has smart inventory placement that enables you to store your inventory in the most suitable location based on factors such as demand and proximity to transport facilities.It has a custom WMS that aids in inventory management as well as integrating with multiple eCommerce marketplaces, such as Amazon, Flipkart, eBay, and more, and consolidates your order and inventory data across all of them and provides real-time updates to any changes that might occur.It offers ultra-fast same-day and next-day delivery through a partnership with more than 12 shipping aggregators and will always assign the fastest and most cost-effective option to every order.It provides an RTO Shield that offsets any negative implications caused by returns by ensuring every product and taking care of the entire reverse logistics process.It has a custom app store with multiple easily-downloadable apps that enhance the productivity of various business functions, such as generating customer feedback and providing shipping badges that indicate delivery speeds. [contactus_lilgoodness] About Shiprocket Source Being one of India's top shipping aggregators, Shiprocket was founded in 2012 and is presently headquartered in Delhi. Its main service is to let online merchants choose the delivery provider of their choice based on their own goals and other factors. Additionally, the organisation offers a variety of automations for different business operations. Over 200,000 orders are currently placed each day on Shiprocket. More than 200 different countries are represented in the company's customer base. The business also provides connections with significant eCommerce platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart, and provides other services like cost estimation and order management, among others. Some of the primary reasons to partner with Shiprocket are listed below: It offers a choice between more than 17 shipping companies and allows you to manage and consolidate your order and logistics data through a simple interface.It provides a custom shipping rate calculator that can assist you in figuring out which courier partner is providing the best and cheapest service for specific orders based on metrics such as distance, product dimensions, and more.It offers integrations with multiple eCommerce marketplaces and allows you to access all your data through a single dashboard.It provides a combined platform to analyse and keep track of important order-related details, so you can easily monitor your success rates and find areas that need to be improved.It offers additional facilities, such as opting for insurance on every parcel and printing services for shipping labels, which make it a one-stop solution for most shipping and distribution requirements. About NimbusPost Source NimbusPost is primarily a shipping and logistics company that was founded in 2018 and is currently headquartered in Gurgaon, Haryana. The company’s core offering is consolidating distribution and courier services so that its partners will have easy access to the best shipping and fulfillment facilities. One of the company's main goals is to help eCommerce retailers make well-informed decisions by providing all the information they need at their fingertips. By using technology to bridge the gap between automated processes and on-ground activities, NimbusPost is able to provide exceptional facilities at competitive rates. The company provides shipping solutions both domestically and internationally. Some of the primary reasons to partner with Shiprocket are listed below: It has an existing customer base that exceeds 60,000 online sellers. This ensures that they have enough experience to tackle any unforeseen challenges that could occur.It currently covers more than 29,000 pin codes and operates in more than 196 countries, which will ensure that it is able to deliver orders to even the most remote locations without a hassle.It offers an AI-enables allocation engine that is able to assign the best courier partner for every order based on criteria such as distance, product dimensions and more.It provides a comprehensive post-shipping experience to assist with feedback generation and post-purchase communication, among other services.It has a nationwide warehouse network that is certified by Amazon Flex and Flipkart Smartbuy which helps with inventory storage and shipping preparation for every order. Shiprocket vs NimbusPost vs WareIQ: 10 Main Differences in Services and Facilities NimbusPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Core Offering WareIQ: The primary offering of WareIQ is using technology and AI to provide order fulfillment, inventory management, product storage, eCommerce shipping, and last-mile delivery to eCommerce retailers. The company can integrate with more than 20 online marketplaces and provides a custom WMS to consolidate all order and inventory data in a single dashboard.NimbusPost: Like Shiprocket, NimbusPost’s primary offering is also centered around shipping aggregation by consolidating distribution partners so that their customers can easily choose the best option. It also provides fulfillment facilities such as eCommerce warehouses and last-mile delivery.Shiprocket: The primary offering of Shiprocket is providing retailers with a choice of shipping partners by aggregating all their courier partners in an easily-selectable format. It also provides automation for various shipping processes. NimbusPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Customer Onboarding Time WareIQ: WareIQ has swift customer onboarding that happens in just 7 days.NimbusPost: NimbusPost also offers quick onboarding but again, the timeline is not mentioned by them.Shiprocket: Shiprocket provides fast onboarding, but the exact speed isn’t specified. NimbusPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Pricing WareIQ: In comparison to its rivals, WareIQ offers more affordable pricing, as well as cost-effective features like no additional deposits and billing as per usage. Additionally, customers don't need to spend additional money on external WMS and shipping software because WareIQ provides all of these facilities in-house.NimbusPost: NimbusPost offers a variety of different pricing plans and also provides completely customized shipping that has varying charges depending on the specifications of the model.Shiprocket: Shiprocket provides cost-effective rates for their distribution facilities compared to industry standards and their customers can also take advantage of discounts of up to 50%. NimbusPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Technological Features WareIQ: WareIQ prides itself on its broad use of technological features to enhance its eCommerce services. The company offers facilities such as a custom WMS, order tracking facilities through Whatsapp, email, and SMS, a central dashboard to get real-time updates across all platforms, and much more.NimbusPost: NimbusPost offers advanced technological solutions that assist with efficient and secure shipping, such as an AI-enabled fraud detector, a recommendation engine, simple integrations with courier partners and eCommerce marketplaces, shipping automations, cloud-based customer support, and much more.Shiprocket: Shiprocket provides technological facilities such as automated shipping services, NDR management, a recommendation engine, SMS notifications, and order tracking services. NimbusPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: App Store WareIQ: In order to enhance the fulfillment experience that retailers are able to provide to their customers, WareIQ offers an intuitive, well-designed and simple-to-navigate app store with a full catalog of easily-downloadable apps. These apps combine branded tracking solutions, recommendations to increase efficiency in various areas, order notifications, RTO insurance, and customer feedback in a single location.NimbusPost: NimbusPost does not offer its own app store or offer any app support. It does however offer API integrations.Shiprocket: Shiprocket also does not provide an app store or offer support for first-party apps. It only provides API integrations. NimbusPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Services Offered WareIQ: WareIQ provides many conventional eCommerce services, such as product storage, inventory management, same-day, and next-day delivery, WMS software, a pan-India distribution network, order tracking, and more. It also offers value-added services, such as customized packaging, FBA preparation, Flipkart preparation, Seller Fulfilled Prime, Nykaa fulfillment, and much more.NimbusPost: NimbusPost offers many services, including automated shipping, a choice of shipping carriers, an AI-powered fraud detector, a recommendation engine, a warehouse network, international shipping facilities, and much more. Shiprocket: Shiprocket provides a vast array of facilities, such as no minimum shipment requirements, zero monthly fees, packaging facilities, API integrations, prepaid COD, and much more. NimbusPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Integrations WareIQ: WareIQ offers multiple eCommerce marketplace integrations through its custom WMS with platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho, and Myntra, among others. Integrations with website builders, such as Magento, Shopify, WooCommerce, and more, are also enabled. This enables users to track their order and inventory data across platforms, get real-time updates and manage orders once they are confirmed.NimbusPost: NimbusPost offers integrations with multiple leading website builders such as Shopify, Etsy, WooCommerce, and more. The company also provides integrations with various courier partners so you can monitor important orders and shipping-related information. Shiprocket: Shiprocket enables integrations to most of the main worldwide fulfillment platforms such as Amazon, Magento, Shopify, and others. This provides perks such as being able to track orders across platforms, manage your inventory, syncing important information, and much more. NimbusPost 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, inventory management, packaging, order tracking, shipping, and everything in between.NimbusPost: NimbusPost provides a seamless and efficient shipping and distribution experience by consolidating courier partners, providing integrations with selling platforms and automating various shipping processes.Shiprocket: Shiprocket seeks to offer cost-effective shipping solutions to a wide audience and make efficient distribution facilities easily accessible. The company offers a large number of integrations and automation. NimbusPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Packaging WareIQ: WareIQ provides retailers with the choice of custom packaging where they can customize every aspect of their containers and boxes, standard packaging, and WareIQ-themed packaging.NimbusPost: NimbusPost does not offer customisable packaging facilities.Shiprocket: Shiprocket provides branded packaging facilities as per the requirements of its customers. NimbusPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Cold Storage Facilities WareIQ: WareIQ provides cold storage facilities in most fulfillment centers.NimbusPost: NimbusPost does not provide cold storage facilities in their warehouses.Shiprocket: Shiprocket does offer cold storage facilities in select warehouses. You May Like: ithink logistics vs shiprocket vs wareiq NimbusPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Feature Comparison Summary Table [Updated 2024] [table id=54 /] Conclusion: What Makes WareIQ the Best Choice for eCommerce Fulfillment Among NimbusPost, Shiprocket, and WareIQ? Having a competent fulfillment partner that uses the latest technology and provides the best facilities can take a severe amount of strain away from you and your business. Order fulfillment is one of the most important tasks in eCommerce as it ensures that customers get what they pay for and is often the determining factor as to whether they will choose to purchase from your business again or switch over to a competitor. NimbusPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ is a difficult choice because each company has their own special features and core offerings. However, because both NimbusPost and Shiprocket are mainly shipping aggregation companies, they lack some of the value-added services that make WareIQ such a good option for almost any eCommerce task. We recommend partnering with WareIQ because it offers the most diverse feature set at the most competitive prices. We guarantee that you won’t be disappointed. WareIQ is an up-and-coming eCommerce fulfillment provider that was pioneered in 2019 and currently offers some of the best services in the industry. Some of WareIQ’s premier offerings are listed below: Inventory Storage: We provide a nationwide fulfillment center and dark store networkWarehouse Management: We provide a custom WMS that automates many warehouse procedureseCommerce Marketplace Integrations: You can integrate with more than 20 online selling platforms, such as Amazon, eBay, Flipkart and moreProductivity Enhancement: We offer a custom app store with multiple appsReturns Management: We handle reverse logistics and protect you from the negative impacts of returnsBranded Tracking: We provide branded tracking pages that can convey information to your customers in an attractive way.Customized Packaging: We offer customizable packaging that can be personalised according to your liking.Ultra-Fast Delivery: We provide exceptional same-day and next-day delivery servicesChoice of Shipping Aggregator: We provide a choice of more than 12 shipping companiesShipping Badges: We provide Prime-like shipping badges that indicate delivery speed NimbusPost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ FAQs When and where was NimusPost founded?NimbusPost was founded in 2018, in Gurgaon, Haryana. When and where was Shiprocket founded?Shiprocket was founded in 2012 in Delhi. What services should you look for in a 3PL partner?3PL partners are responsible for a vast amount of important eCommerce tasks. Some of the main services that you should look for are listed below:- Order fulfillment- Inventory management- Warehouse network- Ultra-fast delivery- Flexible pricing policies What is the difference between shipping aggregators and 3PL fulfillment companies?The main solution provided by shipping aggregators is consolidating many shipping companies to provide the best option to their customers. Alternatively, 3PL fulfillment companies provide shipping aggregation services in addition to multiple other solutions, such as product storage, inventory management, packaging services and more. Does WareIQ have any minimum order requirements?No, WareIQ does not impose any minimum order requirements. You can simply opt and pay for the facilities you need and you can always edit your plans in the future. Why should an eCommerce and D2C brand choose WareIQ as fulfillment partner over NimbusPost and Shiprocket in 2024?eCommerce brands today are focusing on optimizing performance across 3 primary drivers: sales, order delivery, and inventory. Keeping these 3 parameters in mind, online sellers should choose WareIQ over Nimbus Post and Shiprocket in 2024.WareIQ has worked with 500+ top brands including top enterprises & Marketplace bestsellers like Piramal, Future Group, Aditya Birla Group, Kama Ayurveda, TCNS clothing, etc. to enable multi-channel selling and cart abandonment rate reduction leading to growth in revenue. WareIQ has enabled same/next-day delivery with RTO insurance and has also enabled smooth and hassle-free returns and exchange processes. WareIQ’s inventory planning program using AI-based inventory optimization is also helping brands with ensuring high-selling SKUs are always available in stock to avoid any kind of sales loss.Nimbus Post mostly caters primarily to entry-level players with order volumes of less than 5000 per month. Shiprocket’s core business is also shipping aggregation, but they have now ventured into fulfillment services too. While WareIQ has a unified multi-channel fulfillment platform that can work as OMS+WMS+Shipping platforms, Shiprocket doesn't have a unified fulfillment platform.

February 08, 2023

Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: 10 Major Differences to Help You Choose the Best 3PL Fulfillment Company in 2024

In the current eCommerce landscape, providing basic order fulfillment services doesn’t cut it. With larger companies researching and introducing new technologies and features on a rapid basis, smaller companies are constantly playing catch up, and more often than not, they cannot afford to compete. Since eCommerce shoppers have become accustomed to these conveniences, such as flexible return policies, same-day shipping, comprehensive order tracking, and more, the onus is on eCommerce companies to adapt and ensure that they offer these facilities, to maintain and enhance the satisfaction of their customers. If they are not capable or willing to adopt cutting-edge services, they risk losing customers to competitors that are. We understand that not every company has the financial and technological resources at their disposal to make such services possible but fret not. This is where 3PL fulfillment companies come into even the playing field. By consolidating advanced technology and trending services, they are able to offer retailers the boost that they may have been lacking. In this blog, we will compare 3 of the best options currently available - Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ - and help you decide which would be the best one for you. Introduction to WareIQ Source WareIQ started out in Bangalore, Karnataka, in 2019 with the goal of offering a comprehensive fulfillment infrastructure that was widely available to every eCommerce retailer across the country. They have emerged as one of the fastest-expanding fulfillment companies in India and offer one of the most expansive service catalogs in the industry. Whether it is 3PL logistics services, such as order fulfillment, shipping aggregation, and last-mile delivery, or storage facilities, such as a pan-India fulfillment center network, custom packaging, and more, WareIQ is filled to the brim with all sorts of eCommerce solutions. To make this happen, the company uses advanced technology, such as an in-house WMS, multiple marketplace integrations, custom apps that can be connected externally, and much more. This makes it one of the best all-in-one solutions on the market. Some key points that make WareIQ worth considering among Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ are listed below: It provides intelligent inventory placement suggestions to store inventory in proximity to high-demand localities and significant transportation hubs. It also has a nationwide network of fulfillment centers.Its WareIQ Rush platform offers lightning-fast same-day and next-day shipping. Additionally, it provides dark storefronts that facilitate hyperlocal delivery in less than 30 minutes.It offers a tailored WMS that helps with inventory control and allows real-time updates regarding inventory levels and order data from various channels and fulfillment center locations, all in one dashboard.It offers total return management and an RTO Shield, which protects every SKU from the adverse effects of returns and lowers associated expenses.It has connections with over 12 of the largest shipping companies in the nation and automatically chooses the least expensive and fastest choice for each delivery. [contactus_uth] Introduction to Shipkaro Source Since its establishment in 2017, Shipkaro has provided shipping aggregation services to eCommerce businesses that need efficient order management. The Gurgaon-based business also enables businesses to automate and tailor shipping processes to achieve their desired outcomes. Additionally, it provides services like label printing, personalized delivery timetables, bulk order syncing and many more. The company also provides international shipping solutions across the globe and claims to offer the lowest shipping prices in the industry with no setup fees required upfront. Some key points that make Shipkaro worth considering among Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ are listed below: It is able to synchronise order tracking data from multiple order management channels to simplify the processing of orders and have access to important information across platforms in a central location.It provides accurate order tracking facilities for every order to ensure that customers are kept in the loop regarding every development.It helps customers benefit from bulk discounts and also provides a tool to compare charges to those of rival companies, which helps them understand how much money they are saving.It can connect directly with other eCommerce marketplaces, such as Flipkart and eBay, to make order management as seamless as possible across all online selling channels.It has partnered with more than 14 national and foreign distribution companies to provide a wide range of options for both domestic and international shipping. Introduction to Shiprocket Source Shiprocket is a homegrown shipping aggregation firm that has been at the forefront of eCommerce distribution services in India. Its headquarters have been based in Delhi since 20212, the year it was founded. As a shipping aggregator, its primary services include combining courier services to give its partners a more streamlined selection, automating various distribution and logistics facilities and establishing linkages with various online markets. Additionally, it offers value-adding services like purchase management across multiple online marketplaces and cost estimation, which helps retailers better understand the total cost of their transactions. The company currently operates in more than 200 countries and has an order volume of more than 200,000 orders a day. Some key points that make Shiprocket worth considering among Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ are listed below: You can select up to 17 delivery providers from its user-friendly interface, which also allows you to manage and consolidate your order and logistics data.It helps you immediately assess your success rates and identify areas that require improvement thanks to the comprehensive technology platform it provides.It offers a customised shipping rate calculator that is based on factors, such as product qualities, distance to the customer's location, and more, which will help you identify which distributor is offering the best and most affordable service for specific orders.It is one of the most comprehensive shipping platforms available right now and provides value-added services like the ability to print mailing labels and coverage for every SKU.It can interact with many eCommerce marketplaces and offers a central dashboard to track and examine all your shipment, order, and inventory information. Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Key Distinctions in Their Facilities and Services Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Core Offering WareIQ: The main service provided by WareIQ is eCommerce fulfillment, which makes use of its technology-based solutions like online integrations, a machine learning-powered forecasting system for smart inventory placement, an internally-built WMS that can monitor and send real-time alerts across eCommerce selling platforms and fulfilment center locations, and accessibility to an India-wide network of fulfilment centres and last-mile delivery services.Shipkaro: Shipkaro’s key offering is shipping aggregation and offers most of the conventional facilities that are associated with it, such as integrations with multiple carriers, international and domestic shipping, bulk order discounts and much more.Shiprocket: The primary offering of Shiprocket is shipping aggregation, which entails organising a number of shipping companies so that their clients can make informed decisions. The business uses a recommendation engine enabled by AI to aid with this. The main objective of the company is to make quick and effective delivery affordable for a large audience. Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Customer Onboarding Time WareIQ: The complete customer onboarding process is carried out within 7 days.Shipkaro: Shipkaro does not provide dedicated customer onboarding support.Shiprocket: Shiprocket provides speedy customer onboarding, but there isn’t an official duration given by the company. Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Pricing WareIQ: WareIQ imposes lower prices than its rivals and offers cost-saving features like paying based on usage and no initial deposits. It allows customers to avoid spending extra money on third-party WMS and shipping solutions because it already has internal solutions for these particular uses.Shipkaro: Shipkaro has multiple pricing plans and subscriptions. The base model does not impose any monthly payments but instead, charges ₹32 per 500 grams, which, despite the company’s claims, is far from the most affordable option in the market.Shiprocket: The base membership rate for Shiprocket is ₹20 for every 500 grams of goods, with other payment alternatives available. You can also add particular services that you need to your membership. Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Technological Features WareIQ: In addition to providing fulfilment services, WareIQ also aspires to be known for its cutting-edge technology platform. It provides sophisticated technology, including an internal WMS, extensive order monitoring software with email, Whatsapp and SMS updates, automated restocking triggers, a control panel with a dashboard view so users can track and review crucial analytics and much more.Shipkaro: Shipkaro offers standard technological solutions, such as integrations with multiple shipping carriers and online selling platforms, automated order syncing, a price comparison tool, automated logistics management, shipment tracking and much more.Shiprocket: An NDR control, an AI-generated recommendation engine, SMS notifications, order monitoring, automated shipping processes and many other crucial facilities are just a few of the technology-based services that Shiprocket offers to its clients. Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: App Store WareIQ: In order to improve the fulfilment experience for sellers and their customers, WareIQ offers an app store with a simplified UI that has a wide variety of apps in various categories. These apps combine functions, such as suggestions to strengthen efficiency in multiple business facets, branded order tracking services, shipping badges, order updates, spurring customer feedback and more, all within a single online store.Shipkaro: Shipkaro does not provide an app store or support for any 3rd-party apps.Shiprocket: Shiprocket offers in-house apps and API connections. It does not, however, particularly provide an app store or support for third-party applications. Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Services Offered WareIQ: WareIQ offers services for a wide range of business needs, including B2B fulfillment and B2C fulfillment, FBA preparation services, ultra-fast delivery, branded packaging, Flipkart preparation, an internal WMS, an India-encompassing fulfillment center network, Nykaa fulfillment, SKU management, branded order tracking and much more.Shipkaro: Shipkaro offers a vast array of services in addition to shipping aggregation, such as automated logistics management, scheduled pickup of goods, order tracking, integrations with multiple shipping companies and eCommerce marketplaces, COD cycle support, delivery to 15,000-plus pin codes, bulk order uploading and much more.Shiprocket: Along with its shipping aggregation services, Shiprocket also provides packaging facilities, prepaid cash-on-delivery, no purchase minimums, no monthly fees, API integrations and a variety of additional services. Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Integrations WareIQ: WareIQ offers WMS connections to website builders like Shopify, Magento, WooCommerce, and others in addition to various well-known online selling channels like Flipkart, Amazon, and eBay, among others. Customers can easily migrate and import data across all these platforms, manage their inventory, and keep track of orders.Shipkaro: Shipkaro offers multiple integrations with shipping carriers, such as Delhivery, Aramex, BlueDart, and more, as well as online selling platforms, such as Amazon, Flipkart, and StoreHippo, among others.Shiprocket: Shiprocket integrates with the majority of the major online marketplaces, including eBay, Amazon, Flipkart, Shopify, and more, to accurately monitor and analyse data in one place. Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Unique Selling Point (USP) WareIQ: WareIQ offers a filled-to-the-brim technological platform in order to tackle requirements at every stage of the supply chain. Customers can select the precise services they require, starting with order tracking, product storage, packaging, inventory management and shipping, among many others.Shipkaro: Shipkaro provides many useful value-added features that enhance its shipping aggregation facilities and make it easier for sellers to simply sign up and ship their products using the fastest and most effective carriers.Shiprocket: Shiprocket's shipping aggregation services, which are readily available to eCommerce sellers in bulk at affordable prices and make use of cutting-edge technology, are its main selling feature. Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Customised Packaging WareIQ: With WareIQ, sellers may benefit from customised packaging, where every aspect of the unpackaging process, including the brand logo, design, materials, and dimensions can be customised to their tastes.Shipkaro: Shipkaro does not offer customizable packaging facilities.Shiprocket: Shiprocket does provide customised packing, where various parcel components can be customised to meet the needs of their clients. Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Cold Storage Facilities WareIQ: WareIQ provides cold storage in a number of its fulfillment centers across its whole network.Shipkaro: Shiprocket does not provide cold storage in any capacity.Shiprocket: Shiprocket provides cold storage in certain fulfillment center locations. Related Article: Clickpost vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: Feature Comparison Table [table id=62 /] Conclusion: What Makes WareIQ the Best Choice Among Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ in 2024? The determining factor of whether customers choose to make repeat purchases from your business or choose one of your competitors is often the order fulfillment experience that they have. A single delay, sub-standard packaging, damaged product, or incorrect item sent can leave a long-lasting negative impression on any customer and can also cause tangible harm to your business in the form of poor online feedback and a high rate of returned goods. Conversely, a positive delivery experience can leave customers raving about your company to their friends and colleagues and will make them consider your company when they need to purchase a similar item again. This will enhance your reputation, sales figures, and profit margins. Therefore, making the right decision between Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ is more important than it seems. While all companies offer tremendous value for money, WareIQ is our pick for the variety of services it offers, use of advanced technology to curtail any unforeseen circumstances, and its flexible pricing plans that are available. WareIQ is a Bangalore-based eCommerce fulfillment company that offers a large suite of eCommerce solutions. Some of the key ones are listed below: We offer a SaaS system for AI-powered inventory administration that keeps your inventory at the appropriate levels and minimises understocking and overstocking issues.We provide aid with reverse logistics and provide an RTO Shield that guards against any damage from returns for every product.We provide a variety of custom packaging choices, allowing you to change the theme, materials, design, and more to fit your tastes.We have a dedicated team of knowledgeable customer service representatives who are available round-the-clock to respond to client inquiries.We make it possible for you to select and pay for the services you desire, and since we don't have a minimum order restriction, you can always upgrade or modify your subscriptions in response to your future requirements. Shipkaro vs Shiprocket vs WareIQ: FAQs When and where was Shipkaro founded?Shipkaro was founded in 2017 in Gurgaon, Haryana. Does Shipkaro offer a pan-India fulfillment network?No, Shipkaro does not provide in-house product storage facilities. Does WareIQ offer shipping aggregation?Yes, WareIQ offers a choice of more than 12 of the largest shipping companies in the country and tells you which is the quickest and cheapest alternative for every order. In addition to shipping aggregation, what other services does Shipkaro offer?Shipkaro offers multiple facilities in addition to shipping aggregation. They are listed below:- Scheduled order pickup- Multiple integrations- COD cycle support- Automated logistics management- A pin code coverage of more than 15,000 Does WareIQ provide storage facilities?Yes, WareIQ has a pan-India network of fulfillment centers and dark stores and also provides specialised features, such as cold storage facilities, a custom WMS and more, to aid in efficient storage and inventory management. Which is the best 3PL fulfillment solution among Shiprocket, Shipkaro and WareIQ for eCommerce? Shipkaro is a shipping aggregator for eCommerce business and doesn't provide end to end fulfillment solution. It also caters primarily to entry-level players with order volumes of less than 3000 per month. Shiprocket's core business is also shipping aggregation, but they have now ventured into fulfillment services too. However, WareIQ is a Y-Combinator backed eCommerce fulfillment company, which is a trusted fulfillment partners of 500+ brands in India, across all segments - entry, mid-market and end enterprises. It has pan India network of seller flex compliant fulfillment centers and a strong shipping network with partnerships with 30+ shipping partners. You should choose WareIQ among Shiprocket, Shipkaro and WareIQ, if you are looking for end to end fulfillment services. But, you can choose any of the 3 if you are looking for shipping aggregators.

February 08, 2023

What are Retail Operations? The Ultimate Guide on the Best Practices for Streamlined Retail Operations Management for Online and OffeCommerce fulfillment companyline Retailers in 2024

Whether you sell on various eCommerce marketplaces or through conventional retail stores, retail operations are the motor that keeps your business running consistently. When you sell products to customers with the aim of providing them with a positive experience so you can generate sales and eventually profits, there are multiple processes involved in making sure it all happens smoothly and everything goes according to plan. This is to ensure that highly demanded products are always kept in stock, items can be located easily when an order comes in and products can be packaged and dispatched with ease. When a company’s retail operations are running at their optimum capacity, both the store and its customers benefit, leading to an optimistic sentiment among both parties. In this blog, we will take a look at what retail operations are, the functions they provide, the challenges associated with them, and 8 ways to help you streamline your retail store operations. What are Retail Operations? Retail operations comprise all the processes involved in the day-to-day operations of running a retail business. This includes tasks such as order fulfillment (learn about retail fulfillment), inventory management, adjusting your online store or warehouse layout, accounting, customer support, sales, returns management, and much more. Because retail operations are necessary for the smooth running of a retail business, efforts need to be made to streamline them wherever possible. This could include optimising your storage space so that products can be identified and accessed more efficiently, eliminating various bottlenecks, and ensuring products are packaged and dispatched in a timely manner. Essentially, retail operations commence the moment a purchase is made and a person goes from a lead to a direct customer of the business. All the tasks involved in making sure they get their order and have a good experience is classified as retail operations. [contactus_uth] Key Roles Involved in Retail Operations Management Inventory Management The quantity of goods that are on hand for customers to purchase at a retail establishment is known as inventory. This inventory needs to be constantly monitored and replenished so that items do not go out of stock (It is taken care of under stock replenishment). Conversely, future demand needs to be forecasted accurately to prevent over-ordering of certain products. Inventory management varies between online and offline stores. While online stores generally store their products in fulfillment centers where a vast amount of tasks are automated, physical stores generally rely on staff manually taking care of these procedures. Customer Service While some businesses have separate eCommerce customer service and eCommerce operations teams, many companies mix the two activities. For instance, a lot of people who work in physical retail stores conduct customer service work like guiding consumers to the products they're looking for, while in online stores, this is taken care of by website navigation features or chatbots. A retail operations specialist can also search the inventory supply for specific product models and address consumer concerns, among other customer-specific duties. The customer care representatives who work in the store or corporate office may also be under the direct administration of a retail operations manager. Order Processing Whenever an order comes in, it can either be accepted or rejected by the store, depending on the availability of the item or the capability to deliver it to the desired location. Oftentimes, this is done automatically through various software solutions. However, a company can also have dedicated staff that monitors each order as it comes in and manually makes a decision whether they want to go through with it or not. Order processing should be done instantly so that products can be identified, packaged and dispatched as soon as possible. If not, customers could be left waiting without a confirmation, which will result in them having a poor experience. Payment Acceptance The approved modes of payment are another aspect of retail operations management, as is the way it is handled at checkout. Nowadays, point-of-sale (POS) systems are used by retailers who have physical stores. The good news is that most POS systems will assist with inventory management in addition to processing payments. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) will be used for all aspects of handling cash and credit card payments in order to reduce human error. Managers and supervisors must make sure that all employees are knowledgeable of and skilled in using the company's SOPs. Administrative Tasks Many behind-the-scenes operations are conducted during administrative tasks. Before issues emerge, a store or eCommerce website requires the best upkeep. Every time a customer visits, they must have an efficient and consistent shopping experience. Any negative encounters, such as broken product links or unsuccessful payments, can leave a customer with a terrible impression. Training of the staff must be done to a high standard. There must be consistency in everyday activities, whether it be in the documentation of stock receipts or the management of money. Checklists and training procedures must be used, followed and continuously evaluated. Staff who interact with customers or provide online support must receive service training and be familiar with SOPs. Main Challenges Associated With Retail Store Operations Finding the Appropriate Pricing Both eCommerce and conventional retail are highly competitive industries. In order to capitalize on demand and convert interest into sales, sellers need to identify a pricing niche that their products can successfully fall into. If products are priced too low, you risk reducing your profit margins and if they are priced too high, customers will gravitate towards cheaper alternatives. Therefore, thorough research needs to be conducted in order to determine the pricing strategy that will work best for your business. Providing Tailored Experiences Along with product selection and pricing strategies, the in-house shopping experience is also highly prioritized by consumers. More individualization and customization need to be provided so they can have the best possible experience. Customers demand a customized online shopping experience with pertinent product recommendations and concentrated marketing efforts. However, they also anticipate having more alternatives so they can tailor their purchases to their own specific needs. Retailers must devise strategies to identify and appreciate loyal customers. However, they also need to find ways to make new clients feel valued. The latest personalisation trends must be followed so you can capitalize on providing customers with exactly what they are looking for. Enabling Consistency Across Multiple Channels It goes without saying that capturing a portion of the eCommerce and conventional retail market, ideally through omnichannel retailing, is essential for a retailer to succeed. Those with weak or nonexistent internet exposure will lag behind as more consumers shift their purchasing habits towards eCommerce. Selling across multiple sales channels is desirable for even the smallest firms. Physical retailers who disregard online shoppers do so at their own risk. Numerous retail locations and channels can provide a number of advantages. However, enterprises pursuing this route will also face fresh difficulties. The more channels, procedures and people that are involved in operations, the harder it is to maintain consistency and this can also result in increased prices, errors and mishaps. Retaining Quality Employees Today's workers expect more for their efforts, just like today's customers. The wage range for retail sales workers is usually on the lower end. Because of this, some of the greatest rates of employee turnover is in the retail sector. When employees are engaged, they have an increased likelihood of sticking with a particular company. Everyone has various motivations, but nobody wants to continuously work on monotonous, readily automated chores that don't add any value for a salary they aren’t happy with. Effective involvement can be challenging for management and HR. To increase staffing and employee retention, the appropriate strategies and incentives must be identified. Managing Inventory and Other In-House Tasks Inventory is a critical component of retail operations. It is what enables customers to purchase items from your business so you can break even and start to turn over a profit. However, managing inventory, especially if you sell across multiple channels, can be a hassle and come with a range of challenges. You need to make sure that every SKU is stocked at appropriate quantities based on factors such as demand, seasonal relevance, price, storage space they occupy and much more. If there is a shortage of a product in relation to its demand, it can cause negative sentiment among customers. Conversely, if a product is overstocked, it can lead to increased storage costs and eventual obsolescence. You need to conduct forecasts and ascertain the appropriate amounts of inventory to store during a given time frame. 8 Best Practices to Solve the Challenges and Streamline Your Retail Operations in 2023 Automate Tasks Wherever Possible Source Automating some of your retail operations will optimize your daily administrative tasks, making it simpler to maintain accurate inventory records and assist in guiding future purchasing decisions. While keeping track of inventory using extensive spreadsheets can seem like a tempting prospect, it can soon spiral out of control. It takes time and you run the risk of making business decisions that are poorly informed and subject to blunders. Instead, integrate all of your inventory and point-of-sale systems so that laborious tasks are taken care of. With the use of top-notch software, you can gain access to features like inventory reporting, automated replenishment orders and low-stock notifications. Additionally, when a product is sold, received, or returned, inventory management software reliably syncs your data across channels in real-time. Consolidate Your Online and Offline Selling Efforts Source Before making an online purchase, customers generally prefer to physically inspect the products. Hybrid shopping, which is a combination of online and offline shopping, is the main purchasing method for 27% of customers and 36% of Gen Z, which is more than any other generation and indicates that it will only increase in the future. Despite trends toward increased internet shopping, 72% of customers still use physical stores as their primary means of shopping. Retailers must accommodate client preferences for both online and in-person purchases to ensure they have a positive experience and that all their requirements are met. Streamline Your Inventory Management Procedures Source Managing your inventory in an organised manner can make the difference between the success and failure of your retail operations. It pays to invest in a comprehensive inventory management software that can handle all your inventory-related requirements. Systems for inventory management will assist your company in providing accurate and live inventory updates. They can additionally provide capabilities for efficient demand planning and forecasting. This enables you to identify demand using the relevant data and restock the appropriate products whenever you need to. You can also monitor your financials in real-time if your inventory management and accounting data are integrated into a single system. Optimize Returns Management Source Retailers lose a vast amount of revenue in sales each year as a result of returns. Returns don't necessarily signify the end of the customer's relationship with your company. Instead, refunds present a chance to further comprehend the needs of your clients and give them a flexible solution. Take advantage of the chance to find out more about the precise product details your buyer is looking for. You can also provide customers with the option of getting a gift card in exchange for the returned items so that they can decide to purchase anything else at a later time to entice them to use your business again. Simplify Your Checkout Process Source The rate of online shopping cart abandonment in the retail sector is approximately 76%. Additionally, a drawn-out and challenging checkout procedure is to blame for 18% of all cart abandonments. You can encourage customers to click "purchase" and complete their orders by optimising your checkout procedure. Additionally, for retailers that sell at physical storefronts, using a mobile POS system enables store workers to accept payments anywhere in the store, practically eliminating checkout lines. Customers benefit from a quick checkout process thanks to line-busting techniques by having shortened waiting times, simpler payment procedures and reduced complexity. Learn more about Checkout Page Optimization here. Organise Your Warehouse Layout Source Any online and offline retailer will want to have a well-organized warehouse, whether they are storing a product in-house for long periods of time or providing same-day or next-day delivery. One suggestion is to locate more commonly bought commodities near packing and processing units. Although it might seem obvious, this is frequently ignored. Management should also collaborate with the personnel and supervisors in the warehouse. The business can benefit from employee ideas for time and labour-saving product storage layouts. A tidy, well-maintained stockroom will be beneficial to all enterprises, even the smallest ones, as products can be located, packaged and dispatched faster and more efficiently. Identify and Reward Recurring Customers Source Repeat customers contribute immensely to the success of any business, so your company should monitor who they are and reward them for their patronage. Utilize online account analytics and loyalty programmes to keep track of your customers. Make sure to tailor offers and rewards in accordance with data on each person's purchasing preferences. Use social media, email and SMS to send clients personalised communications about new product launches and promotions. You can also offer them gift cards or discounts for items that they require to show that you appreciate their business. Hasten Your Order Fulfillment Source Customers in today’s retail sector demand speedy delivery of their purchases because of the growth of same-day and next-day delivery from not only eCommerce behemoths like Amazon but also from the majority of companies that seek to be competitive. In order to be on equal footing, your business must offer quick and hassle-free deliveries. Workflows for order processing and fulfillment can be automated to speed up the procedure and minimise human errors. Even if you depend on the postal service, you should try to speed up the process from your side as much as you can. This will enhance customer satisfaction and increase the probability of repeat purchases, and positive feedback and word-of-mouth marketing. Conclusion: How WareIQ can Help Improve Your Retail Operations Retail operations encompass a wide range of activities that are crucial for the success of a retail business. Effective management of inventory, staffing, marketing and customer service can help to increase sales, improve customer satisfaction and ultimately lead to a more profitable business. Therefore, it is imperative that your business puts in the time and effort to analyse, assess and improve all the tasks involved in retail operations so that you can reduce costs, effort and time, and provide your customers with an exemplary experience. If you need assistance with streamlining your retail operations, look no further than WareIQ. WareIQ is an eCommerce fulfillment company that specialises in tasks such as order fulfillment, inventory management, returns management and much more. The company has emerged as one of the fastest-growing options in India and provides its clients with a vast pool of resources and technological solutions to tackle every requirement. Some of our services include: Inventory Management: Our specialized WMS offers real-time alerts and the capacity to automate a number of processes.Fast Order Fulfillment: We provide reliable same-day and next-day shipping alternatives through our partnerships with the largest shipping companies in the world. Product Storage: With our assortment of dark stores and fulfillment facilities available across India, we can hold your products wherever you need them.Personalized Packaging: We provide specialized custom packaging options that can be adjusted to meet your needs.Returns Management: We handle returns and safeguard you from any repercussions that may follow. In the realm of efficient retail operations, leveraging advanced technology is pivotal. Consider incorporating reliable retail management software to enhance your business processes. This robust solution streamlines tasks such as inventory management, order processing, and overall retail operations management. By integrating cutting-edge software, you can achieve optimal efficiency, reduce costs, and provide an unparalleled experience for your customers. Stay ahead in the competitive retail landscape by embracing innovative solutions tailored to elevate your retail business. Retail Operations: FAQs What is the main purpose of retail operations?The main purpose of retail operations is to manage and coordinate the day-to-day activities of a retail business, including inventory management, staffing, marketing and customer service. The goal is to increase sales, improve customer satisfaction and ultimately lead to a more profitable business. What are some key components of retail operations?Some key components of retail operations include:- Inventory management- Staffing- Marketing- Customer service- Order processing How does inventory management impact retail operations?Inventory management plays a crucial role in retail operations as it involves keeping track of products in stock and forecasting future demand. Maintaining an optimal level of inventory is crucial, as having too much can lead to stockpiling and wasted resources, while having too little can result in stockouts and lost sales. Effective inventory management can help to reduce costs, increase efficiency and improve customer satisfaction. What is the importance of customer service in retail operations?Customer service is a vital component of retail operations as it helps to build customer loyalty and increase sales. Providing excellent customer service can help to create a positive shopping experience for customers, which can lead to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth advertising. Additionally, addressing customer complaints and issues in a timely and effective manner can help to maintain customer satisfaction and prevent negative reviews and a bad reputation. How can technology be used to improve retail operations?Technology can be used to improve retail operations in various ways. Some of them are listed below:- Automating inventory management and tracking- Enhancing customer service through chatbots and AI-powered virtual assistants- Improving marketing efforts through data analytics and personalization- Streamlining staffing and payroll processes- Enhancing the in-store shopping experience through digital displays, mobile apps and other digital technologies

January 27, 2023

5 Easy Steps to Find and Choose a Fulfillment Center for eCommerce Sellers in 2024

eCommerce as an industry comprises many different processes that are involved in multiple business facets. However, the main goal is to get customers to purchase your products and deliver the items to them, so you can eventually make back the money you spent on research and development, production, marketing, and order fulfillment. In order to carry out all these tasks seamlessly and without any overlap or conflicts of interest, there needs to be a secure location where multiple processes can happen without any external constraints. For instance, most eCommerce companies require a storage facility where they can keep their inventory to prepare for upcoming fulfilling orders throughout the year and also has the necessary infrastructure in place to organise, locate, pack and dispatch inventory whenever a new order comes in. Fulfillment centers not only accomplish these things but can also have multiple other benefits for your business. In this blog, we will take a look at the meaning, benefits, and 5 ways to choose a fulfillment center for eCommerce. What is a Fulfillment Center? A fulfillment center is a type of storage facility or distribution center where inventory is received, stored, and then packaged and ultimately shipped to customers every time an order is confirmed. These centers are used by companies that sell goods online for multiple applications, such as D2C, B2B, B2C and more, to handle the logistics of getting products to customers in a timely and efficient manner. Fulfillment centers are often operated by third-party fulfillment companies that specialize in order fulfillment and logistics. Additionally, they also run some impressive technology behind the scenes, such as WMS software, automated processes, SKU tracking facilities, and much more. This helps with inventory management and makes sure that all your products are stored in their respective locations so that they can be easily accessed and identified when an order comes in. While fulfillment centers enable regional and nationwide order fulfillment for nutrition and wellness product, a new wave of fulfillment centers, termed micro fulfillment centers or “dark stores”, have emerged as a smaller-scale alternative that enables hyper-local fulfillment and sub-30-minute deliveries by using the same philosophy that fulfillment centers operate on, just scaled down to a more localized level. [contactus_lilgoodness] Why Should eCommerce Businesses Use a 3PL Fulfillment Center? Streamlines Monetary Spending Fulfillment centers allow retailers to store and ship large quantities of products at a lower cost than if they were to handle fulfillment in-house. A large part of it is due to the bulkiness and scale of the inventory stored, which aids retailers in getting large discounts for the amount of total storage space they acquire. Additionally, many other important fulfillment services, such as picking, packing fulfillment service and shipping services, take place within fulfillment centers, reducing the need to spend money on doing them, either in-house or externally. All these factors together contribute to an improved use of financial resources since partnering with a fulfillment company and using their fulfillment centers is a single, recurring expense. Takes Care of Inventory Management and Storage Fulfillment centers use advanced technology to quickly and accurately pick, pack and dispatch products, which can help increase efficiency and reduce errors. The use of WMS software in most fulfillment centers also helps with improving inventory management processes by optimizing storage locations based on factors such as size, dimensions, value and nature of individual products. Items can also be grouped together to make the best use of the available storage space. This helps increase storage capacity and enables you to store your products in an easy-to-identify and accessible way. Improves the Overall Customer Experience Fulfillment centers can help you offer faster shipping times and a wider range of delivery options, which can improve customer satisfaction and loyalty. Additional services, such as branded packaging, order tracking and returns management, can also be in place, depending on the company’s offerings, making sure that customers have a one-of-a-kind experience when they purchase an item from your store. Due to the optimization of many fulfillment services, transit times and errors will also be cut short, adding to the enhanced experience that customers will have. Provides Increased Flexibility In many fulfillment centers, you can choose from a variety of fulfillment-related services, from kitting and assembly to returns processing and inventory management, to create a customized fulfillment solution that meets their specific needs. Many companies also offer flexible payment schemes where you only need to pay for the facilities you use. This can help your business seize control of its expenses and help it get assistance in the areas where it really needs it, while saving money in other areas where you don’t need any external help. You can also focus on their core business, such as marketing and customer service, while the fulfillment center handles the logistics of getting products to customers. Offers Enhanced Scalability Fulfillment centers can accommodate your growth and can handle an increase in orders during peak seasons due to their ability to ascertain the most efficient way to store inventory. Additionally, most companies provide multiple fulfillment centers so you never have to worry about running out of storage space. Many companies also equip their fulfillment centers with the necessary tools to help with scaling up operations in terms of inventory management, storage, and order fulfillment. Because of this, your business can seamlessly scale its eCommerce operations while also making sure that quality and organization are maintained. Choose a Fulfillment Center for eCommerce With These 5 Easy Steps Step 1: Get the Business Data like Product Dimensions & Weight, Required Storage Space, Current Daily Order Volumes, Demand Centers, etc. Ready Source When you choose a fulfillment center for eCommerce, it is important to provide your prospective 3PL company with all the information they need to give you a proposal for their list of services and a quotation for what they are offering. Because fulfillment centers will be the primary storage facility for your inventory, from where they will be dispatched and eventually delivered to customers, you need to supply data such as your entire product catalog, current order volume and sales figures, estimated demand for a specified future time period, historical inventory data and more. Additionally, you will also need to mention more nuanced details about the products you are planning to store, such as their dimensions, value, price, weight and more, so the fulfillment center provider can successfully ascertain how much storage space you’d require and the facilities you’d need. Step 2: Shortlist Storage or Warehouse Location(s) that Optimizes the Speed of Delivery Source It is important to conduct some research and identify which regions the majority of your orders are coming from. This will allow you to choose a any fulfillment center for eCommerce such as woocommerce fulfillment that is in close proximity to your customers so that orders can be delivered faster and more cost-effectively. Many companies provide storage networks that span various regions and metropolitan areas, so knowing where you need to ship your items will give you a good idea of where they need to be stored. You should also determine the scale of your inventory and whether it will need to be stored across multiple fulfillment center locations or if just one will suffice so you can preemptively gauge what your storage costs will be and take the necessary steps to reduce them. Step 3: Identify Your Business Requirements Source Not all fulfillment centers offer the exact same facilities. While most of them offer basic storage units and other relevant technology, such as WMS software and product tracking capabilities, some provide more meticulous features and specialised services for specific types of products, such as heavy machinery for bulky items, cold storage for perishable goods and storage bays that can store hazardous materials. If you deal in unconventional products or require a specific type of service, it is important to understand the steps your storage facility needs to take in order to store them securely and preserve their shelf life. Step 4: Examine the Quality and Pricing Quotations of Various Fulfillment Services Source Fortunately for sellers, there are many competing companies vying to participate in providing storage facilities and other services. While choosing a fulfillment center for eCommerce, it is important to get offers and pricing quotations from multiple options so you can compare them with your own requirements, and short term and long term goals. For instance, a company may have the facilities you need right now but may not have good enough scalability. Thus, choosing such a company will be based on your own sales numbers and expansion prospects. Conversely, there are companies that also provide a wide range of features so you need to analyse whether you would actually use those services or be better suited opting for a cheaper company that provides the right balance of essentials. Step 5: Choose the Fulfillment Center and FC Locations That Aligns with Operational Goals in Terms of Cost and Scalability Source The last step involved in choosing a fulfillment center for your eCommerce business is actually shortlisting a company and biting the bullet. We have already highlighted the importance of their services coinciding with your objectives, so you should only make this decision after careful deliberation. If all goes well, you can use the same company for years to come and can take its assistance with scaling your services. On the flip side, if you just need an urgent storage facility that doesn’t break the bank, you can identify an option that fits the bill. Either way, make sure to choose one that can fit your current warehouse capacity and that can provide additional facilities in the future if and when you need them. This will help you have a good relationship with the company and also prevent the need of searching for one again in a hurry. Conclusion: Utilize WareIQ’s Nationwide Fulfillment Center Network to Enhance Your Services Fulfillment centers play a crucial role in the eCommerce industry by helping retailers handle logistics and improve customer satisfaction. By utilizing the benefits that fulfillment centers offer, you can streamline their operations, save money and increase revenue. By offloading most logistics and distribution managemen tasks to fulfillment centers and the 3PL companies that operate them, you will also have more time and freedom to explore different retail options, launch new products, and market existing ones. Keep in mind that not all fulfillment centers are the same and there can be major disparities in the scope and applications of the facilities they offer. Compare your requirements with the services your prospective 3PL company offers and choose the one that coincides with your vision the best. If you need access to a nationwide network of fulfillment centers with all the bells and whistles, consider partnering with WareIQ. WareIQ is one of India’s fastest-expanding eCommerce fulfillment companies. eCommerce fulfillment is our bread and butter and we help our clients get exposure to success by giving them access to multiple facilities. Some of them are listed below: Nationwide Fulfillment Center Network We offer a pan-India storage network of fulfillment centers and dark stores that aid in your products being stored in close proximity to areas of high demand, ensuring that orders are always fulfilled on time. Intelligent Inventory Placement We provide AI and ML-based recommendations to help you get the most out of every SKU by storing them specifically where they are likely to be sold. Product Categorization To improve your sell-through rates, we can intelligently classify your SKUs depending on their performance, demand and other variables. Outstanding Forecasting Techniques We assist you with demand forecasting using past data so that you can adjust your inventory levels more effectively. Automated Stock Replacement To guarantee that your best-selling products are constantly in stock, we offer automated stock replenishment alerts that can be customised according to your preferences. Choose a Fulfillment Center for eCommerce: FAQs What are some of the factors to consider when choosing a fulfillment center for eCommerce?There are many factors to keep in mind while choosing a fulfillment center for your products. Some of them are listed below:- Location- Storage capacity- Shipping capabilities- Order processing- Returns management How do fulfillment centers work?Fulfillment centers receive products from manufacturers or distributors, store them in their warehouse and then ship them to customers when an order is placed. They typically use advanced technology and software to track inventory and manage orders. What services do fulfillment centers offer?Fulfillment centers typically offer a variety of services. Some of them are listed below:- Inventory storage- Product packaging- Order shipping- Returns management- Customer service How are items stored in a fulfillment center?Items are typically stored in a warehouse and organized by SKU or product category. They are often stored on shelves or in bins and retrieved using forklifts or other equipment. How do fulfillment centers handle shipping?Fulfillment centers package and ship orders using a variety of shipping carriers such as UPS, FedEx, and DHL. They also handle customs and import/export documentation for international orders.

January 25, 2023

What is a Fulfillment Center? Top 10 Benefits of Using Fulfillment Warehouse for eCommerce Businesses in 2024

One of the most prominent challenges facing businesses looking to expand into the eCommerce space is identifying where to store inventory and how to implement a strategy to ensure that incoming orders are located, packed and shipped as soon as possible. While many big MNCs have tons of staff to help on this front, small businesses, oftentimes, do not have that same luxury. This is where a fulfillment center would make life tremendously easier for these companies. What is a Fulfillment Center? A fulfillment center forms a critical part of the supply-chain network and executes the entire process of order fulfillment, from receiving an order, locating it in the warehouse and processing it right through to its packing, loading, dispatch and transportation. It acts as a logistical hub, transporting goods from the seller to the customer. Fulfillment centers are used by both 1st party fulfillment services such as Amazon FBA and 3rd party fulfillment services, such as WareIQ. A Fulfillment center works efficiently to deliver orders received by online customers within the stipulated time. In doing so, it manages the fulfillment process on behalf of eCommerce firms which is critical for their success. A fulfillment center is a warehouse or distribution center that is used to store, pick, pack, and ship orders for e-commerce businesses. These centers are essential for the efficient and timely delivery of products to customers, and play a crucial role in the success of e-commerce companies. There are several types of fulfillment centers, each with their own unique features and capabilities. Some centers focus on small, lightweight items that can be easily shipped, while others specialize in handling large or fragile items. Some centers are fully automated, with robots handling the picking and packing of orders, while others rely on human labor. [contactus_lilgoodness] How Does a Fulfillment Center Operate? As mentioned above, a fulfillment center acts as a hub for all logistical activities needed to transport a seller’s goods to their customer – this is referred to as the order fulfillment process. Since numerous factors are involved in fulfilling orders and warehouse management, the minutia is often swept under the carpet and ultimately causes severe problems such as supply-chain bottlenecks. With 3PLs, the inventory is stored in its fulfillment center. Upon receiving an order from a customer, the products are selected, packed and shipped. B2C orders are delivered directly to the customer’s address, while B2B orders (large volumes, mostly) are shipped to large-sized retailers. When a seller outsources its requirements to a 3PL fulfillment company, it can focus on other critical business functions. In contrast, a 3PL handles its inventory and ecommerce logistics, including order-receiving, packing, loading, shipping, negotiating transport rates, reducing fulfillment costs, managing order returns, warehouse management and handling scale efficiently. Top 10 Benefits of Using a Fulfillment Center for eCommerce Businesses Listed below are 10 significant reasons why eCommerce businesses should use a fulfillment center: BenefitDescriptionAbility to Focus on Core BusinessFrees up time to focus on marketing, product development, and growth.Benefit from 3PL Fulfillment ExpertiseLeverages the logistics and distribution expertise of fulfillment companies.Utilize Inventory OutsourcingReduces operating costs by providing inventory space without upfront infrastructure investment.Increase in ScalabilitySupports global business scaling with extensive resources and supply-chain networks.Extensive Network of WarehousesReduces delivery times and costs with strategic inventory placement.Access to Modern TechnologyOffers advanced software systems for inventory management and automation without additional capital expense.Utilization of Economies-of-ScaleProvides discounted rates across operations due to large-scale operations.Access to Bulk DiscountsSecures bulk delivery discounts and cost-saving shipping options.Professional Customer ServiceEnsures quick resolution of issues and can include outsourced customer support.Customized PackagingOffers attractive, brand-enhancing packaging solutions. Ability to Focus on Core Business Although the tasks of order management and shipping are crucial for success, they can be easily outsourced to a 3PL fulfillment center. Not only can clients benefit from the expertise of the 3PL but they now have more time to focus on their core business tasks such as marketing, expanding their product portfolio and refining existing ones, without the burden of having to manage customer orders on their own. Benefit from 3PL Fulfillment Expertise Collaborating with a fulfillment company makes your entire process seamless – they are the experts in the field and outsourcing your inventory storage, packing, loading, dispatch (etc.) helps you gain from their expertise. Logistics and distribution, especially in today’s global markets with complex ecosystems and processes, is a challenging and, often an overwhelming task for any seller. Outsourcing this to 3PL experts that handle these complex processes efficiently on a daily basis, is the correct way to go – your business will gain immensely from their expertise and know-how. Utilize Inventory Outsourcing & Reduce Operating Costs Unless a seller operates a company of some scale, the task of managing an entire warehouse becomes expensive and cumbersome. Outsourcing this task to a fulfillment center is far more efficient. eCommerce firms almost always start small and have limited space e.g. garages, basements etc. Outsourcing your inventory to a fulfillment center helps to reduce operating costs. Online businesses get access to inventory space without any upfront investment in infrastructure. Often, the prudent time to make the shift is also once scale starts kicking in. Benefit From an Increase in Scalability 3PL company and their fulfillment centers are connected with global supply-chain networks and equipped with significant resources to manage scale. With the number of online shoppers only slated to go higher, you benefit from their international expertise and can scale your business globally. With this scale, you can also take advantage of storing your inventory in as many fulfillment centers as you require and can efficiently manage your inventory across all of them using the tools that 3PL companies often provide. Benefit From an Extensive Network of Warehouses 3PLs have an elaborate network of warehouses and fulfillment centers and often follow a hub-n-spoke model. This means they are closely located to your customers. Therefore, the lesser distance your cargo has to travel, the lesser the delivery time and cost. Don’t forget that customers today are bred on super-speed shipping, free shipping and discounted shipping. Access to a larger network of fulfillment centers means that you can strategically store your inventory closer to areas of high demand or near transport hubs for easy shipping. Access to Modern Technology Quite expectedly, 3PL companies that operate fulfillment centers invest big dollars into cutting-edge software systems to improve their efficiency. eCommerce firms benefit from this without the CapEx required or hiring resources to operate it. These advanced software solutions can track and manage inventory across platforms and selling channels, and can automate multiple processes involved in warehouse management to mitigate any errors or miscalculations that could occur. You can also read on warehouse automation technology. Utilization of Economies-of-Scale Fulfillment warehouses operate on a tremendous scale, manage hundreds of clients and work across multiple shippers and transporters. Therefore, they also benefit from economies of scale and can negotiate discounted rates across their operations including packing materials, assets, warehouse space, software and staffing, not to mention shipping rates, which account for up to 70% of fulfillment costs. Access to Bulk Discounts Since 3PLs operate on a global scale, they benefit from it - bulk delivery discounts, zone-based shipping rates and frequent pickups are just some advantages of scale. Additionally, 3PL firms like WareIQ partner with multiple shipping providers and always suggests the fastest and cheapest options so firms can consistently save money on a massive scale. This provides an incentive for firms to partner with 3PL companies and use all the advantages that come with it. Access to Professional Customer Service While customer services is an important aspect of eCommerce retail, sellers can also take advantage of better customer service when they opt for a 3PL fulfillment center. If sellers face any issues, they are just a call, message or email away from getting them resolved. Additionally, many 3PL companies offer outsourcing facilities for customer support so sellers can transfer this enhanced customer support to their customers which will result in increased satisfaction. Access to Customized Packaging eCommerce customers only experience their product when it arrives at their doorstep and a damaged or messy package isn’t going to cut it. Fulfillment centers offer customized packaging solutions that keep packages attractive and fresh - an important element in building customer satisfaction. Sellers can choose how they want their packaging to look and can highlight their brand rather than sending shipments in a bland box or package. Access to Data Analytics Modern logistics management software used by 3PLs tracks, collects and mines data that is generated across the entire fulfillment process. This results in deep insight for managers who can use this as the bedrock for decision-making, thereby leading to more efficient planning and implementation. These tracking facilities are generally available across multiple fulfillment centers and a variety of selling platforms to keep sellers well informed about their inventory at all times. Also read: Hot to choose fulfillment center for E-commerce? Fulfillment Centers vs Warehouses: Differences and Myths Busted There are innate differences between the two and the roles each plays in fulfilling customer orders. While a warehouse simply stores inventory, a fulfillment center manages the process of ordering and delivering products to customers on time to ensure customer satisfaction. Sellers stock their inventory in 3PL fulfillment centers, situated across numerous locations. This reduces delivery times and costs. Long-Term vs. Short-Term Storage The main objective of a fulfillment center is to manage the entire process from customers placing orders till the order is successfully delivered whereas a warehouse is a storage location that is just one piece of the entire gamut of operations that a 3PL conducts. Ideally, inventory should not sit in a fulfillment center for more than 30 days since this is long-term storage and attracts higher storage fees. The seller and 3PL must communicate regularly about stock levels, re-order levels, and maintain appropriate levels of inventory based on the frequency of orders and time taken to reach customers so that out-of-stock problems don’t arise. Range of Operations While a warehouse often remains inactive since it is used primarily for stocking inventory, a fulfillment center provides comprehensive solutions and is constantly abuzz with activity, including: Receiving, packing, loading and dispatching orders Receiving and stocking inventory Preparing order documentation and shipping labels Kitting products (if required) Processing order returns Comparatively, activity in a warehouse is limited to receipt and dispatch of inventory. Order Pickup Frequency Since a fulfillment center gets out orders immediately on receipt, they work with several shipping companies so that goods are picked up at least once a day and often more. This ensures order delivery within the time windows promised to the customer. Often, the orders have specified delivery times (e.g. same-day, 24-hr, 2-3 days etc.) and an eCommerce fulfillment center will have various cut-off times based on order details. Warehouses, however, schedule less frequent pickups regardless of the delivery speed specified by the customer since this enables them to stay cost-effective. They also use freight companies that adhere to pre-defined pickup windows. This can often cause delays and is also inflexible. Why Do You Need a Fulfillment Center for Your Business in 2023? It's difficult to provide recent statistics on fulfillment centers for ecommerce, as the industry is constantly evolving and changing. Here are some general statistics that can prove why fulfillment centers are important for your business in 2023: According to a 2021 survey by eMarketer, around 57% of global ecommerce sales were fulfilled through third-party logistics providers, such as fulfillment centers. In 2021, the global fulfillment center market was valued at around $155 billion and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of around 10% through 2026. In the United States, the ecommerce fulfillment market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of around 15% through 2025, driven by the increasing demand for online shopping. According to a 2021 survey by eMarketer, the most popular fulfillment method for ecommerce businesses was shipping orders from their own warehouse (used by 49% of respondents), followed by using a third-party fulfillment center (used by 32% of respondents). Few of the reasons you need an eCommerce fulfillment center are mentioned below: Speedy Delivery Since a fulfillment company works with several shippers, their shipments are picked up at least once daily, ensuring timely deliveries. Complete Automation Modern fulfillment centers use updated technology throughout the fulfillment process so that their ecommerce clients can track order processing, inventory movement (etc.) in real-time. Improved Scalability While scaling up is the goal of every business, its mismanagement can have disastrous results. Today’s fulfillment centers are modern giants with numerous resources that tackle scale comfortably and professionally. Focus Retention Managers in eCommerce firms must focus on strategic tasks that scale the business and maintain profitability e.g. product management, marketing and customer service. Tasks like order fulfillment and inventory handling can be easily outsourced to 3PLs. Best Tips for Inventory Management Using Fulfillment Centers Modern eco-systems and borderless markets exert inordinate pressure on online resellers. 3PL fulfillment warehouses are masters at optimizing inventory management. Some of the best ways you can use them are suggested below: Reduce Costs via Cross-Docking & Wave-Picking Using cross-docking decreases handling as well as storage time and enables firms to manage warehouse inventory seamlessly. Wave-picking is another method of tackling complex shipping systems. Both reduce carrying costs and shipping costs. Stay Atop Your Supply Chain Several glitches can often disrupt an otherwise smooth supply chain. While events are sometimes unavoidable, understanding your supply chain enables you to stay on top of mishaps that sometimes throw things off-kilter. Re-Modify Your Floor Plan Often overlooked due to their simplicity, efficient floor plans are still a proven strategy to increase efficiency. However, supply and demand are forever fluctuating and floor plans should be adapted according to the situation. Minimize Pilferage Employee monitoring and security measures help minimize pilferage, and the results are often highly beneficial. This enables companies to minimise inventory shrinkage and loss due to such incidents which can have a negative impact on the company. Track Product Success Optimized inventory management means you can track sales of each product. Using this data, firms gain insights into their inventory movement. For example, the bestsellers can be stored in places where it is easier to locate, replenish, and ship out. You can follow a similar method to monitor your top clients and their orders. Similarly, you can identify your laggards and minimize their stock levels or even phase them out entirely. Utilize Inventory Management Systems If you are still using legacy inventory software, you are bound to struggle. The modern, automated software systems of today, with their large data-crunching abilities, cloud connectivity, real-time data processing and insight-generation using AI and ML tools, enable you to manage your inventory quickly and efficiently. Minimize Shrinkage Shrinkage is a fancy term for breakage, damage and theft. Select a fulfillment company that offers a zero-shrinkage policy which means that once the fulfillment center confirms and records your products, all items will be accounted for. If products go missing or get damaged on their watch, they have a reimbursement policy. What Are the Top Challenges with Fulfillment Centers and How To Solve Them in 2023? Delayed Shipping With eCommerce behemoths like Amazon increasing customer expectations with their same-day delivery and free shipping, all eCommerce companies are expected to match up. If your warehouse or fulfillment center or your specific business model cannot do so, you risk customer dissatisfaction. Due to capacity constraints and labour shortages, fulfillment centers may struggle to keep up with the increased demand for storage and shipping. Solution: Partner with multiple last mile delivery companies Customers expect fast and reliable shipping, so it's important for fulfillment centers to have multiple shipping carriers and routes available to ensure timely delivery. Regularly reviewing and improving fulfillment processes can help to ensure that orders are accurately and efficiently picked, packed, and shipped, leading to a better customer experience. Limited Locations If your eCommerce company doesn’t have an elaborate network of strategically placed fulfillment centers that minimizes the distance and time taken for deliveries, it will result in extended delivery times. The resulting customer dissatisfaction would be inevitable. Solution: Partner with third-party logistics (3PL) providers Working with a 3PL fulfillment provider can help to alleviate some of the challenges that fulfillment centers face concerning slow delivery or free shipping, as they have a wide network of warehouses and fulfillment centers spread across the country that allows them to store inventory closer to the customes Complicated Fulfillment Software While using modern, automated fulfillment software is a great strength of using a fulfillment center, they can often be complex and intimidating for eCommerce companies to deal with. Poor integration will also confuse and the results are potentially disastrous. Solution: Use a fulfillment software like WareIQ that offers a unified experience WareIQ's smart fulfillment platform allows eCommerce companies to manage all logistics operations directly from a single platform. WareIQ's fulfillment software also provides easy, plug and play integrations with 200+ eCommerce softwares. Quality Control Ensuring that orders are accurately and efficiently picked, packed, and shipped can be challenging, especially for centers with high volumes of orders. Any errors or mistakes can lead to customer dissatisfaction. Solution: Focus on quality control Implementing quality control measures, such as regular training and inspections, can help to reduce errors and mistakes in the fulfillment process. Damaged Goods & Return Inefficiency For eCommerce firms without physical locations, returned or damaged items are received back at their fulfillment center. But, if your fulfillment center doesn’t efficiently manage the order-return process, the costs are tremendous e.g. irate customers, restocking expenses and inventory losses. Solution: Implement returns management processes Developing clear and efficient processes for handling returns can help to streamline the returns process and reduce the burden on fulfillment centers. Labor Shortages Fulfillment centers often rely on large numbers of workers to pick, pack, and ship orders. If there is a shortage of available labor, it can lead to delays and reduced efficiency. Solution: Invest in automation Automation can help to improve efficiency and reduce the reliance on labor, which can help to address capacity constraints and labor shortages. Inept Customer Service We live in uber-competitive times and customer satisfaction is the most important metric in building a sustainable eCommerce business. When you use a fulfillment center, they are typically responsible for your customer service. However, if they don’t handle this efficiently by deploying omni-channel options, you risk aggravating customers. Solution: Improve customer service at fulfillment centers Fulfillment centers should have knowledgeable and helpful customer support teams in place to assist with any issues or concerns. Customers also appreciate being able to track their orders, so it's important for fulfillment centers to provide accurate and up-to-date tracking information. Out-of-Stock Costs While this will probably never go away completely, the trick is to minimize it. If not, your customers will discover other options. If your fulfillment partner doesn’t deploy the best practices in inventory management along with you in projecting demand patterns, your stock-out costs could burn a deep hole in your profits. Solution: Seek out cost-saving opportunities Fulfillment centers can look for ways to reduce costs, such as negotiating better rates with carriers or implementing energy-efficient technologies and also use inventory management software like Inventory LogIQ to reduce out-of-stock and overstocking situations. Security and Loss Prevention Fulfillment centers handle large amounts of inventory, which can make them vulnerable to theft or damage. Implementing security measures and loss prevention strategies can be costly and time-consuming. Solution: Increase security Fulfillment centers can invest in security measures, such as surveillance cameras and secure storage areas, to reduce the risk of theft or damage. You can also keep a look at the challenges faced in eCommerce fulfillment in 2023 here. Conclusion: Why is it in a Business's Best Interest to Partner with a Fulfillment Center in 2023? Ultimately, the benefits are significant for sellers that partner with a fulfillment center to handle their fulfillment. A 3PL becomes your trusted business ally and supports your business growth. The business can then focus more on refining its product and promoting it rather than worry about inventory management and order fulfillment. One such company that provides fulfillment centers and a host of other products is WareIQ. WareIQ, is the leading provider of full-stack eCommerce order fulfillment services 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 is 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 a superior WMS platform, WareIQ handles the entire range of warehouse operations in the eCommerce fulfillment process, ranging from inbound and outbound logistics such as scanning and quality checks, 100% accurate pick and pack, multi-channel inventory management etc. At the same time, WareIQ customers reduce logistics costs and increase shipping speed due to better negotiations with shipping partners, economies of scale, scope in warehousing, strategically placed warehouses and data-driven decision making. WareIQ’s customers save resources that are typically spent on establishing infrastructure. We offer you the flexibility to store inventory in one of several fulfillment centers as per your business needs. Our team’s expertise in logistics and our extensive warehousing network across India enables greater influence during negotiations, resulting in volume discounts for our clients. [signup] Fulfillment Center FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) What is a fulfillment center?A fulfillment center is a facility similar to a warehouse, where 3PL fulfillment service providers store, process and ship products owned by online & offline retail businesses. They handle the logistics that are required to complete an order to the end customer's door as well as returns. What is the difference between a warehouse & a fulfillment center?A warehouse’s function is only to store products for a longer duration, whereas a fulfillment center's role is to efficiently meet customer shipping expectations starting from storing inventory, packing, shipping, managing returns etc. Does WareIQ have its own fulfillment center?WareIQ has a pan-India network of 40+ fulfillment centers, micro-fulfillment centers, warehouses & urban dark stores located close to customers. Is a fulfillment center capable of handling all types of products?No. If you're selling perishable goods, you'll need a fulfillment center with a cold storage facility. If you're selling heavy-duty tools or industrial equipment to businesses, you'll need a fulfillment center that can meet safety requirements and offer customized packaging. WareIQ provides both cold storage facility & customised packaging to its customers in the food & beverages categories like Epigamia, lil’goodness and much more & in the pharmaceuticals category like Gynoveda. Is a fulfillment center capable of handling a big volume of orders?Yes. A fulfillment center specializes in just that. Fulfillment centers are massive facilities with automated processes and a large, skilled staff to manage the needs of many eCommerce companies. Can we get real-time updates from fulfillment centers?You certainly can! When eCommerce businesses need to provide customers with real-time updates on the status of their orders, they need the fulfillment center and shipping company to do the same. WareIQ has a branded tracking page of its own where the customers get real time updates via mails, messages, whatsapp etc. Can a fulfillment center provide 1-day and 2-day delivery?A fulfillment center is capable of providing 1-day and 2-day delivery as well as even speedier delivery options, as long as the fulfulfillment companies offer these services. Do fulfillment centers handle inventory management?Yes. Most fulfillment centers, such as the ones offered by WareIQ, use advanced Warehouse Management Software (WMS) to provide inventory management and automates many aspects of warehousing processes.

December 22, 2022

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