Top 10 Best Warehousing Companies for eCommerce and D2C Brands in 2024

Top 10 Best Warehousing Companies for eCommerce and D2C Brands in 2024

Warehousing is key to your success in supply chain management, and that is why it is essential to use the best warehouse companies in India. Warehouses need an integrated management system that includes professionals in different areas. These individual specialists help complete tasks concerning the financial aspects and stockouts, extending the business core. Warehouses provide a safe place to store goods until they are needed and are used to store goods and provide them with the appropriate packaging. They make sure that there are no shortages by ensuring that products are available when needed. Hence, they act as a bridge for the flow of goods or other materials, ensuring that demand is met with supply and reducing the difficulty in working around a fluctuating supply and demand problem. Proper warehousing is critical to boosting productivity and reducing costs. Warehouses have been changed from a storage space to a process that facilitates the efficient distribution of products between production and consumption. Warehouses exist in three different types: public, private, and bonded. Read along to find the list of top 3PL warehousing companies in India to decide which company will best suit your needs in 2024. What are 3PL Warehousing Companies? A 3PL warehousing company is responsible for all your warehousing services from storing products and goods purchased from a manufacturer, looking after those items at a facility, and then delivering them to another location for final fulfillment. For example, many eCommerce businesses buy products in bulk from their suppliers, who ship them to their warehouses to be stored. Online businesses partner with eCommerce fulfillment companies that have eCommerce warehouses where they store, pick and pack products and ship them to end customers efficiently. [contactus_gynoveda] Why are Third-Party Warehousing Services Companies Important for Efficient Warehousing Services? Warehouses have been around for years. Today, they offer more than just storing items – may also provide services to optimize the supply chain and reduce necessary costs. Read on to find out the answers to the importance of using such services. If you need a warehouse company that can monitor and track your storage needs effectively, you should contact them now before you need their services. Goods only need to be released when they are required. Better Inventory Management 8% of small businesses do not track their inventory, and of those who do, 24% don't have any stock. Late orders and delayed processing mean frustrated customers and wasted time. Warehouse companies provide you with a centralized, convenient location to store your goods. With a warehouse, you will be able to track and manage inventory more efficiently and ship and distribute products. In case a product is out of stock, you will know right away and can provide your customers with alternative options in the meantime. More Efficient Packing and Processing Most 3PL warehouse facilities provide you with all the equipment and supplies you need to store, ship, and process shipments from customers. Pallet racks, loading docks, and packing materials are just a few examples of products you can employ to save time and money. 3PL warehouses maximize flexibility by eliminating the need to arrange pickup or hire more employees for fulfillment. They can pack goods and classify them according to their legality and customer needs. It means that businesses have to write less code because the warehouse will do most of it and save money on logistics. Superior Customer Service 88% of online customers will pay more for faster delivery speeds. Over 63% of consumers expect to know an estimated or guaranteed delivery time. Better yet, they are willing to pay more for this service. A business's reputation can be quickly tarnished, which will hurt its revenue over time. If you fail to deliver orders on time, your company will suffer. With warehousing companies, you can return products more quickly and optimize distribution. They reduce errors and the chance of damage to goods while preventing your products from being lost or stolen in the order fulfillment process. Price Stabilization To maintain a continuous line of products, you can store your materials for a later release. A warehouse allows this by creating a demand-resource system where resources are available when needed. For example, if you own a sports equipment manufacturing and distribution company, you can store ski accessories in your warehouse so that when winter is over, they are still available. It ensures consistent stock levels to maximize your profits. Improved Risk Management Warehouses can store perishable items and may have refrigeration, depending on the type of storage you need. Warehouses offering cold storage for products keep your products at the right temperature and prevent them from spoiling or changing in colour or texture. They also help extend the products’ shelf life and ensure customer satisfaction. Additionally, your inventory will be insured, so you will have a better chance of being compensated if they're damaged. Advantages and Disadvantages of Partnering with 3PL Warehouse Companies in 2024 When deciding whether or not to outsource your company's warehouse operations, you must consider several factors – you may be looking for a way to expand, but company growth is heavily contingent on your space.  New opportunities imply significant changes in storage needs. While not as environmentally friendly as other options, warehouses can efficiently and economically handle these needs with unique, expansive models such as CrossDocks WMS. Consider warehousing as an option for your business and whether there are any drawbacks before making your decision. Advantages of Partnering with 3PL Warehousing Companies Warehousing services can significantly enhance your company. Under the right circumstances, you will benefit from warehousing your products, and overseas vendors will ship at as-needed intervals to reduce overstock and inventory.  Significantly Lower Investments Contract warehousing is a great option for a wholesaler, manufacturer, importer, or other small business that needs to store products, as its costs less money and time than regular warehouses. Warehousing using contracts lets small companies invest in obtaining and storing goods for a specific time, rather than investing in large warehouses to store items. Warehousing services providers keep your inventory, allowing you to have less space and money invested. Safety, Security, and Insurance If you wish to guard your wares, leave them under contract warehousing and keep a watch for any breaches. Typically, you do not have to worry about safety when renting a warehouse, as a renter – usually the owner – handles security and rent collection. The products are insured, covered by a guarantee, and are closely monitored with video surveillance. Location and Distribution The location of a good contract warehouse can significantly impact the company's success and profitability because of availability. While warehouses are expensive and time-consuming, contracting with them allows you to store your inventory in multiple locations, giving you easy access to your stock no matter where you are. Flexibility and Scalability Ease of scalability is a benefit to using 3PL warehousing companies – you can use as much or as little space as possible. Since different companies need different amounts of storage at different times, this saves time and money. The benefits of renting space in a warehouse are scalable and offer many other pricing options. Unlike having your own warehouse which needs considerable investment, here, you have the flexibility of renting rooms from different warehouses that often cater to various clients.  Access to Unlimited Distribution Centers and Technology-Enabled Solutions E-commerce distribution and delivery become easier through tech-enabled eCommerce warehousing services companies. You can use leveling software that connects to all of your online stores, providing instant fulfillment. You can also receive real-time inventory monitoring reports and automate the order process by tracking and reminding people when it’s time to reorder. Inventory Tracking The distribution of your company’s products is handled by warehousing companies. The most efficient way to get real-time data on products in transit is to streamline the tracking process by providing SKU information, batch numbers, or serial numbers. You can also get activity information about your inventory with comprehensive auditing. Disadvantages of Partnering with 3PL Warehouse Companies Though there are some potential negatives, the benefits of outsourcing warehousing typically outweigh them every time. Complex Reverse logistics There are a few factors that can impact the efficiency of reverse logistics with warehousing firms. Reverse logistics is the set of post-sales activities that are related to recapturing value and attempting to end a product's life cycle following sales. It's also called backflow, meaning an order goes from front to back. When a company is unable to sell its products, it must ship the product back to the manufacturer or distributor. However, the costs for shipping and selling are higher for companies with electronic commerce. When the number of returns spikes in a certain area, it slows down warehouse operations and can lead to higher customer dissatisfaction. It can also be problematic for retailers online who rely on 3PLs to handle such exchanges. Less Control The main disadvantage of using 3PL warehousing companies is that you give up some control over your supply chain and distribution networks. The third party takes this responsibility, communicating with customers and suppliers. This doubles the risks. 3PLs usually offer a partnership with a company, but this can be risky. Usually, it is not enough to mitigate the risks. As a part of this partnership, companies have to sacrifice control over their supply chain and distribution network. Top 10 3PL Warehousing Companies for eCommerce Many top third-party logistics (3PL) warehousing companies handle warehousing, fulfillment, logistics, and distribution services. 3PLs and logistics providers specialize in distribution, warehousing, and fulfillment services. The core competency of these companies is logistics, and they do it well. Nowadays, many individuals start their own successful online retail businesses from anywhere globally. A 3PL company is often necessary to help their products efficiently deliver to customers. It includes Amazon, which used third-party logistics in the early stages of its company before establishing a logistics arm for itself. WareIQ Source WareIQ is an eCommerce fulfillment company that consolidates all aspects of fulfillment for eCommerce business into one platform making it the best 3PL warehouse company in India. They also provide fulfillment centers near the recipient, an aspect in which not every eCommerce company has a competitive advantage. To save time, it is best to get all your logistic needs from one place: managing inventory, shipping orders, solving delivery problems for customers, and analyzing performance. WareIQ has a network of fulfillment centers across India to help businesses offer two-day deliveries. They also work with third-party providers to support their services' operations, like last-mile deliveries. WareIQ's State-of-Art Warehouses WareIQ offers integrated customer support services, such as messaging and calling. Its features include integrating your online store and eCommerce channels and sending the products. WareIQ can manage orders by picking, packing, and shipping them to customers with the same efficiency level as a ground team. It can also store products in warehouses and update inventory in real-time. WareIQ deals with problems during order fulfillment, like quickly damaged or lost inventory, and returns promptly for a perfect customer experience. They offer COD remittance twice weekly to keep your cash flow. Your deliveries are handled by finding the most efficient and reliable option and managing returns. Suggested Read: Looking for Top Warehousing Companies in Bangalore? Emiza Source Emiza is one of India’s leading eCommerce warehousing companies. It has warehouses across 7 cities in India. Emiza's fulfillment centers help their eCommerce customers with speedier delivery and distribution, as well as simplified consumer returns. Shippers frequently have agreements in place with warehouses of 3PLs like Emiza that consistently handle huge amounts of business. These agreements allow Emiza to deliver the best shipping and distribution rates to eCommerce players, which are then passed on to the client. Returns are collected and sent to the warehouse facility in the event of an improper order, where the proper procedure is followed. Read the blog on best 3PL for small businesses to get access to the list of 3PL providers. Stockarea Source Stockarea has a network of 100+ warehouses across 10+ cities in India in 2024 & caters to its customer’s inventory storage, & movement needs. It has warehouses of all sizes & functions - General warehouse, Bonded warehouse, Cold storage, Food grade warehouse etc. It is one among good performing warehousing and best storage companies in India. Central Warehousing Corporation Source Central Warehousing Corporation is a statutory body under the Government of India. Its mission is to provide socially responsible and environmentally friendly integrated warehouse and logistics solutions that are dependable, cost-effective, and value-added. It is a government-owned public warehouse operator that was founded in 1957 to help the agricultural sector with logistics. Its aim is To reduce warehousing, handling, and distribution losses & to provide seamless forward and backward integration in areas such as port handling, procurement and distribution, cold chain, warehousing financing, 3PL, consultant services, multimodal transport, and others to plan and diversify across the logistics value chain. Gati & Fulfillment & Warehousing Source Gati is an Indian company with a long-standing relationship with the express distribution industry, responsible for many of the innovative innovations in the logistics industry. With an income of INR 1700 crores per year, Gati provides customers across various sectors with integrated Express Distribution and customized Supply Chain Solutions. They are among the top 3PL warehousing companies in Hyderabad, Bangalore, Delhi and PAN India. Gati has a fleet of 5000+ vehicles available in India comprised of air, rail, and road transportation. Additionally, Gati has 7000 business partners who work as Gati Associates. Snowman Source Snowman Logistics provides a variety of logistic solutions for companies in India. Responsible for everything from refrigerated transportation to infrastructure, Snowman Logistics delivers the opportunity for frozen and chilled items to return to their natural state with the help of their transportation division. The company has many warehouses throughout the country and owns a fleet of 293 trucks. With their advanced logistics, customers always get what they need when and where needed, maximizing customer satisfaction. VRL Warehouse Logistics Source VRL is a global logistics company that offers tailored warehouse and 3PL solutions for the needs of its many customers. VRL makes it possible for you to be confident in your deliveries as it has been a dependable company since its inception. They provide economical Priority Cargo, Courier Service, and Air Chartering. Many of VRL's corporate partners use the parcel service to transport goods within India because it offers its largest transportation network. The system has also strategically placed trans-shipment hubs to meet customers' needs better. IndoSpace Source IndoSpace is India's leading industrial warehousing provider that operates in a variety of capacities, with facilities for various types of products. It was the pioneer of modern industrial real estate in India with a partnership with Everstone, which invests in India-focused private equity firms. In 2018, IndoSpace partnered with GLP, which has $89 billion AUM. The IndoSpace-GLP partnership allows IndoSpace to leverage GLP's expertise in fund management, development, and operational resources. The IndoSpace platform manages three funds – one core fund and two development funds – and is a joint venture vehicle established with the help of a large Canadian pension plan. The other two funds are opportunistic investments where the companies have combined equity commitments for over $1 billion. IndoSpace holds more than 40 million sq. ft. of industrial/warehouse property. It can also be named Best Developer of Industrial/Warehouse Real Estate in India for six years. The company is also known as the Best Developer of Industrial/Warehouse Real Estate in India for the last six consecutive years by Euromoney. It has been named the Firm of the Year – India by PERE. Mahindra Logistics Source Mahindra Logistics Limited, a portfolio firm of Mahindra Partners, provides integrated third-party supply chain and people transportation solutions to various business sectors. Mahindra Partners has a market capitalization of $20.7 billion. With Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), they have automated traditional warehouses to increase operational efficiency, increase inventory visibility etc. Kotak Third-Party Logistics Warehousing Source For many years, Kotak Logistics has been successfully serving its clients in the heart of India with the country's oldest heritage port. They are a top warehousing company and are rapidly growing as a professional group. It has demonstrated experience with advanced operations at major ports & also provides services like road freight, air freight, and ocean freight. Conclusion: Why Should You Choose WareIQ For Availing the Best eCommerce and 3PL Warehousing Services in India in 2024? Should you opt for warehousing companies for your eCommerce needs, the factors to keep in mind include the size of your business, the amount of capital you have, and other resources that can be allocated to your eCommerce logistics strategy. Suppose you have a warehouse that meets the needs of your eCommerce inventory and maintains a process for order management. In that case, taking care of your eCommerce warehouse should be enough to meet customer expectations. One of the biggest reasons to leave warehousing to professionals is the sheer scale. Expert warehouses have access to technology and systems to keep track of every item stored in their facility that most small businesses can't afford. If you want to scale your business quickly, consider a third-party fulfillment center or a third-party warehouse. Large companies like Amazon can continue to grow without relying on warehouses with an efficient system. 3PL fulfillment companies provide access to a pan-India network of fulfillment & micro-fulfillment centers to small businesses & medium-sized businesses & help them offer the same service level as larger enterprises in this scenario. One can manage and fix all logistics issues, from inventory to fraud—the perfect solution for organizations as it is a one-stop-shop. Hence, less time is wasted on shipping and more time is allotted for focusing on business growth. These are the salient advantages of partnering with a 3PL provider: A Time-saving Tool It is often difficult to organize everything from inventory tracking to customer orders. A 3PL provider will take this challenging task away from you and keep tabs on your products. With more space and a better organizational system, you will have an easier time with everything. Accuracy 3PL services provide warehousing for eCommerce and help by taking the fulfillment process of picking and packing off their plate. They have staff specializing in each part of the order fulfillment process and work to identify any supply chain optimizations. Their technology and procedures ensure that products are delivered to customers on time for a good customer experience. Unlimited Growth Online business needs to be growing to be successful. They can use 3PL services from top providers to take care of warehousing to concentrate on other functions. These warehouses can be an asset for your business, contributing to growth. WareIQ is one of India’s leading and fastest growing full-stack eCommerce fulfillment companies that offer a variety of services from same-day and next-day delivery, shipping badges, and RTO Shield, to state of the art technological solutions such as our custom WMS and our intuitive, well designed app store. We can take care of your brand’s entire fulfillment requirements and ensure that you and your customers get the best order fulfillment in the country and have a hassle-free experience and raise satisfaction levels to new heights. [signup] Suggested Read: List of Warehousing Companies in Mumbai Warehousing Companies FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) Which company has the maximum number of warehouses?DHL Supply chain has the most number of warehouses in the world.  What are the best 3PL warehousing companies in India?• WareIQ• Emiza • Stockarea • Central Warehousing Corporation • Gati • Snowman • VRL Logistics • IndoSpace • Mahindra Logistics • Kotak Logistics What is the purpose of warehousing?The main function of a warehouse is storage of products and goods before moving them to another location. However, warehousing involves other functions too such as safeguarding of items, financing, information management and others. Why should you hire a 3PL warehousing company?Warehouses have access to technology and systems to keep track of every item stored in their facility that most small businesses can’t afford. If you want to scale your business quickly, consider leaving warehousing to professionals. Why should you consider WareIQ as your one-stop warehousing solution?WareIQ is a trusted fulfillment partner to 300+ top online Indian brands like Epigamia, Piramal group, Future group, Wingreens and Kama Ayurveda, amongst many others. With the pan-India network of fulfillment centers and warehouses across India, WareIQ offers same day and next day deliveries. They also work with shipping & courier partners to support their services’ operations, like last-mile deliveries. What are the other facilities within WareIQ’s warehouses?• Amazon seller flex and Flipkart advantage approved facilities• CCTV & 24*7 security service• Ample space for truck movement• HHD driven operations• Signage system• Packaging material can be arranged by WareIQ and billed separately

February 07, 2023

Top 10 Best Last Mile Delivery Companies & Startups for eCommerce [Updated List of 2024]

Top 10 Best Last Mile Delivery Companies & Startups for eCommerce [Updated List of 2024]

The advent of eCommerce retail has forever changed our lives, and it continues to do so. The convenience of receiving products and services at our doorstep is now an integral part of our lives. However, you would do well to stop and consider that a significant amount of this “convenience” arises from the speed with which our orders reach us. For example, Fulfillment by Amazon's incredible same-day and next-day deliveries has revolutionized the online retail model. Consumer expectations have risen dramatically and continue to do so. We now have hyperlocal delivery and 10-minute groceries – last mile delivery companies are constantly figuring out ways to deliver faster, better, and cheaper and planning new ways for the year 2024. What is Last Mile Delivery? As the name indicates, last mile delivery is the final leg of the journey of a product from the manufacturer to its final destination, i.e., the customer. This logistics cycle has three phases - the first mile, middle, and last mile. The last mile phase starts once parcels are picked up from the warehouse (or fulfillment center) of the final destination and is completed with the successful delivery to the customer. It is executed by last mile companies that pick up the parcel, load it onto a delivery vehicle, and transport it to the customer. The last mile delivery is the most challenging and costly part of an eCommerce shipping network. These last mile companies and their handy teams are forever battling tough weather conditions, road hazards, furious and demanding consumers, supply-chain holdups, and numerous other logistical costs and issues.  As you can imagine, all the above challenges operations for last mile delivery companies an extraordinarily complex and challenging task. And don’t forget, this goes on day in, day out, across continents, time zones, tax regimes, governments, and market forces. Therefore, last mile delivery companies for eCommerce firms are a critical cog in the wheel and must be assigned the due importance. Without it, you won’t achieve customer satisfaction – and no business ever survived without happy customers. [contactus_gynoveda] What Services do Last Mile Delivery Companies Offer? Last mile delivery companies offer a host of services and solutions that help eCommerce firms conduct their operations successfully. Let’s look at some of their most popular services: Dynamic routing Route optimization significantly impacts the operations of last mile delivery companies. Efficient routing shortens delivery times, reduces logistics costs, and keeps eCommerce firms competitive by achieving customer satisfaction and happy clients.  By using the latest technology-led dynamic routing systems, last mile delivery startups can route and re-route on the go, thereby achieving a high level of efficiency. Automated dispatches By logical extension of the point above, using automated last mile delivery software enables last mile delivery startups to plan, analyze and monitor deliveries via a fully automatic system.  This optimizes resource utilization (e.g., fewer drivers, lesser idle times for vehicles), analyzes and solves inefficiencies, and reduces shipping cost. The result is a much more transparent and simplified process. Delivery visibility Modern GPS-enabled last mile software utilized by last mile delivery companies provides fleet managers with complete visibility of the end-to-end delivery process. This results in 100% transparency and equips fleet managers to monitor, course correct, handle emergencies, stay flexible, and exert control over the entire logistics operation. Electronic Proof of Delivery (ePoD) ePOD does away with the cumbersome and time-consuming processes of the old days when signatures, paperwork, lost receipts, forgotten documents (etc.) were an everyday struggle! ePOD enables last mile delivery companies to collect, store, analyze, and extract data and documentation when required. Audit tasks, data sharing, and transaction speeds are also greatly enhanced. Best practices benchmarking Modern tech-enabled logistics systems have greatly improved the insight available to fleet managers, including the planned vs. performance analysis by comparing critical KPIs. Fleet managers now have a holistic view from a centralized window across all operation elements, such as employee performance, customer rankings, the status of delivered or pending parcels, failed deliveries, delayed deliveries, fuel consumption, and 3PL performance. Deep data-analytical capabilities track these KPIs and maintain comprehensive reports to ensure top-notch performance. Flexibility Today’s last mile delivery companies that service eCommerce retailers are nimble organizations while achieving and maintaining the benefits of scale. Their modern last mile delivery systems allow them to offer options such as self-service to customers.  This provides options for the customer, but it also reduces the burden on logistics, mitigates costs, and reduces the resources needed. Options like smart lockers at convenient locations are increasingly popular with eCommerce customers today. Crowdsourcing Customers want the convenience of doorstep delivery. However, with the burgeoning growth of eCommerce retail as a business model, it has become difficult for logistics companies to keep up. For example, the number of delivery people and vehicles required to service market demand could often become unsustainable. Therefore, last mile delivery companies in India have turned to crowdsourcing to fortify their operations. These new-age platforms help pair travelers with clients that need parcels delivered in the same localities.  Customer satisfaction Like any other business where customer satisfaction is the final metric for running a profitable and sustainable business, the same goes for eCommerce firms. In fact, in the uber-competitive world of online commerce, it assumes greater significance.  Therefore, customer satisfaction, customer journey, and experience are invaluable. Last mile delivery companies maintain omnichannel customer support, constantly collect customer feedback for incorporation into their operations, and benchmark against competitor actions and best practices – all of this is key for eCommerce firms and their last mile delivery startups, in achieving and maintaining happy customers.  Last mile delivery companies/ startups are constantly adding new services and tracking trends. Some include: Ever-faster deliveries: From same-day and 24-hour deliveries, we are now seeing the arrival of 10-minute groceries and 2-hr deliveries. Micro-fulfillment centers: Smaller satellite warehouses and micro fulfillment centers conveniently located across an elaborate geographical network provide more coverage, lower costs, and faster deliveries. Autonomous vehicles: Autonomous vehicles such as drones and driverless cars are increasingly being tested in logistics and transport. Food, medicines, and light electronic gadgets are some products delivered via these new-age vehicles. Suggested Read: List of Top 3PL 10 Warehousing Companies in India Challenges in Last-Mile Delivery That Can Impact Your Business The last-mile carriers generally work towards delivering the product from an intermediate shipping centre to the final destination. There are a lot of things that can go wrong in this phase that can impact your brand and the overall profits. Some of the major issues businesses can encounter in last-mile delivery include: Return of orders and the rising cost of logistics While order cancellations are common in e-commerce, one of the major reasons for the return of orders by customers can happen due to the mistakes occurring in the last-mile of delivery. Delayed deliveries, inability to track the packages properly, delivery of damaged goods, and misplacing orders- all of them can lead to higher returns. Most of these mishaps can happen due to the negligence of the 3PL partner or the lack of technological capabilities that can prevent these issues. Return of orders increases your logistics cost further. They also affect your market share and customer loyalty. According to a report by KPMG, up to 20% of the total e-commerce shipments are return orders. This shows the scale of the problem and how much costs can be saved by minimizing the same. Return to Origin (RTO)  This is another major issue that sellers face. It simply refers to sending back the order to the seller when it cannot be delivered to the customer. This can happen due to wrong addresses mentioned in the order or when the customer is not present/denies accepting the order, etc. Such incidents can lead to additional reshipping costs. Unable to address the rising demand in tier 2 and 3 cities With better internet connectivity, e-commerce demands have been rapidly rising in tier 2 and 3 cities of India. The last-mile delivery in this case presents its own unique challenges. The fulfillment center of your 3PL partner might be far from the delivery location. The interconnectivity between them can affect delivery speeds. Flipkart and Amazon are trying to solve this by partnering with local retail owners and creating pickup points from where customers can collect their orders. Remote locations are even more difficult to handle. Not meeting customer expectations Given the benchmarks that e-commerce giants like Amazon set, customers tend to expect the same elsewhere. They expect fast deliveries and may not care about the complications that can happen in the last mile. For example, harsh weather conditions, or a local lockdown can disrupt the delivery timelines. Customers also expect durability in their deliveries. They seek flexible timings and cheaper costs at their end like Amazon prime free delivery. Such a level of service is almost impossible without optimizing the supply chain in the last-mile. Things to Keep in Mind Before Partnering with a Last Mile Delivery Startup or Company Unless you have a good handle on your business requirements and, what you need from last mile delivery companies, you won’t benefit from the collaboration. On the contrary, it could result in disaster.  Consider the points mentioned below as you research and select your last mile delivery startups: Your customer expectationsYour competitors’ delivery times and their last mile delivery startups/companiesThe impact of last mile delivery startups/companies on your shipping aggregators and delivery timesAre last-mile delivery costs sustainable as a percentage of your overall operating cost? Will it prevent you from becoming profitable?The avenues of lowering last mile delivery costs while maintaining efficiency How to Choose a Last Mile Delivery Company that is Right for Your Business? Without dependable and efficient last mile delivery companies, an eCommerce retailer would be severely handicapped. However, with innumerable options available, the onus to make the correct selection is on you, i.e., identifying last mile delivery startups that best match your requirements. Include minute details like holiday lists, working days, shipping limitations, parcel weight restrictions, etc.  Given below are 10 leading factors you must consider:   Price Quite obviously, this is one of the essential starting points to consider. Last mile delivery companies operate out in the real world, battling the forces of nature, traffic, and several other dangers. Therefore, they charge their clients a fee, often a hefty one, for their value. You must look at your cost-to-benefit ratio, i.e., match their service fees against how important it is for your business.  Coverage Last mile delivery companies should cover the critical locations needed for your business operations, i.e., as many pin codes as possible. While you may not need to ship to every location in the country as a new eCommerce firm, it is important to check their coverage. You don’t want to bottleneck your expansion if your company doesn't service those areas. Technology The operations of last mile delivery companies are a complex process with little or no margin for error. Additionally, they work under the severe pressure created by ever-changing dynamics like costs, angry customers, road dangers, weather, and fleet availability. The list is endless.  Modern delivery software that is utilized by last mile delivery startups/companies is vastly advanced and manages all the above variables to optimize your last mile operations. They do it with incredible speed and can handle vast scales. Ensure the companies that you are considering, use the latest technology to manage their operations. Order-returns Order returns, reverse logistics, inventory tracking, refunds, and rescheduling deliveries of incomplete or failed orders – all these instances are an unavoidable part of the eCommerce trade. However, if your last mile delivery startups have an efficient order-return management system, it would help to reduce the loss from such situations. Notably, during this process, the consumer tends to be annoyed or apprehensive, and managing it well would help create customer satisfaction.  Tracking orders This feature is a leading indicator of changing consumer demands. The old-school thought process of delivery in a week or 5 days are gone. Today’s consumers want to be kept in the loop at every point of their parcel movement. Without real-time and live order-tracking features, you will not succeed as an eCommerce firm. Last mile delivery companies must offer a convenient order-tracking tool for your customers to track their orders. Delivery speed People often confuse the hyperlocal delivery model with last mile delivery. While both traverse the same routes while completing the final distance of their delivery, they aren’t the same. As the name suggests, hyperlocal is a highly localized delivery model and typically offers much shorter delivery times, e.g. 10-minute groceries.  Last mile delivery, however, is the last leg of a much longer delivery route. Now, with modern technology and logistics capabilities, last mile delivery companies are also constantly working out on ways to keep reducing their delivery times and increase delivery speed. Customer support Customer satisfaction is the defining aspect of a successful or failed business model. Without happy customers, you won’t have repeat orders or positive word-of-mouth exposure. Therefore, using a modern omnichannel customer setup for eCommerce firms is critical to their success. Payment With a plethora of payment options available these days - ranging from credit cards, digital wallets, UPI, and online transfers – today’s consumers use options that suit their needs the most. From your end, however, if you don’t make all of them available, you will see a high rate of cart abandonment and incomplete transactions.  Insurance Buying shipment insurance as a protective cover is an integral part of the supply chain movement. You must conduct research and shortlist last mile delivery companies that offer suitable options via insurance tie-ups for you and your type of cargo.  Customer feedback Check to see the comments of current and past customers of last mile delivery companies that you are considering partnering with. Online reviews, forums, and direct opinions are a good way of arriving at a decision. That would reveal a lot about their capabilities and performance.  10 Best Last Mile Delivery Companies/Startups for eCommerce in 2024 WareIQ Source WareIQ is a category-defining, best- in class full-stack eCommerce fulfillment tech platform (with inbuilt inventory planning, order fulfillment & shipping system) for modern brands to accelerate online sales/ expedite revenue growth & profits with same/next-day delivery. How does WareIQ help with last mile deliveries? WareIQ's platform integrates with all major national and regional shipping partnersIt also helps users generate bulk shipping labels & invoices in just a few clicksTo create a premium post-purchase experience, WareIQ also provide the option to users to create a branded tracking page onto which the users can add the logo of their brand and also marketing banners to products from their D2C website, in order to keep their customers engaged even after purchase and open new potential revenue channels The platform also helps in sending auto-alerts to customers about the status of the shipment on channels like Whatsapp, SMS, and Email. With the help of RTO shield, an application that helps in identifying & flagging high-risk customers and consequently disabling COD options for them to reduce the probability of RTO happening, online businesses can also reduce their RTO losses. If RTO occurs, WareIQ covers the forward & reverse logistics costs.eCommerce & D2C brands can also automate cases of failed delivery attempts (NDRs) by the shipping partnerIt also provides information on shipping charges for various shipping partners according to:Base WeightAdditional Weight OffsetWithin CityWithin StateMetro to metroRest of IndiaNorth-east & JKCOD ChargesCOD% You can also opt for WareIQ if you are looking for Cash on Delivery Courier Service Partners. Source FedEx  Founded in 1971 in the US, FedEx is one of the leading shipping and logistics giants and needs no introduction. With a global network of fleet vehicles, warehouses, and fulfillment centers, FedEx is a leader in eCommerce supply chain management and logistics and is also emerging as one of the most successful last mile delivery companies.  In 2020, FedEx launched its last mile delivery solution specifically tailored for eCommerce firms, thereby launching a formal entry into the space with other companies.It provides cold-chain services.It provides expedited shipping for rush orders and services to handle customs on arrival.It is authorized to transport dangerous items such as electronic parts and lithium batteries.It offers services such as last mile delivery, eCommerce, transportation, cold-chain management, warehouse and inventory management, dangerous goods etc. UPS  Source United Parcel Service (UPS) is a global shipping and distribution company that is also one of the leading supply chain and last mile delivery companies, worldwide. It was founded in 1907 in Seattle, United States, and has emerged as a Fortune 500 company. It provides last mile delivery solutions to eCommerce firms across the US and numerous worldwide locations. It transports goods across land and sea. It operates and manages massive warehouses and vast fleets of delivery vehiclesIt started delivering last mile solutions by drawing from USPS's elaborate postal network, called UPS SurePost. However, the company has been looking to launch its last mile delivery services at cheaper rates in recent times.Its website offers a handy shipping-rate calculator. Entering details of your shipment, such as dimensions, customer address, weight, pickup (etc.), gives you an estimate of your shipping rates.It offers packing materials and pallet boxes via its website.It offers services such as freight forwarding, express courier, logistics, etc. Amazon Source Amazon Inc. is a global eCommerce and fulfillment technology company that offers services such as cloud computing, digital streaming, and artificial intelligence. It is also one of the leading last mile delivery companies. It was started in 1994 in Seattle, United States, it penetrated the expanding Indian eCommerce market in 2013. Due to its sheer size, relentless consumer focus, and constant innovation, Amazon is the lead challenger to established players (e.g., FedEx, UPS). Its 3rd-party shipping solution provides cost incentives (e.g., reduced overheads) for 3rd party contractors to start their own logistics firms to fulfill deliveries on behalf of Amazon. It amplifies its inorganic growth via acquisitions, e.g., acquiring PillPack for prescription delivery.Its “Project Wing” operation develops architecture and prototypes for autonomous drones. Its world-famous and industry-defining eCommerce fulfillment service, Amazon Prime includes benefits such as 2-day free shipping, same-day delivery, and guaranteed 1-2 hours of free deliveries via Prime Now.Its crowdsourcing delivery model, Amazon Flex, builds out its last mile and same-day capabilities that deliver orders to customers via Prime Now. This becomes a lucrative option for rideshare drivers who may not be comfortable with strangers or troublesome passengers in their cars. Anyone with a vehicle can become part of this service - if you have a valid driver’s license, car, and smartphone, you can log in to this app and make deliveries based on your availability. Packages can be scanned with a smartphone camera, and directions received via GPS. Convenient cashless payments to a digital wallet are also facilitated. Piggybee  Source Starting from a crowd shipping community in Brussels in 2012, Piggybee began by servicing European locations but has grown globally since its inception. The platform enables users to search for travelers and identifies people that could transport their parcels by scanning arrivals/departures in various cities. This is the same way one would look up flights, trains, etc. Travelers/ delivery personnel can also make themselves available for delivery to a particular city/ location by posting their travel details.After a match has been made, the user/traveler can discuss fees. The remuneration doesn’t always have to be monetary; it could also be a swap for transport, accommodation, or other local payback services instead of a monetary fee. Packages can be tracked via the online platform in real-time. After completion, the deliverer can be “tipped” monetarily via Piggybee MoneySafe. A rating system is also provided for feedback. This helps travelers i.e., the deliverer, build a track record for future opportunities, much like how we rank our Uber or Airbnb interactions.Piggybee is often used for delivering cross-border packages worldwide. Hitch  Source Hitch is an online delivery marketplace that uses crowdsourcing as its primary business model and allows shipping companies to partner with travelers to get their goods shipped to international locations. It is one of the up-and-coming last-mile delivery startups and one of its core propositions is that it seeks to challenge the shipping industry by utilizing unconventional means to ship cargo from the warehouses to its ultimate location. The platform pairs people with parcels to be delivered (these are the “shippers”) with travelers that are traveling to the same destinations.Shippers upload details of their packages and destinations, while the couriers upload their travel details to see if there are any overlapping requirements. The app uses GPS to optimize routing. Pictures via the traveler’s phone camera are used to provide proof of delivery.Payments are made using Stripe, a 3rd party payment vendor. Users can rank their transactions to provide performance history for future users. Postmates  Source Founded in 2011 in San Francisco, Postmates is an urban logistics service that enables on-demand delivery for just about anything for anyone and has revolutionized the way consumers receive local goods, mainly within the hour. Postmates is easily used by installing the app on your phone. It is seeking to become one of the leading last-mile delivery companies. The mobile platform pairs businesses/couriers with customers to facilitate taking orders from local establishments, e.g., restaurants.Customers are paired with local couriers based on the product for delivery against its delivery address.Users can pay per delivery or opt for annual billing. Customized gift cards are also available.Communities are empowered by promoting local shopping and vendors, thereby allowing the ubiquitous small businesses to survive against larger retail chains.Postmates is currently operational in 40 metropolitan areas across the USA. Smartbox  Source Smartbox is one of the fastest-growing last mile delivery startups in India that provides convenient and economic packaging units that are transparently priced. The units come in 2 sizes, 10kgs and 25 kgs, and are designed to accommodate a variety of products. Smart lockers are gaining popularity in the field of eCommerce due to the practical advantages they offer. Smart Box also offers a next-day delivery service to most locations in India.  Benefits include minimizing the cost of delivery, optimization of logistics, and safety.Order-return logistics are faster with the quick processing of refunds and return order management.Smartbox is part of a new generation of last mile delivery startups in the field of last mile delivery companies. Clients can pick up packages at their convenience. Facilities and safety measures like passwords and private cards enable easy order-tracking in real-time and collection from the locker. Onfleet  Source Onfleet is one of the leading last mile delivery companies and is headquartered in San Francisco.[1] It seeks to solve logistics problems in the last mile delivery space. Some of its leading customers include HelloFresh, Kroger, and GAP. It has also been described as “Uber for delivery” by multiple publications. Other services include hyperlocal delivery, online marketplaces, carriers, inventory control systems, and websites.  It is a tech-enabled platform that offers real-time tracking, automatic tracking updates and ePOD (electronic-proof-of-delivery)It offers accessible data sharing internally using APIs that enable automated and efficient delivery management. The auto-dispatch system automatically pairs urgent delivery orders with available drivers.It offers services such as route optimization, last mile delivery, logistics services, analytics, dispatch, etc. Matternet  Source Founded in 2011 in California, Matternet is one of the leading last mile delivery companies that attempt to solve last mile delivery challenges by changing the mode of travel itself, i.e., by using drones. Matternet produces products that help businesses around the world to build and operate drone logistics networks for transporting deliverables by air.  This is achieved using smart drones and pre-defined landing stations via a mobile app and a robust back-end cloud software system.It services the retail, healthcare, and humanitarian sector. As you can imagine, the speedy delivery of medicines via drones prevents traffic congestion and has become a popular option to get medical goods to patients on time.It currently operates in the USA and Switzerland. Conclusion: How Can WareIQ Deliver Much Better Services than the Top Last Mile Delivery Companies in India? Last mile delivery companies in India offer services that are specific to last mile delivery challenges such as delivering goods on time and cutting down on delivery logistics costs. However, some companies, such as WareIQ, provide solutions, not only for last mile delivery, but also the entire suite of fulfillment requirements, thus delivering a much more stellar experience compared to conventional last mile delivery companies. How does WareIQ achieve this? By maintaining a holistic approach to running the business, WareIQ offers cutting-edge services to eCommerce clients.  Starting with a good, solid understanding of its business model and, by extension, how they add value to its clients’ businesses, supply chains, and last mile delivery requirements, WareIQ helps clients by offering specifically tailored solutions to their problems. Established in 2019, WareIQ, a Y-combinator backed startup, has rapidly grown to be the leading provider of full-stack eCommerce 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 offers last-mile delivery through its shipping partners. It 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, and enables scalability without any hassles. When there is a surge in demand, your enterprise can upscale quickly, similarly, in the case of a slack, downscaling is effortless with WareIQ's fulfillment services. 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. 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 warehousing, and data-driven decision-making. [signup] Last Mile Delivery Companies FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) What is the meaning of last mile delivery?Last mile delivery is the last step of operations where the product is dispatched from the warehouse and is delivered at the doorstep of the end customer.  Does Amazon provide last mile delivery services?The Last Mile personnel assists customers in getting packages from delivery locations to their doorstep. Amazon's Last Mile delivery initiatives have grown over the years, allowing the company to reduce consumer delivery times. What Are The Top Last Mile Delivery Companies?Few of the top last mile delivery companies of 2023 are mentioned below:1. WareIQ2. FedEx3. UPS4. Amazon Shipping5. Blue Dart6. Delhivery7. Ekart What challenges do last mile delivery companies face?• High Cost • Missing delivery timeline due to harsh weather conditions• Bad infrastructure • Customer related Issues like unacceptance of package at doorstep• High returns in case of COD orders• Returns due to unavailability of customer during delivery attempt• Wrong address or contact details How important is it to optimize the last mile delivery process?Last-mile delivery processes must be optimized to ensure timely & faster delivery of products to the end customers & for the business to be more profitable. According to studies, last-mile delivery losses result in a 26 percent annual drop in profits. Companies will continue to lose money unless last-mile delivery is optimized.

February 07, 2023

What is Kitting in eCommerce? Definition, Role, Benefits and Steps Involved in Managing Kitting in Warehouses in 2024

What is Kitting in eCommerce? Definition, Role, Benefits and Steps Involved in Managing Kitting in Warehouses in 2024

In the eCommerce, manufacturing and retail industries, millions of raw materials, products and shipments are distributed to and from various locations every day. The logistics involved in ensuring that all these items are shipped as cost-effectively and efficiently as possible is immense. It is in every business’s best interest to identify ways to reduce their logistics costs and reduce shipping costs and this can usually be done by optimising the amount of space each parcel takes up. One fool-proof way of ensuring this happens is by implementing kitting. This enables multiple items to be shipped together in one large consignment, reducing the space it takes up in transit and also the number of trips needed to eventually ship each item. In practice, it is just as efficient as it sounds and it helps sellers, suppliers and manufacturers alike ship large amounts of goods with ease. In this blog, we will get into the nuances of kitting, including its definition, its role in different business facets, its benefits, and the steps involved in managing the kitting process. What is Meant by Kitting? Kitting refers to the process of grouping and packaging components or subassemblies together to create a final product or kit. This is often used in manufacturing, assembly, or distribution operations, where multiple items are required to complete a single task or project. A kit may consist of raw materials, parts, tools, instructions or any combination of these items that are required to complete a specific task. The components are pre-selected, packaged, and labeled to ensure that everything required is included in one convenient package. This helps to streamline the production process and minimise the need for separate ordering and handling of individual components. Kitting can be done manually or with automated processes such as pick-to-light or barcode scanning systems. The goal of kitting is to save time and improve efficiency by reducing the number of steps involved in picking and packaging components and in mitigating the risk of missing components or incorrect assembly. What are the General Components of a Kit in eCommerce? The components in a kit in eCommerce can vary depending on the specific kit and the industry it is being used in. Some common components that are often included in kits in eCommerce include: Products: The primary components of a kit, which can include physical items such as hardware, electronics, toys, or clothing, as well as digital items like software or online services.Packaging: Kits often include packaging to protect and organize the components, such as a box, bag, or other containers.Instructions: Kits may include instructions or documentation to help customers understand how to use or assemble the components.Accessories: Kits can also include additional accessories, such as adapters, cables, or batteries, that are needed to use or complete the components.Marketing materials: Kits may include promotional or marketing materials, such as flyers, posters, or stickers, to help market the kit and its components. [contactus_lilgoodness] The Primary Roles of Kitting in 2023 Source In Warehousing Kitting is widely used in warehouses as a means to streamline order fulfillment and improve the accuracy of picking and shipping processes. The goal of kitting in a warehouse is to simplify the process of gathering, packaging and shipping multiple items as one unit, thereby reducing the number of individual picking operations required to complete an order. Overall, kitting in a warehouse can improve the efficiency of order fulfillment, reduce the risk of errors, and streamline the supply chain. Here's how kitting is typically used in warehouses: Pre-Assembly: Components are pre-assembled in a warehouse to create a complete kit. This can include items such as hardware, tools, instructions, or packaging materials. The kit is then packaged and labelled to ensure everything required is included in one convenient package.Picking and Packaging: Kits are picked and packaged according to the specific requirements of each order. This can involve the use of automated systems such as barcode scanning or pick-to-light systems to ensure accuracy and efficiency.Shipping: The completed kits are then shipped to customers or other warehouses as required. Shipping kits instead of individual components help to reduce the number of shipments required, which ultimately lowers shipping costs and improves delivery times. In Inventory Management Kitting plays an important role in inventory management by simplifying the tracking and management of multiple items that are used together in a specific product or process. The goal of kitting in inventory management is to reduce the number of separate items that need to be tracked, making it easier to manage stock levels and ensure that the right components are available when needed. Kitting in inventory management helps to simplify the tracking and management of components, limit the risk of stockouts and improve the effectiveness of order fulfillment. Here's how kitting is typically used in inventory management: Kit Creation: A kit is created by grouping multiple items together that are commonly used together in a specific process or product. This can include raw materials, parts, tools, instructions, or any other item that is required to complete a specific task. The kit is then labelled and tracked as a single item in the inventory management system.Inventory Tracking: With kitting, inventory management becomes simpler as the number of separate items that need to be tracked is reduced. This can make it easier to manage stock levels, ensuring that the right components are available when needed.Stock Reordering: Inventory management systems can automatically trigger stock reorders when the levels of components in a kit fall below a predetermined threshold. This helps to ensure that the right components are available when needed, reducing the risk of stockouts and improving customer satisfaction. In Manufacturing Kitting is a widely used practice in manufacturing to streamline the assembly process and improve the accuracy and efficiency of product production. The goal of kitting in manufacturing is to simplify the process of gathering and packaging multiple components that are required to produce a single product. Kitting in the manufacturing industry can improve the efficiency and accuracy of product production, thus reducing the risk of errors and simplifying inventory management. Here's how kitting is typically used in manufacturing: Consolidation of Raw Materials: Components and raw materials are pre-assembled in a manufacturing facility to create a complete kit. This can include items such as parts, tools, machinery and everything else needed to create the finished product. The kit is then packaged and labelled to ensure that everything required is included in one convenient package.Assembly Line: The components of a kit are placed on an assembly line to produce the final product. The use of kitting helps to simplify the assembly process and mitigate the risk of mistakes, mishaps and inefficient practices.Quality Control: Kitting can also help to improve the accuracy and consistency of product production by ensuring that all required components are included in each kit. This can help to reduce the risk of quality issues and improve customer satisfaction. Benefits of Kitting for Retail Businesses Improves Efficiency Source Kitting streamlines the process of assembling products by pre-grouping all the necessary components into one kit. This saves time and mitigates the risk of errors, since all the required parts are readily available and can be easily assembled together. This ensures streamlining and optimization of various processes such as manufacturing, order fulfillment, transportation and more. Suggested Read: How to Streamline Shipping Processes for eCommerce Sellers in 2023? Increases Productivity Source By reducing the amount of time spent searching for parts and gathering materials, kitting can significantly increase productivity. Assemblers can focus on their main task, knowing that the necessary components are all in one place. Additionally, because every important element is pre-packaged and bundled together in a single kit, it prevents the need to have multiple shipments and journeys for multiple products. Reduces Costs Source Kitting can help reduce costs associated with inventory management, such as carrying costs and obsolescence costs. By grouping components together, kitting allows companies to reduce the number of individual items they need to keep in stock, thus reducing the amount of money they need to spend on inventory management. It also requires fewer consignments to be dispatched, reducing transit and storage costs as well, saving the business a significant amount of funds in the process. Enhances Inventory Control Source Kitting makes it easier to track inventory levels, since all the components of a kit can be easily accounted for because they are bundled together in a single shipment. This helps companies maintain accurate inventory levels and reduces the risk of stockouts. Furthermore, kitting necessitates that products of a similar nature and end goal are stored together, making inventory storage more organised. Amplifies Customer Satisfaction Source Kitting can help improve customer satisfaction by providing complete, ready-to-use products that meet their specific needs. Customers are able to receive their products quickly and efficiently, without having to worry about missing parts or assembly errors. Thus, it provides a significant increase in quality and speed by which orders are delivered to their respective customers, enabling an overall better experience. How to Manage the Inventory Kitting Process in Warehousing in 2023? ​​8 steps involved in the inventory kitting process are mentioned below: Accurately Define the Kit The first step in managing the kitting process is to define the kit by determining which components or parts are needed to create a complete, ready-to-use product. This includes identifying the specific items that should be included within each kit, as well as the quantities needed. Ascertain the Components in the Kit The next step is to determine the components that will be included in each kit. This may involve reviewing product specifications, working with suppliers to obtain components, or creating custom components to ensure that every kit has the required elements necessary to complete the intended task. Gauge the Required Inventory Levels Once the components have been determined, it is important to plan the inventory levels of each component. This involves determining how many kits can be made with the available components and determining how many components will be needed to meet demand. Therefore, inventory levels need to be adjusted accordingly. Efficiently Assemble the Kits After planning the inventory levels, the next step is to assemble the kits. This involves physically grouping the components together and preparing the kits for shipment. This requires an efficient and standardized assembly process to increase efficiency, reduce unwanted errors and save time. Securely Store the Kits The assembled kits need to be placed in a safe and secure environment until they are ready to be shipped. This may involve using warehouse space or using off-site storage if space is limited. Determine the best possible conditions depending on the nature of the contents of the kit. Track Inventory Needed for the Kit It is important to track the inventory levels of the kits to ensure that there is always enough stock to meet demand. This can be achieved using a variety of tools, including barcode scanning, software systems or manual methods. High-end inventory management software can automatically keep you aware of your inventory levels in real-time. Consistently Monitor the Quality of the Kit To ensure that the kits are of the highest quality, it is important to regularly monitor their quality and address any issues that arise. This may involve conducting quality control inspections or working with suppliers to resolve any quality issues. This will help you identify any bottlenecks or processes that need to be improved or removed entirely. Update Components of the Kit as is Required The components of a kit may change over time, so it is important to regularly review and update the components as needed. This may involve working with suppliers to obtain new or improved components or creating custom components as needed. This will help your kits stay relevant and up-to-date with your business objectives. Conclusion: Leverage the Use of Kitting With WareIQ Kitting can be beneficial to retailers in a number of ways. It helps to streamline various important procedures, reduces the time taken to complete them and lowers the expenses associated with product manufacturing, storage and distribution. It is also not very difficult to implement as it just entails multiple items of a similar nature or with a common end goal to be placed together in a single consignment. Therefore, if your business needs to streamline its distribution procedures and reduce costs, kitting can be a good place to start to achieve this goal. Additionally, if you do not have the available manpower and resources to handle kitting on your own, you can always offload it and multiple other logistics and shipping procedures to a 3PL fulfillment company like WareIQ. WareIQ is one of India’s leading 3PL fulfillment companies. Having been founded in 2019, it has come to offer many solutions for a vast variety of business tasks, such as order fulfillment, inventory management, product storage, last-mile delivery and much more. We provide a vast number of kitting and packaging services, some of which are listed below: Product Bunding: We enable you to bundle your products based on common characteristics and objectivesCustomized Packaging and Shipping Labelling: We provide eCommerce custom packaging and labeling services that can be tailored to your requirementsBuilt-to-Order Services: We assist you with preparing orders only after they come in to save you effort and resourcesQuality-Control Testing: We offer comprehensive quality checks to ensure that all your processes are upto speedProduct Assembly: We provide the tools necessary to assemble products for various tasksCustomizable Notes: We enable you to write personalised notes to your customers in every kitGreeting Cards: We provide greeting card services to ensure your customers are kept engaged as soon as they purchase Kitting: FAQs What is kitting in e-commerce?Kitting in eCommerce refers to the process of bundling multiple products together into a single kit or bundle for sale. How is kitting different from bundling?Kitting and bundling are similar concepts. Bundling involves the sale of multiple items as a single unit, while kitting involves the gathering and packaging of multiple items for a specific process or product. What is a pre-pack kit?A pre-pack kit is a kit that is pre-assembled and packaged in a manufacturing facility. The components of a pre-pack kit are typically used in a specific process or product and the kit is ready for use when required. How does kitting affect order fulfillment?Kitting can improve the efficiency of order fulfillment by reducing the risk of missing components or incorrect assembly and by ensuring that the right components are available when needed. This can result in improved customer satisfaction and reduced operating and storage costs for the company. Can kitting be automated?Yes, kitting can be automated using technology such as barcode scanning and inventory management systems. Automated kitting involves using technology such as software or robots to assemble products into a kit or bundle for sale. This process can streamline the kitting process and reduce the time and resources required to manually assemble products, reducing the risk of errors and improving inventory management. What are the challenges in inventory kitting and assembly in warehouses?The challenges of kitting and assembly in e-commerce can include ensuring accuracy, ensuring that all components are available in the warehouse, and meeting the demand for customized kits and bundles. How is assembly different from kitting?Assembly involves putting together individual components to create a finished product, while kitting refers to bundling multiple products together into a single kit or bundle for sale.

February 04, 2023

Top 10 Logistics Companies in Pune Offering the Best Logistics Services for Online and Offline Brands in 2024

Top 10 Logistics Companies in Pune Offering the Best Logistics Services for Online and Offline Brands in 2024

The growth of eCommerce has fundamentally altered tactics for corporate development. These days, businesses can run without a physical location. There shouldn't be a cap on the number of hours spent in the era of digitization and the internet. Online marketplaces give vendors the flexibility to meet client wants whenever they arise. Inventory management has become increasingly difficult due to the rapid expansion of internet shopping, urbanization, and new technology, which affects all facets of supply chain management and raw material procurement. As a result, businesses need assistance with issues, including a shortage of warehouse space and capacity, especially in major adjacent cities like Pune, where demand is very high. Here we will be talking about the importance and growth of logistics companies in Pune. Pune is a city in the western Indian state of Maharashtra and is known as one of the most important industrial and commercial hubs in India. Pune has a thriving economy, with a large number of companies operating in various sectors such as information technology, automobile, manufacturing, and more. The city has a well-developed infrastructure and is a hub for education and research, making it an attractive location for companies. By selecting wisely among the leading logistics companies in Pune, the stress of managing in-house operations and a lot of other tasks can be reduced. A list of logistics services in Pune has been prepared below to aid businesses in finding trustworthy warehouse service providers. What Do Warehousing and Logistics Services Mean in the eCommerce Supply Chain? To define warehouse and logistics services, we must first define what is logistics. The most fundamental definition of logistics is the orderly administration, planning, and execution of complex tasks. Several businesses, including warehousing for eCommerce, use eCommerce logistics to describe the movement of products and information about inventory. Thus, logistics include warehousing's organization, management, and many other features. In addition, transporting tangible inventories and intangible assets, including labor and knowledge, is also necessary. Aspects of warehouse logistics include handling damaged items, following safety regulations, managing human resources, and processing customer return. How can I Find the Best Logistics Companies in Pune? Ask for Recommendations Ask your friends, colleagues, or business associates who have used logistics services in Pune. They may be able to recommend a reliable company based on their personal experience. Do Online Research Conduct an online search for logistics companies in Pune. Check their websites, read customer reviews, and look for any awards or recognition they may have received. Check for Certifications Look for logistics companies in Pune that are certified by industry associations like the Indian Institute of Logistics or the Logistics Sector Skill Council. These certifications indicate that the company meets industry standards and is committed to providing quality services. Look for Experience Look for logistics companies in Pune that have been in business for several years. An experienced company will have a better understanding of the logistics industry and will be better equipped to handle your needs. Request Quotes Once you have narrowed down your list of potential logistics companies in Pune, request quotes from each of them. Compare the quotes and choose the company that offers the best value for your money. Top 10 Best Logistics Companies in Pune Offering the Best Logistics Services for Omni Channel Brands in 2023 WareIQ Source Founding Year: 2019Services Offered: Order fulfillment, domestic and international shipping, nationwide storage network, returns management, customizable packaging and more.About the Company: WareIQ is a tech-savvy 3PL that makes use of its network of fulfillment centers to provide the best logistics and fulfillment services, including real-time tracking of inventory levels and order selection, packaging, shipping and delivery, to B2B and B2C brands. This makes it one of the top-ranking logistics companies in Pune. WareIQ offers data and analytics for anything from better supply chain decision-making to year-end reporting. We highlight important information such as the fulfillment centers you should stock your goods at, the time until inventory runs out, how sales affect inventory levels, the cart value, delivery prices and transit times for each delivery, as well as your fulfillment expenses per order and storage costs per unit. Abhi Impact Logistics Solutions Source Founding Year: 2007Location: Baner, PuneServices Offered: Warehousing, project logistics, returns management, intermodal transportation, freight forwarding and more.About the Company: Mr G.N. Joshi, a well-known businessman, launched Abhi Impact Logistics Solutions and its headquarters are in Pune. The company offers a variety of supply chain and logistics solutions, as well as 3PL and 4PL services. It has been continuously operational for more than 15 years. Warehousing, reverse logistics, contract logistics, intermodal transport, freight forwarding, logistics consulting, plastic tray washing and repair, and much more, are all services provided by Abhi Impact Logistics Solutions.  RVC Supply Chain Solutions Source Founding Year: 2017Location: Shivaji Nagar, PuneServices Offered: Warehousing, project logistics, returns management, intermodal transportation, freight forwarding and more.About the Company: The headquarters of RVC Supply Chain Solutions are in Pune and the company has been operating for more than 5 years. Across all of India, RVC Supply Chain Solutions offers complete logistics and distribution solutions. The company has experience offering its clients a range of efficient services and solutions, ranging from multiple truck-based transportation options and third-party logistics to inventory management and assigning the appropriate workers for each task. Dexters Logistics Source Founding Year: 2010Location: Shivaji Nagar, PuneServices Offered: Reverse logistics, warehousing, express delivery, 24/7 customer support, supply chain management and more.About the Company: Dexters Logistics was established in 2010 in Pune. For more than 11 years, Dexters Logistics has been a well-known logistics service provider in Western and Northern India. Electronics, eCommerce, technology, automotive, FMCG, apparel and lifestyle, science and healthcare are among the sectors for which Dexters Logistics offers services. In addition, express distribution, eCommerce logistics, warehousing, 3PL logistics, returns management and other value-added services are all provided by the company, which makes Dexters Logistics one of the most reputed logistics companies in Pune. VTC 3PL Solutions Source Founding Year: 2012Location: Fursungi, PuneServices Offered: Reverse logistics, warehousing, express delivery, 24/7 customer support, supply chain management and more.About the Company: The headquarters of VTC 3PL Services are in Pune. The company has been operational for more than a decade. Currently, VTC 3PL Services manages more than 40 stores at more than 30 locations, including Pune, Kolkata, Bhubaneshwar, Akola, Jaipur, Cuttak, Kerala and many more. Intermodal transportation, supply chain optimization, packaging, warehousing, express delivery and container management are all services offered by the company, which makes VTC 3PL Solutions a good choice among logistics companies in Pune. Related Article: Looking for Best Logistics Companies in Kochi for Retailers? Stark Logistics  Source Founding Year: 2013Location: Agarkar Nagar, PuneServices Offered: Intermodal transport, warehousing, customs clearance, door-to-door delivery, inventory management and more.About the Company: Stark Logistics was incepted 10 years ago and has its corporate headquarters in Pune. This integrated logistics company focuses on all aspects of logistics, supply chain management and transportation. The company has garnered a reputation for providing dependable and adequate logistics solutions throughout the country. Air freight, customs brokerage, ocean freight, contract logistics, warehousing & distribution and cargo insurance are some of the services provided by Stark Logistics. Raftar Express India Source Founding Year: 1995Location: Mangalwar Peth, PuneServices Offered: Project logistics, intermodal transport, international shipping, freight forwarding, supply chain management and more.About the Company: Raftar Express has been providing logistics services for almost 30 years and has its corporate headquarters in Pune. It is a privately held firm and India's pioneer in supply chain solutions and express distribution. The company is also one of the top local and international freight forwarding, project logistics and relocation management firms offering affordable solutions. Various regular and express transportation and freight forwarding services through air, rail, road and sea are provided by the company. XpressBees Source Founding Year: 2015Location: Kalyani Nagar, PuneServices Offered: International shipping, last-mile delivery, returns management, dropshipping, supplier management and more.About the Company: One of the biggest eCommerce-specific logistics companies in Pune is XpressBees. It offers their partners the most dependable and effective logistical solutions. The company is one of India's most reputable logistics solutions providers thanks to its broad network reach, solid technology and last-mile management system. More than 4,000 000 packages are handled by the company everyday. Last-mile delivery, returns management, dropshipping, supplier-administration, cross-border shipping, fulfillment and customized software solutions are some of the main services the company offers. Exim Shipping and Projects India Source Founding Year: 2016Location: Pimpri-Chinchwad, PuneServices Offered: Warehousing, intermodal transport, international shipping, import and export of goods, customs clearance and more.About the Company: For companies involved in the export and import of commodities, Exim Shipping and Projects India is one of the most reputable logistics companies in Pune. The main applications of the business include worldwide trade and goods exporting. International shipping and the import and export of products requires special attention. A minor hiccup or error on the business's part could damage its reputation. Therefore they must be packed carefully and carried safely to their intended locations in a reasonable amount of time, which are the exact services provided by Exim Shipping and Projects India, in addition to multiple other services such as intermodal transport, handling of hazardous goods, warehousing and more. Metrolink Logistics Source Founding Year: 2016Location: Nigdi, PuneServices Offered: Supply chain optimization, warehousing, intermodal transport, express delivery, reverse logistics and more.About the Company: Metrolink Logistics is a logistics company in pune that has developed new ideas and solutions to fulfill the needs and challenges of their client's expectations. Metrolink Logistics started as a tiny transport company and has since evolved into one of India's top transport providers. Additonally, the company also provides many other services like warehosuing, express delivery and value-added services such as product insurance, safety protocols and more, making them a good option among logistics companies in Pune. Suggested Read: 10 Best Shipping and Logistics Companies in Indore for Retailers to Outsource Their Logistical Requirements in 2023 Conclusion: How Does WareIQ Help eCommerce Businesses in Pune Better Manage Their Logistics Operations? Even though selecting the best logistics companies to work with can be challenging, doing so may be significantly aided by first locating the leading logistics service providers in Pune. You need to choose which logistics partners will provide you with the most pin code reach and the greatest visibility for fulfilling your orders. Finally, to maximize operational efficiency and proactively reduce costs, be aware of the needed services. eCommerce businesses rely on dependable logistics and the best warehousing companies in Pune to track their orders and keep their customers informed about the progress of their delivery. Continual attention and time must be devoted to the logistics planning and optimization process. Many B2C and B2B enterprises rely on WareIQ as their fulfilment and distribution partner to leverage the logistical planning services and knowledge they require since they need more resources. With years of experience in logistics services, including shipping, warehousing and fulfillment, WareIQ is a tech-enabled distribution partner. B2B and B2C brands can plan their shipping and logistical needs using the architecture and tools we've created for logistics. By addressing both anticipated and unanticipated issues, we work to rank among the top warehouse providers so that every client may deliver orders on time and efficiently. Starting with handling and storing your products, WareIQ offers logistics solutions for every logistical requirement. With WareIQ, your company can maintain its items at one or more of our strategically placed fulfillment centers and ship them quickly and affordably to any location. You can also check: 10 Best Logistics Companies in Bangalore for Omnichannel Retailers in 2023 Logistics Companies in Pune: FAQ What exactly should I look for when finding a logistics service provider in Pune?It would be best if you looked into the general state of the facility and the security precautions in place when searching for the best logistics companies in Pune. Access to the warehouse location must be simple for carriers and transportation companies. Due to the area's proximity to virtual bus terminals, shipping will be easier. Safety must be considered when storing the goods when considering storage services. What are common services offered by logistics companies in Pune?Services offered by logistics companies in Pune may include freight forwarding, warehousing, trucking, and courier services. How much does it cost to use the services of a logistics company in Pune?The cost of using a logistics company in Pune will vary depending on the services required, the nature of the goods being shipped, and the distance of the shipment. It is best to contact several logistics companies for quotes to compare prices and services. Why is WareIQ one of the best logistics companies in Pune?WareIQ is one of the top logistics companies in Pune due to the reasons are given below:- Reduced storage costs- Client satisfaction- Reduced delivery time Which is the best logistics company in Pune in 2023?It is subjective to determine the best logistics company in Pune as it depends on various factors such as the type of goods being shipped, delivery time, cost, reliability, and customer service. However, a few popular logistics companies in Pune as mentioned below:i) Xpressbees is an Indian logistics and e-commerce logistics company founded in 2015. It provides delivery and supply chain solutions for businesses, including parcel delivery, warehousing, and reverse logistics. The company has a strong focus on the e-commerce sector, offering solutions for online retailers, marketplaces, and brands. Xpressbees operates in over 1500 cities in India and has partnerships with various leading e-commerce companies.ii) WareIQ is an eCommerce fulfillment company having a pan India network of fulfillment centers in 20+ cities of India including Pune and strong partnerships with last mile delivery companies like Fedex, Bluedart, Delhivery etc. WareIQ can be the best logistics company in Pune because it provides end-to-end logistics as well as warehousing services.iii) Mahindra Logistics is a subsidiary of the Mahindra Group, an Indian multinational conglomerate. It is one of India's leading third-party logistics providers, offering a range of supply chain and transportation services. The company provides end-to-end logistics solutions in Pune as well as other cities in India, including transportation, warehousing, distribution, and value-added services, for businesses across various industries.

February 04, 2023

10 Best Logistics Companies in Bangalore Providing Best Warehousing and Logistics Services for Omnichannel Retailers in 2024

10 Best Logistics Companies in Bangalore Providing Best Warehousing and Logistics Services for Omnichannel Retailers in 2024

Bangalore is one of India’s fastest-growing cities and is the capital of the southern state of Karnataka. The city gained prominence during British rule for its soothing weather and strategic location which is around 1000 meters above sea level. These traits are also the reason why it has become a popular destination for people looking for a better quality of life as well as expanding their business opportunities and interests. The city has emerged as the startup capital of India and has long been known as the Silicon Valley of India. Out of the 75,000-plus startups currently present in India, more than 13,000 of them were founded in Bangalore. It also consists of the regional offices of multiple big-name MNCs, such as Amazon, Flipkart and more. This makes Bangalore the primary go-to option for sellers looking to set up their businesses from scratch or existing retailers looking to take advantage of the burgeoning growth and business-friendly atmosphere that comes with it. In this blog, we will take a look at the top 10 logistics companies in Bangalore and why you should consider WareIQ. What are Logistics Companies? Services related to the management of inventory, the processing and fulfillment of orders, the identifying and packaging of goods, and distribution and last-mile delivery are among the many eCommerce services offered by logistics companies. They are a great choice for order fulfillment since they provide greater flexibility, reasonable pricing, and additional facilities such as order tracking for eCommerce capabilities, WMS software, customizable packaging, and more. Although the range of services provided may vary between companies, successfully delivering orders to customers is always given the utmost importance. All you have to do is collect orders and keep an eye on them once you've partnered with one of the many logistics companies in Bangalore and they'll take care of the rest. These companies relieve you of most of the logistics-related tasks, allowing you to focus on your company's core competencies like product development and marketing. [contactus_uth] Top 10 Logistics Companies in Bangalore in 2023 WareIQ Source Founding Year: 2019 Bangalore-based WareIQ, a provider of eCommerce fulfillment services, was established in 2019. In addition to last-mile delivery, inventory management, specialised packaging, product preparation, distribution, and storage facilities, the company provides a comprehensive range of logistics and fulfillment services. It provides a custom WMS that can be integrated with many eCommerce marketplaces like Amazon and Flipkart, web-builders like Shopify and Magento, and courier services like FedEx and DHL, in addition to automating numerous warehouse activities. The company also uses intelligent courier allocation, which selects the quickest and least expensive option for each item, and partnerships with over 12 of the largest shipping companies in the industry. The organisation has a large storage network spread over the entire nation. It can even ship worldwide to more than 220 nations. Some services provided by WareIQ that make it one of the best logistics companies in Bangalore are listed below: Services Offered: It has transparent pricing and does not have minimum order obligationsIt is compatible with web-building platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce, along with several online selling channels like Amazon and eBayIt provides exceptionally speedy delivery through a partnership with multiple shipping companiesIt makes it possible to customize packaging elements to your tastesIt provides branded tracking services for each order DHL Source Founding Year: 2001Location: Hsr Layout, Bangalore DHL has had a significant presence in India beginning in 2001 and is a global leader in supply chain management and also among the best logistics companies in Bangalore. DHL offers comprehensive eCommerce logistics and shipping services with specialised solutions for distribution, from warehousing to transportation. It serves a variety of sectors, including pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, healthcare and energy. It offers customised packaging and storage facilities with temperature control capabilities. To handle a diverse range of collaborations, they offer proactive shipping and auto-generated responses. Additionally, DHL's international shipping services are well-tuned operations that offer consumers superior tracking capabilities with thorough security protocols. Services Offered: It offers customised logistics services in accordance with the needs of eCommerce firmsIt offers value-added services like packaging, assembly, and direct delivery of productsIt offers a user-friendly, multi-login dashboard for managing orders and inventoryIt offers options for delayed cut-offs and speedy deliveryIt provides comprehensive logistics services, such as order fulfillment, shipping, and warehousing BlueDart Source Founding Year: 2001Location: Indiranagar, Bangalore Founded in 1983, Blue Dart is one of the premier providers of logistics services in India. It has considerable operations in Bangalore and offers a wide range of domestic logistics services. Upwards of 12,000 employees work for Bluedart across the country. It started its operation in Bangalore, in the year 2001. It is a dependable logistics partner that assures consumers can easily avoid any problem while importing or exporting goods thanks to their abundance of global distribution experience and connectivity to more than 220 countries. Additionally, they provide precise order tracking as well as expedited last-mile delivery services. You can also take advantage of delivery service optimizations, including quick delivery, scheduled delivery and cash-on-delivery services. Furthermore, it offers value-added services like weather-proof packaging, making Blue Dart a leader in the field, a preferred supplier for many Bangalore-based companies and one of the best logistics companies in Bangalore. Services Offered by BlueDart: It makes it possible to plan deliveries for specific times and datesIt offers distinctive features, such as impermeable packagingIt utilises the majority of the widely used payment methods that are availableIt includes both international and domestic solutionsIt has comprehensive knowledge of the sector due to its more than 40 years of experience Atlas Logistics Source Founding Year: 1999Location: Kodihalli, Bengaluru This reputable logistics business is based in Bangalore and was founded in 1999. They consist of a young, knowledgeable crew that makes use of cutting-edge supply chain fulfillment techniques and new technologies. They provide unique packaging and customised solutions to serve a variety of industries. Atlas Logistics also makes use of technical solutions for thorough order tracking, insurance and warehouse management. Additionally, they offer affordable rates for road and rail transportation. They are also capable of handling large amounts of freight with qualified staff and are well-equipped for bulk transportation. No doubt, it is the best logistics companies in Bangalore. Services Offered by Atlas Logistics: It provides warehouse distribution services across the countryIt offers freight management which aids in the efficient shipping of every orderIt provides order-tracking facilitiesIt consists of value-added services such as custom packagingIt offers in-depth insurance for every product Safe Express Logistics Source Founding Year: 1997Location: Naraspura Hobli Kolar, Banaglore Safe Express is a reputable and knowledgeable logistics company in Bangalore that was founded in 1997 to offer time-assured deliveries and complete storage facilities in Bangalore and other parts of India. They offer specific solutions to sectors such as electronics, healthcare, engineering and automotive. With dependable services and precise returns management, they maximise order pick-up capabilities. For operational effectiveness, the company has incorporated IT systems as well. Additionally, end-to-end supply chain efficiency is never compromised by logistics solutions such as digital warehousing, instant stocking of products and supplier management. This makes it one of the best logistics companies in Bangalore. Services Offered by Safe Express Logistics: It provides consultation services for a vast number of business tasksIt offers warehouse management services at all its storage facilitiesIt provides last-mile delivery services to the customer’s doorstepIt emphasizes sustainable logistical proceduresIt offers returns management services for all orders Blackbuck Logistics Source Founding Year: 2015Location: Kadabeesanahalli, Bengaluru It is one of the many reputable trucking-focused freight shipping businesses, with its corporate headquarters located in Bangalore. It was initially incepted in 2015. In matter of 7 years, it is among the top logistics companies in Bangalore. Their sophisticated fleet of well-maintained delivery vehicles and highly skilled human resources enable them to offer highly creative solutions. With more than 12,000 trucks and 2000+ serviceable locations, Blackbuck Logistics is a large company. To assign each operation with the ideal trucking system, they use a complex set of data analytics. Services Offered: It provides all-encompassing road transportation facilitiesIt maintains a fleet of more than 12,000 delivery vehicles and trucksIt services more than 2,000 pin codes across the countryIt offers complete management of its entire fleet of vehiclesIt provides custom freight forwarding services Kintetsu World Express Source Founding Year: 1997Location: Kodigehalli Gate, Hebbal, Bengaluru This well-known Bangalore-based parcel delivery business was founded in 1997. It is a subsidiary of the multinational company Kintetsu. It provides multiple logistics solutions in one place. This shipping company offers specialised products and services, and industry-specific solutions to multiple sectors such as manufacturing, pharmaceutical, engineering, aerospace and automotive, energy, healthcare, electronics and more. There are currently 418 employees working for Kintetsu across 18 offices. Additionally, with 24 strategically located warehouses across India, they provide multiple storage facilities. Some services provided by Kintetsu World Express that make it one of the best logistics companies in Bangalore are listed below, Services Offered: It offers insurance for various risk-prone business activitiesIt provides customisable packaging services that can be tailored to your likingIt equips you and your customers with order tracking facilities for every orderIt provides last-mile delivery servicesIt services a wide range of industries and offers tailored solutions for each Freightco Logistics Source Founding Year: 2006Location: Old Chandapuura , Bangalore The premier shipping company Freightco was founded in Bangalore, Karnataka in 2006. The company is committed to providing excellent trucking services across the country and is successfully running as one of the top logistics companies in Bangalore. Freightco is well known for its expertise in exporting products from different industries to neighbouring countries like Bangladesh and Nepal. It disperses shipments to many pin codes across the country. Due to its prompt and affordable services, this courier company is the choice of many businesses in Bangalore. They offer also convenience features such as 24/7 customer support and international shipping. Freightco is one of the best logistics companies in Bangalore. Services Offered: It provides ground, air and rail distribution services across the countryIt offers round-the-clock customer serviceIt enables the easy export of products to bordering countriesIt provides international shipping and freight services within the USIt employs the use of advanced technology to ensure your orders are always secure Coast Liners Source Founding Year: 1980Location: St Johns Road, Bangalore Coast liners is a logistics and distribution that was founded in 1980 and has a vast amount of experience in the sector. It primarily offers transportation-based logistics that are carried out by trucks and it is well-known for its excellent services. It provides services mainly to the electrical and energy industries. Bangalore businesses take advantage of its services because of the scale and scope of solutions it offers. For LTL and PTL needs, the company has a large selection of trucks, trailers, pullers, axles and freighters. Additionally, with the assistance of their operational partners, they have over 90 offices spread across 45 countries, with their international headquarters in Germany. Thus it is able to meet the needs of its clients on a massive scale. Services Offered: It has plenty of experience in the logistics industryIt has a wide selection of distribution-related machineryIt is extremely cost-effectiveIt provides international services and has multiple international officesIt has a customer base in excess of 250 companies FedEx Source Founding Year: 1971Location: Tumkur Road, Raghavendra Colony, Bangalore FedEx has established a strong name in Bengaluru and is one of the most recognisable logistics and supply chain firms globally. FedEx has been operating in India for 20-plus years. FedEx provides affordable costs and quick deliveries for every eCommerce requirement. Customers can take advantage of delivery services that are adaptable and offer options for postponing and redirecting deliveries. Additionally, it provides end-to-end insights, accurate real-time order status and prompt notifications. FedEx packaging features self-sealing choices and user-friendly, ready-to-use solutions. Additionally, with a global presence in more than 220 nations, they provide a broad range of specialist services for delivering commodities, including hazardous materials like firecrackers and toxic gas. Some services provided by FedEx that make It one of the best logistics companies in Bangalore are listed below: Services Offered: It offers a seamless experience by enabling connection with other business tools like Xero and QuickBooksIt has a specialised eCommerce platform that allows companies to manage their operations remotelyIt offers exceptional customer service where each inquiry is resolved immediatelyIt has an online commerce platform that enables customers to track their orders and get in-depth financial informationIt also offers essential 3PL services, in addition to order fulfillment, 3PL logistics companies, packaging, warehousing, and reverse logistics Suggested Read: Logistics Companies in Pune Offering the Best Logistics Services for Online and Offline Brands in 2023 Conclusion: Why WareIQ Should be Your Primary Choice Among Logistics Companies in Bangalore in 2023? Bangalore is one of India’s premier business destinations and is leading the charge to make India a household name in eCommerce and other retail sectors. For companies that want to generate increased sales, expand their offerings, increase their efficiency, and be a part of an ecosystem that is tailored toward business growth, Bangalore is the perfect option to make that happen. Additionally, because of the vast amount of businesses located in the city, there are a proportional number of logistics companies in Bangalore that are looking to provide their services to online and offline sellers alike. Thus, if you want to take advantage of the services provided by logistics companies, you have plenty of options. However, with state-of-the-art technology, an experienced team and the provision of most eCommerce services at fair and transparent pricing, WareIQ can be your bet among logistics companies in Bengaluru. In 2019, WareIQ was founded in Bangalore, Karnataka and has emerged as one of the best and fastest-growing fulfillment options in the country. The company offers a wide swathe of eCommerce services, operates across the nation and even provides worldwide shipping access to more than 220 nations and territories. The following are some of the main services provided by WareIQ that will make WareIQ your Primary Choice Among Logistics Companies in Bangalore : Inventory Management: Our in-house WMS can automate a number of procedures and provides real-time notifications.Fast Order Fulfillment: We offer dependable options for same-day and next-day shipping. Inventory Storage: We can store your SKUs wherever you need, thanks to the variety of dark stores and fulfillment centers we provide throughout India.Shipping Badges: We enable you to add shipping badges, which show estimated delivery dates, to your product listing pages, much like PrimeApp Store: With a wide selection of easily-downloadable applications, our app store is comprehensive yet intuitive.Branded Order Tracking: To differentiate yourself from the competition, you can personalise the information you include on your order tracking pages.Shipping Aggregation: We work with over 12 different courier companies and always select the best option for each item.Online Integrations: We are able to link to more than 20 web development and online retailing platforms, including Amazon, Flipkart, Shopify and others.Customized Packaging: We offer personalised packaging choices that can be modified to match your requirements.Returns Management: We take care of returns and protect you from any negative effects that may result. Suggested Read: List of Top 10 Warehousing Companies in Bangalore in 2023 Logistics Companies in Bangalore: FAQs What factors are necessary to choose the best logistics company for your business needs?It is important to evaluate the services offered by each company and determine which best fits your business needs. Factors to consider when choosing a logistics company include:- Cost- Delivery speed- Reliability- Network coverage- Customer service What services do logistics companies in Bangalore typically offer?Services offered by logistics companies in Bangalore include:- Parcel delivery- Freight transportation- Warehousing- Order fulfillment- Supply chain management What is the average delivery time for parcels in Bangalore through a logistics company like WareIQ?Delivery times can vary according to the destination and the services offered by the logistics company. On average, delivery within Bangalore can take 1-2 days, while delivery to other cities may take 2-5 days. How do logistics companies ensure the safety of packages during transportation?Logistics companies use various methods to ensure the safety of packages during transportation, including secure packaging, GPS tracking, and insurance coverage. What are the payment options for using the services of a logistics company in Bangalore?Payment options for using the services of a logistics company in Bangalore may include cash on delivery, credit/debit card, net banking, and online wallets. The available payment options may vary depending on the company. How much do logistics companies in Bangalore charge for logistics and warehousing needs?Logistics companies in Bengaluru typically offer customized pricing based on the specific needs of each customer. You can directly request the companies for quotes and expert opinions. Which is the best logistics company in Bangalore in 2023?While many companies focus on specific logistics facets, WareIQ consolidates every eCommerce solution into one platform. We provide order fulfillment, storage facilities, domestic and international shipping, inventory management, custom packaging, dropshipping, and much more at competitive and affordable pricing. This makes WareIQ the best option currently available for logistics services in Bangalore. What makes WareIQ among the best logistics company in Bangalore?WareIQ offers a wide range of services encompassing every aspect of your online and offline business. We use advanced technology and software to ensure that every process is carried out with utmost efficiency. We also enable you to select only the services you require which help in cost-cutting and saving other resources.

February 03, 2023

Continue Selling When Out of Stock on Shopify: A Comprehensive Step-to-Step Guide to Maintain Your Shopify Sales During Out-of-Stock Situations in 2024

Continue Selling When Out of Stock on Shopify: A Comprehensive Step-to-Step Guide to Maintain Your Shopify Sales During Out-of-Stock Situations in 2024

Shopify is one of the largest online marketplaces in the world. Since its inception in 2006, the company’s seller base has grown to encompass the aspirations of more than 1.7 million retailers across the world. With the shopping tendencies of customers shifting towards eCommerce on a rapid scale, sellers are constantly under pressure to maintain the right amounts of inventory so that they can fulfill orders swiftly and efficiently. However, there are certain circumstances that cause stockout situations for particular products. If you do not plan accordingly, it can result in lost sales and profits, which can have dire consequences for any business. While the focus should be on ensuring you always have the right quantity of your best-selling SKUs in stock, there are also ways to ensure that you can continue to accept orders and fulfill them at a later date, mitigating the dissatisfaction caused by products being out of stock. In this blog, we will take a look at the circumstances under which you should continue selling when out of stock on Shopify, the advantages of doing so, steps to continue selling your items, and 5 tips to follow. The Circumstances Under Which You Should Continue Selling When Out of Stock on Shopify While selling products on Shopify, an item is deemed as being out of stock when the inventory level for it is at zero or lower. By default, Shopify won't permit buyers to purchase a product when you run out of the required number of units needed to fulfill current and future orders until you replenish the inventory levels and add the necessary quantity of new stock. Once that is done and the default setting is modified, customers will then be able to purchase out-of-stock products from that item’s inventory section. You might want to let customers purchase products that aren't currently in stock for a number of reasons. The main ones are listed below: You want to enable pre-orders for a newly launched itemYou want to keep selling while you wait for your upcoming stock to arriveYou intend to initially sell items, followed by ordering the necessary suppliesYou aren’t keeping track of the actual level of inventory for various productsYou do not want to lose out on potential sales [contactus_uth] How Do You Benefit From Selling Products When Out of Stock on Shopify? Prevents Customer Dissatisfaction If you continue selling when out of stock on Shopify, you can halt upsetting your clients. You can keep your consumers informed about all the products you sell, making it simpler for them to make purchases even when a product is out of stock. They will appreciate the transparency and the ability to buy a product or add them to a wish list even if they cannot get it right away. You also won't lose out on Shopify sales opportunities by employing Back In Stock alerts as opposed to simply out-of-stock products. This is because clicking the "notify me" button indicates that you'll soon refill your consumers' preferred goods. So they only need to submit their email to receive a notification when the item again becomes available for purchase. Enables Accurate Inventory Planning You can make smarter inventory planning decisions by looking at the waiting list for a product that's out of stock and selling products when out of stock on Shopify. When a product has a long waitlist, you will be aware of the number of units you need to order and can make the necessary arrangements. You can also make smaller orders in the interim if there is a short queue for another item. Additionally, you might want to think about reducing the price or discontinuing the sale of a product if no one is waiting for it, which will also help you discern how successful it is. Maintains Your Sales Figures According to research, when customers are confronted by out-of-stock product pages, retailers risk losing close to half of the intended orders. For a typical seller, those abandoned transactions result in sales losses of roughly 4%. According to Harvard Business Review, 7% to 25% of customers who encounter a stock-out will keep browsing but won't purchase a replacement for their desired item at your business. Additionally, 21% to 43% will actually go to another store to purchase their desired item. Therefore, if you give customers the option of purchasing an item even if they have to wait more time for it, there are more chances that they will choose it as opposed to browsing for it elsewhere. Suggested Read: How to Handle out-of-stock items? Steps to Sell Products on Shopify if They are Out of Stock New Product Listings Source You can enable the option to make your products visible while they are out of stock when you first list your products. The first step is usually already selected by default. Follow the below procedures to continue selling when out of stock on Shopify while listing new products: Step 1: While creating a new product listing, click the “Track Inventory” checkbox in the “Inventory” sectionStep 2: Below the checkbox, there will be an additional “Continue Selling When Out of Stock” option that you need to enable Existing Product Listings Source You can edit current product listings in bulk, which enables you to make a change on a single listing and apply it to all of your other existing products. Follow the below procedures to continue selling when out of stock on Shopify for existing product listings: Step 1: Scroll to the “Products” tab and select “All Products”Step 2: Select all of the products you have currently listedStep 3: Click on the “Edit Products” optionStep 4: After the spreadsheet shows on your screen, select “Add Fields” and then choose “Continue Selling When Out of Stock”Step 5: Select the tick boxes at the side of all the products you want to continue selling once they are out of stock Suggested Read: 15 Most Common Mistakes To Avoid When Using Shopify for Your Retail Business in 2023 5 Simple Ways of Selling Products When Out of Stock on Shopify in 2023 Suggest Alternative Products Source You should think about including a section in the product descriptions for related items that are available on your site to continue selling when out of stock on Shopify. It is imperative to give your clients some recommendations for substitute products so they might find other options equally appealing and eventually buy a few of them. This is a strategic tactic, especially if the out-of-stock products generate a lot of traffic from other sources. Many Shopify themes allow you to place the related products tab directly under the product information. You can experiment with the messaging as well. For instance,  you write something along the lines of “Take a look at similar products that we offer while this item comes back in stock” rather than just "Related Products." Place Out of Stock Items Last on Product Lists Source Your clients won't be able to buy a product if it's sold out. Therefore, there is no purpose in displaying a product that is not currently available for purchase. Therefore, the out-of-stock goods need to be placed last on various product and category lists to prevent them from being easily visible and accessible to customers, who may end up trying to purchase them, only to run into a variety of hurdles. Sadly, there is no way to accomplish this directly through your Shopify admin panel. But in the same way that some Shopify applications let you include a "Notify Me" option to your listing pages, there are other apps that let you move the items that aren't presently available and conceal them at the bottom of your page. Refrain From Hiding Out of Stock Items Source On their websites, some retailers prefer to hide or remove out of stock products from the view of customers. When you do this, you end up directing your clients to nonexistent pages and 404 errors, which is a recipe for disaster and can make them lose faith in your brand. If you have connected that item to an ongoing social media marketing effort, it can get even worse because leads will flock to your site, only to be disappointed. If you want to continue selling products when out of stock on Shopify, simply give people the option of buying them at a later date. This will ensure you continue to get sales and will also ensure that customers don’t get a long-lasting negative impression of your business. Inform Customers When Products are Sold Out Source It is important to inform your customers that certain items are currently out of stock after placing them in a strategically out-of-sight way. So, on the collection page of your shopify website, you must place a “Sold-Out” banner upfront on the relevant listing pages so that customers will be instantly informed. However, only do this for the items you have no intention of selling or restocking in a hurry. Your clients will be able to tell which items are available and which are not, thanks to this, which will prompt them to continue browsing other products that are available. Shopify uses a unique HTML class, so out of stock goods can be targeted using a custom CSS. Because of this, you will need to work with code and perhaps enlist the aid of a programmer. Provide an Option for Customers to Get Notified Source You must provide your clients with a suitable solution to continue selling when out of stock on Shopify. By including a "Notify Me" in an accessible location on the listing pages of every out of stock item, you can allow customers to indicate their interest in purchasing that item. Customers can enter their email address or phone number when they click the button, allowing you to add them to the waiting list and send them an alert when the product is back in stock. Remember that if a product has multiple variants, each inventory variant must be edited independently. To add a "Notify me" button to your store, simply browse the back-in-stock alert applications in the Shopify app, shopify plus store and choose an appropriate option. Conclusion: Fulfill Your Shopify Orders With WareIQ Out of stock situations are a sad reality for every retailer. However, instead of panicking and causing even more damage, you can prepare for it and use the aforementioned tactics to continue to achieve your sales targets and ensure your customers have a positive experience. Shopify as a platform is highly customisable and has no dearth of productivity-enhancing apps that can redirect the attention of your customers whenever you want to. This can help you recommend alternative products, add them to a wishlist and get their contact information to promote upcoming products in the future. If you need assistance with fulfilling orders on Shopify and any other eCommerce selling platforms, consider partnering with WareIQ. WareIQ is an eCommerce fulfillment company that provides a wide range of services and can fulfill orders on most major online marketplaces, including Shopify. Some of our main features include: Platform Integrations Shopify and more than 20 other eCommerce channels can be seamlessly integrated with WareIQ so you can view all of your crucial data from a single dashboard. Super-Speedy Delivery With the help of WareIQ, you can deliver purchases to consumers on the same or the following day, improving their experience with your business. Returns Management Returns are an unavoidable aspect of online shopping. Their detrimental effects on your company don't have to be, though. We fully manage your returns process and provide a number of precautions to shelter your business. Selection of Shipping Companies With more than 12 of the largest shipping companies in the nation as partners, WareIQ has a smart allocator that chooses the quickest and least expensive shipping method for each order. Comprehensive Storage Network in India We have a network of dark stores and fulfillment centers that spans the entirety of India. Additionally, you can manage your orders on all of them using our unique WMS. Suggested Read: How to Fulfill Shopify Orders with WareIQ in 8 Easy Steps Continue Selling When Out of Stock on Shopify: FAQs Can you continue selling when out of stock on Shopify?Yes, you can continue selling out of stock items on Shopify using a backordering or pre-ordering system. How can you set up back ordering on Shopify?You can set up backordering by editing your product settings to allow customers to purchase out-of-stock items. You can also use an external app to manage backorder. How do I notify customers when an out of stock item becomes available?You can send automated email notifications to customers using a Shopify app or by setting up email notifications in your store's settings. Can you still charge customers for out of stock items?Yes, you can still charge customers for out of stock items, but you should clearly communicate the expected shipping date or availability. How can you manage backorders on Shopify?You can manage backorders by tracking inventory levels, updating product availability and communicating with customers. Use a Shopify app or manually update your product settings to manage backorders.

January 31, 2023

10 Successful Omnichannel Retail Examples From World’s Best Omnichannel Retailers in 2024

10 Successful Omnichannel Retail Examples From World’s Best Omnichannel Retailers in 2024

Likely, you have successfully been exposed to an omnichannel retail approach, even if you weren't aware of it. In addition, some merchants are getting very inventive in targeting their consumers and maintaining their constant engagement since the journey to buying encompasses an expanding number of channels and devices. An omnichannel retail approach combines many customer-facing sales and communication channels, combining their strengths to provide a convenient, dependable, cogent, and all-encompassing customer experience. Fashion firms are seeing great success because of their solid omnichannel presence! The average retention rate for retailers with an excellent omnichannel strategy is 89%, compared to 33% for those without. We look at the most successful omnichannel retail examples the fashion industry has seen by 2022 to understand what omnichannel success looks like. What Is Omnichannel Retail? Omnichannel retail refers to delivering a consistent consumer experience over various channels, from brand recognition to order fulfillment and delivery. Whether shopping online, on their smartphone, on social media, or in a physical store, customers may get a seamless and unified experience with an omnichannel strategy. To provide a seamless, one-of-a-kind, and personalised consumer journey, omnichannel retail further streamlines the usage of several sales channels compared to multichannel retailing. Moreover, regardless of the point of sale, the fulfillment procedure is more reliable and affordable. The Advantages of Omnichannel Retailing For instance, a business might provide service via Facebook Messenger, live chat, email, and phone in addition to its desktop website. There are many advantages to using an omnichannel strategy in your marketing, sales, and service plans. The benefits comprise- Enhanced Customer Reach You can contact your customers wherever they are if you have an omnichannel retail, marketing, or service plan. They are no longer required to look far and wide to find you. Instead, your staff or your products are accessible to everyone, everywhere, with just a click, an email, a direct message, or a phone call. Increased Profitability Using an omnichannel strategy, customers are encouraged to interact with brands through several touchpoints and channels. Research indicates that clients that engage with many touchpoints are 30% more valuable. Therefore, these enhanced, varied engagements at each stage of the buyer's journey can help increase revenue. This more specific messaging also fosters loyalty, increasing the likelihood that a customer would use your brand again. Even though they make up a smaller fraction of your customer base, repeat customers typically account for 40% of your sales. Increased Customer Engagement If your customers believe they have multiple ways to contact your sales and customer support personnel, they will be happy. Or if consumers can easily buy your stuff no matter what device or platform they prefer. Customer happiness is the secret to lowering customer churn and retaining them as loyal customers. As you can see, providing your clients with an omnichannel experience is essential for your company's success. After that, describe the omnichannel experience. Improved Client Loyalty You enhance the likelihood of first-time sales and keep customers coming back for more by engaging them across different platforms and adding value to your content. Boost in Brand Loyalty Customers can tell that you understand them and are prepared to try to get to know them when you connect with them across many touchpoints and engage them with customised content. Doing this will foster brand loyalty, raising average order value and customer lifetime value (CLTV) (AOV). You can learn more about customer pain points for e-commerce here. Rise in Foot Traffic By merging your product, sales, and customer data, you can build an integrated, connected, omnichannel customer experience that will give rise to both online and store traffic. Better Identification Information Going genuinely omnichannel should include your data analytics and how customers interact with your business. For example, brands may better understand the customer journey, when and where customers want to engage, and which campaigns have generated the most value by measuring engagements across channels. Your strategy can use this data to develop better-targeted advertisements and maximise media expenditure. 10 Best Omnichannel Retail Examples in 2023 As some individuals may already be aware, the advent of Omnichannel has sparked a complete transformation in retail trading. Although most retailers know Omnichannel's usefulness, not all can successfully use it to run the business at scale. The issue arose when it was discovered that although they were aware of the potential adverse effects of Omnichannel, doing so still needed to be solved. Obstacles may be caused by disparities in diverse fields, business size, competitiveness, and other factors. Therefore, there isn't a tried-and-true recipe for every firm to succeed with omnichannel. It's likely to gain knowledge from others' successes, nevertheless. So here is a list of 10 impressive Omnichannel Brands that you should carefully study and imitate. DSW (Designer Shoe Warehouse)  Source With more than 500 stores around the country and an online presence, DSW, Inc. (Designer Shoe Warehouse) is an American footwear retailer that sells name-brand and designer shoes and fashion accessories. EBay Enterprise chose them as one of the best omnichannel retailers in 2015. Valuable Takeaways from DSW Customers can now shop for more colours, styles, and extended sizes via mobile devices and digital displays thanks to new infinite aisle technology.Customers may browse redeemable Rewards certificates, wish lists, and personalised offers using a new in-store mobile application and check out swiftly from anywhere in the store.DSW recently updated its e-commerce platform in related news to release new search and personalisation possibilities. Customers can now access more relevant search results on DSW.com. Thanks to the improvement, they will soon be able to access tailored information.Additionally, the firm intends to provide customers with the option of buying items online and picking them up in-store, which would further broaden DSW's brand of shopping ease. Urban Outfitters Source An international American clothing company with its main office in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is Urban Outfitters, Inc. In addition to those countries, it also runs retail operations in Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Pakistan, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and Spain. Its stock mainly comprises clothing, accessories, sportswear, gear, and housewares for both men and women in the fashion industry, as well as music, primarily vinyl records and cassettes. Takeaway: Urban Outfitters prioritizes digital in their omnichannel strategy. Create a comprehensive and user-friendly website to make visitors feel at home for as long as feasible. They employ a variety of media, including slideshows, drop-down boxes, and movies. The front end is simple and easy to use. According to clever categories, shoppers can search for the products they want. You can use a straightforward website builder and incorporate such user-friendly components if you're a small business creating a little online store.A new approach to the content company has created the "UO Live" music series and video streaming channel, and its music-focused Instagram page to sell on Instagram features exclusive releases and contests. The shop has widened its product offers in the area to give its festival-going customer base a genuine omnichannel "surround sound" experience, vinyl, headphones, and other music-related accessories are available in addition to its shop and online product offers.Urban Outfitters uses Instagram as a branding tool and retargets its marketing to an older audience. One of the methods this brand used to alter was Instagram, where the graphics were improved, and better products that would appeal to an adult market were shown. Abercrombie & Fitch Source A&F, an American shop headquartered in New Albany, Ohio, specialises in stylish casual apparel for youthful customers. The corporation runs 1,049 locations for the three brands. Abercrombie Kids and Hollister Co. are two more subsidiary brands run by the business. The advantages of Abercrombie & Fitch's Omnichannel are: They permitted online and in-store pickup for customers.The system may conduct web searches for in-store merchandise to aid customers in making decisions.Customers' carts will be shared across all devices for product purchases to ensure a seamless online shopping experience. If a customer adds some items to their shopping basket, the transaction is halted for whatever reason. They can access those products later via a mobile device, allowing them to proceed to the next step without having to start over.Abercrombie & Fitch's Omnichannel enables cross-channel product returns.Three or more channels are provided for customer service. Foot Locker Source A sportswear and footwear retailer based in the United States, Foot Locker Retail, Inc. operates in 28 different countries and is headquartered in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. It's important to discuss the efforts to obfuscate the distinction between online and offline stores while examining Foot Locker's effectiveness in operating Omnichannel. At actual stores, video walls are displayed, allowing customers to: Online product research in-storeView the merchandise from all sides by rotating it.Read the feedback left by other users who have worn it. Additionally, there is a better connection between the internet-store and the actual location. Therefore, customers can notice the price breaks in both places, for instance, if this brand offers discounts on some products. As a result, the requirement of a constant price is met. ZARA Zara Zara is a Spanish fast fashion brand owned by Inditex Group. It was founded in 1975 and is known for its trendy and affordable clothing and accessories. Zara has a reputation for producing high-quality products and responding quickly to changing fashion trends, which has contributed to its success and popularity. The brand has a global presence with over 2,000 stores in 96 countries. In addition to its brick-and-mortar stores, Zara also has an online store and a mobile app, making it accessible to customers globally. Zara's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility is also a key aspect of its brand image. Zara's omnichannel strategy Online Store: Zara has an e-commerce website that allows customers to purchase products online.Mobile App: The brand also has a mobile app that allows customers to shop, check store availability, and receive shipping notifications.In-Store Experience: Zara invests in creating a seamless in-store experience with an attractive store design and a variety of products.Fast Fashion: Zara follows a fast fashion model, producing new collections frequently and responding quickly to changing customer preferences.Store Pick-up: Customers can purchase products online and pick them up in store, allowing for a more convenient shopping experience.Integrating Technology: Zara is continuously integrating technology into its stores, such as RFID tagging, to improve supply chain efficiency and enhance the customer experience.Social Media: The brand has a strong presence on social media platforms to engage with customers and showcase its products. Ulta Beauty Source Ulta Beauty, Inc., with headquarters in Bolingbrook, Illinois, is a network of beauty stores in the United States. Ulta Salon, Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. was its previous name until January 2017. Men's and women's fragrances, hair care items, and cosmetic and skincare brands are all available at Ulta Beauty. A salon is also open in each store. The critical takeaway from Ulta Inventory sharing- Ulta's physical locations and online stores can access the same stock.Online product debuts- Ulta initially adds new products to its e-commerce site before bringing them into stores, usually two weeks later. According to Hamm, this enables online discovery and encourages customers to enter the business.Ulta sets a challenge to create the online experience with mobile in mind rather than desktop. According to Hamm, we start with mobile and then adapt to other mediums.Synced inventory- Similar to other retailers, Ulta observes that a sizeable percentage of its site traffic, both mobile and desktop, is made up of people checking to verify if the item they're looking at online is available in-store. For Ulta to inform web users of the availability of its product, inventory levels are synchronised.Collaborative leadership: Within the Ulta organisation, there is regular contact between the various teams. According to Hamm, no matter the department, whether it is a supply chain, inventory, or merchandising problem, it is one experience for the customer. And it's this teamwork that makes it possible to approve, fund, and carry out omnichannel projects.Marketing attribution: All online and offline marketing initiatives are evaluated to see how they affect consumer spending.Shared data is necessary for Ulta to provide smooth and straightforward customer experiences because customers are the company's primary focus, according to Hamm. For instance, store employees can propose products to in-store customers depending on information about a customer's prior online purchases. Pet Smart Source The selling of pet animal items and services, such as dog grooming and training, cat and dog boarding facilities, and daycare, is the focus of PetSmart Inc., an American retail chain located in the USA, Canada, and Puerto Rico. Birds, fish, amphibians, reptiles, and various small animals, including guinea pigs, chinchillas, gerbils (except in California), numerous types of hamsters, and mice, are also available for adoption and purchase at PetSmart. The Key Learning from PetSmart Due to the following characteristics, PetSmart ranked sixth in the study: Choose online and pick up in person.Search online for in-store merchandise.The functionality of receiving returned goods is ensured, as is sharing the cart between devices.The price stability is perfect. Sierra Trading Post Source The TJX Companies run the catalogue, online, and in-store retailer Sierra Trading Post, which sells discounted goods. The Cheyenne, Wyoming-based business sells items in the following categories: footwear, clothing, and home décor, as well as outdoor recreation, fitness and adventure gear, and apparel. As of June 2017, Sierra Trading Post operated 16 physical retail locations, two catalogues that were mailed, and a website. It offers goods from about 3,000 well-known firms. The most valuable lesson from Sierra Trading Since showroom visitors enjoy comparing prices, Sierra Trading Post also offers this service on its website. This brand stated the recommended price. Along with these features, Sierra Trading Post offers the following ones to give customers a smooth experience: Order online and pick up in-storeShop online for in-store merchandise.Cart sharedThree or more customer service channelsThe uniformity of prices. Lenskart Source By embracing the new omnichannel trend and attempting to sway the next generation of omnichannel customers, Lenskart is upending the whole Indian eyeglasses industry. Lenskart Retail Omnichannel Takeaway Strategies- It increased its offline presence by opening 250 new stores annually. For internet shoppers to taste the products before making a purchase.To support their omnichannel initiatives, they also developed a 3D virtual trial room that gives customers the impression that they are in a physical store when trying different types of eyewear. Customers can take a selfie using their camera and 3D function to select the glasses that best fit their faces.Their customer can purchase something in a physical store and then return it using any digital storefront (apps, desktop websites, mobile websites, etc.) and vice versa. Pepperfry Source Pepperfry, India's biggest online furniture retailer, is a well-liked destination for mattresses, furniture, lighting, and other products. They effectively use the omnichannel strategy to serve their enormous customer base through online channels and concept-based retail studio shops. Pepperfry Retail Omnichannel Strategies- To boost store traffic and establish various contact points for omnichannel purchasing, Pepperfry built 32 offline franchise stores in 25 cities. This tactic alone raised their conversion rate by 45%.Their franchise locations provide consumers with live video calls, customer assistance, and consultation to establish a close-knit relationship with them.They have integrated augmented reality technology for clients arriving on their websites, including 3D representations, virtual try-on, and product demos. This allowed their clients to picture the products in their own homes. Conclusion Every retailer needs a unique coherence strategy to execute omnichannel successfully. Sensibly and competently administering this system at the back end is just as important as keeping customers happy and content with a flawless experience. As a result, practically all the finest Omnichannel brands chose to work with third parties to improve their business operations. They are the true professionals who can offer merchants the most excellent answer in addition to their enthusiastic support and competent utilisation of the system whenever issues arise. How WareIQ Can Improve Your Omnichannel Fulfillment Strategy To Be A Key Source Of Revenue Generation? Brands of all sizes may benefit from WareIQ's tech-driven fulfillment services to provide top-notch customer experiences across all channels. In addition, WareIQ centralises logistics operations to meet customer expectations with integrated solutions for order and inventory management and quick shipping. With a solid fulfilling network, technological solution, dozens of integrations with top e-commerce platforms, marketplaces, sales, and social media channels, and B2B fulfillment capabilities, WareIQ assists in managing omnichannel fulfillment. All sales channels can easily manage products, orders, clients, and shipping. WareIQ even provides 2-Day Express delivery, which lowers cart abandonment and boosts revenues for direct-to-consumer transactions.  A robust order management system is necessary for an omnichannel selling strategy. The following summarises the benefits of having WareIQ handling your omnichannel order management. Sell, Deliver, and Return Anywhere Sales and returns can be more difficult the more significant the company is, and the more inventory is involved. With omnichannel order management, you can sell finished goods and ship them from any location while connecting customers to their purchase histories for an easy shopping experience. You must provide a seamless returns process for consumers who need to return or exchange items, allowing them to do so in-store or through self-service options. Returns may result in short-term financial loss, but if you handle them well, you can quickly establish a returning clientele. Boost Client Satisfaction Customers want to know that your product is available everywhere. The ability to sell, ship, and return goods from any location dramatically increase customer satisfaction when an integrated omnichannel order management workflow is implemented. It also ensures that every sales channel uses the same real-time inventory data to avoid stockouts and backorders. The buying and returning procedure are made as easy and frictionless as feasible by omnichannel order management. Streamline Logistics Processes It is very important to streamline your shipping and logistics process. Our internal logistics processes improve together with the client experience. Managing your order, inventory, and returns is more straightforward when all your orders are integrated into one location. To ensure that orders are filled, shipped, and received fast. So that returns are handled efficiently, omnichannel solutions, from order management to retail fulfilment, enable accurate inventory, order, and return data across channels. Best Omni Channel Retailers FAQs What is retail omnichannel fulfilment?The procedure of picking, packing, and delivering orders as clients place them through various sales channels is known as omnichannel fulfilment retail. These can include physical storefronts, internet marketplaces, and e-commerce sites. Can omnichannel fulfilment lead to an increase in sales?Yes, by reaching customers where they are and giving them options for how to buy and receive your products, omnichannel retail, in general, is a terrific method to boost sales. An effective omnichannel fulfilment process can result in a quick delivery (and even an enjoyable unboxing experience) and, as a result, positive customer contact that increases the likelihood that they will make another purchase from you. What advantages does omnichannel offer?The main advantage of omnichannel selling is the convenience of managing orders from all your sales channels—in-store, online, mobile, social, etc.—in one place. This facilitates data analysis, decreases data entry, promotes visibility, and enhances the client experience. What role does WareIQ play in omnichannel order management?WareIQ's smart fulfillment tech platform provides easy integrations across all the marketplaces, online platforms, ERP/POS, etc where the orders get synced and managed efficiently. WareIQ's pan India fulfillment center network along with partnerships with India's leading shipping companies like Bluedart, Delhivery, DTDC etc. enables omnichannel order fulfillment for all the online and offline brands in India. What is an Omni channel retail business? Give a few examples.Omni-channel retail is a business strategy that provides customers with a seamless shopping experience across multiple channels, such as physical stores, online, mobile, and social media. The goal of an omni-channel strategy is to create a unified experience for customers, regardless of the channel they use to engage with the brand.Examples of companies with an omni-channel retail strategy include:i) Walmart: Offers online shopping, in-store pickup, and delivery options for customers.ii) Target: Allows customers to shop online and pick up in-store, as well as offering curbside pickup options.iii) Nike: Provides customers with a unified shopping experience across their physical stores, e-commerce site, and mobile app.iv) Zara: Offers online shopping, in-store pickup, and a mobile app, as well as a seamless in-store experience.

January 31, 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

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

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

How multi-piece-shipment (MPS) can potentially reduce your logistics cost by half?

How multi-piece-shipment (MPS) can potentially reduce your logistics cost by half?

In e-commerce, a multi-piece shipment refers to a single order that is fulfilled using more than one package. This can occur when an order is too large to fit in a single shipment. E-commerce companies from various categories may use multi-piece shipments, but it is most commonly used in the following categories: Fashion and apparel: Ship multiple items, such as clothing and accessories, in one package to customers.Home goods and furniture: Large items such as furniture and appliances are processed as Multi-piece ShipmentsElectronics and technology: Ship multiple items, such as cell phones and computers, in one package to customers.Beauty and personal care: Makeup and skincare products are put into one package and shipped to customers.Grocery and household items: Food and household supplies are delivered in one package to customers.Books and media: Multiple items such as books, movies, and music, are shipped in one package to customers.Toys and games: Usually ship multiple items, such as toys and games, in one package to customers. However, not all e-commerce companies from the aforementioned categories use multi-piece shipments. Ultimately, it depends on their specific business needs. Cost-Saving Potential of Multi-Piece Shipments (MPS) Multi-piece shipments, or consolidated shipments, have the potential to save costs in several ways. Reduced shipping costs: By consolidating multiple items into one shipment, the overall shipping cost per item may be reduced.Reduced risk of damage or loss: Consolidation of multiple items leads to lesser exchanges at hubs and thus lesser risk of damage or lossReduced inventory holding costs: Consolidating multiple items into one shipment allows for more efficient use of warehouse space, which can reduce inventory holding costs.Reduced handling costs: Elimination of multiple pick-ups and deliveries leads to a reduction of handling costs associated with each individual package.Reduced packaging costs: The need for multiple packages and their associated costs (e.g. boxes, packaging materials, etc.) is eliminated due to the consolidation of multiple items. Here is an example to illustrate how multi-piece shipments can save logistics costs, and significantly improve the consumer experience. "Imagine a mattress brand receiving an order of a mattress, a pillow, and a comforter from a customer setting up his new house.  If the brand’s fulfillment company divided it into three packages - one for the mattress, one for the pillow, and one for the soft furnishing - the shipping cost would be INR 900. On the other hand, if the entire order was shipped in a single multi-piece package, the total shipping cost would be roughly INR 390. This is a logistics cost saving of INR 490 per order!"- Harsh Vaidya, CEO, WareIQ Illustrative example to showcase the cost-saving potential of Mult-piece Shipments (MPS) What happens in absence of Multi-piece Shipment (MPS) capability? In absence of MPS, customers, generally, receive a broken brand experience. Different ETAs for potentially complementary productsDifficulty in tracking all orders in a single placeHigher cost of deliveriesDelay in deliveries of different items from the same order This leads to overall negative customer sentiment toward the brand and higher levels of customer dissatisfaction What is required to process Multi-piece Shipments (MPS)? A confluence of smart technology to efficiently manage orders and inventory and skilled people and operations are what make Multi-piece Shipments (MPS) possible. WareIQ's smart fulfillment capabilities combine the above in the following form to enable MPS for brands and sellers across categories and channels: Order Management system with the ability to add more packages to shipment detailsFulfillment tech in the warehouse provides staff visibility on the Order IDs, and SKUs to be clubbed together, and scan-based operations to make it error-freeUnified tracking engine with the ability to club multiple AWBs into oneTraining of the FC staff on the nuances of this use-case Here's a look at how WareIQ helps sellers in creating Multi-Piece Shipments (MPS) easily in just a few clicks: https://youtu.be/msaJVAtlCvU Enabling Multi-piece Shipment (MPS) using WareIQ

January 23, 2023