The success of your online store depends on how quickly and efficiently you can deliver orders. This is where marketplace fulfillment partners come in. The last thing you want is customers leaving negative reviews because their orders arrived late or in bad condition.
Having the right partner can help you fend off competition and build a loyal customer base. It can be the difference between customers canceling orders and happy buyers returning and referring your store to others.
But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right marketplace fulfillment partner for your business?
What Is Marketplace Fulfillment?
It is important to understand what marketplace fulfillment means before you start your search. In simple terms, marketplace fulfillment means relying on a 3PL (third-party logistics) company to store your inventory, pack orders, and ship them to your customers.
A popular example is Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA). However, there are other marketplace fulfillment partners like Packageman serving multiple marketplaces. The overall benefit is that you don’t have to convert your garage into a storage unit, lease a warehouse, or invest in an inventory management system.
Consider Your Sales and Marketplace Requirements
Online marketplaces have different rules and standards. For example, Amazon is strict when it comes to delivery timelines and packaging. The one thing you must insist on when looking for a marketplace fulfillment partner is that they must understand the requirements of the marketplace where you operate.
A good partner should support multiple channels, especially if you have stores on different marketplaces. They should have an inventory system that works well and syncs orders without manual input from your side.
Shipping Speed and Coverage
Customers expect fast delivery, probably 24–48 hours after checking out. Same-day shipping will elevate your status and help you stay in business. The first thing you must do when evaluating marketplace fulfillment providers is to determine how fast they process orders.
Also, inquire if they do offer same-day shipping services and what carriers they work with for last-mile delivery. If you have international customers, the partner should have the facilities to ship to the designated locations.
Understand the Costs and Pricing Structure for Marketplace Fulfillment Providers
The cost of marketplace fulfillment will vary based on various factors. It is always advisable to get a breakdown of the fees and extra charges, if any, beforehand. The costs will include things like storage and packaging fees and shipping costs.
Get quotes from multiple marketplace fulfillment partners and compare their prices and what they offer. Going for the cheapest provider in exchange for slower delivery will hurt your business in the long term.
Check Their Experience and Reputation
As usual, reputation is everything in business. You want to partner with fulfillment providers that have a good track record. You can get reviews from social media, Trustpilot, and Yelp.
Read case studies from other online sellers who have used their services before. This will let you in on a lot of information, helping you make the best choice in the end. A proven track record and positive reviews are signs that the company is capable of handling challenges and managing compliance rules.
