Fulfilling online orders

If delivery is central to your business then you might want to consider using a third-party logistics and distribution service. This will allow you to focus on your core goals, such as:

• productivity
• profits
• reducing costs 

You could outsource some or all of the following work:

• order handling
• stock control
• storage
• packing
• dispatch of goods
• delivery of goods
• development and management of your website

Why outsource?

As your online sales increase, you may find your business struggling to meet customer expectations for:

• range of products 
• fast, convenient delivery
• low-cost or even free delivery 

Moving large amounts of small orders cost-effectively could be a challenge. Outsourcers can share warehouse space and resources with other online merchants. This keeps costs low. Their experience and scale help them to deliver goods quickly. They may have systems to allow customers to easily track and re-book deliveries.  

Choose the right outsourcing partner

Many businesses find it easy to distribute products in bulk through traditional distribution channels. For example, through wholesalers and retailers. Small online businesses selling directly to customers may find distribution more challenging.  

If you are considering outsourcing your fulfilment services, then you should look for a partner who:

• is dedicated to properly representing your brand name and understands e-commerce market opportunities 
• offers reliable back-end technology to support fulfilment 
• has experience in inventory management, logistics, information systems and customer service
• can move goods efficiently to meet customer needs, both now and as your business grows