When selecting a third-party logistics (3PL) fulfillment partner, making the right choice is crucial for your business’s success. To help you navigate this important decision, we’ve compiled an essential guide: 10 Things to Look for in Your Next Fulfillment Partner. Check out our comprehensive infographic below for a quick overview of these key considerations.
Do They Provide an Industry
Leading Software Platform?
Look for a platform that offers superior reporting, trending analytics, and alert functionalities. Real-time, 24/7 portal access can give you the visibility and control you need to manage your operations effectively.
Is Their Service Highly
Customized and Personal?
Ensure they offer service from a reliable, single point of contact who knows your business and products intimately, managing all fulfillment tasks so you can focus on growth.
Do They Employ Best-Practice-Savvy,
Process-Driven Warehouse Staff?
Accuracy and efficiency are key. Look for 99.9% order accuracy, 24-48 hour order processing, and the ability to manage custom kitting and subscription box services.
Do They Offer Robust Digital
Printing and Mailing Services?
Ask if they can significantly reduce your vendor pool by providing USPS certified mailing services and a trained call center team for brand and product support.
Can They Integrate with Your
E-Retailer and Distribution Partners?
Check their software integration expertise to ensure seamless alignment with your existing digital marketing, labeling, and shipping demands.
Do They Provide Amazon Fulfillment by
Reseller and/or Fulfillment by Merchant Support?
Make sure they understand Amazon’s protocols for packing, labeling, and compliance to ensure your products meet Amazon’s exacting standards.
Can They Create Merchandising and
Sales Tools and Custom Ordering Portals?
A single source for all your omnichannel support assets simplifies the distribution process. Custom ordering portals for sales teams and distribution partners are a big plus.
Do They Have Event Management
Support and Nationwide Logistics Expertise?
Look for a partner who can handle the logistics of your dealer events, samples, tools, displays, and more, ensuring a smooth, coordinated effort across all your e-commerce activities.
Do They Offer DIY Access and Control of
Their Warehouse Management Software?
Beyond visibility, the best partners offer software that allows you to run your own task management, enter orders, and generate reports 24/7.
Do They Have a Wealth of Experience
Across a Broad Range of Brands?
Every business has unique challenges. A good fulfillment partner brings a wealth of experience, having solved various issues for a diverse clientele.
If your prospective fulfillment partner can answer “YES” to all these questions, you’re on the right track. These services might not all be essential now, but as your business grows, you’ll need a partner who can support your evolving requirements.
Ready to Dive Deeper?
Download our free eBook, 10 Things to Look for in Your Next Fulfillment Partner, for an in-depth exploration of these key considerations. This resource will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed choice and find the perfect partner for your business needs.
At Marketing Support Services (MSS), we pride ourselves on our extensive experience, innovative solutions, and consultative approach. Let us help you achieve seamless, efficient fulfillment that propels your business forward.