Warehousing: The 3PL receives your inventory in its warehouse and organizes each SKU in its inventory management system. When a customer places an order on your e-commerce website, the order information is transmitted to the 3PL. This can be done manually; your order fulfillment team sends a daily order list, for example. But to make things even easier, 3PLs can also integrate directly into your online store’s backend using a tool like Sendcloud. This transfers order information automatically, without the risk of errors.
Pick and pack:
Orders are prepared and phone number list packed for shipment. Many 3PL fulfillment centers use state-of-the-art automated systems to quickly pick SKUs during order fulfillment. This ensures optimal speed and accuracy.Shipping: Packages are prepared for bulk shipping. The 3PL generates shipping labels and delivers your shipments directly to the appropriate carriers.
Tracking:
Ideally, the 3PL uses an API integration like Sendcloud’s to automatically sync tracking information with your fulfillment get comprehensive support software. This ensures you have real-time information on every package. All of ShipBob’s fulfillment centers, for example, use a unified warehouse management system that’s connected, via a single Sendcloud API integration, to multiple carrier systems. As a result, ShipBob, its customers (e-commerce retailers), and end customers receive accurate, real-time tracking information.
Returns: 3PLs also receive items returned by customers. These returned items are processed according to your company’s procedures.
Benefits of Using 3PL
Reduced overhead costs: 3PLs allow you text services to reduce or eliminate certain expenses. This includes warehouse space, labor, and the technology required to manage shipping on your own.
Shipping discounts: Because they ship large volumes, 3PLs are eligible for the highest discounts offered by carriers. By shipping your goods through a 3PL, you also benefit from these discounts, without having to negotiate contracts with individual carriers.