Provides details on how to select a fulfilment provider and a link to ShipStation's fulfilment provider partners page and questionnaire.
Deciding to turn your product fulfilment process over to a third-party provider can be a daunting task. The ShipStation fulfilment referral program is designed to take some of the guesswork out of this process. We partner with fulfilment providers already familiar with ShipStation and who are well-respected in the market. With that in mind, we've developed some criteria you may wish to use when searching for the right provider for your needs.
For a full list of available ShipStation fulfilment providers, go to our Fulfilment Partners Page.
Ready to take the next step? Complete our Fulfilment Provider questionnaire , and we'll help get a fulfilment provider in touch with you.
Review this checklist to help you decide which fulfilment provider is best for you.
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Criteria |
Details |
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Do they specialize in your product? |
A fulfilment provider with similar customers is likely to know the specific needs for packaging and presenting your products. With many providers to choose from, our program helps you find the fulfilment provider who specializes in fulfilling the type of product you are selling. If your product involves hazardous materials, dangerous goods, or is sensitive in any way, a fulfilment provider specializing in fulfilling these products becomes a must. |
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Do they have references from customers similar to yours? |
All ShipStation Fulfilment partners are required to have customer references they can make available to you. Reach out to these references and ask them about their experiences, and what you can expect when turning over your fulfilment operations to a third-party provider. |
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Where are their warehouses/fulfilment centres located? |
Your customers expect faster delivery more than ever before. A fulfilment provider with a warehouse closer to where the majority of your customers are located ensures low cost and faster delivery to your customers. |
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Do they work with the parcel carriers you already have in place? |
You are already likely familiar with the policies and procedures, as well as the tracking notifications, of your current parcel carrier and how they get shipments to your customers. Finding a fulfilment partner that already utilizes the carrier you have in place ensures minimal disruption to your customer experience. |
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What is their typical inbound process? |
Different fulfilment providers will have different procedures for receiving products. Some will require a schedule, while others will require pre-labeling of the products. Others could require notification of the product en route to them. It is important to identify these procedures and match them with what you are capable of doing. |
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What is their fee and pricing structure and does this fit with your growth strategy? |
Some fulfilment providers charge for their services based on a variety of fees and price models. It is important to speak with several providers to find one that can price their services based on your needs and the needs of your growing business. Knowing your projected volumes over the next three to six months - daily order volume, number of SKUs, weight of shipments - as well as where your customers are located, will go a long way in helping you find the right fulfilment provider. |
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What are YOUR current pain points? |
Fulfilment providers are professionals who work with merchants like you every day. Knowing your current pain points will help the fulfilment partner identify the best way to help you with your fulfilment needs. |