Fulfillment is defined as the process in which a third party service, providing the storage of customer goods and order processing, receives and fulfills the requested item or items and up until delivery is made. Hiring a third party provider is a great way to expand your business and customer service if you choose the right kind of company.
Accordingly, and to give you a bit more precise insight, the involvement or mission of order fulfillment companies is to provide businesses with complete fulfillment services following specific orders made by customers either through an ecommerce site, phone, mail, fax or through any other means such as direct marketing. Needless to say, order fulfillment is probably the most significant part of a business operation. The manner in which the orders are processed, how fast, how efficiently and accurately once these are received will in many times determine customer loyalty. Moreover and in some instances, the provider will also handle returns (along with the hassles that go along with these!).
Fulfillment centers often work on a contractual basis, accepting a small fee per unit sold from each business with which it enters into a pre-arranged partnership. These agreements often vary between the fulfillment center and the particular ecommerce business owner, and may change or fluctuate and sales rise or recede over time.
Top rated order fulfillment companies offer their high quality services and experienced staff which is evidently greatly appreciated by all kinds of companies, big and small. Before selecting the appropriate fulfillment provider, one of the best and first steps is to review their website, company profile and customer feedback. This approach will make it easier to research and reach contacts with the fulfillment companies that you consider capable of meeting specific order fulfillment requirements.
Additionally, it is advisable to check the standing of the order fulfillment company, verify their reliability and for how long they have been in business, successfully serving their customers. It is definitely wise to choose a long standing and reputable fulfillment provider with many years of experience, expert skills and professionalism; rather than a company just stepping into the field.
A complete check list for a first class, reliable order fulfillment company should include financial stability, reputation and background history, list of equipment and fulfillment services offered. Organizations having quality control process, strong service rules and shipping knowledge are the best options available for a winning partnership with an order fulfillment company.