Outsourcing fulfillment to a 3PL Fulfillment Partner can streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction. However, a smooth transition requires careful preparation. Here’s what your brand needs to do before making the switch:
1. Analyze Your Current Shipping & Fulfillment Needs
Before selecting a 3PL, assess your existing fulfillment processes:
Order volume and seasonality trends
Average order value and shipping costs
Average number of items shipped per order
Total SKU count and optimization of what's selling
Domestic and/or international shipping needs
Inventory turnover and storage needs
Special handling requirements (e.g., fragile items, temperature control)
This data will help you choose a 3PL that aligns with your business needs.
2. Optimize Your Inventory Management
3PLs require clear inventory tracking to ensure accuracy and efficiency. Prepare by:
Standardizing SKU management
Clear labeling and descriptions of items on each unit and cases of inventory
Barcode or QR code of SKU or UPC
Conducting a full inventory count before transferring stock
3. Ensure System Integration Compatibility
Seamless integration between your eCommerce platform, order management system, and the 3PL’s software is crucial. Confirm that your tech stack can:
Sync real-time inventory levels
Automate order processing and tracking
Support multi-channel fulfillment (Amazon, Shopify, etc.)
At Moshipco we can integrate with any platform multiple platforms for you business.
4. Establish Clear Service Level Agreements (SLAs)
Define expectations with your 3PL partner to maintain quality and efficiency:
Order processing and shipping times
Accuracy and error resolution policies
Returns and refund handling
Communication protocols and reporting
5. Plan for the Transition Process
A structured transition plan minimizes disruption:
Select a go-live date during a low-order period, if possible
Test fulfillment workflows before fully switching over
Train your team on new processes and customer service expectations
At Moshipco it is common that we receive your inventory and ship orders on the same day in order to minimize any impact from a switch or moving inventory to us.
6. Monitor and Optimize Performance
After the transition, track key metrics such as:
Order accuracy rates
Shipping times and carrier performance
Customer satisfaction and return rates
Cost efficiency improvements
Regular performance reviews with your 3PL will ensure ongoing improvements and alignment with your brand’s goals.
Final Thoughts
Proper preparation before moving to a 3PL fulfillment partner can make the transition smooth and successful. By analyzing your needs, optimizing inventory, integrating systems, and setting clear expectations, your brand can scale efficiently while maintaining excellent customer service. Moshipco makes all of this simple and smooth. We are different because working with us doesn't feel like vendor relationship. We make you feel like we're a part of your team.
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