Categories
blog print on demand

A Print on Demand Guide to Quality Ecommerce Automation

A Print on Demand Guide to Quality Ecommerce Automation

It’s a great feeling to see your company grow. Every day is more exciting than the last when you have more customers, more profits, and more success. However, expansion means that your business will become more demanding, and you will be busier than ever. In addition, as a store owner, you want your business to run as smoothly as possible. The key to removing much of that weight from your shoulders is to automate your eCommerce business with print on demand fulfillment. You can use eCommerce automation to automate the repetitive or mundane parts of your business that would otherwise consume too much of your time.

WHAT IS ECOMMERCE AUTOMATION?

ECOMMERCE AUTOMATION

Ecommerce automation is software designed to convert tasks, processes, or campaigns within your company into automations that execute intelligently when needed. It’s how businesses can do more with less. It focuses on automating workflows, software, and integrations to eliminate most or all of the manual processes and tasks associated with running an ecommerce store. Automation works best for small, repetitive daily tasks that are consistently performed.

WHY SUCCESSFUL ECOMMERCE SHOPS EMBRACE PRINT ON DEMAND AUTOMATION?

1. Saves Time And Money
Saves Time And Money

Your team members have important tasks that must be completed on a daily basis, and many of these tasks are most likely completed manually. The good news is that the majority of these tasks are amenable to automation. Your team can use automation to automate tasks such as order tagging, generating picking lists, customer segmentation, and much more. All of the time saved can add up, giving your team more time to focus on more important projects. It also saves money by combining processes and allowing salaried employees to make better use of their time. 

2. Improved Order Accuracy
Order Accuracy

Automation, when done correctly, can help improve order accuracy. Errors on orders can occur for a variety of reasons when manually entering data. All of your order information is updated using bots with automation, making picking and packing items much easier. This means you can be less concerned about mispicks and other errors that can ruin a customer’s experience with your brand. 

3. Better Data Collection & Analytics
Data Collection & Analytics

Every day, your ecommerce store generates a steady stream of data. With so much data being generated in real-time, attempting to manage it all manually or with multiple apps or databases is time-consuming and causes you to miss out on potential business insights. You can eliminate data silos and create data and analytics reports that keep you informed about how your business is performing, from cart abandonment rates to ecommerce order fulfillment performance, with automation. 

4. Maintains Your Compliance
agreements

If you violate your agreements, it can be costly to comply with the marketplace. However, spending hours auditing and reviewing can be costly. E-commerce automation is intended to assess your marketplace data and correct human error, saving you money. Furthermore, it provides you with peace of mind and allows employees to focus on other tasks.

5. Reduces Errors
 data management

Poor data management and consistent errors can be extremely damaging to your business, causing customers to leave and damaging your bottom line. Accurate data and information management are critical to your ecommerce business’s success. With so much data on your site all the time, an automated workflow can save you time and prevent human error from causing major problems. With data that is supported by hard numbers and computer programming, you and your customers can be confident that you are receiving accurate information.

6. Enhances the customer experience.
 customer experience

Customers who are satisfied are more likely to return. According to Invesp, selling to new customers can cost up to five times as much as selling to repeat customers. Even as you scale to reach a larger audience, e-commerce automation can help you keep customers happy and convert them into repeat customers. Customers place a premium on website speed and responsiveness, with 90% stating that an immediate response is critical when they have a customer service question. You can help to ensure high customer satisfaction and retention by automating customer service processes and workflows, from chat programs to self-service options.

THE FINAL WORD

Automation

Ecommerce businesses should automate as much as possible for one simple but important reason: the more you automate, the fewer manual processes are required and the more your business can thrive. Automation saves time and resources for businesses while also making workflow processes faster and more efficient. Most importantly, ecommerce automation software allows you to focus on the things that are most important to your business.

Don’t get distracted by all the bells and whistles vying for your attention. A top ecommerce fulfillment company, such as Fulfillplex, understands which e-commerce activities to automate and which to leave to your teams in order to maximize return. We assist brands and retailers like you in automating everything from digital marketing to print on demand fulfillment, allowing you to expand your business across more channels. Feel free to contact us for more information.

Categories
blog print on demand

Print on Demand Guide to Dark Store: Key Things to Know

Print on Demand Guide to Dark Store: Key Things to Know

Customers expect instant gratification when they shop. That’s why many people prefer to shop at a physical store; they can find what they’re looking for, make a purchase, and have it delivered on the same day. However, the pandemic made this shopping experience more difficult to provide. As a result, many physical retailers, from small to large, have opted for “dark stores” to offer more of their products online and use their retail space to store a large amount of inventory, fulfill orders, and provide more options. Print on demand delivery is booming, and the dark store is at the heart of this so-called quick commerce.

WHAT IS A DARK STORE?

 retail distribution centers

A dark store is a retail store that has been converted into a micro-fulfillment center with an organized and optimized layout for the retail fulfillment of online orders. These retail distribution centers are not open to the public, allowing more space to store inventory and accurately fulfill customer orders. Once an order is placed, items can be picked and packed in the dark store before being shipped or picked up locally by the customer. This gives retailers options for both local and international customers. 

HOW DOES DARK STORE PRINT ON DEMAND FULFILLMENT WORK?

1. Curbside Pickup
 pick up orders

Customers can quickly pick up orders at the curbside. It typically consists of designated parking areas where a retailer employee will bring out the order so the customer does not have to exit their vehicle. This not only provides customers with safety during the pandemic, but it is also very convenient.

2. In-store Pickup
In-store Pickup

Many traditional dark stores have a designated pickup area inside, usually near the front door. Customers will not have to walk through the entire dark store to pick up their packages this way. Customers benefit from this, and delivery costs are reduced. 

3. Home Delivery
Home Delivery

Home delivery has become more common, particularly among local retailers. Customers benefit from fast, convenient, contactless delivery, especially for essentials. However, home deliveries can also be made by shipping orders to customers who live a long distance away by creating an online store and shipping orders.

You can fulfill orders for shipment within the dark store, or if you don’t have the resources to set up a dark store, you can work with a print on demand service provider to fulfill and ship online orders on your behalf. 

4 BENEFITS OF USING DARK STORE FOR ECOMMERCE RETAIL

1. Dark stores stock a wide variety of products.
variety of products

Because customers are not permitted inside functional dark stores, their layout can be designed to improve storage and picking capabilities. Improving storage capacity ensures a wider product assortment, while faster picking ensures orders are filled more quickly without sacrificing accuracy.

2. Better view of stock levels. 
stock levels

Because dark stores are much smaller than traditional warehouses, inventory levels are much easier to track. Many dark stores have inventory management tools to help them control stock levels in real-time. These tools also assist retailers in determining whether they are stocking too much inventory or not enough, which can result in stockouts. You can always maintain an optimal inventory level by simplifying the inventory control process. 

3. Increased warehouse efficiency.
warehouse efficiency

One dark store may support retail fulfillment for several geographic regions. Dark stores can handle a high volume of orders because these warehouses are customer-free zones where pickers can easily navigate aisles without having to dodge shoppers and their carts. But not without the appropriate technology. Though dark stores can easily provide more delivery options for customers, optimizing dark stores without the right technology to automate fulfillment tasks can be difficult.  

4. Increased order consumption. 
 shipping options

Customers who become accustomed to your brand’s quick, dependable, and accurate delivery of goods will likely become long-term, loyal customers. Dark stores allow you to provide more options for your customers, whether pickup options or different shipping options, which ultimately drives more sales and increases customer lifetime value. 

WHY IS THE DARK STORE CONCEPT BECOMING MORE POPULAR?

1. Fast delivery solutions.
 Fast delivery

Not only do dark stores allow for contact-free in-store merchandise sales, but they also offer stress-free and quick delivery options. Dark stores eliminate the need for shoppers to waste time looking for a parking spot, rummaging through the store to find what they need, and standing in long lines at the checkout. These ecommerce fulfillment centers provide fast delivery for local customers and affordable shipping for all other customers while leveraging their physical retail space to keep carrying costs low. 

2. Efficient dark store picking.
picking and packing

Unlike large warehouses, dark stores simplify the picking and packing process by storing a large volume of inventory in a smaller space. Dark stores are designed primarily to fulfill orders, allowing merchants to maximize easy-picking space. This speeds up and improves the accuracy of warehouse picking and inventory tracking. 

3. Provides more options for customers.
delivery options

This year, shoppers tasted various delivery options for their online orders, such as curbside pickup, local delivery, and faster, more affordable shipping. Dark stores, particularly for necessities such as personal care items and groceries, allow local customers to easily pick up orders or have them delivered as quickly as the same day. As a result, these delivery options will likely persist for years after the pandemic.

CONCLUSION

 fulfillment options

Dark retailing allows traditional brick-and-mortar retailers to swim with the ecommerce tide rather than against it. Retailers can differentiate themselves by offering a wide range of products, multiple fulfillment options, and quick ecommerce order fulfillment while lowering operating costs and significantly increasing store efficiencies. Dark shopping will undoubtedly take on many new and creative forms as it evolves, but the owners and operators of today’s dark emporiums will be well-positioned to participate in tomorrow’s innovations.

A dark store may be ideal for you if you want to increase sales or gain more control over your delivery operations. However, you’re not alone in this run. Fulfillplex, a top ecommerce fulfillment company, is more than happy to assist you in fulfilling your customer’s orders – From shipping to fulfillment, we handle all the logistics. Focusing on operational efficiency and faster customer delivery times—a winning combination for any growing company! Contact us now. 

Categories
blog print on demand

Top Print on Demand Strategies for Better Stock Control

Top Print on Demand Strategies for Better Stock Control

It can be tempting to stock a warehouse with as much inventory as possible to meet customer demand. However, taking the easy way out is sometimes the most efficient or cost-effective option. Keeping the right amount of stock on hand can take time and effort, especially if you have much to keep track of. Fortunately, there are several ways that print on demand fulfillment can assist you in making informed decisions about controlling stock to better manage your ecommerce supply chain and meet demand continuously. 

WHAT IS STOCK CONTROL?

STOCK CONTROL

The process of optimizing stock levels in a warehouse to stabilize inventory storage costs while maintaining enough stock to meet customer demand is known as stock control or inventory control. Proper stock control, when done correctly, can reduce logistics costs while ensuring you always have just enough stock on hand. However, you will need access to tools and data to make better predictions on supply and demand to control stock. 

4 DIFFERENT STOCK CONTROLLING METHODS

1. EOQ (economic order quantity)
economic order quantity

The economic order quantity (EOQ) method determines the optimal order quantity to obtain from your manufacturer to reduce costs and maximize warehousing space. This method, also known as “optimum lot size,” can assist you in making better decisions about how to avoid stockouts, how much safety stock to keep on hand, and when it makes the most sense to order more inventory. Moreover, the EOQ is calculated using holding costs, annual demand, and order costs.

2. Vendor-managed Inventory (VMI)
Vendor-managed Inventory

The VMI method entails delegating the ordering and restocking of inventory to a third party. In addition, the vendor manages and owns ecommerce inventory and the risks associated with doing so. You pay for the stock only after it has been sold, and any unsold stock is returned to the vendor. As a result, it allows businesses to worry less about inventory control because it is handled by someone else. 

3. Just-in-time (JIT)
JIT inventory method

The JIT inventory method entails ordering as much stock as needed to meet customer demand, but it also necessitates the ability to order quickly to meet the next batch of orders. This stock control method is specifically designed to reduce inventory carrying costs, increase efficiency, and reduce waste. This can be achieved by only purchasing stock that will sell sooner rather than later. To use the JIT method, ecommerce businesses must be able to accurately forecast demand. In addition, they need to access real-time stock levels or risk a high volume of stockouts.

4. FIFO (first in, first out)
FIFO method

According to the FIFO method, the first batch of inventory that arrives in the warehouse must be sold and shipped out first. It makes it simple to calculate inventory costs and values despite changes in supplier pricing. Furthermore, this method selects and sells batches with the most recent manufacturing or receiving dates first. Using FIFO, any inventory remaining at the end of the fiscal year does not affect the cost of goods sold (COGS). However, it can cause some inaccuracies in inventory accounting. It also does not provide any tax benefits. 

TOP PRINT ON DEMAND TIPS TO IMPROVE STOCK CONTROL

1. Understand your stock levels.
stock levels

To improve stock control, you must pay close attention to stock trends. In addition, knowing which items move slowly versus quickly and are replaced in a specific period can help you make better decisions about when to restock. The inventory turnover ratio is a great tool for determining the best time to order new stock and how much to order per SKU. 

2. Look for ways to improve your supply chain.
 supply chain

Stock control is only one aspect of supply chain planning. It is always important to seek opportunities to optimize your supply chain to manage logistics costs and efficiency. Implementing technology and automation tools is one of the most effective ways to create an efficient supply chain. As a result, many direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands purchase an inventory management system to gain access to data and analytics. 

3. Consider inventory optimization tools.
optimization tools

Inventory optimization tools are critical for better stock control, particularly as businesses seek better ways to evaluate their entire network. In addition, they us it to determine the best methods for each product at each stage of their supply chain. These tools are typically standalone applications that use data from WMS and ERP systems. These tools consider supply variability, demand variability, and replenishment parameters to determine how much inventory should be kept to protect against that variability. As a result, these tools have become popular as more businesses recognize the value of cutting-edge optimization capabilities.

4. Maintain a relationship with your print on demand service provider.
service provide

Your print on demand service providers are business partners, and maintaining an open line of communication with them will allow you to provide goods to your clients at the price they desire and within a reasonable timeframe. If you have a good relationship with a print on demand company may alert you to potential shortages and assist you in finding solutions to meet customer demands. You should aim to build a long-term relationship with your print on demand fulfillment partner rather than just getting the best price.

5. Resolve problems on time
Resolve problems

When you monitor inventory regularly, you can identify problems before they become serious. Moreover, to improve your stock control system, resolve any issues as soon as they arise. You must always be aware of how much you have, how much you owe, how much you will receive, and whether you need to place additional orders. Furthermore, keeping track of these details will allow you to maximize business profits.

FINAL THOUGHTS

inventory management

Managing your stock effectively entails determining which products are popular with your customers and which are not. Tracking your inventory and analyzing any data related to the products you sell and those you don’t will become increasingly important as your business grows. In addition, it can be accomplished with the help of inventory management software. It will assist you in preventing risks from impeding your ability to run smooth operations and meet your customers’ needs. Furthermore, you can access inventory management software and more by partnering with a print on demand service provider.

Fulfillplex is invested in the success of our clients. Our experts will provide you with solutions to your fulfillment issues. We offer real-time inventory management, print on demand fulfillment solutions, ecommerce fulfillment solutions, and fulfillment markets. Working with a top ecommerce fulfillment company that manages your warehouse with high-quality software systems has numerous advantages. Contact us here. 

Categories
blog print on demand

2023 Print on Demand Warehouse Inventory Management Guide

2023 Print on Demand Warehouse Inventory Management Guide

E-commerce and other online marketplaces have grown in popularity over the last decade. This trend has resulted in the development of print on demand warehouse inventory management processes to assist wholesalers, distributors, and retailers in meeting the needs of customers who prefer to buy directly from them rather than manufacturers. Inventory management has become essential for warehouse managers and a critical component of any organization’s supply chain. With over 5 million warehouses in the United States today, including the vast network of secondary locations operated by eCommerce companies.

WHAT IS WAREHOUSE INVENTORY MANAGEMENT?

WAREHOUSE INVENTORY MANAGEMENT

Warehouse inventory management is the systematic coordination of tasks. These tasks includes receiving inventory items, maintaining stock quality while in storage, tracking stock, packing and shipping orders, and replenishing stock when it reaches a minimum number in storage. All of this directly impacts demand fulfillment, shipping, and the overall customer experience.  

WHY IS PRINT ON DEMAND WAREHOUSE INVENTORY MANAGEMENT IMPORTANT?

1. Enhances the accuracy of ecommerce order fulfillment.
order fulfillment

Delays and issues during the ecommerce order fulfillment process will occur if your warehouse is not well-planned and managed. Disorganized inventory, poor picking and packing processes, and a lack of stock control in your warehouse cause most order issues. You can improve order accuracy and expedite order fulfillment by implementing better warehouse management processes and technology.

2. Increases warehouse productivity.
warehouse productivity

When warehouse inventory is properly stored and recorded, and daily manual tasks are automated, your staff will have more time and mental bandwidth to focus on more strategic tasks like logistics expansion and growth. Thinking about ways to help your employees become more efficient will save you money on labor and allow you to get orders out the door faster and more accurately.

3. Faster shipping and deliveries.
Faster shipping

The way you manage your inventory in a warehouse can also have an impact on shipping time. From automating order processing to expanding your distribution network by splitting inventory across multiple ecommerce fulfillment centers, there are several ways to optimize warehousing processes to speed up last-mile delivery. Many DTC brands choose to automate shipping by implementing tools to help speed up the shipping process, such as automatically updating stock levels and sending customers ecommerce order tracking. Furthermore, finding ways to automate the shipping process allows you to increase output and manage more orders more easily.

4. Saves you money.
Saves you money

Proper warehouse inventory management can help you save money on labor, storage, and fulfillment. Optimizing your supply chain can improve your bottom line by optimizing storage, investing in warehouse automation, organizing inventory to speed up the picking and packing process, and implementing technology to automate tasks and reduce human error. However, it is important to note that renting a warehouse has a cost. As a result, many online retailers outsource warehousing to save time and money, thereby improving the supply chain and profit margins.

5. Boosts customer satisfaction.
 customer satisfaction

A good warehouse delivers customer orders accurately and on time. Making print on demand warehouse inventory management a priority improves customer satisfaction. As a result, it will allow faster shipping times, lower shipping costs, and a higher order accuracy rate. Furthermore, if an order has a problem or a customer needs to return or exchange an item, proper warehouse processes and print on demand inventory management can improve the returns management process. It will allow you to quickly process returns and restock items.

BEST PRACTICES FOR WAREHOUSE INVENTORY MANAGEMENT

1. Turn your employees into experts.
employees

Your warehouse is only as good as those who run and work in it. Make use of your team and solicit feedback on how to improve consistency, efficiency, and accuracy. Moreover, those on the front lines frequently generate the best ideas. Suppose you need a logistics team to begin with. In that case, many ecommerce businesses partner with print on demand fulfillment companies specializing in ecommerce warehousing. As a result, relieving their logistics team of many headaches. 

2. Use demand forecasting for busy seasons.
 busy

Storage costs may become prohibitively expensive during the low season if your sales vary seasonally or monthly. Using demand forecasting tools to determine how many days of inventory you have until you are expected to run out, what your best-selling items are, and how they are performing compared to other periods is a great way to optimize costs despite seasonality. Furthermore, this type of data can assist you in better-predicting seasonality, allowing you to stock inventory accordingly.

3. Automate warehouse inventory systems. 
Automate warehouse

You can quickly reduce the time spent on inventory management and picking and packing orders by automating inventory and warehousing tasks and processes. Many logistics automation solutions include features such as the ability to process orders automatically, create and manage inventory in real-time, automatically update stock levels, and set automatic reorder points, among other things. It means your staff can spend less time on tedious manual tasks and more on speeding up the fulfillment process. 

4. Implement warehouse inventory control checks.
warehouse inventory check

As your company expands, more SKUs will be moving in and out of warehouses. In addition, regular inventory control checks are necessary to ensure these stock items are not expired, old, or damaged. Order quality control allows you to keep track of your suppliers, monitor each batch of inventory, and ultimately keep your customers satisfied by consistently delivering a high-quality product.

PRINT ON DEMAND WAREHOUSE INVENTORY MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS

SOLUTIONS

Software and artificial intelligence are two solutions for more effective warehouse management. Many warehouses have embraced technology to reduce the number of employees required to complete tasks, In addition, they use it to pick and pack items in the same manner as employees. Warehouse management software can help you track inventory throughout the supply chain and even across multiple warehouses, all while keeping track of order tracking, accounting, and reorder times. 

Logistics become more complicated as your company grows. Fulfillplex is a top ecommerce fulfillment company that provides best-in-class fulfillment and logistics services, including a growing fulfillment network, proprietary technology with inventory management tools built in, and deep logistics expertise and support. Contact us if you’d like to learn more about some of the inventory management solutions on the market. 

Categories
blog print on demand

Latest Guide to Print on Demand International Logistics

Latest Guide to Print on Demand International Logistics

Going global was previously only an option for enterprise brands and the largest retailers. Ecommerce businesses of all sizes now have more resources than ever to expand globally. Thanks to globalization, getting in front of an international customer base is a huge opportunity. In fact, by 2022, cross-border purchases will account for 20% of all global ecommerce. However, the international ecommerce market is competitive, and having a strong print on demand international logistics strategy is essential. Shipping international orders is complicated, not to mention expensive and time-consuming. However, with the right technology, fulfillment infrastructure, and logistics expertise, you can easily enter global markets.

WHAT IS INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS?

INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS

International logistics is the transportation of finished goods across an international supply chain. Cross-border shipping and international distribution efficiently deliver goods to end users worldwide. Print on demand international logistics includes demand planning, transportation, storage and warehousing, inventory management, information monitoring, and package stocking. A company must have an international audience and headquarters in a single country — or supply chain stages in multiple countries to conduct international logistics.

WHAT ARE CHALLENGES IN INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS?

1. Time-consuming
Late Shipments

International logistics operations can be a major headache for ecommerce businesses if they are not properly managed. Every aspect of the cross-border supply chain takes time and effort, from selecting the right carrier partners to tracking the flow of goods and calculating international shipping costs and transit times. Many international ecommerce brands benefit from outsourcing international logistics to a print on demand company with the infrastructure, technology, resources, and expertise to ship international orders efficiently and affordably.

2. Late Shipments
Time-consuming

Not only can shipping far from home increase transit times, but other issues, such as customs, can also cause delivery delays. Customers expect fast and affordable shipping no matter where they live. And there will almost certainly be competition if you sell a high-demand product overseas. However, there are ways to reduce cross-border shipping delays. One method is to keep inventory in the country to which you’re shipping, which significantly reduces transit times, lowers shipping costs, and alleviates concerns about international orders being held up at customs. It will not only save you money, but it will also help you meet the expectations of your customers regardless of where they live.

3. Ineffective Return Management
Return Management

Returns are an unavoidable part of running a successful ecommerce business. However, dealing with returns can be difficult, especially with international orders. Return delays not only irritate your customers, but they can also reduce profitability due to reverse logistics costs. Developing an efficient returns management process can greatly benefit your business. 92% of shoppers will buy from the retailer again if the returns process is simple. 

THE ADVANTAGES OF WORKING WITH A PRINT ON DEMAND FULFILLMENT PROVIDER FOR INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS

1. Reach International Customers
International Customers

The most significant advantage of hiring a well-known print on demand logistics solutions company is that it allows you to reach all your customers, no matter where they are. Thanks to their relationships with international freight specialists, you also gain access to more carrier options and shipping destinations than ever before. Working with companies from different countries can expose you to new perspectives and ideas for growing your business. You can be exposed to new ideas and cultures that will help you discover new ways to do business.

2. Reduce Your Shipping Costs
Shipping Costs

Though the cost of shipping internationally will vary depending on the destination country and other factors, a top ecommerce fulfillment company can assist you in developing a distribution strategy that will minimize shipping costs. You can reduce shipping costs for international orders in various ways, including storing inventory domestically and taking advantage of the print on demand service provider’s negotiated carrier rates or bulk-ship inventory to one of their international fulfillment locations, allowing you to ship domestically in other parts of the world. 

3. Orders Can Be Easily Filled
fulfillment

With the right physical and digital logistics partner, you can now fulfill these orders without worrying about stock shortages, shipping costs, or delays. Print on demand fulfillment companies can offer international ecommerce fulfillment center locations to store your inventory and deliver your orders faster, in addition to expedited shipping for international orders. We ship orders from the location closest to the destination because we have multiple strategic locations.

CONCLUSION

International logistic

International logistics can be challenging, but you can face them with others. Fulfillplex makes it easier to confidently enter new international markets. With our expanding global fulfillment network and best-in-class technology, you can easily expand your business globally while lowering shipping costs, shortening transit times, and providing a great buying experience for your customers everywhere. To learn more about Fulfillplex’s logistics capabilities, click here and we get in touch. 

Categories
blog print on demand

Print on Demand in Retail Supply Chain: Adapt & Survive

Print on Demand in Retail Supply Chain: Adapt & Survive

When it comes to navigating change, modern marketers are old pros. It is especially true if you work in retail. The print on demand retail industry is constantly evolving, and businesses must stay ahead of the latest trends to remain competitive. Individual consumers expect more as well: more variety, convenience, faster delivery, and more personalized service. As we approach 2023, retailers should know several key trends to adapt and thrive in a changing market. Retailers cannot thrive and, in many cases, will only survive if they adapt to these new realities.

WHAT IS THE RETAIL SUPPLY CHAIN?

RETAIL SUPPLY CHAIN

Inbound and outbound logistics processes result in the flow of finished goods from a supplier to the end consumer in the retail supply chain. Supplier relationships, retail warehousing, inventory management, picking and packing orders, shipping and carrier partnerships, managing returns, and other moving parts comprise the entire supply chain. An effective supply chain management plan ensures the timely delivery of the correct product in the correct quantity to the correct customers, meeting the needs of both the producer and the distributor.

CURRENT STATE OF RETAIL SUPPLY CHAINS

CURRENT STATE

Now, global events are combining to create what appears to be a never-ending storm of disruption for retail supply chains. The COVID-19 pandemic has quickly altered how retailers conduct business, implying that more than the traditional retail supply chain will be required. A lot more goes into creating an efficient and lean supply chain, such as integrating automation and technology, as well as adopting an inventory distribution model to expand customer reach and meet their expectations with fast, affordable shipping options. Even though free shipping is becoming more popular, achieving this with an efficient supply chain is possible. 

HOW TO UTILIZE PRINT ON DEMAND TO IMPROVE RETAIL SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT?

1. Adapt To Changes In Consumer Demand
Adapt To Changes

In 2020, consumer purchasing habits shifted dramatically as more buyers shopped online. While we can expect this effect to diminish slightly as COVID-19 restrictions are lifted and vaccinations are distributed, retailers should expect some new purchasing habits to stick. Demand forecasting is an important business strategy because it allows you to predict, analyze, and understand future customer demand for a product. 

There is only an ecommerce business with a demand. With a thorough understanding of demand, businesses can make informed decisions about marketing spend, production, staffing, warehousing, and other factors.

2. Focus on Fast, Convenient, And Reliable Fulfillment
Reliable Fulfillment

Customers’ expectations for 2-day shipping are unaffected by a pandemic, and retail fulfillment is one of the most important components of an online retailer’s supply chain. Strategic eCommerce businesses devote a significant amount of time to improving the ecommerce order fulfillment process, which results in higher order accuracy rates and faster shipping — whether it’s converting brick-and-mortar retail space into dark stores to handle fulfillment, splitting inventory across warehouses, or implementing fulfillment software to speed up the picking and packing process.

3. Track Inventory To Forecast Demand
Track Inventory

As your monthly order volume grows, you’ll need a system to track inventory in real-time to meet customer demand and expectations for quick shipping, especially if you have inventory spread across multiple ecommerce fulfillment centers. Controlling stock across your distribution network and understanding the demand for each geographic location will help you fulfill orders on time and give you insight into how much inventory of each product to keep in each location. 

On the other hand, real-time inventory tracking and forecasting necessitates incorporating an inventory tracking system, such as inventory management software. It includes everything from tracking inventory from your supplier to keeping track of current inventory levels in each warehouse. 

4. Automate For Efficient Inventory Allocation
Automate

There has been a significant push toward automated inventory management, which provides useful data that can influence your inventory allocation strategy. Whether your inventory is stored in a single warehouse or across a domestic or international fulfillment network, implementing technology that automatically tracks and displays inventory levels in real-time from a single dashboard is the best way to stay on top of your supply chain.

Product allocation automation eliminates the need to manually track inventory using spreadsheets, which also helps to reduce human error. You can use inventory automation software from print on demand service providers to create, manage, and merge SKUs, easily forecast demand, set automatic reorder points, see which items are selling quickly or slowly, and much more.

5. Outsource Ecommerce Warehouse Management
Warehouse Management

Warehouse management is an important part of establishing a proper retail supply chain. Inventory management, the picking and packing process, storage space and costs, shipping, and inventory distribution can all be influenced by proper warehousing. A print on demand fulfillment company provides storage space and picks, packs, and ships your orders from their warehouses or ecommerce fulfillment centers.

A reliable print on demand provider also employs a warehouse management system (WMS), software designed to optimize warehouse operational processes. A warehouse management system (WMS) provides real-time visibility into inventory levels and storage, staff productivity, demand forecasting, and fulfillment workflows across multiple warehouses.

6. Leverage Existing Fulfillment Center Networks
Center Networks

An experienced print on demand fulfillment company will expand its fulfillment capabilities by introducing new fulfillment center locations domestically and globally. When you work with a top ecommerce fulfillment company, your company can expand into new fulfillment center locations as it grows. It allows you to reduce shipping costs and accelerate last-mile delivery by fulfilling orders closer to your customers, regardless of where they live.

You can expand into new markets worldwide for an international logistics infrastructure, which includes access to data and analytics, as well as fulfillment experts, to help you make the best decisions as you optimize and expand your supply chain. 

7. Optimize Your Retail Supply Chain To Remain Competitive
Competitive

You must constantly improve and optimize your retail supply chain to remain competitive in an ever-changing industry. While meeting customer demand is a business’s goal, growing a business requires much more than establishing a well-run logistics strategy

You don’t have to worry about investing in new supply chain technology or implementing the latest automation when working with a print on demand fulfillment partner. The right print on demand fulfillment partner will continue to optimize their operations using the latest supply chain trends and software to ensure your company’s supply chain is well optimized to stay competitive — even as your company grows and the industry changes. 

IMPROVE YOUR RETAIL SUPPLY CHAIN WITH FULFILLPLEX

SUPPLY CHAIN

You save time, money, and a lot of headaches by outsourcing retail supply chain management to a top ecommerce fulfillment company like Fulfillplex. You can provide the best customer experience by focusing less on logistics systems and more on business growth. With an efficient fulfillment network, proprietary technology, and a team of experts who can help your business grow, the Fulfillplex team can help you optimize fulfillment logistics. Contact us to learn more about how Fuflillplex works.

Categories
blog print on demand

Ways Print on Demand Helps To Maintain Low Inventory Levels

Ways Print on Demand Helps To Maintain Low Inventory Levels

Inventory management can appear to be a never-ending task. In addition, just when you think you’ve reached equilibrium, your inventory levels shift. According to studies, 43% of small business owners still use manual inventory management techniques such as Excel spreadsheets or do not track inventory. Inventory management, on the other hand, can make or break your business. According to CNBC, common inventory issues such as returns, overstocks, and out-of-stock products cost retailers a whopping $1.75 trillion each year. Optimize print on demand inventory management is critical to ensuring that your eCommerce business does not fall into this category. As a result, it allows you to reduce logistics costs while also meeting customer expectations.

WHAT ARE OPTIMAL INVENTORY LEVELS?

INVENTORY LEVELS

Optimal inventory levels are the precise amount of stock required in a fulfillment center at any given time to meet regular demand for the print on demand products. Furthermore, they are the ideal product quantities in fulfillment center(s) at any given time. You reduce the risk of common inventory issues, such as high storage costs and out-of-stock items, by optimizing inventory levels. In addition, more inventory can cost too much money, take up too much shelf space, and eventually become unsellable. However, insufficient stock can result in stockouts and backorders, reducing customer satisfaction.

WHY IS IT ESSENTIAL TO MAINTAIN HEALTHY INVENTORY LEVELS?

HEALTHY INVENTORY

Healthy inventory levels clearly indicate ecommerce supply chain efficiency and profitability. By avoiding overstocking or understocking, you can improve cash flow, optimize warehousing capacity, and consistently meet customer demand, resulting in brand loyalty and trust. More inventory can cost you money by overspending on holding costs or, worse, sitting on a lot of inventory that has lost value or is no longer sellable. Aside from ensuring optimal inventory levels, a better understanding of your stock levels can aid supply chain planning by determining the best time to reorder more inventory and improve inventory accuracy. 

5 BEST PRACTICES FOR MAINTAINING OPTIMAL PRINT ON DEMAND INVENTORY LEVELS

1. Set up an inventory tracking system.
 inventory tracking system

You can improve stock control across your distribution network by knowing how much of each SKU is located at each geographic location. Moreover, such real-time access to stock levels across logistics centers and sales channels is provided by print on demand inventory tracking systems. Implementing an inventory tracking system as your supply chain grows is a surefire way to efficiently allocate inventory with full access to real-time data.

2. Determine the reordering points.
low

Manual inventory tracking is the last thing any business owner wants to do because there will be no time for anything else. Once you’ve determined your optimal inventory level, you can set reorder points to help automate the reorder process. In addition, a reorder point is the lowest level of inventory that determines when it is necessary to reorder. The reorder quantity you choose should consider both customer demand and lead times. Furthermore, most inventory apps automatically notify you when inventory levels reach a reorder point.

3. Use an inventory management system.
management system

Your distribution network can operate at peak efficiency with the right technology that complements the supply chain at every stage. You can sync SKUs and orders with an inventory management system to see all inventory, ecommerce fulfillment centers, sales channels, and customers in one place. Many rapidly expanding online brands rely on an inventory management system from their print on demand fulfillment providers to track inventory in real-time and automate inventory tasks to save time and improve accuracy.

4. Communicate clearly with your print on demand service provider.
Communicate

A foundation of good inventory management is clear communication with your fulfillment partner about your expectations and the new goods schedule. You should also be aware of any holidays or closures your manufacturer may have, such as factory shutdowns. Access to insights into your suppliers’ operations should be capitalized on and incorporated into your inventory tracking strategy. As a result, your suppliers play an important role in your supply chain, so keep an eye on their performance over time.

5. Conduct inventory audits.
 inventory audit

Inventory and warehouse audits are undeniably time-consuming, especially if you’re dealing with a large amount of inventory and manually tracking it all using spreadsheets. Fortunately, consistent inventory audits can be automated and digitized by syncing your online store with an inventory storage system or print on demand fulfillment technology.

CONCLUSION

 fulfillment solution

It can be difficult to track inventory levels as you expand into new warehouse locations and sell through multiple sales channels. However, a top ecommerce fulfillment company such as Fulfillplex can assist. 

Fulfillplex provides a best-in-class fulfillment solution to assist you in maintaining optimized, low inventory levels, establishing reorder notification points, and tracking inventory across channels. Our technologically advanced ecommerce fulfillment solution can help you cut logistics costs and prepare your company for the unexpected. Get in touch with us for more information.

Categories
blog print on demand

The Best Ways Print On Demand Logistics Impacts Scalability

The Best Ways Print On Demand Logistics Impacts Scalability

Year after year, businesses across industries strive to be more customer-focused by aligning their product lines and services with customer requirements. The growing customer-centricity has increased the popularity of print on demand businesses. The global proliferation of print on demand services has enabled businesses to jump on board and automate their services. Because more customers expect same-day shipping and delivery, online retailers are willing to invest in logistics operations to meet these expectations.

WHAT IS PRINT ON DEMAND LOGISTICS?

 LOGISTICS

Print on demand logistics is more than just a buzzword in the industry. It refers to a modern logistics strategy that allows online retailers to expand their customer reach geographically and fulfill orders as soon as they are placed. Furthermore, print on demand logistics can often support multichannel retailing by streamlining and automating the fulfillment process for orders received through multiple sales channels. As a result, print on demand logistics necessitates a strong distribution network, adaptable fulfillment solutions, and cutting-edge technology and automation tools to ensure speed and accuracy. 

THE IMPACT OF PRINT ON DEMAND LOGISTICS FOR FLEXIBLE FULFILLMENT

1. Faster Shipping Times
Faster Shipping Times

Although Amazon Prime was the first to popularize it, nearly every online shopper now expects a 2-day delivery option on all ecommerce sites. 36% of online customers will abandon their cart if the expected shipping date is unmet. Offering fast shipping options, such as 2-day shipping, can be difficult because you must ensure that your shipping methods do not reduce your profit margins. However, by distributing inventory based on demand, you can offer more or all of your customers affordable 2-day ground shipping. You can ship from the closest location to each customer, reducing the average shipping zone. 

2.Reduced Fulfillment Costs
reduced costs

Print on demand logistics may appear nearly impossible to achieve in an extremely competitive retail environment when most of your time and logistics budget are spent on other aspects of your business. The financial investment and the time spent on logistics must be considered to reduce fulfillment costs. Collaboration with a print on demand fulfillment company is an excellent solution. A 3PL partner can help your company save money and time, allowing you to focus on product development, marketing, and business growth. With a print on demand partner, you can meet customer expectations while keeping fulfillment costs low.

3. Meet Customer Demands
 Customer Demands

Print on demand logistics employs technology that enables merchants to expand their operations and gain real-time access to aggregated logistics data. It gives merchants insights that allow them to make better decisions about product allocation and when to replenish stock to meet demand. You can make better decisions about meeting consumer demand and expectations if you have access to advanced data and analytics.

You can also provide order tracking to customers automatically. Another critical aspect of print on demand logistics is inventory forecasting. By forecasting demand using historical data, you can ensure you always have enough inventory available and stored, set automatic reorder points, and even calculate how much safety stock to keep on hand.

4. Print on Demand Warehousing
 Warehousing

With more online brands expanding globally, there is an urgent need for more warehousing and storage space. Print on demand warehouses is becoming increasingly popular due to the ability to gain access to space while only paying for the space required to store your ecommerce inventory. However, the goal is to meet customer expectations, which means your fulfillment strategy must be dependable and accurate, and you cannot rely solely on geographic location. 

However, print on demand warehousing is primarily a short-term solution that cannot guarantee a consistent experience, resulting in increased ecommerce fulfillment errors. When your own on-the-ground staff does not manage the warehouse, it is difficult to resolve issues quickly, resulting in poor customer service.

5. Manage Demand Fluctuations
Fluctuations

Because the ecommerce landscape is constantly changing, it is critical to collaborate with a print on demand service provider offering print on demand logistics solutions and room for expansion. The right print on demand fulfillment company should always be implementing improvements with the latest technology and supply chain best practices and expanding their distribution network continuously. 

A tech-enabled 3PL can give you visibility into your supply chain, allowing you to track changes in customer demand and plan your logistics accordingly. For example, they not only fulfill orders but also simplify integrating your store with ecommerce order fulfillment software. You can use historical data to predict the future, allocate inventory to the right locations, and reorder just enough inventory to optimize storage and meet demand if you have insights into demand.

REACHING GREATER HEIGHTS WITH ASSISTANCE

ecommerce fulfillment

An obvious benefit is the ability of a top ecommerce fulfillment company with a strong reputation, such as Fulfillplex, to develop an engagement plan based on your unique business model and goals. Another advantage of working with an experienced fulfillment company is learning about emerging inventory management platforms. Expert print on demand logistics providers streamlines their systems by investing in tools like cloud-based proprietary systems. Real-time fulfillment and information transfer eliminate common hiccups while increasing supply chain efficiencies.

Do you want to expand your business beyond its limits and reach the next base camp? Companies needing logistics assistance can rely on print on demand companies in the same way climbers rely on local guides to improve their chances of reaching the summit. Working together, you can chart a path that meets both parties’ expectations while paving the way for fruitful outcomes.

Are you interested in how your company can stay ahead of technological advances in the shipping industry? Contact us today.

Categories
blog print on demand

Print on Demand Fulfillment and Eco-Friendly Business Combo

Print on Demand Fulfillment and Eco-Friendly Business Combo

It’s impossible to deny that people are increasingly concerned about the environment., They are becoming more environmentally conscious about what they buy as the times’ change. Environmentally friendly products are being actively purchased by consumers. And the majority of them say they will do the same in the next five years. Rebranding your eCommerce business to emphasize sustainability is a good first step, but it can’t be the only one. Retooling your print on demand services can help to reduce the impact of fulfillment and returns, while fundamental changes to sourcing and production methods can help to achieve even greater sustainability gains. 

THE IMPORTANCE OF ECO-FRIENDLY ECOMMERCE

ECO-FRIENDLY ECOMMERCE

We only have one Earth, and our inhabitants are responsible for taking care of it so that future generations can leave it in a better condition. Though creating a sustainable, eco-friendly online brand has obvious environmental benefits, it is also a wise business decision that will help increase customer loyalty, brand perception, and sales.

Many consumers now expect brands to take the lead on environmental and social issues. This high expectation can result in high rewards for companies that commit to environmentally friendly practices. Furthermore, 68% of consumers are willing to pay more for environmentally friendly products. Aside from meeting consumer expectations, adopting sustainable practices can boost your bottom line by introducing new operational efficiencies. As a result, focusing on sustainable business practices now to benefit even more in the future.

5 BEST PRACTICES FOR GOING GREEN WITH PRINT ON DEMAND FULFILLMENT

1. Offer Eco-Friendly Products
 Eco-Friendly Products

While it may depend on your current product or service, you can include sustainable print on demand products in your lineup. It can include providing sustainable alternatives to existing products. Another option is to collaborate with a print on demand provider that uses environmentally friendly practices. It allows you to gradually incorporate environmentally friendly products into your online store. Many eCommerce companies use renewable materials in response to changing consumer consumption habits.

2. Use Eco-Friendly Packaging
Eco-Friendly Packaging

Have you ever noticed how small items are usually packaged in such large boxes? 81% of consumers believe that brands overpack their products. You can use different sizes of packing boxes that suit the size of your products to avoid excess and reduce packaging. Moreover, you can avoid using large boxes that take up space. You can also choose recyclable materials. Boxes, tapes, and even labels fall into this category. Reduce your reliance on plastic. Most customers consider it to be the least environmentally friendly packaging. They even try to avoid using plastic as much as possible.

3. Minimize Your Deadstock
 Deadstock

Deadstock refers to unsold merchandise in your store. These products are less likely to be sold and, in most cases, end up in landfill. However, by reducing deadstock, you are also providing a sustainable solution to waste reduction. Print on demand demand forecasting can help you avoid deadstock. In-depth market research will also assist you in determining the optimal amount of stock. If you still have such items on your shelves, you can sell them through clearance sales. Product bundles can also be done on your eCommerce site.

4. Apply Environmentally Friendly Shipping Methods
Shipping Methods

Unfortunately, carbon emissions from shipping are an unavoidable part of the eCommerce business. Every year, 165 billion packages are shipped to the United States, which equates to over a billion trees. FedEx, UPS, and USPS, for example, offer eco-friendly shipping programs to reduce their carbon footprint. Other carriers provide complete climate-neutral shipping as well. Because many customers expect quick delivery, you can enlist the assistance of a print on demand fulfillment company. They can ship orders to your customer from the nearest ecommerce fulfillment center. It reduces costs and shortens the supply chain, resulting in fewer carbon emissions from air shipping.

5. Reduce Returns And Exchanges
 Returns

Returns and exchanges are something other than what you want to happen as an online retailer. However, by 2021, the average for retail returns had risen to 16.6%. That equates to $760 billion in products being returned to the supply chain and warehouses! They also contribute significantly to carbon emissions from transportation, as well as wasteful packaging and shipping costs. To reduce returns, provide detailed information, such as photos, in your product descriptions on your product pages. You should also provide high-quality products that meet customer expectations and have a strong customer feedback strategy to address any issues. Not only are you helping combat climate change, but you also save money simultaneously!

SUSTAINABILITY AT FULFILLPLEX

sustainable ecommerce

At Fulfillplex, we care about the environment and do everything we can to help. Many of the boxes we use are made of recycled fibers, and we do our best to recycle returned items, saving useful parts and repairing or refurbishing others for resale, depending on the needs of our clients. We also strive to reduce our environmental impact regarding sustainable ecommerce order fulfillment. Contact us today to learn more about what Fulfillplex can do for you as your top ecommerce fulfillment company.

Categories
blog print on demand

Print on Demand Distribution Management: A Complete Guide

Print on Demand Distribution Management: A Complete Guide

Distribution management has always been a challenge for businesses. Although many uncontrollable events or mishaps occur, common supply chain issues can be traced back to poor supply chain management and how efficiently inventory moves from manufacturer to print on demand retailer to end user. With the growing popularity of omnichannel retailing, having complete control over your layered, dynamic, and complex distribution ecosystem has become essential. This article provides an overview of distribution management, how it works, and how you can improve distribution by partnering with a print on demand fulfillment partner.

WHAT IS DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMENT?

DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMENT

The movement of finished goods from a manufacturer or supplier to the end user is referred to as distribution management. Several activities and processes occur during this process, including ecommerce warehousing, inventory management, warehouse picking and packing, and last-mile delivery. Furthermore, a well-executed distribution management can help improve the ecommerce order fulfillment process, inventory turnover rate, profit margins, supply chain agility, and customer satisfaction.

WHY IS DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMENT IMPORTANT?

DISTRIBUTION

Distribution management’s goal is to keep inventory moving through the supply chain. How well distribution management is executed affects profit margins and the rate at which a brand can grow. For example, if you overspend on storage, you may have amassed excessive deadstock. Alternatively, if you are not replenishing inventory quickly enough, it can result in lost sales, backorders, and stockouts.

When done correctly, distribution management is one of the most effective ways to ensure:

  • Inventory is distributed efficiently to reach customers as quickly and efficiently as possible.
  • There is enough inventory to meet demand while keeping storage costs to a minimum.
  • Business owners have sufficient visibility into operations to make informed decisions and make improvements.

HOW PRINT ON DEMAND DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMENT WORKS FOR ECOMMERCE?

1. Receiving Inventory
 Inventory

Unloaded, processed, and stored ecommerce inventory arrives at a warehouse or ecommerce fulfillment center. A proper inventory-receiving process is critical because it prepares your supply chain for efficient, cost-effective inventory management and fulfillment later in the fulfillment process. As a result, a proper inventory-receiving procedure can prevent poor inventory accuracy or lost inventory, impacting profit margins and inventory reporting.

2. Warehouse Management
Warehouse Management

After receiving the inventory, it must be monitored to ensure enough inventory meets demand. Warehouse management includes inventory tracking and storage and training and managing warehouse employees on how to best monitor inventory throughout the warehouse. However, with the rise of digital warehousing, it has become standard practice to implement a warehouse management system (WMS). As a result, the need for manual labor is reduced, allowing warehouse workers to focus on speed without sacrificing accuracy.

3. Packing orders
 Packing orders

Once all items for a single order have been selected from the shelves, the packing process begins. It is necessary to place the appropriate items in the appropriate sized box with the appropriate packaging materials to ensure that they arrive at their final destination undamaged and most cost-effectively. Furthermore, packing should always keep order within the smallest boxes and use the right packing materials for each product to reduce shipping costs and maintain order accuracy.

4. Shipping
 Shipping

The packed orders are sent to their final destinations in this step. Ecommerce shipping is an important stage in the distribution process because it affects customer satisfaction. 43% of online shoppers consider fast and dependable delivery the most important factor when purchasing goods online. As a result, a proper shipping strategy ensures you can provide your customers with competitive, cost-effective shipping options.

BENEFITS OF PRINT ON DEMAND DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMENT

1. Fulfill Order As Quickly As Possible
Fulfill Order

Because there are fewer orders to fulfill when you start, in-house fulfillment may be manageable. However, to remain competitive and reach more customers, many brands have expanded into multichannel distribution operations, which results in a higher volume of orders when done correctly.

Technology and location are two factors that can significantly accelerate the fulfillment process. Technology can help improve the fulfilment process, from automatic order processing to assisting warehouse pickers in quickly locating items within the warehouse. Furthermore, if an item is out of stock at one location, it can be fulfilled at another. Finally, supply chain technology and optimized distribution work in tandem to enable faster retail fulfillment.

2. Consistently Meet Customer Expectations
Customer

Distribution management is critical to meeting customer expectations consistently. With print on demand distribution management, you’ll never again miss a deadline for getting goods from the manufacturer to the end customer. It also ensures that SKUs are available for each sales channel and when the customer wants them. Simultaneously, it keeps order fulfillment costs low, allowing the retailer to pass the savings on to their customers.

3. Analyze Distribution Management Data
Management Data

You need the right systems to collect and analyze supply chain data to improve and optimize your distribution network. You can gain insights into how to best distribute products and optimize inventory throughout your network by optimizing everything from inventory turnover rate warehouse allocation and how much inventory on the SKU level is currently available at each location. This knowledge can assist you in allocating inventory to distribution centres closest to your customers’ homes to reduce shipping costs and transit times.

4. Increase Profit Margins
Profit Margins

Having sufficient visibility into operations can significantly reduce operational expenses. Simply storing inventory in more locations can help you save money on shipping while meeting customer expectations. Other ways to boost profit margins through optimized distribution include collaborating with a print on demand fulfillment company with multiple locations worldwide and ecommerce fulfillment services. It allows you to spend less time on logistics while decreasing fulfillment costs.

5. Faster Delivery Options
Faster Delivery

You can offer better shipping incentives to your customers if you have a well-established distribution strategy. For example, storing inventory closer to your customers reduces shipping costs while increasing transit times. As a result, you can provide customers with incentives such as 2-day shipping or free shipping with a required minimum cart value.

FINAL THOUGHTS

management solutions

As ecommerce expands, the standards for fast, affordable delivery and customer expectations rise. There has never been a greater need for supply chain agility, so developing a flexible distribution strategy is critical. Fortunately, several distribution management solutions on the market can assist online brands in optimizing distribution and saving money while meeting customer expectations.

Fulfillplex is a top ecommerce fulfillment company that can help you improve your distribution management strategy by providing infrastructure and technology. Our warehousing and distribution services, which include receiving inventory, real-time inventory tracking, fast fulfillment, and automated shipping, improve the ecommerce distribution process. To learn more about how Fulfillplex can help you improve your distribution strategy, contact us by clicking here.

Categories
blog print on demand

How to Choose the Right Print on Demand Shipping Courier?

How to Choose the Right Print on Demand Shipping Courier?

Partnerships are essential when running an ecommerce business, including selecting the right print on demand shipping carriers to partner with. Running an ecommerce brand is no easy task; everything from marketing and customer engagement to logistics and shipping must be considered. Choosing a print on demand shipping carrier is one of your most important decisions. After all, it is your chosen carrier’s responsibility to ensure that your products reach your customers promptly and securely. So, how do you make this decision? Let us walk you through a guide that will make selecting the best print on demand shipping carrier a breeze!

WHAT IS A SHIPPING CARRIER?

SHIPPING CARRIER

A shipping carrier is a company in charge of transporting your packages from Point A (the shipper) to Point B. (your customers). USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL, and other major shipping companies serve the US and international markets. The volume of freight transported by ships has increased in tandem with the growth of the global economy over the last few decades. Around 1.85 billion metric tons of cargo were shipped globally in 2020. Shipping carriers have become essential to keeping the economy running as more businesses continue to rely on the internet to sell their products, as more people rely on online shopping and delivery daily.

7 FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING THE BEST PRINT ON DEMAND SHIPPING CARRIER

1. Type of Product
Product

The first thing to consider is the product type you’re selling. Certain carriers prohibit the transport of products that are fragile, liquid, or too large. Understanding the constraints that your product may have will assist you in determining the best carrier. When selecting a carrier, consider the carrier’s sizes, shapes, packaging, and services to see if it meets the needs of your print on demand products.

2. Location
Location

Another factor to consider is the carrier’s delivery location. If you intend to expand your e-commerce business nationwide or internationally, there are better-fit options than an ecommerce fulfillment center on the east coast. Plan for business expansion and build a strong relationship with a carrier that can grow with you. Many carriers provide maps showing the areas where they deliver, so do your homework.

3. Reputation
Reputation

A carrier may look good on paper, but do they deliver on their promises? When looking for the perfect carrier, it is essential to investigate its reputation by reading reviews. Honest reviews from other e-commerce sellers will provide complete transparency regarding a carrier’s reputation. The last thing you want to do is sign a shipping services agreement and then feel duped. Before entering into a binding agreement, read Google and Yelp reviews.

4. Shipping Speed
Shipping Speed

Understanding the shipping speed is as important as analyzing the carrier’s reputation. When a customer places an order, they expect to receive it as soon as possible, so finding a carrier that can provide the desired shipping speed is critical. Make sure to factor in shipping times to the various locations to which you offer shipping. If shipping to the east coast takes only two days, but shipping to the west coast takes more than a week, you should look into other carriers. Fast shipping times can also incentivize customers to buy from you.

5. Tracking Availability
Tracking

When your item ships, you’ll want to be able to track it easily and quickly. The ability to track packages can help you combat fraudulent claims of lost packages. To avoid being scammed by customers, use a shipment tracking number to ensure that the package was delivered to the correct address. Examine the websites of potential print on demand fulfillment carriers to see if they provide tracking and if there is any additional charge for this service. You want to be fully prepared for any situation that may arise, so tracking availability is essential.

6. Insurance Coverage
Insurance

Is the carrier you’re considering offering insurance in the event of a loss? If not, consider looking into other options. You don’t want to lose money or customers because the carrier doesn’t cover lost items. Lost items can quickly add up, especially if you own a small business, so look into carriers that provide insurance for your products. Even though insurance is an additional cost, it can be worth it, in the long run, to save on wasted materials and lost customers.

7. Pricing
Pricing

Lastly, pricing is an important factor when selecting a carrier. It is critical to weigh your options to find not only the best price but also the best print on demand services available. You want to pay a reasonable shipping cost that is within your budget and allows you to make a healthy profit on your e-commerce business. Consider paying more depending on the services provided, such as insurance coverage and shipping speed.

SUMMARY

print on demand shipping

Before agreeing with a print on demand shipping carrier, certain factors must be prioritized depending on the nature of your e-commerce business, but all of these factors must be considered to make the most informed decision possible. Most of the information can be found on the carrier’s website, so don’t be afraid to research and contact the carriers if you have any questions!

Fulfillplex understands that clients have unique requirements to meet their customers’ expectations. As a top ecommerce fulfillment company, we handle all logistics, from shipping to fulfillment, so you can focus on marketing your business. Our dedicated Account Manager will guide and advise you if you have customs or importing concerns from other countries. 

Categories
blog print on demand

Ways Print on Demand Logistics Planning Helps Your Business

Ways Print on Demand Logistics Planning Helps Your Business

No army goes into battle without a strategy for attack, and no ecommerce merchant goes into business without a strategy for handling print on demand logistics. No one should start a business without a solid logistics strategy in place. It will optimize your business operations and strengthen them against future crises. Logistics, a strong foundation of any business, handles a wide range of tasks. Most importantly, its primary responsibility is to ensure that the correct items are delivered to the correct locations at the correct time. It would help if you went through print on demand logistics planning to build a solid logistics operation.

WHAT IS LOGISTICS PLANNING?

LOGISTICS PLANNING

Logistics planning is a type of logistics management in which a business owner strategizes how to deliver the right product to the right customer at the right time and for the least amount of money. Logistics planning aims to create a lean and cost-effective logistics operation capable of meeting service levels at all times and surviving supply chain disruptions.

While each merchant’s logistics planning process may differ slightly, it typically entails thinking through logistics systems and planning all the different logistical functions involved in each system. These systems and functions are evaluated for cost, optimized for efficiency, and designed to withstand unexpected challenges through logistics planning.

WHY IS PRINT ON DEMAND LOGISTICS PLANNING IMPORTANT TO YOUR BUSINESS?

1. Chart A Path For Reaching Long-Term Business Goals
Business Goals

When starting an ecommerce business, you might think just a bit ahead. After all, getting your brand off the ground is a full-time job in and of itself. However, once your business is established, print on demand logistics planning can help ensure that it can continue to grow and sustain itself.

A good logistics operating plan keeps you on budget, on time, and par with customer expectations, allowing you to work effectively towards your short-term goals. Short-term goals accomplished will position you to achieve long-term goals in the future. You can worry less about fluke accidents or unexpected challenges derailing your business later on if you build a resilient supply chain through logistics planning now.

2. Reduce The Costs Of The Supply Chain
Costs

When it comes to logistics, ecommerce businesses can easily go over budget. Print on demand logistics planning aids in the reduction of frivolous or unnecessary expenditures that eat away at your profits. When you have a logistics strategy, you won’t be tempted to panic and settle for a more expensive solution for convenience. Rather, you can investigate the most cost-effective supply chain solutions while accounting for hidden logistics costs.

If you outsource logistics, the right print on demand fulfillment company will also help your supply chain save money. These companies, as expert logisticians, have mastered how to execute logistics functions faster, cheaper, and more efficiently than most ecommerce businesses could on their own.

3. Meet Customer Demand Faster
Customer Demand

Logistics systems that are well-planned are streamlined. By meticulously maintaining inventory levels, fine-tuning operations, and securing quick shipping options, your company will always be able to meet customer demand quickly. Meeting customer demand quickly requires a lot of effort, but partnering with a print on demand service provider reduces the burden on the business owner. Print on demand companies uses their logistics expertise and resources to quickly and cost-effectively satisfy their customers’ end customers.

4. Increased Revenue Growth
Revenue Growth

Increased revenue is a natural byproduct of the other advantages of logistics planning, but it is also an important reason to plan logistics. If you’ve kept your budget on track and reduced supply chain costs, you’ll likely see monetary savings and higher profit margins. On the other hand, meeting customer demands increases customer satisfaction and loyalty, increases the likelihood of repeat purchases, and usually leads to more sales.

Furthermore, meeting those demands quickly through fast shipping reduces cart abandonment and increases AOV, resulting in more profitable transactions. To grow your business, you must increase revenue over time and plan logistics to maximize profit margins on every sale.

PLANNING PRINT ON DEMAND LOGISTICS FOR THE FUTURE

LOGISTICS

Because there are so many unknown variables and factors in the supply chain sector, planning your entire logistics chain may need to be more manageable. However, it is only partially correct. Some challenges become more manageable and are dealt with consistently year after year with planning. However, carefully planning and relying on critical logistics operations can meet consumer expectations even in rare or unexpected delays.

The key to effective logistics planning is thoroughly analyzing your supply chain to identify every bottleneck in each logistical phase. Then figure out the best way to avoid them. Companies can properly coordinate processes and exchange accurate data by implementing sound best practices for logistical planning. It will allow for optimal business performance.

NEED HELP WITH LOGISTICS PLANNING?

 services

With our dependable and scalable print on demand services, Fulfillplex, a top ecommerce fulfillment company, has assisted hundreds of eCommerce businesses to develop a solid logistics plan. Supply chain planning can be difficult, but we can alleviate some stress by storing, picking, packing, and shipping your products through our international network of ecommerce fulfilment centers. Contact us now, and let’s start planning your logistics. 

Categories
blog print on demand

Print on Demand Supplement Selling Methods to Avoid in 2023

Print on Demand Supplement Selling Methods to Avoid in 2023

Most sales trainers today employ sales techniques from the turn of the century. These old-school techniques are rehashed ideas from the late 1800s and early 1900s. Even though they no longer work, they are still passed down to new generations of salespeople. The print on demand supplements industry has seen significant growth in recent years, much of which has gone unchecked. 

As competition has increased, many businesses have looked for any way to gain an advantage and make more money. Not all of these strategies have been as open and honest as others. Some supplement companies have used deceptive strategies to make millions of dollars. To hit the ground running and succeed, avoid the following top five sales pitfalls:

TOP 5 PRINT ON DEMAND SUPPLEMENT SELLING METHODS TO AVOID

1. Chasing the Wrong Leads
Wrong

Everyone enjoys a challenge, but you’re fighting a losing battle if you spend most of your time trying to persuade hesitant or noncommittal leads. Rather than constantly looking for new, long-shot potential clients, consider investing in older leads who previously expressed interest but may have fallen by the wayside. Build a strong client base by cultivating these businesses or individuals. Another reason you may be chasing impossible leads is because you are relying on inaccurate lead information. Bad data occurs more frequently than you might think, and much of the problem stems from poor data hygiene.

2. Selling Features, Not Solutions
Not Solutions

Your clients may have grown accustomed to a never-ending parade of salespeople attempting to persuade them to purchase their supplements. Although features and prices are important considerations in any potential sale, they should be something other than your primary goal. Make sure to sell your product’s capabilities to potential customers. Rather, demonstrate how your company can meet a need in their life or workplace. Essentially, demonstrate how your product solves their problem. It requires careful research ahead of time, but it will pay off in the end. As a result, clients will notice how hard you worked to tailor your pitch to their specific needs or issues.

3. Overselling
 Overselling

Overselling is a common pitfall for many salespeople. It occurs when your prospects are already extremely interested in your product following your initial pitch. Even if they appear ready to sign on the dotted line, you continue to sell to them to seal the deal. The more you try to persuade prospects who are already convinced, the more likely they will flee in the opposite direction. Learn when to back off and let potential clients take control of the conversation. Once you give them some breathing room, they will be ready to consider your offer seriously.

4. Violating FDA Regulations
Violating FDA Regulations

With the rapid growth of the supplement market in recent years, supplements have become an extremely popular option for consumers and occupy a large portion of the advertising space. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) determines which foods, drugs, and medical devices are safe to use. If a product is found unsafe or violates the law, they may take legal action to prevent you from selling those supplements.

The growing consumer awareness of personal health and well-being is a major motivator for consumers to check whether supplements are FDA approved before purchasing them. As a result, it is best to sell FDA-approved supplements to ensure your customers’ safety and to boost your company’s credibility.

5. Leaving the Next Steps Unclear
 Unclear

Ecommerce order fulfillment is a process that begins when a customer places an order on an e-commerce website and ends when the product is delivered to the customer. Picking, packing, labeling, shipping, and delivery are all part of the process. Order fulfillment for ecommerce is separate from the core competencies of running a print on demand business.

If customers are happy with the order fulfillment process, such as late delivery or damaged packaging, they will likely purchase from that company again. If you are a small e-commerce company looking to scale up and expand, keep in mind that your order fulfillment process significantly impacts your customers.

KEY TAKEAWAY

marketing

The sales landscape is constantly changing, and keeping up is in your best interests. With so many changes and so much focus on our industry, now is an excellent time to evaluate your marketing practices to ensure they are clear and effective. Though it is easy to become complacent with your sales process and the tactics that shape it, you must remain aware of ways to continue improving and moving forward. The techniques listed in this article are a good place to begin.

Take your time, research, and partner with a top ecommerce fulfillment company to reduce the major risks. Fulfillplex will handle all logistics, from shipping to fulfillment, so you can focus on marketing your business. Our Account Managers work with you to achieve your brand vision and grow your business. Get in touch with us now!

Categories
blog print on demand

Best Print on Demand Labeling Guide for Skin Care Products

Best Print on Demand Labeling Guide for Skin Care Products

Skincare is one of the most profitable product categories, with a revenue of approximately 188 billion US dollars expected in 2026. What’s more, guess what? The global skincare market is expected to expand further! According to these statistics, the beauty industry is a ripe market for enterprising business owners. With the popularity of skin care growing, an increasing number of people are looking for ways to sell print on demand skincare products to start or grow their businesses. This post will show you how to start a print on demand skincare business. Let’s get started.

HOW TO START PRINT ON DEMAND SKIN CARE BUSINESS?

 Step 1: Establish Your Niche And Select Profitable Skincare Products
Niche

The first step in launching a profitable print on demand skincare business is conducting extensive market research. This will help you to identify and select a niche with profitable products to sell. Furthermore, identifying your target audience is critical because it allows you to understand which print on demand products to sell. Thereby, positioning your print on demand skincare brand for success. 

Although trends come and go as quickly as they appear, you can use current and emerging trends to find a niche and select profitable skin care products to sell to your target demographic. Furthermore, you can use tools like Google Trends to research trends to select a niche and profitable skin care products.

Step 2: Look for a Reliable Print on Demand Service Provider
warehousing

Working with a professional print on demand fulfillment company is your best bet if you want to be more hands-off with your print on demand skincare brand. Moreover, they can help you with everything from finding suppliers to sourcing, warehousing, custom branding, ecommerce order fulfillment, shipping, and even customer service. To ensure getting the best products, only work with suppliers who adhere to the highest quality standards, including material sourcing.

Step 3: Create A Brand, Logo, And Packaging
 Brand

A well-designed logo facilitates a household brand’s creation, marketing, and growth. Furthermore, starting with the logo allows you to see how it will appear across different packaging options. As a result, it will allow you to make changes before going into final production. However, while you should strive to make your brand as distinct and memorable as possible, avoid overdesigning your packaging. As a result, simpler, cleaner designs are usually preferable in the skincare industry.

Furthermore, consistent branding throughout your skincare brand gives it a familiar, memorable feel. Regardless of how many products is in your line, ensure your brand has a consistent logo, color scheme, and quality.

Step 4: Choose Your Order Fulfillment Strategy
Order Fulfillment

One of the most important steps is to select an order fulfillment strategy that works for you/your business. After all, if you don’t have a system to ensure that your customers’ orders are processed, shipped, and received in good order and on time, you’ll lose customers faster than a sieve can sieve water. Outsourcing order fulfillment to a print on demand company, which handles warehousing, order processing, and later fulfillment and shipping. The best example of outsourced order fulfillment is Amazon FBA. As a result, the beauty of this option is that it is completely hands-off and highly streamlined.

Step 5: Promote Your Skincare Line
Promote

Once your systems are in place, you can fully launch your marketing campaign. In addition, if you still need a marketing and branding strategy, now is the time to develop one. One of the most effective and underutilized marketing strategies is the distribution of free samples. Create an effective sales funnel for your online store/website that allows you to nurture leads and convert them into customers using various email marketing strategies. 

Furthermore, social media is also a very effective marketing tool or channel these days. If you want to see results faster, consider running paid ads on search engines and social media platforms. Finally, feel free to use in-store marketing ideas such as displays, events, and trade promotions.

TOP 3 PRINT ON DEMAND SKIN CARE PRODUCTS TO SELL

1. Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C Serum

Vitamin C serum benefits frequently include brightening, which gives skin a more radiant appearance, as well as a reduction in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation, which results in a more even skin tone. In addition, it inhibits the pathway of abnormal skin pigmentation (melanin) production to even out skin tone and lightens dark spots, sun spots, acne scars, blemishes, and melasma hyperpigmentation. This unique anti-spot property of vitamin C serum lightens dark spots without affecting the pigmentation of your normal skin.

2. Instant Tightening Cream
Instant Tightening Cream

The innovative formula of this cream instantly tightens, firms, and smoothes the appearance of age-revealing trouble spots, temporarily minimizing the appearance of fine lines, deep wrinkles, and pores. They’re great for improving the overall health of your skin while targeting sagging and loose skin because they’re often formulated with collagen- and elastin-boosting antioxidants and peptides.

3. Eye Cream
Eye Cream

Eye creams, like face moisturizers, contain skin-restoring and replenishing ingredients that help hydrate, reduce the appearance of puffiness and dark circles, and protect against UV rays and other environmental aggressors. Furthermore, many contain anti-aging ingredients that help to reduce crow’s feet, fine lines, and wrinkles.

THE TAKEAWAY

 skin care products

It is simple and easy to sell print on demand skin care products. It doesn’t have to be difficult, especially if you work with a fulfillment partner who will guide you through the process. Building your own business or expanding your product offering is difficult enough; the product development process should be simple, and you can delegate the hard work to someone else with print on demand products.

As a top ecommerce fulfillment company, Fulfillplex is here to assist you with your print on demand skincare business needs. We are a full-service print on demand provider, and our professional team can assist you with everything from label design to fulfillment. Contact us now!

Categories
blog print on demand

Print on Demand Supplements Guide to The Keto Diet Craze

Print on Demand Supplements Guide to The Keto Diet Craze

A new diet craze emerges every couple of years, promising easy, quick weight loss or health benefits. This year, interest in keto has skyrocketed, making it the newest craze to sweep the weight loss world. With this diet’s popularity steadily increasing, now is the time to seriously consider capitalizing on the keto diet trend with print on demand supplements. Before we get into which supplements you should sell, let’s talk about the keto diet a little more.

WHAT IS THE KETO DIET AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

KETO DIET

The keto diet (ketogenic diet) is a low-carb, high-fat (LCHF) diet that has gained popularity. It focuses on high amounts of healthy fat, moderate protein, and low carbs. The keto diet gets its name because it is intended to induce ketosis. The body gets its energy from two sources: carbohydrates and fats. Carbohydrates are the body’s primary source of energy. Your body easily converts carbohydrates into glucose, which can then be converted into usable energy. Any glucose that is not used for energy is stored as fat.

The idea behind the keto diet is that as long as the body burns carbs for energy, it will not burn fat. When fewer carbs are available, the body is forced to convert fat into energy. The liver converts fat into ketones, which can be used as energy. It is referred to as putting your body into ketosis. It’s the whole point of the keto diet. Ketosis turns your body into a fat-burning machine!

THE KETO DIET CRAZE

THE KETO DIET CRAZE

The Keto Diet is more than just a fad; it is a long-term lifestyle change. The global ketogenic diet market was worth USD 9.57 billion in 2019 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% between 2020 and 2027. The rising prevalence of overweight and obesity issues among the young generation, millennials, and the working-class population is driving the market growth.

As the ketogenic diet grows in popularity, so does interest in optimizing health while following this high-fat, low-carb eating plan. Because the keto diet cuts out several food options, consuming print on demand supplements with specific nutrients is a good idea.

WHY DO PEOPLE FOLLOW A KETOGENIC DIET?

 KETOGENIC DIET

The keto diet has been tried by thousands of people who swear by its effectiveness. For many, it’s more than just a diet; it’s a way of life. Many people choose keto not only because they like the benefits but also because they like the foods they get to eat to achieve those benefits. A ketogenic diet is most commonly used to lose weight but can also help manage certain medical conditions such as epilepsy. It may also help people with heart disease, certain brain diseases, and even acne, but more research is needed.

TOP 3 PRINT ON DEMAND KETO PRODUCTS 

1. Keto Drops
 Keto Drops

Keto drops are formulated to aid weight loss on the keto diet by suppressing appetite and preventing fluid retention. It also contains antioxidants, which can help reduce cellulite’s appearance. Keto drops are made up of a variety of active ingredients. These ingredients affect fat metabolism and have corresponding effects that are also beneficial when losing weight and adhering to a keto diet. Keto Drops’ natural ingredients are considered safe to use. However, it is impossible to determine when the effect begins – this can vary from person to person.

Click here to learn more about Print on Demand Keto Drops.

2. Keto ACV Gummies
Keto ACV Gummies

Keto ACV gummies are a delicious sugary treat that works to help reduce weight without derailing your efforts. These are gummies with a naturally sweet taste from organic monk fruit extract and apple cider vinegar. Furthermore, they are a delicious way to get all the nutritional benefits of the ketogenic diet in a single serving. The pill contains a high concentration of BHB salts, which can be used as a quick energy source and help curb food cravings. They also contain the right combination of vitamins and minerals to keep your metabolism running smoothly and your energy levels high. They may also aid digestion and reduce inflammation, among other health benefits.

Click here to learn more about Print on Demand Keto ACV Gummies.

3. Keto Supplements
Keto Supplements

Keto Supplements are intended to aid weight loss by increasing metabolism during ketosis. The unique formula contains BHB salts, which aid in fat burning by increasing blood ketone levels. It makes it easier for people to stick to their diet plans and see results. Furthermore, by using exogenous ketones, the keto diet pills help reduce cravings and hunger, making it easier for people to stick to their diet plan. It aids keto dieters in losing weight without requiring them to adhere to a strict diet. However, it works best to help burn body fat when combined with a healthy diet.

Click here to learn more about Print on Demand Keto Supplements.

THE PRINT ON DEMAND SUPPLEMENTS BOTTOM LINE

SUPPLEMENTS

The keto diet is extremely popular, and if you still need to figure out how to attract the attention of keto dieters, you should be. Selling print on demand keto supplements can help you assist customers in maximizing their keto diet results. Our three keto products contain ingredients shown to aid in fat-burning and weight loss.

We have years of experience in the print on demand fulfillment industry at Fulfillpex. As a top ecommerce fulfillment company, we enjoy assisting businesses in growing and succeeding, and we’d love to assist you as well!

Check out our entire line of print on demand products, or contact us for any questions!

Categories
blog print on demand

Top Reasons To Sell Print on Demand Probiotic Supplements

Top Reasons To Sell Print on Demand Probiotic Supplements

Gut health has a significant impact on overall health. It can affect everything from weight to the immune system. According to research, the global probiotics market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.8% between 2023 and 2028, reaching approximately USD 87.3 billion by 2026. Over the last few years, many consumers have come to believe that probiotics can help support good gut health. Probiotics are becoming increasingly popular, making them an excellent choice for print on demand and online selling.

Probiotic supplements have been around for a long time and are still popular today! Probiotics appeal to a diverse range of demographics due to their numerous benefits. As a result, it is an excellent supplement to include in any product line. Continue reading to learn why you should begin selling print on demand probiotic supplements.

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT PROBIOTIC SUPPLEMENTS

 PROBIOTIC SUPPLEMENTS

Probiotics are living microscopic organisms that have been shown to improve health. Bacteria, yeasts, and other microorganisms that are similar to the “good” bacteria that already exist in the body can be included. Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium are the most common probiotic bacteria. Different strains of bacteria benefit various parts of the body. Probiotics have a long history in fermented foods such as yogurt. Individuals with and without digestive issues have taken them. Probiotics are still considered safe for the majority of people for these reasons. Bacteria do not all cause disease or infection. While scientists are unsure of how probiotics work, they have been shown to have several benefits, including:

  • Promotes healthy digestion.
  • Maintains the intestinal lining’s health and integrity.
  • Contributes to the detoxification process.
  • Increases antibody production to help the immune system.
  • Produces B vitamins, which aid in the metabolism of food, the maintenance of healthy skin, the prevention of anemia, and the maintenance of a healthy nervous system.

IS SELLING PRINT ON DEMAND PROBIOTICS SUPPLEMENTS RIGHT FOR YOU?

PRINT ON DEMAND PROBIOTICS

If you own a supplement company or are thinking about starting one, you’ve probably considered print on demand supplements at some point. Perhaps you haven’t taken the plunge yet because you’re unsure if selling probiotic supplements is right for you, or you don’t see all the benefits they can provide your business. Print on demand supplements is a great option for both established businesses and startups. Numerous popular supplements are on the market, and a new “it” product appears daily. Print on demand supplements enables you to quickly adopt new trends as they emerge, allowing you to remain competitive in the market and attract new customers.

TOP 6 REASONS TO SELL PRINT ON DEMAND PROBIOTIC SUPPLEMENTS

1. Less Work for You
 custom supplement

Print on demand is less work for you than creating your custom supplement. When it comes to creating a custom supplement, the process can be not only time-consuming but also labor-intensive, from researching ingredients to testing, approving, and finalizing the formula, to then educating your customer base on a brand-new supplement and hoping it sells. On the other hand, print on demand service providers has already done most of the legwork. You can select from many well-known, popular supplements with tried-and-true formulas.

2. Relatively Low-Cost
 Low-Cost

Print on demand fulfillment enables low minimum order quantities, which has two advantages. You can pay less per order, which is a no-brainer. Another advantage of these low MOQs is that you can safely test a new product without being saddled with excess inventory. As a result, most of the items chosen are less expensive and can be produced in large quantities. Because most print on demand supplement manufacturers receives large orders from major retailers, manufacturers benefit from manufacturing and shipping all products to a single customer. Both of these factors contribute to lower operating costs.

3. Expanded Product Offering
 Product Offering

We mentioned before that if you’re a business owner looking to expand your product offering, print on demand is an excellent way. For example, if you own a weight loss company and want to boost your average order value, you could include a few popular print on demand weight loss supplements as add-ons. Offering these well-known products is also an excellent way to attract new customers. You can entice them with a product they already know about/are interested in and then introduce them to the rest of your brand.

4. Fast Turnaround Time
Turnaround Time

Nobody wants their money tied up in inventory that they can’t sell because the turnaround time is so long. Print on demand products can be delivered in as little as 72 hours. Of course, you’ll want to choose a print on demand company that keeps products in stock.

5. Enhanced Market Stability
 Market Stability

Because of their quality, consistency, and affordability, today’s consumers prefer to print on demand products. Print on demand probiotic supplements maintains consistent sales even during economic downturns due to lower price points. Because retailers are less likely to freeze orders during difficult times, the market’s overall stability and inelasticity can help manufacturers. As dietary supplements become more popular during economic downturns, most stores would increase their order volumes.

6. Better Profit Margins
Profit Margins

Developing a customer base, designing products, and launching marketing campaigns all necessitate a strong brand personality. If you own a business, you understand how costly and time-consuming branding can be. The retailer’s print on demand brand is used on print on demand products. Manufacturing, packaging, and marketing are designed by the end retailer rather than you as the manufacturer, saving you money. You only pay the product’s cost, not a premium for the brand name or expensive marketing activities.

THE TAKEAWAY

business

Selling print on demand probiotic supplements is a great way to expand your business or start a new one. With much of the legwork done for you, you must choose which supplements to sell. With so much potential, it’s past time you began selling print on demand supplements.

To avoid the hassle, continue to provide your customers with high-quality print on demand probiotic supplements to keep them happy so you can start making money with Fulfillplex. We tailor a complete fulfillment and shipping solution that matches your business’s needs and budget as a top ecommerce fulfillment company, so get in touch now.

Contact us today to set up your dedicated merchant account and begin reaping the benefits of being a brand supplement company.

Categories
blog print on demand

How To Pick & Compare Print on Demand Supplement Providers?

How To Pick & Compare Print on Demand Supplement Providers?

Print on demand supplements is an excellent way to expand your practice while assisting your patients in reaching their health goals. However, this can only be accomplished by selecting the best supplement provider for your needs and your patients. Consider a supplement provider to be a partner who will work with you every step of the way to ensure your success in this endeavor. However, it is critical to conduct your own research to determine which print on demand supplement provider is best for your practice and your patients.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST PRINT ON DEMAND SUPPLEMENT PROVIDER?

1. Evaluate the Print on Demand Company’s Online Presence   
Online Presence

Print on demand supplements is an excellent way to expand your practice while assisting your patients in reaching their health goals. However, this can only be accomplished by selecting the best supplement provider for your needs and your patients. Consider a supplement provider partner who will work with you every step of the way to ensure your success. However, it is critical to conduct your own research to determine which supplement manufacturer is best for your practice and your patients.

It would help if you also investigated a company’s social media presence across key platforms. It will give you a good sense of the company’s image and core values. Consider reading reviews on e-commerce sites such as Amazon. It will give you a better understanding of how the market perceives this company and its products. You’ll also learn a lot about the company by reading what its customers say about it.

2. Discover More About Research and Development
 Research and Development

Product development is a time-consuming process that only occurs after a while. Extensive research, ingredient testing, and quality assurance procedures are required. When developing nutraceuticals, superior print on demand fulfillment companies are committed to safety and innovation. Naturally, you want to put your faith in a supplement company that develops products based on scientific evidence.

Is the company using branded ingredients that have been proven effective in clinical studies? These ingredients necessitate a significant financial investment and demonstrate the company’s dedication to quality. Many of these businesses will also allow you to read white papers demonstrating the efficacy of a specific supplement or ingredient. White papers may provide the concrete evidence you need to make a patient recommendation.

3. Examine the Raw Materials Used in Their Products
pure ingredients

A print on demand supplement is only as good as the raw materials used to create it. Before deciding on a print on demand provider, ensure that its supplements contain pure ingredients that meet a high standard of consistency and quality. Learning more about the company’s raw material testing procedures is beneficial. Extensive testing is required to determine whether raw materials meet quality, purity, and potency standards.

All raw materials, without a doubt, must be tested for contaminants, heavy metals, and purity. Extensive testing is required to ensure a supplement’s safety and efficacy. Customers are likely to pay the price if a supplement manufacturer does not conduct internal testing of raw materials. If you can’t trust the quality of the ingredients, you can’t trust the supplement or its manufacturer.

4. Look into the Provider’s Manufacturing Process
Manufacturing Process

Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) are just as important when developing a high-quality dietary supplement as the raw materials. Check to see if the provider is a Certified Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP) certified facility. GMPs are the best system for ensuring all products meet quality and consistency standards. It is specifically designed to help reduce the risks associated with the production of nutraceuticals while also ensuring the quality of a given product.

GMPs cover all aspects of the manufacturing process, from materials to production facilities and equipment to employee training and hygiene. Compliance with GMPs demonstrates that a manufacturer prioritizes product quality and customer satisfaction.

  1. Compare Supplement Facts Panels
Supplement Facts

The updated “Supplement Facts” panel is jam-packed with vital information to assist you in making an informed decision when selecting a supplement provider. More than evaluating active ingredients are required. To maximize the health benefits of a supplement, it is critical to review key factors such as “Serving Size,” nutrient levels,% Daily Value (%DV), and directions for use. 

Another critical component is the “Other Ingredients” section in the fact panel. It is where you’ll find the inactive ingredients used in the manufacturing process but aren’t necessary for the supplement’s health benefits. You can determine which supplement provider provides the most value and benefit to you and your patients by comparing Supplement Facts panels.

FIND THE PERFECT FIT FOR YOU!

supplement business

There is much to consider when searching for the best print on demand fulfillment company to manufacture your product line. Follow the steps above to ensure a smooth transition from concept to creation. Finding the right fit can ensure that your unique brand reaches like-minded consumers excited about the health benefits of partnering with your product line.

When you’re ready to begin your supplement business, Fulfillplex can assist with print on demand fulfillment. Contact us if you want expert advice from a top ecommerce fulfillment company!

Categories
blog print on demand

Best Ways to Label Your Print on Demand CBD Oil Products

Best Ways to Label Your Print on Demand CBD Oil Products

With the CBD boom in full swing, you’re probably designing a new label for a different print on demand CBD product every week. Whether you’re selling hemp-infused oil or CBD gummies, your CBD label must meet the FDA’s legal requirements. Surprisingly, the FDA has remained silent throughout the rise of CBD. However, one rule has been established: do not claim that your CBD product will cure, treat, or prevent any medical illness. Aside from that, there are no CBD-specific federal guidelines at the moment, so that you can look to the FDA’s General Label Requirements for guidance during the design process.

TOP 6 WAYS TO LABEL YOUR PRINT ON DEMAND CBD OIL PRODUCTS

1. Categorize Your CBD Product
Categorize

One of the first steps is to correctly classify your print on demand products as cosmetic, food, or supplement products and follow the FDA’s labeling guidelines. A helpful hint-supplements include soft gels, oral sprays, capsules, and ingested oils administered with a dropper. In addition, food and drinks (consumed all at once) are considered food products. Cosmetics are typically lotions, creams, and oils applied to the skin. You will need a supplement facts panel on the back if your product is a supplement. Similarly, you must include a nutrition facts panel if your product is classified as a food.

2. Determine The Proper Label
Label

To determine whether your product requires a food or supplement label, consider the product’s instructions and intended use. A supplement label is required if your product is a capsule, soft gel, or oral spray. If the recommended serving size for oil drops is a number of drops, the product is also a supplement. Even some food and beverage formats, particularly those with suggested serving sizes less than the FDA’s RACC, should be labeled as supplements (recommended amount customarily consumed).

It all comes down to the intended use. The container size can determine the number of servings in the container, serving size, marketing claims, and specialty ingredient dosage. A hemp CBD product will almost always require a supplement label. Follow the FDA labeling regulations for dietary supplements when creating a supplement label.

3. Don’t Mess Up The Front Label
Front Label

The most important aspect of labeling—and the most frequently overlooked—is the front of the package. The display panel must include important information, such as the net weight or the number of capsules in the bottle. This requirement does not apply to marijuana dispensary products. As a result, if you only sell your product within the state, you should follow the labeling laws of that state. Otherwise, you must follow federal regulations.

The statement of identity is another required piece of information that must appear on the front display panel of the label. “Hemp extract supplement,” “herbal supplement,” “dietary supplement,” or something similar could be used. On the front of the package, you should include the amount of a nutrient, such as 15 mg CBD per serving. It is permitted, but the amount must correspond to the information on the facts panel on the back of the label.

4. Determine The Parts
Supplement Facts

If you’ve identified dietary supplement on the front, a Supplement Facts panel is required on the back of the package. For herbal products, you must identify the part(s) of the plant used—in this case, the hemp plant. The total amount of hemp extract or oil (in milligrams) per serving should be specified. If you only declare the amount of CBD per serving in the facts panel, the product will appear to be an isolate. You can separate the cannabidiol and list the amount(s) per serving for clarity.

A Nutrition Facts panel on the back will be required if your product is a food or beverage. Because these differ slightly from the Supplements Facts panel, you should consult the FDA Food Labeling Guide. On the other hand, the front of the package has roughly the same requirements as a supplement.

5. Don’t Spotlight The CBD
 cannabinoids

We understand that “CBD” is appealing. However, we recommend to position your product as a hemp or full-spectrum cannabinoid product rather than just a CBD product. Why not call it what it is if you sell a holistic, full-spectrum hemp plant product? A comprehensive focus on hemp and entourage effect of cannabinoids full spectrum will identify CBD-containing products from isolated CBD drugs. In addition, restricting health benefits claims to what is acceptable for foods and dietary supplements may reduce the risk of falling under FDA enforcement radar.

6. Follow The Guidelines.
 Guidelines

If you want to label correctly, follow the FDA’s Labeling Guidance documents for Dietary Supplements and Foods. All labeling requirements can be found in these resources. Remember that all other marketing claims you make about your product must also adhere to these guidelines.

GET ACCURATE CBD LABELING

CBD LABEL

CBD product labeling can be difficult and perplexing. Make certain to follow FDA, FTC, and state-specific regulations. You can also seek professional assistance. Fulfillplex is a top ecommerce fulfillment company specializing in print on demand fulfillment. You can easily design and order CBD labels online to your exact specifications. Simply customize with your compliance requirements and place your order. Contact us to learn how we can assist you in achieving accurate labeling.

Categories
blog print on demand

Print on Demand Cannabis Oil Labels: A Complete Guide

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nJLys1ns_smaa2i03Z7EtJXrXephmbBX/view?usp=share_link

Over the last few years, the cannabis industry has expanded rapidly. We’ve seen dispensaries open across the country, but we’ve also seen an increase in print on demand cannabis products such as infused skincare, foods, beverages, and more. Despite the industry’s success, few federal guidelines and regulations govern cannabis packaging and labeling. Because most labeling requirements are imposed by individual state legislation, product packaging should follow the guidelines established by the state where the products are sold. In this guide, we’ll go over the most common requirements for print on demand cannabis oil labels, as well as design suggestions, label options, and more.

PRINT ON DEMAND CANNABIS OIL LABEL REGULATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

Though state regulations vary regarding what must appear on print on demand cannabis packaging, there are a few universal denominators. Check your state’s specific regulations for cannabis packaging and labeling requirements. For every cannabis product, you must follow the FDA’s guidelines. Starting with those guidelines is an excellent way to complete most of the label. If your cannabis product is edible, you should review the FDA’s guidelines for labeling a food product. If your product, such as a lotion or cream, could be classified as a cosmetic product, the FDA’s guidelines for labeling cosmetic products are a good place to start.

1. Statement of Identity

A brand logo and statement of identity are required on the front panel of most print on demand product labels. The brand logo and information inform customers about your company, whereas the statement of identity informs them about the product. Inform your customers whether they purchase cannabis-infused cream, CBD gummies, hemp oil, or anything else. Your labeling should make it abundantly clear that the product contained within is a cannabis product.

2. Ingredients
 Ingredients

An ingredients list is located on the packaging or product label, directly to the right of the statement of identity, for any ingestible or topical product. The ingredients should be listed in weight order, from heaviest to lightest. Ingredients should always be listed by their common name. Maintain a font size of no less than 1/16″ (though we recommend a minimum of 1/8′′).

Because yours is a cannabis product, you’ll also need to include a terpene profile and a list of pharmacologically active ingredients, such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), cannabidiol (CBD), and cannabidiolic acid (CBD (CBDA).

3. Net Contents and Weight
Net Weight

The Net Weight of the product must be displayed on the front panel in both metric (grams, kilograms, milliliters, liters) and US units. Units of the Customary System (ounces, pounds, fluid ounces). Ensure to include the amount of pharmaceutically active ingredients in milligrams per serving and package. The Net Weight should be positioned on the bottom 30% of the front panel, parallel to the package’s base.

4. Supplement and Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts

If your product is intended to be consumed, such as a supplement, food, or beverage, you must include a facts panel. Include the serving size, daily value percentage, and other relevant information. The Supplement or Nutrition Facts panels must be easy to read and placed directly to the right of the identity statement.

5. Warnings
Warnings

The specific warnings required on cannabis labels vary by state. Because cannabis remains a Schedule I controlled substance, most states require specific warning labels on cannabis products. Some common cannabis warning labels include the following phrases indicating that the product is or contains the following:

  • Health dangers
  • Only for medical purposes.
  • Habit formation
  • Restrictions based on age
  • Impaired abilities
  • Restrictions on resale and transfer
  • Not suitable for children or animals.
  • Not for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

PRINT ON DEMAND PACKAGING DESIGNS & REQUIREMENTS

Packaging for print on demand cannabis oils can also be difficult to manage. Because, like cannabis labels, packaging requirements are stringent and vary by state. Some designs can eliminate labels and print the necessary information directly on the package, making it equally important for these applications to adhere to proper guidelines. Because regulations constantly change, packaging must accommodate new changes, no matter how minor, to remain compliant. Some states require that packaging is transparent and resealable. 

1. Packaging Design
 Packaging Design

Regarding design, most state regulations state that the packaging cannot be brightly colored or styled in a way that is appealing to children. There should be no likeness or resemblance to cartoon characters on your label or packaging. Similarly, the label or packaging should not resemble any commercially available snack, candy, beverage, or baked good.

When designing your cannabis packaging, you still have a lot of leeway. In addition, when developing your branding and design, research color theory or consult a graphic designer or print on demand service provider for expert advice. Choosing the right packaging material can make all the difference.

2. Preservation
proper storage

When it comes to packaging print on demand CBD products, product preservation is critical. Plants deteriorate throughout the cultivation process as they are trimmed, dried, cured, and extracted. This deterioration can impact the overall weight and potency of the product, both of which are important pieces of information included in the package.

When selecting packaging, it is important to consider proper storage for travel conditions. Temperature changes during transportation can affect product quality, causing it to spoil or become damaged if the packaging is not designed to account for temperature, humidity, and moisture ranges. It can end up costing the company money in the long run.

3. Safety

Safety is one of the most important aspects to consider when dealing with legal cannabis products, and there are numerous factors to consider and follow. Customers should not be reasonably confused about whether the product they are purchasing contains anything other than cannabis because of the packaging.

Cannabis product packaging should not be designed to appeal to children. Some states also require childproof packaging. It means that it must be built so that it is extremely difficult for young children to open, ensuring that the product is safe and will not be accidentally ingested.

4. Durability
Cannabis packaging

Cannabis product labels and packaging should be tough to withstand the supply chain process. Moreover, cannabis labels must be resistant to fading, peeling, temperature changes, and moisture oil, as well as possible chemical exposure. To prevent tampering and counterfeiting, these labels should also have a strong adhesive that makes them difficult to remove.

5. Layout
Layout

While it is critical to comply with labeling laws and regulations, the layout of your cannabis product is also an important consideration. You want the necessary information to be legible to make the messaging to customers clear and concise. Customers should, however, find the layout aesthetically pleasing. A good label or design can keep your product compliant while making it stand out on the retail shelf.

6. Flexibility
Cannabis product legal

Cannabis product legal frameworks are constantly changing at the local, state, and federal levels, and when they do, labels and packaging must also change to remain compliant. It is beneficial for businesses to keep this in mind and ensure that cannabis label and package designs are adaptable. At some point in the future, new or additional information may need to be added or adjusted.

Printing labels in-house is one option for greater flexibility. It gives businesses more control over changing their designs when and if necessary to comply with new regulations. It ensures that changes can be made quickly and efficiently without wasting money on pre-printed labels that have already been purchased or losing time while new labels are ordered from a print on demand provider.

CONCLUSION

cannabis products

As a larger market for cannabis products appears promising, an increasing number of cannabis products are making their way to the retail floor. Businesses will want to stay current on cannabis regulations and requirements until there is a national standard so their goods remain compliant and available to consumers. We hope this guide has aided you in designing cannabis oil packaging and labels. Contact us for design advice, label material recommendations, and more! As a top ecommerce fulfillment company, Fulfillplex is enthusiastic about print on demand fulfillment and are always willing to assist.

You might also want to read: Print on Demand Packaging & Labeling Tips for Beginners

Categories
blog print on demand

Print on Demand Packaging & Labeling Tips for Beginners

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1l6OBENg7NUIGZ8is1IRh7u3pS2xPH10-/view?usp=share_link

First impressions are important in retail. Your print on demand packaging and labels must immediately communicate who you are and what you’re selling. Furthermore, it can mean a customer picking up your product and passing it up in favor of another brand. In fact, according to a study conducted by the Paper and Packaging Board, 72% of consumers say packaging design influences their purchasing decision. Join us, and we will go over how you can improve your marketing and branding efforts by using print on demand packaging design and proper labeling.

THE IMPORTANCE OF A HIGH-QUALITY PRODUCT PACKAGING

The packaging of a product serves three primary functions. First, this is where you convey critical information, like the product description, ingredients/materials, and how to use the product. Second, it keeps your product fresh and protects it from damage. Finally, a product’s packaging is your primary opportunity to differentiate it from similar items sitting just feet or inches away.

Never before have customers had so many options. And, with the rise of increasingly specialized tastes and preferences, differentiating your product has never been more important. Well-designed print on demand packaging lets you convey your brand’s unique value proposition and highlight important features such as eco-friendly sustainability, high quality, or good value.

PRINT ON DEMAND PACKAGING AND LABELING DESIGN CHECKLIST

Before you go crazy with your creative ideas, going over the fundamentals is critical. In addition, before approving bulk printing, make sure to check all of the boxes on this checklist.

1. Brand Identity.
Brand Identity

The design must include your brand’s visual assets, such as:

  • Logo
  • Color Palette
  • Typography
2. Copy.
label

Your label copy should make it clear what the product is. For example, if you don’t clearly label CBD gummies, anyone could easily mistake them for kiddie gummies.

3. Required marks.
best-before date

Certain marks, such as state administration approvals, are required in some industries. In addition, food and personal care products may also require a best-before date, so keep that in mind.

4. Imagery.
packaging design

It’s best to have your label designed by a professional print on demand service provider, using illustrations or a simple layout. Although packaging design templates are plentiful, you don’t want your product to look like a thousand other brands.

TOP 4 PRINT ON DEMAND PRODUCT PACKAGING AND LABELING DESIGN TIPS

1. Think About Your Target Market When Designing
Target Market

Consider your product proposition and, more importantly, how customers perceive it. It’s critical to understand who you’re speaking with. When making product packaging design decisions, the key metric to consider is what appeals to your intended audience. If you are branding a kid-friendly snack or an expensive spice, you must understand what your customers are looking for in the product packaging’s value proposition, colors, and fonts. Furthermore, the packaging of your print on demand products should appeal to the type of consumer who is most likely to buy them.

2. Create a Mockup
Mockup

Making a mockup of your packaging artwork is an important part of the design process. It allows you to see how the packaging design will look in real life. You can make a mockup in two ways, each with a different purpose.

  • Digital Mockup

A digital mockup is a process in which the design is grafted onto a photorealistic image. It is an excellent way to demonstrate how the design would appear to a client. Moreover, it is purely a visualization tool, allowing you and the client to see how the design will look on the shelves. You can create product mockup images from scratch in Photoshop (for a more photorealistic appearance) or Illustrator (for a more cartoon-like appearance) or purchase a ready-to-use template.

  • 3D Mockup

The second method of creating a 3D mockup serves a more practical, technical purpose, assisting you in determining whether your design is properly sized. Moreover, it entails printing and assembling a physical copy of your template.

This mockup can be as simple as you want—print it on regular printer paper, and don’t worry about the print quality. This exercise is solely for evaluating how the product folds and stays together and determining which parts of the design will be most visible to the consumer when it sits on the shelf. In addition, it is also an important step in determining the size of the type on your design. It’s amazing how text can appear too small when printed on paper.

3. Open Your Mind to Other Types of Packaging
Packaging

Packaging isn’t limited to boxes; numerous types of packaging suit various needs. While a box shape is relatively easy to design as a 2D template, less angular items such as tubes, pouches, and wraparound bottles may be more difficult. It is where precise measuring and 3D modeling come in handy, allowing you to judge how the design will look on curved surfaces.

Some types of packaging are even easier to make than boxes, making them an excellent choice if you’re new to packaging design. Bag designs are also simple to make, often requiring only a logo that can be repeated across a solid-color bag.

4. Know Your Print Finishing Options
 package

With a prop in hand, it’s much easier to explain exactly how you want your template to appear, and your printing partner will also appreciate the extra clarification. Inquire about appropriate print stock, considering the required sturdiness of the package and the final print result that can be achieved on different paper coatings and weights.

Your printing partner will also be able to advise you on the best print finishes for your design. These finishes, applied after the template has been printed, can add a textural and visual dimension to your package.

FINAL THOUGHTS

packaging product

Product packaging is more than just the bottle or box storing your product. It serves as a visual representation of your company. In addition, it reflects your distinct story and the value you provide to your clients. That said, you must ensure that your print on demand product packaging and label design will serve as an excellent brand ambassador.

If you need a partner with the skills and experience to create eye-catching packaging and label designs, Fulfillplex can help! We are a top ecommerce fulfillment company that can help you reveal your brand vision by utilizing custom packaging and premium materials and collaborating with packaging experts. Get in touch with us!

Categories
blog print on demand

Print on Demand CBD Oil Shipping Guide: How to Ship Legally?

Print on Demand CBD Oil Shipping Guide: How to Ship Legally?

In recent years, the popularity of CBD-based products has skyrocketed in the United States. CBD has risen from a virtually unknown compound to rock-star status in the health and wellness market. That’s fantastic news for anyone considering starting a business selling CBD-based products. The global CBD market is estimated to be worth $2.8 billion. However, one frequent question is the legality of shipping CBD in the United States and abroad. We’ll go over how to ship print on demand CBD oil across state lines, the legality of shipping CBD-based products nationally and internationally, USPS and print on demand shipping company regulations, and how to properly package products.

CAN YOU LEGALLY SHIP PRINT ON DEMAND CBD OIL?

LEGALLY SHIP

The short answer is yes, as long as your print on demand CBD products are made from hemp. It’s worth noting that CBD can also be extracted from the marijuana plant. Marijuana, a close relative of the hemp plant, is still illegal at the federal level. Additionally, your CBD products cannot contain more than 0.3% THC, a naturally occurring psychoactive compound in marijuana and hemp plants. The US Postal Service has issued detailed instructions on legally mailing hemp and hemp-based products.

You will unlikely be required to present lab reports or any other documentation to mail the products. However, the regulations state that you may be required to present them if there is a question about the item’s mailability or the recipient’s legal right to receive it. Furthermore, it’s better to be safe than sorry, so keep these on hand whenever you’re getting ready to ship a batch of orders.

HOW TO PACKAGE AND SHIP PRINT ON DEMAND CBD OIL?

Print on demand CBD oil or other CBD-based products that are properly labeled and ready for shipping necessitate a little more preparation than your typical online order. Here’s how to do it properly.

1. Consult your legal team.
legal team

If you have a legal team, make sure they review your statements and understand where you intend to send your print on demand CBD products. Although the CBD industry has grown rapidly, hemp-derived products remain illegal in some states. However, when in doubt, consult with your lawyer. Although CBD products are not classified as controlled substances by the federal government, each state has its own laws and regulations.

2. Prepare your paperwork.
paperwork

While there are no paperwork requirements for transporting CBD under the new rules, including copies of certification paperwork for your products with wholesale or industrial shipments is a good idea. Furthermore, it should not be an issue when shipping CBD products to customers. Prepare documentation demonstrating that your products are legally compliant to present if asked. This documentation includes the items listed in the previously mentioned USPS regulations and third-party lab results demonstrating that the product contains less than 0.3% THC.

3. Know your suppliers 
suppliers

If you don’t run your own farms or processing/manufacturing facilities and instead work with a supplier, ensure they’re keeping all the rules and shipping regulations, whether it’s about potency, where their CBD is grown, or anything else. In addition, check that your print on demand provider has all the necessary licenses for industrial hemp production. Furthermore, make copies of their certifications and store them in your records.

4. Examine your CBD products.
Examine

Regular lab tests will ensure that the THC content of your CBD products is within legal limits. If you’re considering selling CBD-infused food, drinks, or supplements, pay close attention to the FDA’s rules and regulations.

5. Prepare the products for shipping 
 shipping

If you’re shipping CBD oil, make sure it’s properly protected. Place the packaging in a shipping box filled with packing peanuts after wrapping it in a thick layer of bubble wrap. This configuration gives it the best chance of arriving at its destination unscathed. When shipping internationally, good packaging is especially important.

6. Hire a print on demand fulfillment company to ship CBD orders
CBD fulfillment

Once your product is packaged, arrange for your preferred courier to pick it up at your home or business. Allow your preferred carrier to pick up the shipment, or hire a print on demand service provider to handle CBD fulfillment for your company.

A print on demand service provider provides access to ecommerce fulfillment centers all over the United States. It allows you to ship orders to customers more quickly. Check that CBD oil complies with federal regulations. Their warehouse management system is also likely to integrate with some e-commerce platforms. It allows you to easily monitor your orders by tracking them in real-time and generating detailed reports.

WRAP IT UP

CBD products

The billion-dollar market for print on demand CBD products in the United States is expected to grow tenfold by 2025. The growth opportunities for eCommerce retailers who implement a tight marketing and shipping strategy are enormous, as long as you follow the FDA guidelines and avoid potentially business-ruining shipping infractions.

Keep your CBD online shop running smoothly by outsourcing fulfillment to a print on demand fulfillment company like Fulfillplex. Contact us to learn how the pros quickly get their print on demand products into satisfied customers’ hands without breaking your budget or sacrificing service quality!

Categories
blog print on demand

Professional Print on Demand Label Printing vs. DIY Printing

Professional Print on Demand Label Printing vs. DIY Printing

What worked well initially may no longer be sufficient as your company grows. It is particularly true if you have been printing your own labels. But it’s only sometimes clear when upgrading to a professional product-label printer is time. In this post, we’ll go over the fundamentals of home label printing, the advantages and disadvantages of printing your own labels vs. hiring a professional labeling company, some signs your company is ready to upgrade to professional print on demand label printing, and how to find the best professional print on demand company when the time comes.

WHEN TO PRINT LABELS YOURSELF

own labels

Printing your own labels is a great option for small businesses, starting with product labels or shipping labels. The ability to print one sheet of labels at a time is an excellent place to start. Another significant benefit of printing your own labels is that you can print them as needed. It is beneficial for inventory control and helps small businesses keep costs low. Printing your own labels, for example, can be a more cost-effective option if you sell smaller quantities of seasonal products. However, if you need many labels regularly, consider using professional print on demand services.

Pros Of Printing Your Own Labels

Printing your own labels at home has some advantages, especially if your business is new. There is no need to wait for labels to be created. Because you are doing your own printing and order fulfillment, you can print the labels as needed. You can meet a minimum order requirement if you’re producing small batches of product or testing out a seasonal or special edition offering. Printing your own labels home can be more cost-effective if you only need a few labels.

WHEN TO CHOOSE PROFESSIONAL PRINTING

PROFESSIONAL PRINTING

If your company is expanding and you’re having trouble keeping up with demand, consider hiring a professional print on demand company. However, make sure to inquire about their turnaround times. A few seasoned label companies provide same-day delivery in as little as three days, but the majority outsource their printing, which can take two to four weeks. A label printing service will also provide you with professional, expert advice on label sizes, shapes, and materials. Labels for lotion bottles, for example, require a different material than candle labels. Having an expert on hand to assist you in selecting the right material can save you a lot of trouble in the future.

Pros of Professional Printing

Professional print on demand companies uses a more sophisticated printing process to produce higher-quality labels with superior crispness and ink adhesion. They also have many label materials resistant to moisture, oil, heat, and UV rays. Labels are also generally less expensive when mass-produced, so printing in bulk can save you a lot of money. Print on demand companies can also provide industry expertise and advice on label design, materials, and finishes.

WHY CONSIDER UPGRADING TO PROFESSIONAL PRINT ON DEMAND LABEL PRINTING

There are no hard and fast rules, but here are a few indicators that it may be time to work with a professional.

1. Failure to Represent Your Brand 
 Brand

The most obvious sign is when you realize that the labels you can make yourself are no longer the best representation of your brand. When your label’s design or print quality does not reflect the quality of your product or company, it’s time to switch to a professional print on demand provider.

2. Inability to Obtain Necessary Label Material 
Material 

Printing product labels in-house means previous access to a broader range of label materials and finishes. Upgrading your product labels with stronger materials or high-end finishes is a natural progression as your company grows.

3. Lack of Time 
Lack of Time

Another telltale sign is the increasing amount of time you devote to label creation. Making your own labels may not be the most efficient use of your time, which could be better spent on planning and marketing.

4. Higher Costs 
Higher Costs

Printing your own labels is most cost-effective in small quantities. Professionally produced labels in larger quantities are typically less expensive.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST PROFESSIONAL PRINT ON DEMAND PARTNER

Here’s what to look for when you’re ready to work with a professional print on demand company that provides high-quality label printing.

1. Excellent Reviews 
Excellent Reviews

Learn from the experiences of others. Google and website reviews provide a wealth of information about people’s experiences with companies with which you may be interested in working. Check out their online reviews before calling a print on demand provider.

2. Strong Customer Support 
 Customer Support 

It is invaluable to quickly contact someone who can answer questions and provide assistance. Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential service providers, look into their customer support options. Call their customer service number and ask some questions. Being able to test drive a customer support experience ahead of time can help you better understand what it’s like to be one of their customers.

3. Expertise
Expertise

Having access to years of industry experience is arguably the most significant advantage of working with a professional print on demand company. Some businesses have been in operation for a longer period than others. Inquire about the company’s history and the types of labels it specializes in.

4. Quality
Quality

When working with a professional print on demand company, saving money can have drawbacks. Priority should be given to quality. Many businesses will send product samples. Request samples of the materials and finishes you’re considering using for your product labels.

5. Minimum order
minimum order

Some print on demand companies require a minimum order. Check if the number of labels you require meets any minimum order requirements.

YOUR REPUTATION MATTERS

REPUTATION

Product labels are usually the first visual contact prospects have with your brand. How labels appear to customers can either increase sales or cause them to look elsewhere. Whether to make product labels in-house or hire a professional print on demand company is critical and depends on your company’s growth stage. Working with a professional print on demand company provides access to industry expertise and a broader range of options, making it easier to produce high-quality labels that distinguish your products.

Fulfillplex is a top ecommerce fulfillment company specializing in white-label servicing, offering the most dependable, cost-effective, and scalable solutions tailored to your specific needs. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need assistance labeling your products. Our team is eager to assist your company with care and excellence.

Categories
blog print on demand

Print on Demand Steps to Improve Order Fulfillment Process

Print on Demand Steps to Improve Order Fulfillment Process

As a customer, you value it when your online orders arrive safely, on time, and at a reasonable price. It is your responsibility as a brand or retailer to make that happen. E-commerce order fulfillment refers to the entire process, from initial order placement to final delivery. The promise of a sale, combined with the potential pitfalls of order fulfillment, is a goal and a challenge for any company. How can you improve the print on demand process from order to delivery? Let’s look at how to improve your eCommerce order fulfillment process, customer satisfaction, and bottom line with these 8 print on demand tips and answers to your biggest questions.

A QUICK DEFINITION OF ORDER FULFILLMENT

ORDER FULFILLMENT

The process of receiving an order and managing its delivery to the customer is known as order fulfillment. Processing the order in a multichannel commerce platform, sending it to the warehouse for fulfillment, assembling and packing it, shipping it, and confirming final delivery are all typical tasks. However, long before a customer clicks “place order,” this process necessitates preparation and planning. The possibility of returns is an additional step to consider in the fulfillment process. Some businesses include shipping materials and a return slip with the initial order. Accepting a return necessitates quality control to ensure the product is not damaged or soiled and can be properly restocked.

WHY IS QUALITY ORDER FULFILLMENT IMPORTANT?

QUALITY ORDER FULFILLMENT

One of the most important aspects of any sale is order fulfillment. You’ve spent time and money to find and convert the right clients, and the hard work is done if you nail the print on demand fulfillment stage. All your efforts will be for naught if the order arrives late, damaged, or incorrect. Customers, especially first-time customers, are not particularly forgiving of late orders. Of course, order fulfillment impacts many other aspects of your business, including inventory management and control. When demand increases, you must order more goods and keep them on hand to ensure the smooth operation of your print on demand fulfillment process.

8 TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR PRINT ON DEMAND FULFILLMENT

Step 1: Demand seamless integration
warehouse management system

You likely do not manufacture the goods you sell in-house. Your online goods are most likely sourced from various distributors, stored in warehouses, and then shipped to your customers. If this is the case for your business, seamless integrations between your vendors and order management system are critical for the most efficient and timely fulfillment. To manage picking, packing, and shipping, you should be able to easily integrate your preferred print on demand service provider or warehouse management system (WMS). Finally, the dreaded typically ships in 2 to 4 weeks and can rest.

Step 2: Enable end-to-end order visibility
visibility

You must ensure that you can see everything in your supply chain. In layman’s terms, this means that you and your suppliers should be able to access the same catalog, inventory fulfillment, and order fulfillment processes — to see what items are available, in what quantities, and where they are located. Furthermore, your e-commerce customers who are browsing should be able to see whether an item is in stock and, if quantities are limited or quantity matters, how many items are available. This clarity is referred to as end-to-end visibility, which is critical for customer satisfaction and accurate order fulfillment.

Step 3: Choose the right print on demand company
service provider

If your shipper consistently underperforms, your customers will blame your company’s reputation rather than the service provider. Allow regular audits of your current fulfillment partner to avoid this: Do they provide real-time, accurate order tracking? Is there a recent increase in late shipments, delayed shipments, lost shipments, forgotten shipments, or damaged deliveries at your shipper? If this is the case, it’s time to devote time and resources to finding a new and better shipper to meet your print on demand fulfillment needs. Maintain strong relationships with your fulfillment partners to negotiate the best deals, stay informed, and understand their processes to avoid delays.

Step 4: Enable exception-based order management
 order management

Instead of simply informing customers that their orders have been delayed (and thus risking negative customer experiences), you can automatically upgrade shipping methods to meet your original delivery promise. Exception-based order management will cost you a little more in shipping, but it will save you a headache and the financial consequences of angry customers and lost business. This automated procedure can also increase brand loyalty and the likelihood of repeat purchases.

Step 5: Choose your warehouse locations wisely
 warehouse locations

Today’s e-commerce customers want their orders as soon as possible. You can select warehouses and shippers that can meet your quick picking and shipping needs. Alternatively, you can store products in several warehouses located throughout your delivery area and thus close to your customers’ homes to ensure fast but low-cost ground shipping. Finally, use smart shipping algorithms to help identify the best shipping method, so you don’t overspend but also don’t under-deliver.

Step 6: Communicate regularly with your customer
Communicate

You should maintain constant contact with your customer throughout the process. We’re also not talking about a simple “Thank you for your order” email. No, we mean real-time, on-demand communication about order status, from order, received, and in the process to order shipped and delivered.

Step 7: Handle returns and refunds like a pro
returns and refunds

Returns happen. Indeed, approximately 30% of online purchases are returned. It is necessary for every business, but only some businesses approach it positively. Make an exception. Keep your cool. And be efficient at all times. Only work with print on demand service providers who accept returns, have no restocking fees and can process refunds and replacements. Yes, be clear about your return policy, but also create efficient processes for handling returns, managing reverse logistics, and issuing refunds.

Step 8: Monitor fulfillment end-to-end regularly
Monitor

Don’t “set it and forget it.” Monitor your fulfillment speed, accuracy, and time to delivery regularly to ensure you’re meeting your goals and keeping your promises to customers. Select a system that provides complete tracking of orders, inventory, and all other eCommerce operations. A unified system ensures that you and your suppliers see the same catalog and order fulfillment progress. Customer inquiries and feedback can also gauge shopper satisfaction, prompting changes to your overall process.

FULFILLPLEX OPTIMIZES ORDER FULFILLMENT FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS

OPTIMIZES

Fulfillplex, a top eCommerce fulfillment company, enables you to manage orders from all channels more effectively. Our platform is built with flexibility, supporting a wide range of fulfillment options such as owned warehouses, FBA, and 3PLs. Furthermore, our order management and shipping management solutions provide complete visibility into your fulfillment operations, allowing you to proactively address issues and consistently meet customer expectations. Contact our team today for a demonstration of the Fulfillplex platform and to learn how we can assist you in developing a resilient print on demand fulfillment operation.

Categories
blog print on demand

Selling Print on Demand Hemp Oil: Smart Business Opportunity

Selling Print on Demand Hemp Oil: Smart Business Opportunity

Cannabidiol (CBD) sales have exploded in popularity over the last half-decade, making it one of the fastest-growing industries in the United States. The total number of U.S. CBD product sales increased from $108 million in 2014 to $1.6 billion in 2021, which is expected to reach nearly $2 billion by the end of 2022. Following a similar trajectory, legal cannabis sales in the United States are expected to reach $23 billion by 2025. With the coronavirus pandemic affecting industries across the country, it is no surprise that the majority of this growth was driven by online sales. As a result, this accounts for the vast majority of print on demand CBD product sales in the United States in 2020.

The increased popularity of CBD, combined with the growth of online sales, presents an exciting opportunity for CBD online businesses. Particularly those looking to expand into the world of ecommerce. Indeed, the transition to CBD ecommerce has already begun. Cannabidiol (CBD) sales in the ecommerce channel in the United States alone are expected to reach more than $6 billion by 2026.

WHAT IS HEMP OIL?

 HEMP OIL

Hemp oil, also known as hemp seed oil, is derived from hemp. It is a cannabis plant similar to marijuana but contains little to no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the chemical that causes people to become “high.” Instead of THC, hemp contains cannabidiol (CBD), a chemical used to treat conditions ranging from epilepsy to anxiety. 

Hemp is becoming increasingly popular as a treatment for various ailments, including skin problems and stress. It may have properties that help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and cardiovascular disease, but more research is needed. Hemp oil has the potential to reduce inflammation in the body. In addition to CBD, hemp oil contains high levels of omega-6 and omega-3 fats, which are good fats. It also contains all nine essential amino acids, which your body uses to make protein.

WHY SELL PRINT ON DEMAND HEMP OIL?

PRINT ON DEMAND HEMP OIL

CBD business is profitable because the US CBD market is expected to reach $20 billion by 2024. As a result, it’s the best option if you’re looking for a job in a growing industry. However, there are some critical factors to consider if you want to succeed. There are numerous ways to profit in the CBD industry. You could start your own CBD business by investing in hemp oils, tinctures, and topicals. Another possibility is to become a distributor for well-known brands. You can sell their print on demand products on your website or in local stores.

Whatever approach you take, there are several key areas that you must concentrate on to be successful. These include effectively marketing your company, building a strong brand with excellent customer service, and selecting high-quality products that appeal to your target market. Furthermore, staying current with industry trends and regulations is critical for remaining competitive and avoiding legal trouble.

THE HEMP OIL MARKET

HEMP OIL MARKET

The hemp oil market was worth S 82.45 million in 2021 and is expected to be worth S 1,253.51 million by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 38.2% from 2021 to 2027. The rising demand for hemp oil due to its increasing use in personal care products and the food and beverage industries worldwide is a key driver of the global hemp oil market’s expansion. Furthermore, increased awareness of the various health benefits of this oil, such as relief from anxiety, sleep disorders, chronic pain, and others, is leading to increased demand for hemp oil in the global market. 

The increasing use of hemp oil in many nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications, as well as increased awareness of hemp seed oil’s ability to prevent diseases such as diabetes, inflammation, cancer, and others, are expected to drive growth in the global market. Furthermore, the rising e-commerce penetration of hemp oil and the rising adoption of hemp oil in the production of fuel, lubricants, paints, and other industrial uses are other factors that will likely drive the target market’s expansion during the forecast period. 

Hemp oil, among other things, relieves chronic pain, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and nerve pain. In recent years, the demand for hemp oil has increased due to the health benefits of hemp. Furthermore, the expansion of the online distribution channel is an important factor that hastened the growth of the global hemp oil market. The high cost of hemp oil is a significant factor that is expected to limit the target market’s future growth.

LEGAL OBLIGATIONS OF SELLING CBD PRODUCTS

CBD PRODUCTS

The fact that the 2018 Farm Bill federally legalized industrial hemp and hemp extracts such as CBD oils does not mean that there aren’t significant regulatory concerns surrounding the industrial hemp industry. The 2018 Farm Bill effectively removed CBD from the federal Controlled Substances Act and the Drug Enforcement Agency’s oversight. Instead, it delegated control of the hemp industry and CBD oil to the FDA.

The FDA is still developing regulations, leaving the CBD industry in flux. So far, the FDA has indicated that marketing CBD as having health benefits are prohibited. In some cases, it has also launched a crackdown on CBD-infused foods and beverages. Understanding your legal obligations and playing it safe is critical in a highly scrutinized industry. While CBD businesses worldwide await clearer regulatory guidance, it is critical to base your marketing strategy on something other than the purported benefits of CBD. It’s also critical to stay current on new developments as the FDA drafts new regulations.

HOW TO GAIN A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE

The key to gaining a competitive advantage with staying power in the CBD industry is to create a high-quality print on demand product that can withstand the scrutiny of both regulators and educated consumers in the coming months. If you want to stand out from the crowd, you must provide third-party lab testing results to validate the quality of your product. Furthermore, pursuing certifications such as USDA organic, Good Manufacturing Practices, and FDA facility registrations are important steps. This will help in instilling consumer confidence in the quality of the product they are purchasing. Even if the process is complicated, the formula for success is simple.

Furthermore, you’ll need a system for warehousing and managing inventory for your print on demand hemp oil products. When you first start, this could be done at home. As your business grows, sign a warehouse lease at an eCommerce fulfillment center or outsource print on demand fulfillment services. Ensure that your fulfillment technology integrates well with your eCommerce platform, payment processor, and other software.

Finally, double- and triple-check everything. Understand that there will be changes. Research as much as possible and recognize future opportunities by thinking outside the box.

PRINT ON DEMAND HEMP OIL IS A HUGE BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

If approached correctly, selling print on demand hemp oil is a huge business opportunity. The CBD industry offers unrivaled growth potential. The cannabis industry is one of the fastest-growing in the country, and CBD is one of its fastest-growing sectors. Hemp CBD products are increasing at an alarming rate, particularly since the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill. You are not alone if you want to start a CBD business. For the past century, this industry has been mostly illegal. There is a lot of momentum right now. Many people are attempting to break in, so avoid following the crowd. You aspire to be a leader.

Due diligence combined with creativity will position your company for success in the CBD industry. Now is the time to get in on the ground floor and build a company that will last but stand out from the crowd with a high-quality product. And you can easily do this with the help of the top eCommerce fulfillment company – Fulfillplex. With the right support and systems in place, fulfilling your orders can be very simple, especially as demand increases. When you can no longer do it alone, Fulfillplex will ensure that the products your consumer order are delivered on time. Get in touch with us now!

Categories
blog print on demand

The Print on Demand Order Fulfillment Guide to Holiday Sales

The Print on Demand Order Fulfillment Guide to Holiday Sales

The holiday shopping season has arrived. It is probably not surprising that this is the busiest year for eCommerce businesses. A large portion of holiday shopping is still done in brick-and-mortar stores. However, online retailers are gaining a larger share with each passing year. The holiday shopping season can significantly impact the bottom line of any eCommerce retailer. If your company isn’t prepared to increase website traffic, orders, customers, and returns, holidays can be stressful and financially damaging. An expert print on demand service provider can assist when it comes to holiday preparations.

IMPORTANCE OF PRINT ON DEMAND ORDER FULFILLMENT DURING THE HOLIDAYS

HOLIDAY

You have an abundance of inventory, your marketing is festive, and your user experience is fantastic. It’s now time to fill your customers’ orders. Handling peak season print on demand fulfillment on your own or with a small team can be terrifying. As a result, outsourcing fulfillment to a reputable print on demand provider is the best decision to make.

1. Transparent Communication
Communication

The key to a successful holiday season is operational alignment, and the eCommerce order fulfillment piece is no exception. Choose a print on demand fulfillment company that values communication and transparency throughout the process, from receiving inventory to shipping orders and handling returns. Your print on demand provider wants to help you have the best holiday season. They will help you by getting your orders out quickly, but they need your help to do so.

If you are running a sales promotion, notify your provider to prepare for a surge in orders. You can also include any forecasting data, an expected percentage increase over normal volume, and any planned marketing.

2. Fast Shipping
Fast Shipping

With large eCommerce companies offering fast and free shipping options, customers expect fast and affordable delivery in just one click. They expect it especially during the holidays, when timeliness can make or break the gift-giving experience. However, with Amazon and other retail giants setting the standard for two-day shipping, it can appear daunting or impossible for smaller businesses to offer the same speed. The key to making fast shipping affordable is to use ground shipping, which costs a fraction of what air shipping does.

Working with a print on demand fulfillment provider who allows you to distribute inventory across multiple fulfillment center locations can save you time and money. Shipping from the eCommerce fulfillment center closest to your customer reduces the number of shipping zones. Moreover, resulting in faster shipping and lower shipping costs.

3. Handling Holiday Returns

The more you sell during the holiday season, the more returns you’ll have to deal with in the first few weeks of January. During the peak shipping season, 60 million packages are returned to retailers. Before the holiday rush begins, make sure you have a simple returns process communicated throughout your website. Work with your print on demand provider to determine whether and how they handle client returns. They should be able to assist you in automating the returns process in a timely and cost-effective manner. In addition, providing your customers with a shipping label and order tracking information once their return has been shipped. Make the return process as simple as possible for your customers.

WORK WITH A POD FULFILLMENT EXPERT

FULFILLMENT

Whether this is your first holiday season at a rapidly expanding company or you need to switch fulfillment before the holiday rush. The sooner you contact a print on demand fulfillment expert, the better. There is a strong sense of urgency when it comes to finding a reliable fulfillment partner in time for the holidays. Thousands of other customers are also sending more products frequently. As a result, fulfillment centers are likely to experience inventory delays during the holidays. Send inventory as soon as possible and as frequently as possible. Remember, this is the busiest time of year for anyone working in logistics.

Be as proactive as possible if you want to work with a top eCommerce fulfillment company for holiday fulfillment. To get started, contact Fulfillplex and request a quote.

Categories
blog print on demand

Print on Demand Business Methods for a Successful Holiday

Print on Demand Business Methods for a Successful Holiday

Every holiday shopping season, eCommerce businesses of all shapes, sizes, and industries anticipate increasing sales. According to Adobe Analytics data, e-commerce sales for the previous holiday season increased by two years, reaching $188.2 billion, a 32 percent increase year over year. Because so many purchases are made online at this time of year, businesses are under a lot of pressure to get their names and products in front of customers. As an eCommerce business, it is critical to maximizing demand during the holiday season, and print on demand fulfillment is the key to success during this season.

STEPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL 2023 HOLIDAY SEASON WITH PRINT ON DEMAND FULFILLMENT

1. Get ready for incoming traffic.
traffic

Increased traffic to your online store during the holidays is exhausting, especially on peak shopping days. In addition, nothing is worse than a site outage during one of these critical times. One thing to do this is to ensure that your inventory is well-stocked. However, increased traffic necessitates increased inventory requirements. Check-in with suppliers now to ensure you’re adequately stocked, especially for likely gift items. It will help to avoid long wait times and frustrated customers finding out their must-have gift is out of stock or on back-order.

2. Make the customer experience as simple as possible.
speed

Today’s holiday shopper wants to get what they need as quickly and easily as possible. That means your website must offer options tailored to their specific needs as well as a smooth path to checkout. In addition to dependability, you must ensure that your site is fast. According to one survey, 70% of consumers believe that page speed influences their decision to buy from an online retailer. Improve your storefront experience. Use your website design to bring your brand to life and create a unique visitor experience.

3. Update your merchandising strategy.
 merchandising strategy

Display your holiday merchandise. Begin by deciding which print-on-demand products you will sell to your target audience this holiday season. Good merchandising persuades them to buy the product and, ideally, suggests opportunities for upselling and cross-selling. Next, think about how you’ll present these seasonal items on your website. For example, in your site navigation, you could include a holiday-specific category. Make shopping easier by gathering all of your gifts in one place.

4. Customize the customer experience.
Personalization

Give your customers a one-of-a-kind experience. Personalization resulted in increased revenue for 90 percent of marketers. You can surface relevant print on demand products to inspire customers and encourage them to purchase. Moreover, analyze behavioral and contextual customer data and business-related data such as margin and inventory. Based on customer data, product recommendations result in a significant increase in conversion rates and a decrease in cart abandonment. You can also use previous browsing history insights to surface relevant content to shoppers. For instance, reminding them of the gift they browsed last time they visited or highlighting something related to previous purchase.

5. Optimize the checkout process.
checkout

When customers reach the checkout page, they’ve already decided they want to buy something. Optimizing your checkout page entails making the process simple so that the customer does not abandon the purchase.  According to one survey, 21% of online shoppers in the United States abandon their shopping carts due to a lengthy and complicated checkout process. You can create a streamlined checkout experience by using a single checkout page, allowing guest checkout, and providing multiple payment and shipping options.

6. Decide how you will handle shipping and fulfillment.
shipping

To put a great customer experience strategy into action, you’ll need a clear plan for where to sell your products and how to ship and fulfill orders. Your online store isn’t the only place where you can spread holiday cheer. Think about expanding your sales channel. More importantly, connect these channels for a unified experience. You will most likely see an increase in orders during the holiday season. To prepare for the increased traffic, you’ll need a professional print on demand service provider who can handle shipping for you.

WRAPPING UP

 holiday

Businesses and consumers are looking forward to the holiday season more than ever this year. Shoppers may shop in-store, online, and across all channels and marketplaces to find the perfect gift for everyone on their list. Creating a shopping experience that entices them and provides a straightforward path to purchase gives them a compelling reason to choose your store over the competition. Make it simple and quick for them to shop with you in whatever way they prefer. Take holiday preparations with a print on demand provider, and you’ll be well on your way to welcoming jolly shoppers with ease in no time.

OUTSOURCE SHIPPING AND FULFILLMENT WITH A TOP ECOMMERCE FULFILLMENT COMPANY

 eCommerce

Working with a top eCommerce fulfillment company like Fulfillplex for shipping and fulfillment means that this aspect of your business will be handled by someone else. You will be able to benefit from bulk shipping discounts and advanced tracking technology. Using a print on demand expert also means that customers will receive their packages faster, and if they have any questions or concerns about the shipment, they can contact them. All of this frees you and your team to concentrate on other aspects of the business that require your attention. Contact us now to learn more.

Categories
blog print on demand

Top Print on Demand Tips for Avoiding Holiday Season Mishaps

Top Print on Demand Tips for Avoiding Holiday Season Mishaps

According to the Adobe Digital Economy Index, online spending will reach $910 billion this holiday season, increasing 11% year on year. A lot of hype surrounds the holiday season, and everyone from small print on demand retailers to global brands is looking to capitalize on this opportunity. We’ve already talked about how to prepare and market your eCommerce business during the holidays. However, it’s common to make a few mistakes in a rush to make the most of this holiday season.

6 PRINT ON DEMAND TIPS FOR AVOIDING HOLIDAY SEASON BUSINESS MISHAPS

1. Plan ahead of time.
Plan

Whatever the size of your eCommerce company, it is critical to have a holiday strategy in place. Analyzing your goals and pending tasks at the end of each quarter is the best way to stay proactive and ensure that important things don’t slip through the cracks. If you’re a thinker, you’ve probably planned everything out months in advance. It’s crunch time if you’re more of a doer. Planning ahead is by no means foolproof, but it does serve as a useful framework for the coming months. You’ll be thanking your past self for a job well done amid the holiday chaos.

2. Have a competitive advantage.
advantage

It’s not realistic or even productive to compare your small business to industry behemoths like Amazon, so start small and work your way up. What is the solution? Consider your direct competitors, and then do some research. Examine their promotions, graphic design, customer service, and even shipping methods. Take note of what they’re doing and see if you can incorporate their strategies into your day-to-day operations. It’s not as devious as it sounds. Make an effort to stand out rather than blend in with your millions of competitors.

3. Monitor your marketing campaigns.
marketing

Consider this: failing to track your marketing efforts is akin to enrolling in a class and never knowing what kind of grades you received. It’s necessary and non-negotiable; otherwise, you’ll never know if the measures you’re putting in place are working. You can track your campaigns using KPIs, which include metrics such as website traffic, paid ad performance, and more. Google Analytics is the industry standard, with many free features and resources suitable for both novice and experienced SMBs. You can adjust and improve your marketing once you’ve determined which campaigns are working and which aren’t. As a result, more potential customers are reached.

4. Make an accurate sales forecast.
sales forecast

It is critical to creating a sales forecast for your eCommerce business. For the upcoming holiday season, considering every product for promotions will not make sense. You must forecast your sales based on the popularity of the print on demand products category and the least sold product. Follow your reports and analytics religiously, carefully examine your year-over-year reports, and then forecast your sales and pricing plan based on all of these factors.

5. Account for unexpected challenges.

Whether you like it or not, you may face challenges for which you are completely unprepared. There may be technical glitches or logistical bottlenecks at times. In any case, you must be prepared for all of these potential issues ahead of time. A minor hiccup in your order processing can cost you thousands of dollars in lost sales, and a lack of stock refills can harm your user ratings. Working with a print on demand service provider who understands these challenges can help you improve the performance of your business.

6. Hire additional help.
Hire

Hiring a professional print on demand company to handle order fulfillment is cost-effective and simple. You will undoubtedly benefit from their expertise, experience, and resources. They will be your long-term partner so that they will be available to you throughout the year, not just during the holidays. You can focus on marketing your brand while fulfilling orders, relieving stress, and giving you more time to rest.

CONCLUSION

business

Sales seasons are an excellent time to attract and retain new customers. And you don’t have to be an eCommerce expert to do it. If you avoid these common pitfalls and have the right systems and processes in place, you will drive higher performance and fully benefit from these promotion periods. So, instead of focusing on reinventing the wheel with your operational efforts, make wise decisions before these errors occur in your eCommerce business.

The Fulfilplex team wants you to have the best holiday season possible, and allowing us to assist you is the best decision you can make. We are a top eCommerce fulfillment company specializing in print on demand services. Visit us to find out more and get a quote.

Categories
blog print on demand

Print on Demand Pro Tips | Reduce Packaging Trash on Holidays

Online shopping for the 2022 holiday season is expected to break previous records. As a result, there will be an increase in the number of packages delivered and an influx of cardboard boxes and packaging materials. According to Stanford University, packaging accounts for approximately 30% of trash. According to one study, each household will dispose of 25% more trash between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. It is critical for a print on demand eCommerce retailer to use recyclable packaging materials. Recycling conserves energy and natural resources, reduces pollution, and prevents landfills from overflowing. This time of year is ideal for educating and reminding your consumers to recycle.

PRINT ON DEMAND PRO TIPS TO REDUCE PACKAGING TRASH DURING HOLIDAYS

1. Encourage customers to recycle and reuse packaging.
packaging

Although most residents have recycling bins at home, not all recyclable items belong in these bins. You must keep certain recyclable materials apart from others. Many supermarkets have plastic drop-off stations to recycle plastics with resin identification codes 2 and 4. It is important to note that you cannot recycle contaminated boxes and other recyclable materials. Customers may want to keep your orders if they arrive in a cool branded box. Another good option is to keep or repurpose packages, as long as they do not end up in the trash. Although not every box will be in good enough condition to be reused, packing peanuts, bubble wrap, and other packing supplies can.

2. Use eco-friendly materials.
eco-friendly

Online retailers can make environmentally friendly decisions. If you’re an eCommerce merchant looking to be more environmentally friendly, your packaging is one of the most important things to consider. You can be intentional about sustainability by using post-consumer recycled content in the manufacturing of products and choosing eco-friendly packaging and branded boxes. By limiting the need to collect raw materials, you can conserve natural resources, reduce the amount of waste in landfills, and prevent pollution by using recycled materials.

3. Make packaging more appealing to make consumers buy in bulk.
 appealing

People in today’s society order items online on the spur of the moment with the click of a button. Items can travel in one box rather than many by grouping them rather than ordering them individually. Ecommerce merchants can reduce the number of packing materials used by offering bulk discounts and kits, using the right-sized box, and experimenting with other methods.

4. Reduce the number of miles traveled.
 traveled

The greater the distance a package travels, the greater the environmental impact. One way to cut transit miles is to keep inventory closer to your customers. Knowing when to expect deliveries helps to avoid redeliveries and, as a result, a larger carbon footprint. Furthermore, more trips are made each time a customer returns a product. Retailers can optimize their websites to include customer reviews, high-quality photos, and detailed product descriptions to reduce the likelihood of eCommerce returns and exchanges.

CONCLUSION

boxes

Especially at this time of year, online shopping generates a lot of empty boxes. Unfortunately, cardboard and plastic are still being disposed of in landfills today. You can reduce the environmental impact of online shopping by recycling the leftover materials from online orders. Of course, it is ultimately up to each customer to make these choices. As a print on demand eCommerce merchant, you can encourage this behavior and even make decisions that benefit – rather than harm – the environment.

NEED A PRINT ON DEMAND FULFILLMENT HELP?

services

Speak with Fulfillplex. We are a top eCommerce fulfillment company specializing in print on demand services, with warehouses close to your customers and integrated technology to provide streamlined, affordable, and fast deliveries. Like you, we also promote sustainable packaging for a better environment. Contact us to speak with a fulfillment specialist and request pricing.

Categories
blog print on demand

Print on Demand | A Reliable Last-Minute Holiday Fulfillment

Print on Demand | A Reliable Last-Minute Holiday Fulfillment

Not everything always goes as planned. Sometimes you need to make a quick change. Logistics is no different. If you are looking for immediate assistance in fulfilling your customers’ orders, you may come across many print on demand service providers. You might be feeling overwhelmed, but the good news is that you don’t have to do it alone. Print on demand fulfillment companies can provide numerous advantages to eCommerce businesses that find it difficult to keep up with their order volume on their own.

WAYS PRINT ON DEMAND PROVIDERS CAN HELP WITH LAST-MINUTE HOLIDAY FULFILLMENT

1. Handles spikes in order volume with ease.
order volume

From Black Friday to Christmas Eve, most eCommerce brands see a significant increase in orders. Many founders and small businesses find it impossible to fulfill these orders on time while also satisfying customers. It can also be difficult to enlist friends and family help or hire people to pack boxes. It’s probably not your ideal way to spend the holidays or your spare time. Fortunately, outsourcing print on demand fulfillment will solve all of your issues. In addition to scaling up when a large number of orders arrive, brands can expand into more eCommerce fulfillment centers as they grow to reduce further shipping costs — something they would be unable to do if they managed fulfillment themselves.

2. Provides fast shipping.
fast shipping

Gone are the days when online orders took weeks to arrive at the home of the person who placed the order. People nowadays expect their orders to arrive quickly during the holidays, and same-day delivery is also popular. As a result, you don’t want to lose a lot of customers simply because of slow shipping times. Make sure to work with a print on demand fulfillment company that provides quick and low-cost shipping. As a result, having a shipping services agreement will allow you to determine how good their services are.

3. Accurately forecast demand
 forecast

Because of infrastructure, technology, and scalability improvements, partnering with a print on demand provider allows online business’ to grow significantly. You can rely on their inventory forecasting software and software to track inventory change and velocity over time. They can keep track of which products are selling quickly so that they can always keep their best sellers in stock, even if order volume varies from month to month. You can also be certain that products will not be out of stock during the holidays.

HOW TO GET STARTED WITH A PRINT ON DEMAND FULFILLMENT COMPANY QUICKLY

1. Share the required info with the print on demand provider upfront.
 info

When requesting a quote from a print on demand provider, you must have several key pieces of information ready to share with them to expedite the process. Giving this information upfront, along with any other services you require, can help you quickly get custom pricing based on your specific business needs. It includes the warehousing, product details, packaging, order volume, shipping locations, and the inventory you intend to send.

2. Go through the implementation process.
implementation

Once you’ve determined that the print on demand provider’s pricing structure is appropriate for your needs, it’s critical to follow the processes they’ll train you during onboarding or implementation to ensure your business’s success and a smooth fulfillment process. Everything from mapping your online store’s shipping options with the print on demand provider’s corresponding carriers and services to setting low inventory to reorder notification points will have an impact on your ability to get started quickly, stay on schedule, and ultimately meet customer expectations.

3. Connect your online store.
 online store

A technologically advanced print on demand company will have software that includes integrations with all leading eCommerce platforms and marketplaces, including Shopify, Amazon, eBay, and others. By correctly syncing your store, you will automatically push orders to their technology and have them fulfilled promptly. Following that, they will send critical information back to your store, including order tracking, to keep customers informed about their deliveries.

4. Send your inventory to their warehouse.
inventory

After setting up the technology, you’ll need to send your inventory to the eCommerce fulfillment center. A print on demand fulfillment provider can assist you in determining the best warehouse location at the beginning. They can also teach you how to properly send your inventory to prevent delays when they receive and stow it. You must carefully follow their process, indicating which products they will be receiving and how many units. It is a critical step in ensuring a quick warehouse receiving turnaround.

GET STARTED NOW!

fulfillment

Check out Fulfillplex if you’re looking for a top eCommerce fulfillment company. It is very simple to get started with us. We can quickly fulfill orders on your site once we have helped you get up and running and have your inventory. Don’t put it off any longer — contact us today for a price quote.

Categories
blog print on demand

Holiday Print on Demand Inventory Management Best Practices

Holiday Print on Demand Inventory Management Best Practices

As the saying goes, the holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year – especially for eCommerce businesses. With total sales during the holiday online shopping season exceeding $204 billion, this is a fantastic opportunity for your online business to get a piece of the pie. The holiday season has a way of sneaking up on you, and it frequently causes problems with print on demand inventory management. If you are not prepared for the holiday sales surge, you may encounter dissatisfied customers and lose potential revenue. Fortunately, there are many things you can do right now to better prepare for the holidays.

8 BEST PRACTICES FOR MANAGING HOLIDAY PRINT ON DEMAND INVENTORY

1. Mark your calendar.
calendar

Create calendar reminders to keep the holidays from sneaking up on you unannounced. Keep your organization informed, particularly your marketing and eCommerce holiday ad teams, so that they are ready to run campaigns. Here are some important holiday dates to remember in 2022:

Thanksgiving: November 24

• Black Friday: November 29

• Small Business Saturday: November 30

• Cyber Monday: December 2

• Christmas: December 25

• New Year’s Day: January 1

Valentine’s Day: February 14

To avoid overstretching, consider implementing a cutoff date for orders delivered by a specific holiday based on the carriers’ holiday shipping deadlines.

2. Contact your suppliers ahead of time.
suppliers

Because demand will skyrocket during the holiday season, it is critical to notify your suppliers and vendors ahead of time. Share information on expected order volume to ensure that you order enough to avoid stockouts. Like you, they also require time to deliver orders successfully.

3. Make your orders in advance.
orders

Using historical inventory data, such as SKU performance, you should have a good idea of what your top sellers will be, which will allow you to make more accurate estimates before ordering more inventory. However, if you are a newcomer, simply conducting some online research, including social media, can assist you in determining which items in your store are in high demand this season. You can then list what you need to stock up on.

4. Determine stock levels.
 stock levels

Carefully planning inventory puts your company in a much better position to deal with increased demand during peak shopping seasons. Once you’ve determined what you’ll require for the holiday season, there are simple ways to ensure that your inventory never falls below that level. Tracking stock levels and automatically setting reorder notification points is a valuable tool if you work with a tech-enabled print on demand service provider or use inventory management software. It is recommended that you increase reorder points and reorder quantity during the holiday season to cover a spike in sales.

5. Conduct inventory audits.

During this busy season, you may want to conduct inventory audits more frequently to maintain inventory accuracy and ensure you always have enough stock at all times. Inventory audits can be performed in-house or by a third party, such as a print on demand company, and they can be as simple as performing more frequent spot checks.

6. Implement inventory control.
inventory control

Keeping track of your inventory is critical whether you run a single-channel or omnichannel business – especially during the holidays. Fortunately, there is inventory management software from your print on demand provider that can do the majority of the work for you: keep your business running as usual while saving you from having to deal with inventory stockouts or over-ordering.

7. Purchase holiday packaging.
 holiday packaging

The holidays are a thrilling and joyous time of year. Your packaging should be as well. Look for something that will make your customers happy when they receive their package, and if your packaging is recyclable, that’s even better. It will improve your customer’s unboxing experience and encourage their friends to buy as well. However, make certain that it will not impact your profits.

8. Monitor your inventory closely during holidays.
inventory

On Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Christmas, keep an eye on your inventory numbers because these are the busiest days for your retail business. Take notes on how your inventory flows and make adjustments and improvements for next year. You can also seek assistance from your print on demand service provider. They are subject matter experts, and you can benefit from their knowledge and experience.

WHEN IN DOUBT, LET THE PROS HELP OUT!

 company

While plans may not be carried out exactly as planned, they eliminate inefficiencies and errors during peak sales periods. You may not be able to predict everything. Still, by implementing some of the holiday best practices outlined above, you will likely generate more revenue this holiday season. We admire and applaud your desire to accomplish as much as possible on your own. However, there will come a time when reaching out is the best thing you can do for your company. Fulfillplex, a top eCommerce fulfillment company, can help your company reach its full potential. After all, even Santa requires assistance. Reach out to the pros now.

Categories
blog print on demand

Print on Demand Tip: Prep Your Store for Peak Shipping Season

Print on Demand Tip: Prep Your Store for Peak Shipping Season

Most eCommerce brands can anticipate increasing orders and product demand during the holidays. The holiday season is the most important time of year for print on demand businesses. It’s critical to have the right shipping strategy and fulfillment processes to keep up with the unprecedented volume in such a short period. Because it is the holiday season, expect an increase in order and shipping volume. Customers expect so much from their online shopping experience. In addition, those who can keep up logistically will attract more customers and keep them coming back.

WHAT IS PEAK SHIPPING SEASON IN PRINT ON DEMAND?

 SHIPPING SEASON

Peak shipping season refers to the time of year when order and shipment volume increases. In addition, it results in more orders to fill and returns to process due to the busy holiday shopping season surrounding popular shopping days such as Christmas. Supply chain efficiencies are disrupted during this time as online retailers try to keep up with demand. They do it by managing inventory and fulfilling a high number of orders, while shipping carriers become busier than usual. They are working hard to deliver packages on time.

6 WAYS TO PREPARE YOUR PRINT ON DEMAND STORE FOR PEAK SHIPPING SEASON

1. Prepare ahead of time
Prepare

Plan ahead of time and use data as much as possible. Think through planned promotions, and decide how you will handle massive influxes of demand. You can optimize stock levels and make better decisions about how much of each SKU to reorder and when by forecasting demand. Though inventory forecasting is never completely accurate, there are steps you can take to bring your estimates closer to reality.

Extra Tips:

If there is a stockout, you should set up a process that immediately marks orders as “out of stock” on your store so you and your customers have a clear understanding of current stock availability.

If you have a lot of deadstock, you can run a promotion or a flash sale to clear it out to make room for in-demand inventory.

2. Provide your customers with advance notice.

Because Christmas is the busiest time for peak shipping season shipping, eCommerce brands must monitor carrier cutoffs for each service and carrier transit time performance to communicate any potential delays to customers. Last-mile delivery is critical to customer satisfaction, but delays do occur. In the event of a delay, be proactive and notify customers as soon as possible of any potential delays.

Extra Tips:

Take careful note of carrier holiday shipping deadlines when they become available. It will allow you to inform your customers about when you place holiday orders for orders to be fulfilled and shipped on time.

It would help if you also kept an eye on inventory levels.

Make sure you provide order tracking to your customers so they can track orders in real-time.

3. Team up with an experienced print on demand provider.
Team up

Working with an experienced print on demand service provider can make the hectic holiday season more manageable. Fulfilling holiday demand on your own is extremely difficult, and leasing your own warehouse is both costly and time-consuming. The sooner you begin working with a print on demand company, the better prepared you are for busy holiday season.

Extra Tips:
4. Increase the number of customer service representatives.
customer service

You’ll want to increase staffing for your customer service team because you’ll likely receive more inquiries than usual. This is due to the influx of orders and even carrier delays. Your online store will see an increase in visitors and orders. As a result, the more assistance you can provide to your customers at the times and channels they prefer, the better. Ensure that your team knows carrier cutoff dates, current promotions, the various shipping options available, expected delivery timeframes, and how to return or exchange items quickly.

5. Communicate with your suppliers regularly.
Communicate

To avoid potential stockouts during the holiday season, collaborate closely with your manufacturer or supplier by sharing predicted holiday order volume ahead of time. Work in longer lead times than usual due to holiday demand, port delays, and other supply chain issues. Understanding production lead times reduce the likelihood of stockouts, backorders, and running promotions on out-of-stock items.

Extra Tips:

Diversify your manufacturer by partnering with multiple partners in different areas. It will mitigate risk if your primary supplier cannot replenish on time.

If you work with a print on demand provider, keep in mind when their inventory receiving cutoffs are for the holidays, as their backlog will be higher than usual.

6. Stock up on extra shipping supplies.
Stock

The last thing you want to do is slow down eCommerce order fulfillment due to a lack of packaging materials. So, stock up on boxes, poly mailers, and other supplies if you keep fulfillment in-house. It would help if you also considered making your brand stand out during the holiday season. Custom packaging, marketing inserts, and gift notes, for example, can make the unboxing experience memorable. A memorable unboxing experience can delight your customers. It will also increase the likelihood of sharing the experience with their friends and social media followers in the age of social media.

GET READY FOR PEAK SHIPPING SEASON WITH FULFILLPLEX

PEAK SHIPPING

This year, eCommerce brands must plan ahead of time to ensure that a large volume of orders is filled accurately and quickly. With online sales expected to break records once more during the holidays, your company must be ready. The best way to prepare for peak shipping season and meet customer expectations is to ensure that all aspects of your supply chain are in sync. Rather than managing a warehouse, investing in your own fulfillment tech stack, and shipping orders yourself, you can save time and money by outsourcing fulfillment to a top eCommerce fulfillment company expert like Fulfillplex.

Contact us right away to learn more about how Fulfillplex can help your business during the peak shipping season.

Categories
blog print on demand

Strong Print on Demand Online Store | Marketing Strategies

Strong Print on Demand Online Store

You are no stranger to marketing if you have a successful offline business. However, strategies for driving traffic to your online store can be a completely different beast. You’ll be able to reach more potential buyers than ever before with your print on demand online store, and you’ll have complete control over their shopping experience. To make the most of all your channels, you must consider how to drive traffic to your website and how to implement marketing between your online store and your offline businesses.

TOP MARKETING TECHNIQUES FOR YOUR PRINT ON DEMAND ONLINE STORE

1. Increase your organic social presence.
social presence

You’ll want to take advantage of every opportunity to increase your digital engagement with your print on demand online business. Giving a little extra love to your social media channels and making sure they’re stocked with vibrant images and engaging videos is one of the simplest and most effective ways. However, if you already have a strong presence on social media with a core audience, now is the time to expand. Increase your posts and spend a little more time creating rich visual content and short, engaging videos. Increasing engagement with your followers increases the likelihood of brand awareness. Furthermore, make certain that your online presence is appropriate for your target customers.

2. Make use of your email list.
email list

Even in a physical store, a strong email marketing strategy is essential. Gather as many email addresses as possible from customers, prospective customers, people interested in your events, and so on. When you launch, you’ll be able to send an email to all of those people. You can inform them that they can now shop online at your store. Consider offering a promotion to those on your email list or a referral discount to encourage customers to share your site with friends and family. Email remains one of the most effective marketing tools in the eCommerce toolbox, so continue to collect email addresses on your site.

3. Try using Google Ads.
Google Ads

Using Google Ads for search engine marketing allows you to bid on keywords first on search engine results pages. Obtaining the coveted “top spot” is the goal of search engine optimization. Search engine marketing is an excellent way to promote your website because it requires no design and can effectively drive new traffic. You’ll get results in real-time and be able to adjust your campaign strategies as you go based on performance.

4. Collaborate with complementary brands.
Collaborate

Form alliances with other businesses to cross-promote. Find a company with a similar target audience but a different product. As a result, each business partner reaches a completely new and relevant audience. For example, if you sell ketogenic foods, a relevant partnership could be with a brand that specializes in keto supplements and oils. Actual cross-promotion methods vary, and there are ways to do it at every level of the funnel.

Co-sponsoring an outdoor living podcast or blog is an example of a top-of-funnel activity. A co-branded gift guide could be a great initiative depending on the time of year. You could also do down-funnel promotions, such as offering a discount on one product in exchange for purchasing another. Partnering with a print on demand company that sells print on demand products are the best and easiest way to do this.

5. Make use of your physical store.
physical store

If your physical store has a strong brand and a loyal following, you can use your in-person interactions with customers to drive traffic to your new online store. You can use non-intrusive methods to keep customers engaged with your brand even after leaving the store. It may include asking them to sign up for your email list at checkout, informing them about your customer loyalty program if you have one, and drawing their attention to social media advertisements you’re running that they might want to follow. Consider providing flyers with promotion codes that they can share with friends and family.

CONCLUSION

 products online

Selling print on demand products online for the first time or expanding your online presence to become a vital retail channel may appear daunting, but it is more than doable if you take it one step at a time. Maintain consistency, be patient, and avoid becoming overwhelmed by doing too much at once. Follow the marketing strategies listed above that you believe will yield the best results for your company. Then, as you begin to see results, tweak and adjust. Check out this extra tips: Secrets to Boost Your Print on Demand Business Sales in 2022

Fulfillplex is the company to contact if you need assistance selling products online. We provide the best print on demand services, including inventory, labeling, packing, and shipping. A top eCommerce fulfillment company like us is exactly what you need to ensure the success of your online store. Get in touch with us to find out more.

Categories
blog print on demand

Print on Demand |How to Provide Free Shipping on Your E-Shop

Print on Demand |How to Provide Free Shipping on Your E-Shop

The word “free” has an incredible impact on purchasing behavior. As a shopper, you know that receiving something for free can influence your decision to act. Offering free shipping is a great way to avoid unpleasant surprises at checkout. Many people believe that free shipping is the norm and that anything less is a disservice to your customers. It is especially important if you’re just getting started with a print on demand business that will ship products to customers.

WHY SHOULD YOU CONSIDER OFFERING FREE SHIPPING ON YOUR PRINT ON DEMAND BUSINESS?

 Free Shipping

With eCommerce steadily growing and retail stores gradually dying out, competition in the online shopping business is heating up. Free shipping is gradually becoming one of the potent weapons in the decisive battle for consumers waged by eCommerce companies. If given the option of free shipping, 90 percent of consumers would shop online more frequently, and 24 percent would spend more to qualify for free shipping. In addition, companies that offer free shipping have a 20% higher conversion rate than those that do not.

HOW TO COVER THE COST OF OFFERING FREE SHIPPING FOR YOUR PRINT ON DEMAND BUSINESS?

1. Increase the cost of the product.
 cost

When a customer purchases a single small, inexpensive item, free shipping makes no sense because the cost of shipping may be greater than the cost of the item itself. However, if your print on demand products are reasonably priced, you may choose to include the cost of shipping in the product price. Furthermore, this strategy creates the illusion of free shipping while increasing the product price to compensate for free shipping. To include the shipping charges in the listed product price, calculate the pricing using the average shipping cost per order.

2. Increase customer lifetime value (LTV).
lifetime value

With customer acquisition and shipping costs, recouping the money you’ve invested in making a sale. You’ll need a good retention strategy that includes subscriptions, loyalty programs, and smart email marketing to encourage a second or third purchase. This way, you can increase the lifetime value of your customers (LTV). Furthermore, some brands are willing to take a small loss on the first purchase because they know they will profit from the second purchase.

3. Boost the average order value (AOV).
average order value

If you can increase your average order value (AOV), you will increase your margin and offer free shipping. Offering upsells, memberships, and bundles is a great way to accomplish this. In addition, bundles are a simple strategy for offering a pre-selected combination of products you sell as a single unit (e.g., a gift set) at a discount or a mix-and-match option for customers to stock up and save. However, a bundle can make or break a deal. It has the potential to increase your AOV while decreasing your average fulfillment costs. As a result, when people get a good deal, they are more likely to spend more money.

HOW TO CALCULATE A FREE SHIPPING MINIMUM SPEND THRESHOLD?

Calculate

Providing a minimum order requirement in return for free shipping can be an effective marketing strategy. To be cost-effective, the minimum amount spent to qualify for free shipping should be higher than a customer would normally spend. Incentives for larger cart sizes help your company offset logistics costs. Furthermore, customers may be unwilling to spend that much more money if you set the free shipping threshold too high.

While some customers adore your products and will gladly start stocking up on more to save a few dollars or avoid paying for shipping, it is important to keep in mind that others may be spending more to return some items. It’s no surprise that free shipping results in increased return rates. If you discover that this is occurring in your store and that you are ultimately losing money, you may need to tighten your eCommerce returns policy or change your free shipping strategy.

CONCLUSION

Offering free shipping

Offering free shipping is an excellent way to remove a common barrier to online shopping. However, if you haven’t thought about and calculated the best way to offer it, it can cost your company money. It would help to strike a balance between increasing conversions and maintaining your prices competitive while not losing money. It is also critical to maintaining open communication lines regarding shipping costs with your logistics partner. Having a top eCommerce fulfillment company partner, such as Fulfillplex, will allow you to easily scale, reduce, and offer free shipping to your customers. Get a quote from us right away.

Categories
blog print on demand

The Outbreak of Print on Demand Return Rates & Profitability