After an all-out effort to provide good products and a smooth online shopping experience, print on demand fulfillment is considered the most crucial step to completing a successful eCommerce transaction. It is no surprise that good print on demand services is an effective weapon that gives online brands a competitive advantage in the e-commerce competition.
WHAT IS PRINT ON DEMAND FULFILLMENT?
Ecommerce order fulfillment is a critical process in the eCommerce industry that consists of ongoing steps such as inventory storage, order picking and shipping, and returns processing. Print on demand fulfillment is widely used in B2C and B2B.
However, a purchase is only completed once customers receive the items. As a result, print on demand fulfillment is an essential component of the online shopping business. A successful product delivery process not only marks the completion of an online order but also earns customers’ trust. In addition, it also significantly increases customer retention at your online retail stores.
PRINT ON DEMAND FULFILLMENT PROCESS
This process begins when customers check out from your online store and ends when their orders are delivered. Every step of the fulfillment process is critical, as even minor delays or errors can result in a dissatisfied customer. The delivery process is typically divided into four major stages:
1. Inventory storage
Transporting products to your distribution location is the first step in eCommerce order fulfillment. Depending on your delivery methods and business types, this can become a storage facility, warehouse, or an eCommerce fulfillment center. Remember that your inventory site should be large enough to stock adequate products that meet customer demands, especially during peak season. This step is designed to organize your inventory in one location for easier access and conveniently keep track of products.
2. Order processing
When customers complete their transactions at your online stores, the order processing step begins. Ordered items are selected from inventory storage and packed with appropriate packaging at this stage. Items are labeled with important information for the shipping process. Product selection and preparation are made precisely and with great care to ensure customers receive a correct order.
3. Logistics & Shipping
Shipping and logistics are the most important parts of the print on demand fulfillment process because orders are delivered to the customer’s address at this stage. All products are handed over to the delivery service on time. It is to ensure that customers receive their orders in great condition and without delay. Also, pay for an additional extension on your delivery service to ensure a quick and high-quality shipment process.
4. Returns management
The print on demand fulfillment process includes order delivery and product returns. Furthermore, returned items are either restocked to the storage location or disposed of if they are damaged. If you’re new to eCommerce, consider that returns are a normal part of any business. When dealing with returns, defective products, and customer refunds, using an efficient reverse logistics process is critical.
STRATEGIES FOR ORDER FULFILLMENT
1. Use alternate shipping methods.
As more customers shop online rather than in traditional physical stores, eCommerce brands may find it increasingly difficult to manage the delivery process smoothly. The key solution is to use different shipping methods appropriate for the business situation at the time to ensure faster and more convenient shipping.
2. Enable last-mile tracking.
The process of shipping products from keeping inventory to customers’ addresses is referred to as last-mile delivery. Customers can see real-time package delivery routes and anticipate when their orders will arrive. It also provides online businesses with a comprehensive view of the delivery process. Online businesses can ensure customer satisfaction and easily control the print on demand fulfillment process.
3. Implement warehouse strategically
It should come as no surprise that if your online store experiences a significant increase in orders, customers are forced to wait for an extended period as shipping carriers become overburdened. Analyzing customer purchasing behavior can assist you in forecasting future sales at your stores and, as a result, accurately implementing the best place to store inventory. As a result, the delivery process can become more efficient and cost-effective.
CONCLUSION
While Covid-19 remains a significant presence in society, it is expected that the eCommerce business will grow exponentially soon. Adopting an appropriate print on demand fulfillment solution will keep your stores running smoothly while also ensuring a seamless delivery experience for your customers. It is entirely possible to take your online shopping business to the next level with the right print on demand provider, such as Fulfillplex. Check us out right now and get a quote.