8 Best Fulfillment Services For Shopify

As the owner of an eCommerce store, your duty doesn’t stop when a customer orders a product – that’s when it just starts. You need to take care of order fulfillment, including packing, delivering, inventory management, packing, return handling, and so on.

You must ensure that your product shipping is done correctly so that you can earn positive feedback, repeat business, and boost your bottom line. This can be a complex process requiring careful management and planning of the shipping and transportation of your goods to the end consumer. The good news is with the rise of Amazon and two-day delivery standards, a large number of order fulfillment services are coming into the market to help online merchants deal with inventory and shipments.

In this article, I will introduce the best fulfillment services that you can use for your Shopify store. Let’s jump right into the details!

How do fulfillment services work?

Though the exact method is slightly different among fulfillment providers, the order fulfillment process generally begins when a purchase is made by the customer and the product information is received by the fulfillment provider. The system involves logistic storage of inventories, receiving orders, gathering (finding) items ordered, packing (packaging) goods, shipping orders, and notifying customers of their order status. This Shopify pricing network reviews can offer valuable insights into the overall cost-effectiveness and efficiency of the fulfillment process.

Read more:

• How to Start a DropShipping Business with Shopify?
• Increase Conversion Rate for Shopify Store
• How To Launch or Publish Shopify Store?
• How Does Dropshipping Work On Shopify?

Top 7 best fulfillment services for Shopify

Let’s take a look at the best fulfillment service providers that you can work with to optimize the operation of your Shopify store.

ShipBob fulfillment services

Rated #99 on the 2019 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing privately-owned companies in the US, ShipBob is one of the most reputable third-party logistics companies on this list. It is known to deliver the best shipping and logistics solutions at the most reasonable price. ShipBob provides service for both small and medium-sized companies, with its distribution centers distributed. The best part of this provider is that it provides full transparency in its operations.

It also offers proper integration with eCommerce tech resources such as WooCommerce, Shopify, Magento, BigCommerce, and many more. In addition, ShipBob offers fast delivery, which is critical to providing the best outcomes to customers. Affordable shipping helps small companies generate more revenue and profits.

In addition, ShipBob helps companies to handle their orders, inventory, SKUs, and customer handling on-line effectively at no additional expense. Businesses often have their own dedicated account manager who helps them handle all operations efficiently and at the same time encourages the development of their businesses. ShipBob retains complete oversight of warehouse management, inventory software management, and final execution.

FULFILLMENT SERVICES & FEES:

• Setup – The onboarding setup is completely free.
• Receiving – ShipBob charges $35 for check-in, unpacking, and inbound stock receipt.
• Inbound Shipping – Inbound shipping is offered at discount rates.
• Returns – Returns are offered by ShipBob at free of charge.
• Inventory Storage – Inventory storage pricing starts at $5 per month.

KEY FEATURES:

• Order Management

ShipBob’s order management system keeps track of the entire shipping process from A to Z. From manufacturing to distribution and return of goods, every detail is handled efficiently.

Any order you receive is processed in the order management system so that the orders can be allocated to the correct execution centers. In addition, a correct order tracking number is accredited by the system so that both consumers and companies can monitor the status of the order.

• Inventory Management

Inventory management helps companies get an accurate view of the amount of stock they need on hand. ShipBob uses third-party software that offers a strong insight into the correct distribution of inventory. For example, in the inventory system, you can set up a reorder notification that helps you accurately meet customer demand.

• Advanced Filters

ShipBob also enables stores to find out what they need in order to carry out the process and help them to build in-depth reports. Users can filter all orders by setting the date of order, location of the center, tracking number, and region.

• Returns Management

Return management is essential to every company, as many consumers today make a purchasing decision based on a return facility. And this is where the ShipBob hit the sweet spot. It enables the automatic processing of returns so that companies can handle returns without any problems. A return connection is sent to the website of a company that allows customers to create a return shipping mark.

• Advanced Reporting

With ShipBob’s advanced and in-depth reports, you can keep track of the whole logistic process. Reports include cost breakdowns, profits, order sales, channel sales, peak output hours, projected profits, and much more. On top of that, advanced filters help you make more precise inventory decisions.

HOW TO GET STARTED:

You can easily reach out to the sales rep at the company by submitting a form on their website.

After you submit the form, a sales rep will contact you to discuss your specifications and needs. Then you will get a price quote and can proceed from there.

FedEx Fulfillment.

FedEx Fulfillment provides an eCommerce system that involves distribution, packing, warehousing, storage, and order fulfillment. FedEx is a subsidiary of FedEx Corp., which manages the inventory of thousands of small and medium-sized companies by combining multiple distribution networks.

BEST FOR:

Due to its full visibility and clear inventory, product, and monitoring policies, FedEx Fulfillment is ideally suited for fast-growing small businesses. In addition, the service empowers small companies seamlessly with the help of its professional employees. Customer service they provide also makes a big difference in any process, including throughput, warehousing, outsourced logistics, and transportation.

The best thing is that they appoint a committed specialist to help small business owners understand and complete the process efficiently. Plus, you can also store your goods in FedEx warehouses, which will save you a lot of overhead costs.

FULFILLMENT SERVICES & FEES:

• Setup – account setup is free of charge.
• Receiving – FedEx offers free receiving of packages when shipment standards have complied.
• Inbound Shipping – FedEx offers parcel shipping at considerable discount rates.
• Returns – it costs $2.50 per order for return and quality check.
• Inventory Storage – it costs 19 cents per cubic foot at FedEx for inventory storage.
• Pick & Pack – The pick and pack service costs 40 cents per unit; filling material and shipping box included.

KEY FEATURES:

Here are the key features of the FedEx Fulfillment:

• Ecommerce Integration

FedEx Fulfillment provides integrations with all popular eCommerce platforms, including Shopify, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, and more.

• Customization

FedEx allows for customization of packaging and value-added services that help small businesses build up their brands.

• Providing tracking and visibility in one place

FedEx enables you to use a single platform to monitor all orders and inventory. This makes it easy to analyze and improve your fulfillment process.

• Expertise Consulting

FedEx Fulfillment also has expert logistics professionals who can help you optimize your process.

HOW TO GET STARTED:

It is straightforward and simple to work with FedEx, and you can sign up by filling out this form. After submitting the form, a support rep will contact you to provide you with a quick quote and explain their process.

FreightPros fulfillment services

FreightPros is one of the best fulfillment companies and is particularly suited to small businesses. In addition to competitive rates, you also get outstanding customer service, which is a perfect addition to any third-party service.

FreightPros gives you access to an amazing range of services, including LTL (less than load), a wide range of tools that allow you to control your shipment directly, rail carriers, and so on.

BEST FOR:

• Small Enterprises

FreightPros is ideal for small companies because it not only handles massive shipments but can also ship as low as one shipment with proper management. Small-scale shipping is the key function of this business that no other large fulfillment service offers.

• Quickly Catching Delivery Issues

FreightPro closely monitors the entire shipping process, from pick-up right through to final delivery. This helps them to catch up and fix any delivery problems immediately, saving a lot of time and expense.

• Personalized Messaging

This fulfillment service also regularly sends customized messages to customers about the shipment and guides them through the whole process at a minimal cost. The business does not, however, create any dedicated account relationships like other top businesses.

• Correct Pricing Suggestions

The company adds freight carriers based on its customers’ needs and offers them reliable recommendations that keep low-cost choices in mind for their shipment.

• Handles Process on Behalf of Client

FreightPros uses excellent online software to complete the entire operation, including booking, quoting, and product tracking. The service also oversees the whole management process on behalf of its clients.

KEY FEATURES:

• Impressive Customer Service

FreightPros provides the best customer service by helping users set up accounts, booking tools, and freight management.

• Cost and Value

FreightPros has kept the cost structure open so that consumers can know where their money is being spent. They cover all basics with suitable freight classes and load insurance.

• Ideal for startups

FreightPros is suitable for startups and enables a new business owner to handle things quickly, even if the person doesn’t have much experience with the system.

• Simple Onboarding

FreightPros is easy to use thanks to the functionality in the dashboard, such as booking, scheduling, and many other tools.

• Management Systems

You can conveniently handle booking, monitoring, and shopping for freight rates in a single dashboard. In addition, all monitoring and booking preferences are done precisely by the system.

The key advantage of using FreightPros services is that you can make a lot of savings with its flat-rate freight classification. As a result, freight spending can be minimized as much as possible.

HOW TO GET STARTED:

You can start working with FreightPross by requesting a quote on their website. Here’s the form you need to fill out.

Ships-a-Lot fulfillment services

Ships-a-lot is an eCommerce distribution business that focuses predominantly on large transactions. In addition, it is a fulfillment service that has quickly gained fast market growth. Some of its main services include fast delivery, warehouse facilities, discounted prices, and more.

BEST FOR:

• Small Items.

Most customers of Ships-a-lot are retailers that have their own eCommerce outlets. Most of these retailers sell small, lightweight, and easy-to-transport products. In addition, the company provides integration with prominent eCommerce sites such as Shopify, eBay, and BigCommerce. It also deals with sales on sites including Amazon.

• Flexible Price.

Process and operation costs are fixed on the basis of the number of goods to be delivered. A company sales rep will get in touch with you to offer the right price correctly. Various considerations involved in setting prices include package, storage space, and many more.

There are no price details available on the official website of the company. However, it has a shipping rate calculator that calculates the price after evaluating the different factors involved in the shipping of the products.

• Quick & On-time Delivery.

Ships-a-lot will pay compensation if it fails to fulfill the output standards of the customers. The company; therefore, promises that your goods will be delivered within 24 hours from the warehouse. If the company fails to do so, it will pay $20 for each delay.

• Warehouses with Cameras.

Ships-a-lot works with independent operators rather than sticking to huge warehouses. It keeps track of all goods and ensures their proper protection and packaging by tracking them with cameras. In addition, shipments are monitored with the aid of carrier reports after they are shipped out of the warehouse.

KEY FEATURES:

• User-Friendly Dashboard.

Lots of Ship-a-Lot customers use Shopify to track orders. As a result, the company has developed a simple user interface that includes some basic features. The dashboard displays full details on deliveries, late deliveries, and orders that are pending.

• Inventory Reports.

It displays different categories, including inventory, surveys, purchase orders, delivery, and many more at the top of the menu bar. You can monitor all orders, customer names, addresses, and other important data in a spreadsheet.

• Customer Support.

Ships-a-Lot provides outstanding customer support for its third-party support solution. It normally helps clients through emails and lives chats 24/7.

HOW TO GET STARTED:

You can get in contact with the Ship-a-Lot team by visiting their official website. You can get an estimated cost based on your service requirements using its Real-Time Rate Calculator.

They also have live chat and 24/7 telephone support to connect you with their services. Even after you get on board with their business, their customer service is fast and efficient in handling customer queries.

After reviewing your specifications, they will give you a proper quotation. Also, make sure that you understand the full process and function of the service properly before you hire them to prevent any potential problems.

WhiteBox fulfillment services

WhiteBox is one of the leading eCommerce fulfillment services that gather all efficiency solutions, shipping facilities, and storage fees on a single platform. If you want to scale up your company and make it more global, WhiteBox is a great choice for your business. The reduction of excessive expenses makes it a great choice for small and medium-sized businesses. However, unlike other third-party fulfillment providers, WhiteBox charges an initial boarding fee of $3,000. The cost of fulfillment is 10% of your total revenue.

BEST FOR:

• Beginner Level Businesses

WhiteBox ideal for both beginner-level companies and for those who are struggling to manage their shipment volume.

• Managing Client’s Tasks on his Behalf

WhiteBox provides the best customer experience by successfully handling all activities on behalf of businesses. This results in the reduction of your in-house jobs and saves precious time. You will now have more time for other primary activities.

KEY FEATURES:

• Forecasting & Predictions

WhiteBox can make predictions of product demand in the market, which enables its clients to buy stock accurately.

• Quality Control & Kitting

WhiteBox has a strict quality control procedure to keep a close eye on the shipment. This enables them to make sure products are handled correctly and ready to be sold online anytime.

• Stock Maintenance

WhiteBox does a regular stock review to help its clients maintain the right inventory level. This is done without any additional fees.

• SEO-friendly Product Listings

WhiteBox helps its clients enhance product listings on eBay, Amazon, and other similar platforms with SEO tactics.

• Market Products and Improve Listings

WhiteBox also optimizes product listing so that brands can get higher rankings and get more traffic from organic search.

HOW TO GET STARTED:

You can get a free quote by submitting a form on their website. This is completely free, with no hidden cost, and no commitment attached.

RedHawk Global fulfillment services

Red Hawk Global provides freight, warehousing, shipment, and distribution services for small companies throughout the United States, Mexico and Canada. It is a great order fulfillment service for the delivery of freight and is ideal for small businesses. In reality, most of their clients are small businesses. RedHawk is giving FreightPros tough competition in terms of point-to-point shipping. Red Hawk Global works with regional and national shipping carriers.

BEST FOR:

Red Hawk Global is suitable for importing, storing, and selling freight to small businesses in the North American region, i.e. the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In addition, if you’re running a startup and your shipment requires a limited number of pallets per month, then RedHawk is the perfect option for you. The business meets all the freight needs of start-ups, including for low shipments.

KEY FEATURES:

• Multiple Services.

RedHawk Global offers a range of services, including less than load, cross-border import/export, intermodal rail containers, flatbed containers, and more. In addition, the company offers other great third-party services, like sort-store-repacking, freight storage, and distribution.

• Account Representative.

RedHawk Global provides excellent customer service by assigning expert representatives to help its customers manage their accounts.

• Fees & Service Cost.

Like FreightPros, RedHawk Global’s prices are focused on freight shipment and service rates. It charges based on the number of goods and customers have to pay for the shipment when they bid on the shipment. The service cost of Red Hawk is relatively low compared to other top broker services.

The business also provides strong class-based discounts and volume of freight on broad accounts. On top of that, you also get third-party advanced management resources, freight project supervision, warehousing, and distribution. Quotas are provided on the basis of individual needs.

• Easy-to-Use Booking Portal.

The freight booking platform is free of charge and easy to use. Dedicated account representatives also help clients understand the booking platform and the monitoring system. They normally direct users to set up an account easily, free of charge.

• Real-Time Rates.

Like FreightPros, RedHawk Global displays real-time freight rates along with a range of eCommerce application integrations. Real-time prices are displayed for all orders shipped in your checkout.

• Easy Management.

Through its eFreightLine portal, RedHawk Global enables small shippers to monitor shipments, rate shop, book, and supervise freight movements. Plus, dedicated account agents handle schedule assignments and day-to-day bookings.

Red Hawk Global employees and specialist experts are also helping their customers to take advantage of different discounts and cost-saving opportunities. They help customers lower their freight class by directing them to identify the National Motor Freight Classification Tariff (NMFC) numbers correctly.

HOW TO GET STARTED:

You go to check out the official Red Hawk Global website to get the company’s contact details. First, you can discuss your freight and other shipping specifications with their sales rep to get a personalized quotation. You can also register for an account on eFreightLine without any fees.

Red Stag Fulfillment.

Red Stag Fulfillment provides personalized order fulfillment solutions along with a complete guarantee in terms of order accuracy, prompt delivery, and inventory accuracy. This distribution business uses cloud-based software and focuses on the delivery of heavy goods.

BEST FOR:

• Heavy and Oversize Parcel Fulfillment.

Red Stag’s pricing model favors businesses offering big and/or heavy goods rather than t-shirts or mobile cases. They have also built their warehouses around this class of items, with wider aisles, specialized equipment, and a qualified workforce, especially adept at handling and shipping goods weighing more than 10 lbs.

• Avoiding Fraud.

Red Stag has become a top-notch third-party logistics company due to its excellent accuracy levels. The company uses video surveillance of the entire operation, which essentially removes any risk of error at any stage. The company has placed its cameras at each stop, which decreases the overall chances of theft and fraud. In addition, the affordable rates have also made a number of businesses a highly preferred third-party company.

• Order Management.

Orders are handled by users of Red Stag Fulfillment through a pallet distribution system that involves storage, packaging, shipment, and return. The distribution of pallets is a way of moving packaging from warehouses.

• Guaranteed Order Completion.

Red Stag provides the option of a complete same-day delivery warranty and delivery of orders. The company delivers products before 5 p.m.

• Product Fulfillment Network.

Red Stag has a network of warehouses that help to minimize unnecessary costs.

KEY FEATURES:

• Exceptional Customer Service

Their customer support is one of the best in the industry, as the company provides specialized storage. On top of that, they provide their clients with adequate supervision and assistance via phone.

• Cost and Value

The pricing of Red Stag is higher than other third-party services such as FedEx and ShipBob because of its specialized services.

• Scalability

They work efficiently with many types of businesses, no matter whether it’s a startup or a company that processes hundreds of orders every day.

• Simple Onboarding

Red Stag offers a 30-day free trial so you can try out their technology and service before making any commitment.

• Integrations

Red Stag can integrate with your online store and assists you with your order management, shopping carts, and so on.

• Management Systems

Red Stag has a highly effective management system that enables its users to manage their order status, stock level, and conversion rate.

HOW TO GET STARTED:

You can get more specific information about the service by visiting its official website. The procedure is the same as with other companies; you only need to fill out a short form to obtain a customized quote.

What makes it stand out from the other third-party companies is the fact that it provides a 30-day free trial that helps you to test its services before you shell out big bucks. You just need to take a few fast steps to get started:

James and James Fulfilment

James and James is a leading third-party logistics company with fulfillment centers in the UK, USA, and Europe, and an Australian site on the horizon. Since the inception in 2010, James and James has received two prestigious Queen’s Awards for Enterprise and International Trade, achieved Financial Times 1000 status, and been featured on the Sunday Times’ list of the 100 fastest-growing UK businesses twice.

As the world’s first digital-native fulfillment partner, James and James specializes in providing fast and efficient fulfillment services to growing eCommerce brands. The company works with hundreds of clients across various sectors, including fashion, pet supplies, toys, supplements, and accessories.

With fair and transparent pricing, shipping discounts, industry-leading client support, returns management, and valuable business intelligence at your disposal, James and James is the top choice for eCommerce brands looking to save time, reduce costs, and take their business growth to the next level.

BEST FOR:

• Brands with fast-moving, small products:

Fulfillment centers are optimized for eCommerce brands that sell lighter, smaller products.

• D2C:

James and James specializes in shipping products directly to consumers after orders have been placed through your online store.

• Inventory management:

ControlPort provides you with a wealth of data to easily forecast demand, reduce wastage, cut storage costs, and more.

• Order tracking:

The unique customer-facing, real-time order tracking system lets your customers see everything, from the moment their order is being picked and packed, as well as the name of the person doing it.

• Carrier management:

Select from the wide range of domestic and international carriers, including FedEx, UPS, Royal Mail, and more.

KEY FEATURES:

• Comprehensive order management:

Track orders from start to finish and communicate with the fulfillment centers in real time across any device.

• Unbeatable client support:

Benefit from unlimited telephone and email support from fulfillment specialists. The unique POD system ensures you’ll only speak to the same dedicated individuals when you need assistance.

• Custom packaging:

Choose from a wide range of packaging options, including eco-friendly choices. Alternatively, use your own branded packaging and inserts for the ultimate brand experience.

• Open door policy:

Feel free to visit the fulfillment centers at any time for a complimentary lunch, catch up with your customer service representatives, and a tour of the facility.

• Assemblies:

Easily create bundles to fulfill, increasing your average order value and offering more options to your customers.

HOW TO GET STARTED:

Fill in a form or make a call to provide details about your business, James and James will create a tailored fulfillment solution for you. You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in a guided demo of ControlPort, where you can see the award-winning software in action.

As soon as you join James and James, the dedicated Onboarding Team will provide one-to-one training to ensure you derive maximum value from your new 3PL partner.

Read more:

• Dropified vs Oberlo: Which One Suits You Best?
• How to Find the right Supplier on Alibaba?
• How to Find & Choose Good Dropshipping Suppliers
• Best Dropship Companies with No Membership Fees
• Best Shopify T-shirt fulfillment apps

Final Words

That’s it! I hope this comprehensive review of the best fulfillment services for Shopify will help you resolve the pain of fulfillment. Keep in mind that this is just general information about these services and you will have to get in touch with them to get deeper information about what they can do for you. Please feel free to leave comments for further discussion on this topic. :-)