3PL is simply a fancy term for Third-Party Logistics. This is when an e-commerce business outsources its fulfillment services to a third-party specialist. Offering a range of services, such as storage, distribution, transport, and fulfillment of customer orders, third-party logistics providers manage all of the end-to-end e-commerce responsibilities.
Many 3PL providers offer only basic e-commerce services. By working with a top 3PL provider, such as Victory Lane Solutions (VLS), you will work with a company that will equip you with the tools to skyrocket your e-commerce business to new heights. VLS offers the following services:
- Inventory Management
- E-commerce Fulfillment
- Omnichannel Fulfillment
- Warehouse Services
- Reverse Logistics & Returns Processing
- Kitting and Assembly
- Order Customization
Process of 3PL Services
From the moment that your inventory arrives at a third-party logistics warehouse, it will be given the full treatment. Every step of the way, a reputable 3PL service provider will work closely with you to ensure your items get delivered to the customer as quickly and smoothly as possible. Here’s what you can expect from hiring a 3PL service provider for your e-commerce needs:
Integrate With E-Commerce Platform
Most e-commerce businesses need omnichannel fulfillment to compete against other companies. For this to happen, you need to have a robust IT system. Some of the best fulfillment services integrate seamlessly with multiple channels of fulfillment. VLS can connect your e-commerce business with various channels, such as Amazon, eBay, Walmart, and many others. You will be able to track the progress of your online orders via an interactive dashboard.
Inventory Management
Another vital aspect of e-commerce fulfillment services is inventory management. By working with VLS, you will be provided a record of all products to stay up-to-date on out-of-stock products and those that need to be refilled. With efficient inventory management, your e-commerce business can quickly respond to buyer demands and provide the required supply.
Fulfillment and Shipping
When an order is placed through your e-commerce platform, it goes directly to your warehouse. It is there that a picker will find the item on the shelf and then package it in the correct size box.
A shipping label is applied with the correct details and stipulations to create a hassle-free shipping experience. Fulfillment and shipping must be done accurately to prevent delivering the wrong order to the customer.
Same-Day Shipping
Some third-party logistics providers offer same-day shipping services. This means that orders are picked, packed, and shipped on the same day that they are received. Customers can get their orders faster, which will increase their satisfaction rates.
Reverse Logistics
Reverse logistics is another term for returns. In the e-commerce world, returns are a fact of life.
Your return rate will vary on a number of different factors, such as the type of products you sell. For example, clothes and shoes typically have higher return rates. The reverse logistics process involves examining all returned items to determine whether they are damaged or can be returned to the shelf. Oftentimes, reverse logistics decreases the amount of time that undamaged products are available for purchase again.
Benefits of 3PL Services
E-commerce businesses that hire 3PL services for their fulfillment needs often experience more seamless transactions. Here are five benefits you can gain from working with a top 3PL service provider such as VLS.
Faster Order Fulfillment
Through extraordinary e-commerce fulfillment services, VLS can increase your delivery speed by 40%. When the customer orders, we get to pick, pack, and ship the item. Because you can store products closer to your customers in our fully-equipped warehouses, your customers will receive items lightning fast.
Easier Returns Process
Returns can often be essential for e-commerce businesses. When that happens, we work together to create a seamless process for returns and testing. As a Top Reverse Logistics Company, VLS is committed to providing enhanced, streamlined, cost-effective distribution. From planning transportation routes to organizing shipping loads, these steps make reverse logistics so much easier. By providing a more straightforward returns process, we work to improve customer service and satisfaction, which will, in turn, amplify your brand image.
A Truly Customized Approach
Some e-commerce fulfillment services handle all the packaging and shipping with little input from you. However, e-commerce businesses tend to thrive when they can meet the needs of their customers. With customers having uniquely different needs, we must work to satisfy every single one of them. We can help your business stand out by adding custom inserts, writing handwritten notes, and using laser engraving. The products you fulfill with us are given that special touch so customers can have a truly unforgettable experience.
Enhanced Warehouse Services
At VLS, we don’t just store, package, and ship your items. Since we believe that warehousing is essential to your e-commerce business, we will work closely with you to create a strategic plan for warehousing and fulfillment. The first step is unloading your products within 24 hours. We will then pick the right items, scan them for accuracy, and package them. In addition to providing these services, we protect and insure all products and goods so that when they are sent to the customer, they are in the best condition possible. As a Top Warehousing Company, you can be assured that your products are in the best hands.
Wrapping Up
3PL services are changing the way that online stores do business. Let us revolutionize your e-commerce business! By partnering with Victory Lane Solutions (VLS), you will receive the best-personalized care to give your products and brand the customized attention they deserve from initial drop-off to final shipment. Product by product and customer after customer, let’s be victorious together!