Shopify is a platform for businesses of all sizes to create an online store. It offers users a customizable platform, an easy-to-use checkout process, and a wide range of features. One of the most important features of Shopify is its ability to automate order fulfillment.
This means that once an order is placed, Shopify will automatically generate a shipping label and send the order to the appropriate fulfillment center. This can save businesses a lot of time and money, as they no longer have to manually process each order. There are a few different ways to automate order fulfillment on Shopify, and we’ll go over each one in detail.
- The first way to automate order fulfillment on Shopify is to use a fulfillment service. A fulfillment service is a company that specializes in storing, packing, and shipping products.
They will typically have a network of warehouses around the world, which allows them to ship orders quickly and efficiently. Many Shopify users use Shipstation as their fulfillment service, as it integrates seamlessly with Shopify and offers a wide range of features.
- The second way to automate order fulfillment on Shopify is to use Dropshipping. Dropshipping is a method of order fulfillment where the retailer does not keep any inventory in stock.
Instead, they simply act as a middleman between the customer and the supplier. When an order is placed, the retailer will contact the supplier and have them ship the product directly to the customer’s door. Dropshipping can be a great way to save on inventory costs, but it can also lead to longer shipping times and higher shipping costs.
- The third way to automate order fulfillment on Shopify is to use print-on-demand (POD). POD is a type of dropshipping where products are only printed when an order is placed.
This means that there is no need to keep any inventory in stock, as everything is made-to-order. POD can be a great option for businesses that sell custom or unique products, as there is no need to worry about overstocking or understocking items.
No matter which method you choose, automated order fulfillment can save you a lot of time and money. If you’re looking for ways to streamline your business operation, then automating your orders is a great place to start.
How Do You Automate Order Fulfillment on Shopify?
You can automate your order fulfillments on Shopify in 3 ways:
1. Make sure you have a good understanding of how your current fulfillment process works. This will help you identify which parts of the process can be automated and which parts will need to be manual.
2. There are a variety of Shopify apps that can help with automation, but not all of them will work for every business. Do some research to find the app that best fits your needs.
3. Be sure to test out your automated fulfillment process before you roll it out to your entire customer base. This will help you catch any potential issues and make sure everything is running smoothly.
Use A Fulfillment Service
Fulfillment services are provided by third party logistics (3PL) which store, package and ship your products for you.
Advantages:
- You don’t need storage space
- You don’t need staff
- They provide packaging materials
- They provide customer service
- Some offer marketing services
Drawbacks:
- You don’t have control over your inventory
- They might not always have items in stock
- It can be more expensive than doing it yourself (although this really depends on your business volume and product)
Use Dropshipping (this method has become increasingly popular over recent years)
Dropshipping is where you (the retailer/middleman) take orders from customers but don’t keep any inventory. Instead when you get an order you contact the supplier who will then ship it directly to your customer’s door. There are some key advantages and disadvantages which we’ve listed below.
Advantages:
- You don’t need storage space
- No need for staff
- Low start up cost (as you’re not buying inventory upfront)
Disadvantages:
- Longer shipping times (as you’re relying on suppliers)
- Higher shipping costs (as suppliers add their own fees)
Use Print On Demand (POD).
This has become more popular with t shirt businesses but with advancements in technology can be used for other products too. POD works by only printing products when someone orders them.
There are 2 types of POD.
White Label.
This involves using someone else’s product but putting your own branding on it (private labeling). For example if you wanted to sell water bottles but didn’t want the hassle of setting up manufacturing yourself then you could find someone who already manufactures water bottles white label them with your own branding.
Advantages.
You don’t need storage space or staff as everything is made on demand.
