FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Please tell us what you need. Our team is ready and happy to help.
How much savings can I expect on my shipping cost?
The amount you can save on shipping costs really depends on several factors — like your shipping volume, the carriers you use, and the types of services you need — but many businesses see savings of up to 50%. Larger savings often come from consolidating shipments, negotiating better rates with carriers, or using a 3PL like FulfillMe to access discounted rates. Let’s talk specifics about your shipping setup if you want a clearer estimate.
Is FulfillMe software incorporated into my current system, or do I need new software?
FulfillMe provides fulfillment and shipping services tailored to your business. You don’t need to adopt new software — we work with the systems you already use, whether that’s your e-commerce platform or order management tools. Our team ensures a smooth process by connecting your orders to our fulfillment operations, handling everything from storage and pick & pack to shipping. If you don’t have a system in place, we’re here to guide you through the best way to manage your fulfillment, but our focus is on delivering reliable, end-to-end service — not adding extra software for you to manage.
How long has FulfillMe been in business?
FulfillMe was established in 2007, and we’ve been steadily growing ever since. Over the years, we’ve expanded our team, deepened our industry expertise, and extended our geographic reach — all with the goal of providing reliable, efficient fulfillment and shipping solutions. Our commitment to supporting our clients’ success has driven our growth, allowing us to continuously enhance our services and adapt to the evolving needs of e-commerce businesses.
Does FulfillMe offer custom packaging?
Yes, we do! Custom packaging is a powerful way to enhance customer experience, boost brand recognition, and stand out from competitors. At FulfillMe, we specialize in creating memorable unboxing experiences for your brand.
Every package includes:
- Outer and internal protection
- A receipt or invoice
- Your marketing message
Popular box sizes include:
- 4 x 4 x 4
- 6 x 6 x 4
- 8 x 4 x 4
- 10 x 8 x 4
- and more
Packaging Inserts
We offer a variety of inserts to protect your products, including bubble wrap, tissue paper, and structural supports, depending on the fragility of your items. (Pictured below: an example of cardboard structural inserts.)
Do you do over-dimensional transport?
Yes, our trucking company is adept in providing over-dimensional transport for freight that cannot fit on a standard-sized trailer. Regardless of the size of the freight, we can accommodate it. Our approach revolves around safety, as well as efficiency. Before beginning the process, we’ll conduct a route survey, which will help us to determine the best possible route for transportation. If the situation calls for it, then we’ll send along a pilot (escort) car. We’ll also secure any necessary permits. Items that frequently require over-dimensional transport include cooling towers, generators, and rooftop HVAC units.
What is an online marketplace?
An online marketplace is an eCommerce platform that connects sellers with buyers. Many businesses use online marketplaces as part of their multichannel strategy, and we like to think of it as the digital equivalent of a farmers market.
As companies grow, they often seek additional sales channels to optimize their reach. After building a customer base through their own website, many sellers turn to platforms like Amazon and eBay to expand their reach.
Before diving into marketplace options, it’s important to define a few key factors:
- What is your budget?
- What sales margin are you comfortable with?
- Do you have the capacity to meet strict shipping standards?
Once you understand your needs and limits, you can start exploring marketplace options. Here are some of the top online marketplaces in the U.S.:
- Amazon
- eBay
- Walmart
- Wayfair
- Costco
- Target
- Chewy
- Newegg
- Etsy
- Rakuten
- BestBuy
- Wish
- Cratejoy
- Overstock
Selling on an online marketplace can be a major step for your business, especially considering the requirements and costs involved. Whether you’ve already ventured into this space or are just considering it, take a look at our list of integrations to explore your options with FulfillMe.
What is the difference between Kitting vs. Bundling?
Kitting is the process of assembling separate but related items and packaging them together as one unit, which then becomes a single SKU.
The key distinction with kitting is that the items within the kit are not intended to be sold individually. For example, the kit may require special packaging or promotional inserts that have their own SKU but cannot be purchased separately by consumers.
Clients often provide specific instructions on how kits should be arranged and assembled.
An example of kitting is when a client provides a unique box, promotional insert, and specific packaging instructions. When an order is placed for a kit, our warehouse team receives a packing slip listing each item in the kit as a separate SKU. The packing slip indicates to our team that the items are to be assembled into a kit.
Bundling involves grouping individually sold items together and offering them as one unit, which also becomes a single SKU.
Unlike kitting, each SKU in a bundle can be sold separately. Bundling doesn’t require special packaging, promotional inserts, or other unique items.
An example of bundling is when a consumer purchases two kits together. Since each kit can be sold individually, packing them together as a bundle is a straightforward process without the need for additional customization.
What are the differences between Amazon FBA, SFP, and FBM?
Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA)
FBA is a hands-off fulfillment option where Amazon takes care of almost everything for the seller. After signing up, you send your inventory to Amazon’s warehouses, and they handle storage, order fulfillment, and returns. FBA products benefit from Amazon’s two-day shipping and customer service. However, the trade-offs include limited control over your inventory, storage fees across multiple warehouses, and the requirement to use Amazon’s branding along with other restrictions.
Seller Fulfilled Prime (SFP)
SFP allows sellers to manage their own inventory and shipping while still offering Prime benefits. Sellers must use Amazon-approved carriers and meet FBA service levels to qualify. This is the only fulfillment method where sellers can display the Prime badge while maintaining control over their inventory. However, it requires high standards, including completing a trial period to be fully accepted into the program. It’s important to note that Amazon is not currently accepting new SFP merchants.
Fulfilled by Merchant (FBM)
FBM gives sellers complete control over the logistics of their orders. Unlike FBA and SFP, FBM sellers do not receive the benefits of Prime or free two-day shipping. This method is ideal for sellers testing the market on Amazon or those who want more control over their inventory and fulfillment process. FBM may also help reduce costs associated with additional fees and split inventory, but it does not offer the same visibility or benefits as FBA or SFP.
Click here to learn more about selling on Amazon.
What are the various types of eCommerce fulfillment?
In-house, third-party, and dropshipping are the three primary types of eCommerce fulfillment. When setting up your online store, it’s important to think about how you want to manage your order process. Do you have the resources to fulfill orders in-house, or would you prefer to outsource? Here’s a breakdown of the three main fulfillment options:
In-House Fulfillment/Self-Fulfillment
In-house fulfillment is a popular choice for merchants during their early stages and after launching. This model involves managing inventory and packing orders internally. “In-house” doesn’t necessarily mean operating from your home, though it can. It could also involve renting a warehouse, hiring staff, and purchasing equipment to handle fulfillment operations without relying on third parties.
Dropshipping
Dropshipping is often seen as the least involved fulfillment method. With this process, the manufacturer takes care of inventory management and shipping, while the seller acts as the intermediary. The seller never handles the product directly or manages the order fulfillment process.
Outsourcing Fulfillment
As businesses grow and face increasing order volumes, many opt to outsource fulfillment to a third-party logistics (3PL) provider. A 3PL handles the entire logistics process, including warehousing, picking, packing, and shipping, allowing businesses to focus on other aspects of their operations.
At Fulfyld, we offer fulfillment services that let you concentrate on building your brand while we take care of the logistics. Get in touch with us to learn more about how we can support your business!
What are the various eCommerce business models?
As eCommerce has evolved over the years, we’ve been able to identify and define various models and strategies. If you’re considering entering the world of online retail, it’s essential to research and understand which model(s) align with your business goals.
Below, we’ve outlined different types of eCommerce businesses, categorized by their business classifications and revenue models:
eCommerce Business Classifications
Business to Consumer (B2C)
This is the most common eCommerce model, where businesses sell directly to consumers. The decision-making process is typically short, as customers make quick purchasing decisions.
Business to Business (B2B)
In this model, one business sells its products or services to another business. B2B sales cycles tend to be longer than B2C, but they often involve higher order volumes and foster stronger customer loyalty.
Consumer to Consumer (C2C)
C2C models allow consumers to buy and sell goods directly with one another, often through online marketplaces. The business generates revenue through site fees and commissions.
Consumer to Business (C2B)
This model allows consumers to sell products or services to businesses. It’s become increasingly popular in freelance work and with social media influencers.
eCommerce Business Sourcing and Revenue Models
Drop Shipping
Drop shipping lets you manage your online storefront while your supplier handles product sourcing, inventory management, and shipping. This model is ideal for entrepreneurs who want to minimize operational responsibilities and focus on sales.
Wholesaling
Wholesaling involves acting as an intermediary between manufacturers and retailers. The wholesaler profits by selling products in bulk to retailers at a markup.
Private Labeling and Manufacturing
Private labeling allows you to develop a product idea and partner with manufacturers to create it. If you lack the funds for production, private labeling offers a solution by contracting a manufacturer to produce your inventory. You can then decide whether to ship products directly to consumers or handle fulfillment yourself.
White Labeling
Similar to private labeling, white labeling involves rebranding an existing product that has already been successful under another label. This is common in industries like beauty and wellness, where high demand can make it easier to gain traction by leveraging an established product.
Subscription
The subscription model delivers products to customers on a regular schedule, often in niche markets. This model is effective for building a steady revenue stream, as it encourages repeat business and customer loyalty.
