Want More Sales? Get Better Fulfillment Software!

Running a fulfillment center takes time, patience, and robust software that can simplify order processing.

For those who operate online marketplaces, it is critical to use well-rounded order fulfillment software to accomplish this large workload. The platform must not only be user-friendly but it must also integrate easily with other e-commerce platforms and software solutions. In this way, it is able to improve various order processing tasks, maintain inventory levels, and ensure timely delivery to your online customers. 

With so many options available, it's important to pick a software solution that's practical for you. It should feature all the abilities and tools you require depending on the size of your business. And of course, it should also allow for future growth.

Outlined below are a few important things to consider when upgrading your order fulfillment software. 

What is Order Fulfillment Software? 

Most fulfillment centers have a solid understanding of the software they use to automate the process of picking, packing, shipping, and tracking products that are distributed through their supply chain. The order fulfillment software, also known as an order fulfillment system, is exceptionally valuable to online merchants. 

It is a cloud-based shipping platform and software solution that allows the company to automate the management of inventory, generate picking and packing lists, schedule shipping of multiple modes and to multiple destinations at the same time. Best of all, it tracks each of these processes from start to finish.

This software as a solution (SaaS) system typically integrates with existing e-commerce platforms to make all this possible.

What Should Order Fulfillment Software Contain? 

Depending on the type of operating system you are currently working with, an upgraded order fulfillment solution should provide advanced tools that permit you to streamline the entire order and shipping process. 

While most software solutions are advertised as being compatible with most existing WMS solutions, that simply isn't always the case. It is critical for fulfillment centers to verify that their software will be compatible with their specific process. This will save time, money, and lots of unnecessary headaches in the long run.

Specifically, you should verify that any upgrade in e-commerce 3PL software meets the following requirements: 

The ability to manually enter purchase orders

While automation is critical, a big mistake that many supply chain partners make is trying to automate everything. Purchase orders sometimes require fine-tuned adjustments to reduce mistakes in shipping, order processing, and payment for the customer. Always make sure that any new upgraded software allows you this flexibility. 

Inventory control

The latest and greatest 3PL software solutions advertise robust inventory control solutions including the ability to view and manage inventory levels, create automated inventory alerts, and even verify or process returns. Depending on your size and scope of business, it is important for any online merchant that handles their own fulfillment to upgrade to software that simplifies inventory control. 

Integration

We mentioned this fact above, but it is worth repeating. It is essential to verify that any upgrade in 3PL software smoothly integrates with your existing online marketplace. The concept of this type of software solution is to automate the order fulfillment process. Everything from the point of purchase to the delivery of the commodity at the customer’s doorstep.  

Delivery tracking

Today's consumer demands instant notifications of the items that they purchase online. Robust software can send customers instant tracking updates with every scan or freight movement. Always verify that the order fulfillment software upgrade you're looking into provides you with this flexibility and important customer service tool. 

Final Thoughts

A company that finds it easier to operate their own order fulfillment centers, can still benefit by working with an experienced 3rd-party logistics company like Redwood Logistics. 

Regardless of the size or scope of your business, if you're looking to upgrade your order fulfillment software solutions for 2020 and beyond, contact Redwood Logistics and inquire about our supply chain software solutions.