Ecommerce fulfilment covers the work required to receive inventory, store it, pick and pack customer orders, dispatch parcels and process returns. It may be performed by the seller, a marketplace or a third-party logistics provider.
Map the order path
Follow one order from checkout to customer delivery. Record how inventory is reserved, when orders are released, which packaging is used, how the carrier is selected and what event updates the customer.
| Area | What to establish |
|---|---|
| Receiving | Units accepted, discrepancies and available date |
| Order handling | Pick accuracy, pack time and dispatch cut-off |
| Delivery | Carrier scan, tracking and delivery evidence |
| Returns | Reason, condition, refund and stock disposition |
Sourcing connection
Product dimensions, fragility, labelling and carton configuration affect fulfilment cost. These requirements should enter the supplier specification before production, not after inventory reaches the warehouse.
Related terms
third-party logistics, retail-ready packaging, inventory planning, proof of delivery.
