In this article, we look at 10 “What” questions retailers ask about fulfilment, giving answers and resources to help you to overcome any challenges you may face.
By the time you have finished reading, you should have a greater understanding of some of the most challenging aspects of perfecting fulfilment, as well as ideas to impress your customers.
10 “What” questions retailers ask about fulfilment
We will now take a look at common questions retailers ask about fulfilment.
- What are the benefits of dropshipping?
Dropshipping can require lower startup costs, as retailers do not need to invest cash into inventory. This means it is possible to test new products while keeping risk low. Other benefits include it being quick to get started, requiring less time investment, and being able to start selling without holding physical inventory.
Learn more about how dropshipping works here.
- What are the best types of packaging?
The best type of packaging depends on the types of products you are shipping and your business’ ethos. For example, a retailer shipping fragile products will need protective packaging, while a clothes retailer could use recycled and compostable envelopes.
Click here to view 10 examples of eco-friendly packaging.
- What is sustainable fulfilment and why does it matter?
Sustainable fulfilment involves delivering ecommerce orders to shoppers in the most sustainable possible way. This can include reducing the use of single-use plastics, for example.
Remember, it’s important to be honest and transparent about how you offer sustainable fulfilment, rather than simply making a claim that you do.
- What are the ways to reduce carbon emissions?
There are many ways that retail businesses can reduce carbon emissions. This can be done by recycling, investing in sustainable suppliers, utilising green energy and becoming carbon neutral.
Read our article on how retail businesses can improve their carbon footprint.
- What can I do to cope with peak demand?
There are many strategies that can help you to cope with peak demand, beginning by planning in advance. By the time the rush of orders begins, it is often too late to keep up, however, relying on third-party experts and fulfilment providers can be a great way to get support during peak if you are unprepared for the demand.
Learn more about how you can prepare for peak.
- What can I do to deal with returns?
In an ideal world, you would begin by minimising the number of returns in the first place, using customer data and accurate descriptions to minimise misunderstandings.
As the number of returns continues to be a growing issue for the ecommerce industry, click here to read the ebook on how to manage ecommerce returns effectively.
- What can I do to improve delivery communication?
Communication is key in gaining positive reviews, growing customer loyalty and reducing the number of returns. Begin by making sure customers are kept up to date with every update about their order, from payment being made, to orders being shipped and delivery information.
Read this article on how to use communication to avoid negative reviews in retail.
- What goes into making an ecommerce shopper happy?
Price, convenience, communication and product quality are the key aspects of any great ecommerce experience. Retailers must understand their target market and balance these in order to impress an ecommerce shopper.
While this may seem a difficult task, making continuous adjustments as required and trying to remain ahead of the competition is essential in growing loyalty and exceeding online shoppers’ expectations.
- What should you ask fulfilment partners?
When choosing a fulfilment partner, it’s important to ask the right questions, so you can make sure they align with your business.
This list of 10 key questions to ask potential fulfilment partners is the best place to start when planning conversations with suppliers.
- What are the most common fulfilment challenges?
Common fulfilment challenges include having difficulties locating reliable suppliers, having the incorrect inventory and shipping troubles.
Read the Modern Retail Guide to Fulfilment to learn how to overcome common fulfilment problems.
Get started
Now you’ve read this article on questions retailers ask about fulfilment, it’s time to design or improve your logistics operations. Take a look at the resources in this article to gain more insight into the best ways to run your fulfilment and impress ecommerce shoppers.
Holly brings a wealth of experience in both print and digital publishing. As Modern Retail’s Content Editor, Holly is passionate about helping independent retailers to thrive in today’s ever-changing market.
