Every time an order appears on Shopify, shipment is the first thing that crosses the mind of the seller, and yes!!! They don't think about the profit until the delivery part is done. Shipping is the most tricky part of the entire order management process because it requires maximum accuracy and timeliness at the same time to achieve customer satisfaction. In addition, the tricky part is the multiple locations of the inventory, stock-outs, and costly shipping, which cause delivery planning to become stressful. The most effective solution to this problem is Split Shipping through multiple shipments. This is much simpler than it seems, and this blog has everything you need to know about Split Shipping for Shopify orders.
Split Shipping for Shopify Orders Explained
Shopify orders are generally not fulfilled by a single fulfillment partner as the order delivery location varies. Split shipping helps Shopify sellers to deliver orders partially by splitting the order into different parts as per the seller's preference so the order is delivered in multiple shipments rather than a combined package. It helps in the management of multiple shipping using 3PL providers, faster order fulfillment, and satisfies customers without fail orders. Efficient management of inventory levels is no longer a task since different geographical locations can deliver to customers without bringing all the inventory related to one order together.
How Can Shopify Store Owners Use This?
There are different cases in which sellers can use the Split Shipping feature. Let's discuss how Split Shipping can be used in different cases to revolutionize eCommerce fulfillment:
Different Product Categories
There are cases when sellers receive orders containing products from different categories. In such cases, there is a possibility that all the items included in the order could be shipped together due to the nature of the product. In another case, the seller might be willing to send over the delivery from two different partners, Amazon MCF/FBA, or 3PL fulfillment providers like ShipStation, FedEx, Shipping Easy, and ShipBob, to optimize the costs. The split shipping feature can help the seller choose what works best for them.
Multiple Geographical Locations
Sellers tend to store their inventory in different locations depending on the utility and interests. Also, the cost of storing the inventory varies from place to place. Some of the products might be stored in Amazon's warehouse, while others may be stored in a personal workspace. In this case, if the order contains products located in different places, then the seller will have to split the shipping in such a way that part of the order will be fulfilled by Amazon FBA, and the remaining part will be delivered using 3PL providers.
Weight, Size, and Dimensions of Product
Not necessary that all the products will be of the same size, weight, or dimensions. Different sizes require different kinds of fulfillment. For example, a coffee table and a vase to be placed on it can be ordered together, but the two cannot be shipped together as one is huge and the other one is fragile. The fulfillment needs of both products are different. Hence, in this case, split shipping can work wonderfully where the coffee table can be sent through a 3PL provider who can deliver at a low price, and the vase can be delivered by Amazon MCF/FBA because of its expertise in the delivery of fragile products.
Stock Availability
Fulfillment depends on the availability of stock; if one of the items in the order is out-of-stock, then the entire order should not be delayed or canceled. The items that are available in the stock should be shipped on the spot so that partial fulfillment is possible. The item not available can be shipped later as it is stocked to maintain customer satisfaction.
Why Choose Split Shipping to Manage Multiple Shipments for Shopify?
Split shipping might seem a little overwhelming at first, but the benefits are equally fascinating. Here's a little view of the benefits:
Higher Profits
Profits are not only related to the amount of sales but also to the margins made on every sale. With split shipping, sellers can save generous sums of money on deliveries by choosing the best fit for different products of the same order. Also, sellers can avoid order cancellation and loss of customers that usually occur due to lack of inventory. They can simply ship the available items and send the other items later.
Happy Customers
The key to a customer's heart is to deliver right, in the best condition at the best price. Split shipping allows the seller to give it all while they don't suffer with cost management. Also, customers are seldom bothered by different packages, but timely delivery is all that matters to them. With split shipping, quick delivery doesn't look like a task that allows sellers to satisfy their customers.
Cost Optimization
Delivery cost can be better optimized with split shipping depending on the size, weight, and dimensions of the item. Different products have different requirements for delivery, and the 3PL partners also charge differently based on their expertise and range. Choosing the most capable delivery partner with compatible costs can help with cost optimization, which is only possible with split shipping.
Freedom to Ship via Multiple 3PL Providers
Different 3PL providers have expertise in different delivery areas, either in terms of location of product, type, or size. Split shipping(multiple shipments) allows the sellers to choose the best partner so that there are no chances of damage or delays. Hence, split shipping allows sellers to make decisions without compromising on the quality and timing of the delivery.
Inventory Management Simplified
Inventory management requires attention and clarity because a simple mistake in this area can cost a hefty amount to the business. With split shipping, inventory management is simplified as the sellers can simply ship the inventory wherever it is stored without bringing all the items of the order together. In this way, the chances of mistakes can be avoided so that there is no misunderstanding or loss.
Case Study: Customers Experience Revolutionary Change
DermaTouch is a dermatologically tested, trusted Indian brand that gives you clinically proven activities in its skincare products. It has expertly formulated products that are capable of breaking stereotypes of a fair complexion as DermaTouch propagates glowing and protected skin, bringing a skincare revolution from multi-layered makeup to multi-layer skincare. By integrating Shopify with Amazon to curb the challenges that were posing a threat to the business's success, DermaTouch positioned itself to achieve that groundbreaking success, setting its mark as one of the premium brands in the competitive skincare market. DermaTouch is a standing testament to how Amazon MCF by WebBee can transform your business game with a split shipping(multiple shipment) feature and other 3PL integration at the same place.
Split Shipping: The Key to Happy Customers
By now, you would have understood the difference that split shipping can bring to your business with better customer service and cost optimization. This gives you the flexibility to ship on your own terms and avoid losing or dissatisfying a customer. Amazon MCF by WebBee is the exact tool that can help you grow exponentially just like DermaTouch. There is nothing left to think about, go ahead and integrate Shopify with Amazon to achieve business growth.
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