FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why should I outsource my fulfillment?

The primary reason why most clients outsource their fulfillment is simply 'time'. As a company grows, the complexity of your logistics will grow to a point where it can be extremely time consuming. We give you your time back, allowing you to focus on what made your business a success in the first place. 

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Secondly, by using a 3rd Partly Logistics Provider (3PL) you gain access to discounts through shipping that you normally can't get on your own. Given that we have existing relationships with the major carriers and a higher volume, we can pass savings on to you.

Do you have any hidden fees?

No. Full stop.

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We operate on a level of honesty and transparency rarely found in this, or any other industry. We keep you informed and educated on every aspect of your business with us. There will never be any surprises. We value long-term relationships, and feel that the best way to keep them is by always doing right by our clients.

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In fact, if our shipping rates drop, we will automatically drop yours.

How do you get the orders from my shopping cart?

We have direct API tie-ins to most major shopping carts. On average, we can connect and be pulling orders withing 24 to 48 hours.

How long does it take to get started?

In most cases we can get you up and running in 1 to 2 weeks. The longest part of the process is usually just getting your product to our door. We have a very experienced operations team that will make your transition as smooth as possible.

Are you expensive?

We started this business in response to how we saw clients being taken advantage of at other large fulfillment centers. We make sure that our pricing is always among the most competitive in the industry. We keep our pricing clean and straight forward so there are never any surprises.

What is a 3PL?

A 3PL, or third-party logistics provider, is a company that offers outsourced logistics and supply chain management services to businesses. If you've never heard of it before, here's how it works:

When a company engages a 3PL, they essentially partner with an external expert to handle various aspects of their logistics operations. This can include warehousing, inventory management, transportation, order fulfillment, and distribution.

The 3PL acts as an intermediary between the company and its customers, working behind the scenes to ensure the smooth movement of goods and information throughout the supply chain. They leverage their expertise, infrastructure, and technology to optimize logistics processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs for their clients.

For example, if a company needs warehousing space, the 3PL will provide facilities and manage inventory on their behalf. They will receive the products, store them securely, and keep track of stock levels using advanced inventory management systems. When an order is placed, the 3PL will pick, pack, and ship the products to the customers, handling all the necessary logistics, paperwork, and transportation arrangements.

Engaging a 3PL offers several benefits. It allows businesses to focus on their core competencies, such as product development or marketing, while leaving the complex and time-consuming logistics tasks to the experts. Additionally, 3PLs bring economies of scale, industry knowledge, and access to a vast network of carriers and suppliers, resulting in improved operational efficiency and cost savings.

How can a 3PL provide a solution?

FlatOut Fulfillment can be an excellent solution for customers who are using a third-party logistics (3PL) provider for the first time. FlatOut Fulfillment is a company that specializes in order fulfillment services, including warehousing, inventory management, and shipping. Here are several key ways FlatOut Fulfillment can provide a solution to customers new to 3PL:

1. Expertise and Experience: As a specialized 3PL provider, FlatOut Fulfillment has extensive experience and expertise in managing the logistics and supply chain aspects of businesses. We understand the complexities involved in order fulfillment and can guide customers through the entire process, from receiving inventory to shipping orders efficiently.

2. Scalability: One of the advantages of using a 3PL like FlatOut Fulfillment is the ability to scale operations as your business grows. When customers are new to using a 3PL, they may not be certain about their future growth or how their fulfillment needs may change. FlatOut Fulfillment can accommodate fluctuations in order volume, whether it's a sudden spike in demand or seasonal variations.

3. Cost Efficiency: For businesses new to 3PL, investing in their own warehousing facilities and hiring staff can be expensive. FlatOut Fulfillment provides cost-efficient solutions by leveraging their existing infrastructure, staff, and technology. This eliminates the need for customers to invest in their own facilities and personnel, resulting in significant cost savings.

4. Streamlined Operations: FlatOut Fulfillment can help customers streamline their operations by handling various aspects of order fulfillment. This includes receiving, inspecting, and storing inventory, as well as picking, packing, and shipping orders. By outsourcing these tasks to a reliable 3PL, businesses can focus on core activities like product development and marketing, leading to increased efficiency.

5. Advanced Technology: FlatOut Fulfillment utilizes advanced technology and software systems to manage inventory, track orders, and provide real-time visibility to customers. This technology enables customers to monitor their inventory levels, track shipments, and receive updates on order status. It provides transparency and control, giving businesses peace of mind while their fulfillment needs are taken care of.

6. Customer Support: As a first-time user of a 3PL, it's natural to have questions or concerns. FlatOut Fulfillment provides dedicated customer support to address any queries, provide assistance, and resolve issues promptly. Our knowledgeable support team can guide customers through the onboarding process and ensure a smooth transition to their fulfillment services.

In summary, FlatOut Fulfillment offers expertise, scalability, cost efficiency, streamlined operations, advanced technology, geographic reach, and dedicated customer support to customers new to 3PL. By partnering with us, businesses can offload their logistics and fulfillment responsibilities, allowing them to focus on growth and improving their products or services.

What is the difference between freight and parcel?

Freight and parcel are two distinct categories when it comes to shipping and transportation. Here's an explanation of the differences between the two:

1. Freight: Freight refers to the transportation of larger, bulkier, or heavier shipments that typically require specialized handling, equipment, and documentation. Freight shipments are commonly used for commercial goods, industrial equipment, and larger quantities of products. Freight shipments are usually measured in weight or volume and are transported by various modes such as trucks, trains, ships, or airplanes. Freight shipping often involves additional services like palletizing, crating, and loading/unloading with forklifts or other machinery.

2. Parcel: Parcel shipping, on the other hand, typically involves smaller packages or individual items that can be easily handled and transported by standard carrier services. Parcels are commonly used for e-commerce shipments, personal packages, or small business shipments. Parcel shipments are usually measured by weight and size, and they are transported by well-known carriers like UPS, FedEx, USPS, or DHL. Parcel shipping services often provide features like tracking, delivery confirmation, and options for expedited or international shipping.

In summary, the main difference between freight and parcel lies in the size, weight, and handling requirements of the shipment. Freight is used for larger or heavier shipments that require specialized handling and equipment, while parcels are smaller, individual packages that can be transported using standard carrier services. Understanding the distinction between these two categories can help businesses and individuals choose the appropriate shipping method based on their specific needs and requirements.