Fulfillment & Logistics
Fulfillment & Operations
Speed, accuracy, and cost discipline win fulfillment. This hub covers 3PL selection, in-house vs. hybrid models, SLAs, chargebacks, cartonization, and pick/pack design. We go deep on routing guides, prep standards, and how freight choices ripple into COGS and CX.
Essential Topics
3PL Selection & Scorecards
Choose and manage fulfillment partners with data-driven frameworks
Warehouse Optimization
Design layouts, pick paths, and processes for maximum throughput
Shipping Cost Reduction
Negotiate rates and optimize carrier strategy to cut 15-30%
Returns & Reverse Logistics
Turn returns from cost center to retention opportunity
Inventory Velocity Optimization
Reduce order cycle times 40-60% with strategic positioning
Carrier Negotiation
Master rate negotiation and dimensional weight optimization
Templates & Resources
Related Hubs
Master Fulfillment Operations
Get tactical guides, templates, and frameworks for faster, cheaper, more accurate fulfillment.
See How CommerceOS Helps →Quick Answers
When should I switch to a 3PL?
When order volume is volatile, space is constrained, or you can't meet SLA/retailer prep without heavy capex.
What's the fastest way to cut fulfillment costs?
Improve pick paths, rebalance SKUs, right-size packaging, and automate carrier/service selection.
How do I prevent peak season meltdowns?
Lock forecasts and capacity early, pre-kit, pre-label, and put hard stops on promo volumes tied to SLA thresholds.
How can I tell if fulfillment is causing delayed orders?
Track time stamps at each stage: order → picked → packed → labeled → carrier pickup. If delays happen before pickup, it's fulfillment.
What are signs my warehouse is hitting capacity?
Pick times rising 15%+, staging areas overflowing, frequent stockouts despite positive inventory counts.
How do I reduce overselling across channels?
Centralize inventory truth in one system with real-time sync. Set reservation windows and safety stock buffers per channel.
Show more answers →
How can I calculate actual cost per order?
Sum all fulfillment expenses (labor + packaging + warehouse + freight), divide by orders shipped. Include allocated overhead.
What's a healthy pick-pack-ship cycle time?
4-8 hours for same-day, 8-16 hours for next-day. Slower than 24 hours indicates inefficiency.
What's the difference: 3PL, 4PL, in-house?
3PL manages inventory and shipping. 4PL manages multiple 3PL partners. In-house is self-managed.
What KPIs should I track daily?
Orders per hour, pick accuracy, cycle time, on-time ship rate, and cost per order.
Best practices for warehouse slotting?
ABC analysis: fast movers near pack stations, slow movers to upper shelves. Re-slot monthly based on velocity.
How often should I cycle count?
A-items weekly, B-items monthly, C-items quarterly. Avoid full physical unless necessary.
How do I track multi-location inventory?
Centralize all location data with API connections to each WMS. Real-time for critical, 15-minute for others.
When to add a second warehouse?
When shipping costs jump 25%+ due to zones 5-8 or delivery promises slip. Analyze order geography.
