![Untitled-845x654.png](https://steemitimages.com/DQmcQ6AFHn41xUjw5cLAeTVfHbWP1BQV1TCwb5WALJ5ggRb/Untitled-845x654.png) When it comes to product-based businesses such as ours, it’s important to not only get your logistics right, but also have the best rates and fast shipping. I have used both FBM(Fulfilled by Merchant) and also FBA so I will also give my point of view on what works and what doesn’t. Although my main focus is on FBA, I normally still leave some units in a storage facility either to reduce my Amazon fees or to fulfill any orders from my own E-commerce store. This blog post will be all about how you can manage your inventory effectively and save fees when compared to Amazon. I will also show you how you can use a third-party fulfillment center to take advantage of busy periods such as the Chinese New Year or the December holiday seasons. So let’s have a look at what options are there for importers or sellers and explore different ways on how you can manage your inventory effectively.

What To Look For In a Fulfillment Center?

If using a third-party fulfillment centre, ideally it should be as similar to Amazon FBA as possible in terms of service and efficiency. However, here are some features I look for when making my decision:

The fulfillment centre should be in a strategic location so I reduce shipping costs from the country of origin.
The FC should have a backend software system that enables me to track my inventory and gather other important data(fees, shipping rates, SKUs comparison, etc.).
They should have integrations with all major E-commerce marketplaces(Ebay, Amazon, Shopify, BigCommerce, etc.). This allows me to manage all my marketplaces(in terms of logistics) from one place.
Their shipping rates should be as low as possible and they use all major courier services. Never use a fulfillment center that relies on one courier as it limits your options.
If I’m using the fulfillment center exclusively for Amazon, I look for ones that have extensive experience dealing with FBM. The requirements are more strict when it comes to FBM and a few late shipments can compromise your Amazon seller account.

The Benefits of Fulfillment Centers

Fulfillment centers offer a lot of advantages for e-commerce sellers who want to expand towards other sales channels. Some of the benefits are:

Cheaper long term storage than Amazon.
Backend dashboard allows you to track inventory and shipping status of your products.
Some FCs offer great rates for oversize items and storage.
Ultimate control over pricing and customer experience(if selling from your own store).
Brand-able shipping packages.
No restrictions on inserts or marketing materials.
Multiple integrations with eCommerce marketplaces.
Ability to process returns easily.
FC’s can make custom orders for special clients.

FBA Prep Companies

Goods Inspection.
Product Photography.
Labeling, Knitting and Bundling.
Storage.
Inventory Updates.
& much more.

Location, Location, Location!

New York
California

What To Look For In a Fulfillment Center?

The Benefits of Fulfillment Centers

FBA Prep Companies

Location, Location, Location!

What Is Amazon's Multi-Fulfillment Service?

Conclusion