Omnichannel Fulfillment – The Falcon Difference

What is omnichannel fulfillment? The simple answer is that omnichannel fulfillment is a streamlined process of picking, packing, and shipping orders across multiple sales channels. The more complicated reality is that it is an integrated, collaborative network of logistics, technology platforms, and order fulfillment options that create a cohesive purchasing experience for consumers, regardless of where they bought their item. As consumers’ expectations adapt to greater freedom and flexibility in the shopping journey, e-commerce brands must also adapt. This article will share some basic information regarding omnichannel fulfillment, the benefits and challenges of implementing this strategy, and how partnering with a 3PL can help.

More Accurate Data

Data is only good if it is accurate. Many e-commerce companies still have multichannel sales with siloed data. Omnichannel fulfillment eliminates the data silos by creating a single point of truth concerning inventory management. All SKUs funnel into a singular platform that allows business owners to make crucial decisions on inventory, sales, and marketing efforts. Forecasting becomes clearer and targets high-performing sales channels and ones that might need revamping. Better data means better decisions.

Reach More Customers

Omnichannel fulfillment allows brands to tap into new sales channels and reach new customers. By offering multiple fulfillment options like; ship to the customer, BOPIS, curbside, brick-and-mortar, and even locker pick up, customers have more access to buying your product. When you have more fulfillment options, you have more sales opportunities.

Greater Customer Satisfaction

No matter where a consumer decides to buy your product, providing them multiple ways to purchase and a seamless brand experience increases satisfaction. Leveraging omnichannel fulfillment will get products into consumers’ hands faster than a siloed multichannel approach. The reason is that although it might take 2-3 days to ship directly from the warehouse, a local store might have stock, and a BOPIS option can be made available. Customers who need it today will love the fact they can do the driving for your brand if that means they get that last-minute gift in time!

Integrated Inventory Management

One of the main essentials to omnichannel fulfillment success is integrating all the technology systems that track and collate sales data. For some brands, they must start all over, adding new SKUs to a single inventory management system. For others, it requires a nuanced approach where systems talk to each other in real-time. If pre-built technology integrations are available, this isn’t difficult. However, the proprietary nature of inventory systems will often require an overhaul or a top-notch developer to code the API keys. Getting all the technology systems to communicate is crucial to ensure a single SKU for each item. This can be a significant undertaking if your business has multichannel fulfillment with different SKUs.

Difficult to Manage Infrastructure and Fulfillment Strategy

Fulfilling orders from multiple channels to multiple endpoints is complex. It requires expert knowledge in logistics, warehousing, inventory management, and transportation. Flexible staffing is needed, especially during seasonal sales periods. Investments in fulfillment warehouses, equipment, and fulfillment technology will become necessary as you scale. Partnering with a 3PL is an excellent way to outsource the difficulty and expense of offering omnichannel fulfillment.

Automated Inventory Management

Falcon Fulfillment uses an automated inventory management system that allows your brand to have the most accurate data for your inventory. It is simple to manage high-volume requirements. We utilize advanced barcoding technology to track inventory and guarantee the right product is shipped and received every time. “Four Ways a 3PL Can Help with Outsourcing Inventory Management.”

Personalized Approach

At Falcon, we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we recognize that each brand is unique, and the omnichannel fulfillment strategy will need to accommodate for the differences. Therefore, we are proud to offer a level of customized service our competitors struggle to match. Specifically, every client has a dedicated Account Manager who works closely with them. As a result, this has allowed Falcon to understand their client’s individual needs and build a process to help meet those requests. By taking this personalized approach, we ensure that our clients receive the tailored support they need to succeed in their omnichannel fulfillment endeavors.

Eco-friendly Custom Packaging & Kitting Services

If you have been fulfilling in-house and want to jump to an omnichannel fulfillment strategy without losing the personal touch, Falcon can help. Specifically, Falcon offers on-site branding and packaging solutions to ensure a seamless brand experience across all sales channels. For instance, we can provide perfect-sized packaging, printed inserts, and even detailed personalization. As a result, you can maintain a strong brand identity while expanding your reach through multiple channels.