Fulfillment & Shipping Basics
Step 1: Know your options
Marketplace fulfillment (FBA on Amazon, WFS on Walmart) stores and ships for you, unlocking fast-delivery badges. Self-fulfillment and 3PLs give more control. Many sellers mix approaches. Step 2: Choose based on speed and margin
Fast, marketplace-fulfilled delivery usually lifts conversion and ranking but carries fees. Compare the fees against the sales boost for each product. Step 3: Forecast demand
Estimate sales over your restock lead time, then reorder before you run low. Running out kills ranking; overstocking ties up cash and storage fees. Step 4: Prep inventory correctly
Follow each marketplace's labeling, packaging, and shipment rules exactly. Mistakes cause delays, fees, and stranded inventory. Step 5: Protect your in-stock rate
Set reorder points and track them weekly. Staying in stock is one of the highest-impact things you can do for consistent sales. Step 6: Plan returns and support
Set clear, fair return policies and handle issues quickly. Good post-purchase experience protects your metrics and reviews. Why this matters
Reliable, fast fulfillment and healthy in-stock rates quietly drive ranking, conversion, and repeat purchases. It's where a lot of profit is won or lost.