Business owners everywhere know how important it is to stay competitive in their market niche. Over the past few months, the importance of staying on top of orders has become even more critical, as both commercial and retail clients expect fast, accurate service.
The problem is that supply chains have been disrupted, with many companies finding their orders are being held up somewhere. B2B fulfillment has been hit hard, but companies are finding carefully monitoring orders can, in many cases, mitigate the issues they’re facing. But, it’s incredibly important to fully understand what’s involved in B2B fulfillment to make the most of the current market conditions.
What is B2B Fulfillment?
B2B fulfillment becomes complicated in some cases, but the basic definition stays the same. B2B fulfillment is the relationship between wholesale suppliers and retailers where inventories are replenished in time to prevent retailers from running out of specific items.
These are not single-item orders. Rather, retailers place multi-unit orders and expect shipments to meet their regular needs. Remember that wholesalers are rarely manufacturers, which means there may be several suppliers along the value chain that must, in turn, provide orders for the next link in the chain.
How are B2B and B2C Orders Different?
As a rule, B2C orders involve limited quantities of products. In many cases, single items are ordered. On the other hand, B2B fulfillment involves large quantities of items. Wholesalers may order entire truckloads of goods, but orders may be for case lots or pallets, depending on the type of product.
In recent years, just-in-time deliveries have proven to be popular with wholesalers and retailers, as the need for storage is reduced and costs can be better controlled. With the recent pandemic, just-in-time ordering hasn’t worked as well simply because the supply chain has been stretched thin around the world. For example, when containers can be found in China, they may sit on the dock for weeks before they’re shipped.
That issue appears to be improving recently, but wholesalers and retailers along the chain have experienced delays that impact customer satisfaction at all levels. How does that affect B2C orders?
Consumers grew to expect their orders would be delivered within a day or two. However, the pandemic has created delays. Even when wholesalers have adequate inventories, they may not have the staff required to meet the normal delivery criteria retailers and end users require.
Take Amazon, for example. Customers grew to expect, at most, two-day delivery of their orders. Today, that may happen in some markets, but the general rule is that orders won’t arrive for several days. Amazon’s warehouses have huge inventories, but some merchandise won’t be in stock. When items are in stock, staff shortages mean orders may not be fulfilled quickly.
Who wins in that kind of environment? Obviously, the organization that delivers merchandise quickly will tend to command a dominant position in the market. That means B2B fulfillment organizations must take steps to ensure their clients receive all orders quickly. When retailers have the needed inventory, they can deliver products to end users without unnecessary delays.
Everyone along the supply chain will be stepping up their games in the coming months to stay ahead of their competitors as the pandemic recovery proceeds. To retain their market share, or even garner a larger share, companies will need to work with suppliers and logistics experts to retain their current market position or gain momentum. Resolving logistics issues may be the single most important step in companies recovering from the pandemic.
A Step-by-Step Guide to B2B Fulfillment Management
B2B fulfillment management involves receiving, processing, and delivering orders to businesses. It is a critical process for businesses that sell products to other businesses, as it ensures that customers receive their orders on time and in good condition.
This article provides a step-by-step guide to B2B fulfillment management, covering receiving orders, processing orders, inventory management, order fulfillment, and delivery and returns.
Step 1: Receiving Orders
The first step in B2B fulfillment management is receiving orders from customers. Orders can be received through email, phone, or an online portal. It is important to have a system to organize and track orders.
This system should include the customer’s name, order details, and delivery address. It is also important to have a process for verifying the authenticity of orders and ensuring they meet any minimum order requirements.
Step 2: Processing Orders
Once an order is received, it must be processed. This involves verifying the order details, checking inventory levels, and preparing the order for shipment.
It is essential to have an efficient and accurate order processing system to ensure that orders are fulfilled correctly and on time. This system should include order verification, inventory checking, and order preparation processes.
Step 3: Inventory Management
Inventory management is a critical component of B2B fulfillment management. It involves tracking inventory levels, forecasting demand, and replenishing stock as needed. This ensures the business has enough stock to fulfill orders and avoid stockouts.
It is important to have an accurate inventory management system that includes processes for inventory tracking, demand forecasting, and stock replenishment.
Step 4: Order Fulfillment
Order fulfillment is the process of picking, packing, and shipping orders. It is essential to have an efficient and accurate order fulfillment process to ensure that orders are delivered on time and in good condition.
This involves selecting the right carrier, packaging the order properly, and providing tracking information to the customer. It is also important to have a process for resolving any issues that may arise during the order fulfillment process.
Step 5: Delivery and Returns
Delivery and returns are the final steps in B2B fulfillment management. It is important to have a reliable delivery system to ensure that orders are delivered on time and in good condition.
A returns management system should also be in place to handle any returns or exchanges. This system should include processes for delivery tracking, delivery issue resolution, and returns management.
Monitoring Your B2B Fulfillment Service
If you operate a business that relies on regular stock shipments, B2B fulfillment services will always be important. Rather than simply waiting for shipments and wondering if you’re getting the best service possible, take the time to monitor the services you’re currently using. Here are just a few of the things a business owner can do to make sure their B2B fulfillment provider is the best available.
Pay attention to the provider’s technology. Today, most B2B orders are handled electronically, with business owners rarely speaking directly to their B2B fulfillment partners. Make sure the provider’s software makes it easy to place and track orders.
Insist on EDI compliance. Digital ordering is generally easy, but the suppliers must be EDI-compliant to ensure everyone can quickly exchange required documentation. Delays occur when proper documentation isn’t readily available, and that won’t help anyone.
Don’t settle for subpar customer care. Remember that you’re a customer too. Don’t ever settle for poor service. There are plenty of suppliers that deliver quality, professional service. That includes everyone providing logistics services along the supply chain.
Of course, every business owner will have unique needs. That means you may have other qualities you expect from a B2B fulfillment partner. It’s always important to discuss any unique needs with a partner prior to starting a relationship.
Advantages of Using a Quality B2B Fulfillment Partner
If you’re unsure what to expect when working with a B2B fulfillment partner, take the time now to review a couple of the advantages. If your goal is to make your business more profitable, the importance of working closely with a quality B2B fulfillment partner can’t be overstated.
Reduced Logistic Issues
First, B2B fulfillment partners make it easier to minimize order issues and reduce shipping costs. When orders are filled accurately, and deliveries are on time, profits go up. Top B2B partners work with clients to make sure shipments are delivered where they are needed and are intact.
Easier Inventory Management
Next, B2B fulfillment partners make it easier to manage your inventory. Automation options make it far simpler to track shipment contents through the supply chain and manage current inventory levels.
Easier to Grow Your business
When working with quality logistics professionals and B2B fulfillment experts, building a business is easier. It’s really that simple. Rather than relying on less-than-stellar partners, explore your options and partner with suppliers and logistics professionals that share your vision for the future.
Your business options are expanding, which means now is the time to review the performance of your current partners and determine if improvements can be made. For a better future, take advantage of the best available B2B partner options.
