With unpredictable global logistics and demand issues, environmental and sustainability concerns, rising real estate costs and reduced foot traffic that puts pressure on supply chains, both retailers and brands are looking for ways to meet consumer demand. Drop shipping programs offer many valuable advantages for both retailers and the brands they represent by enabling expanded product assortments and broader penetration into digital commerce channels, and those benefits continue to grow amidst today’s evolving supply chain.
As retailers adjust to expanding demand and fulfilment channels, many are using drop ship solutions to maintain connections with their end users and drive customer satisfaction. By using a drop ship solution designed for unified commerce, retailers have an opportunity to enhance their operations further as they simplify and streamline all aspects of drop shipping — while making it easier for brand partners to participate as well.
This white paper will explore the key elements of today’s advanced drop ship management solutions, demonstrating how they can help retailers expand their assortments and improve customer satisfaction without piling up inventory costs. Primary considerations include:
- Automation and integration of order processing with ERP, accounting and logistics systems for both retailers and brands;
- Simplifying compliance in areas including delivery SLAs, branded packaging and packing slips, use of mandated carriers and sharing up-to-date inventory across the supplier network;
- Using Product Information Management (PIM) tools to improve catalog management accuracy, efficiency and content sophistication; and
- Deep analysis and exception-based reporting that allows retailers to maintain accurate vendor scorecards and quickly identify trouble spots and bottlenecks.
