What Are The Best Fulfillment Services For Startups in 2023 Looking to Outsource [+How it Works, Benefits, and More]

Developing a business from the ground up is A LOT of work! But you know this, and you’re looking for a solution to streamline and optimize your order fulfillment processes.

We’ve done extensive research on the 10 best fulfillment services for startups if you are looking to outsource order processing and delivery. 

Plus, we cover the key features of each of them, and the pros and cons. 

Here’s a quick glance at the top fulfillment providers for startup businesses: 

1. FULFYLD
2. SHIPBOB
3. RED STAG FULFILLMENT
4. AMAZON MCF
5. FULFILLMENT DOT COM
6. COMPLEMAR
7. FULFILLMENT SERVICE
8. FEDEX FULFILLMENT
9. AMAZON FBA
10. RUDBY HAS FULFILLMENT

Can’t wait to get into this review? Here we go!

Have a Quick Glance At Our Best 3 Choices 

Need a quick look at the top 3 fulfillment companies for new businesses? Here they are!

10 of the Top Fulfillment Services for Startups

These are the 10 best fulfillment companies for small businesses in 2023!

1. FULFYLD – The Ultimate Order Fulfillment Partner 

Fulfyld is a premier fulfillment service tailored for startups, ensuring that small businesses get the best ecommerce order packaging and fulfillment service tailored to their needs. 

We offer comprehensive services for startup merchants, helping you with every aspect of your order fulfillment from inventory management and order tracking to packaging. 

Key Features:

• 24/7 human support
• Tailored fulfillment services for startups.
• Advanced ecommerce fulfillment service.
• Real-time inventory tracking.

Pros:

• Specialized in small business and eCommerce fulfillment.
• High levels of customer satisfaction.
• Competitive shipping costs.

Cons:

• Limited to specific regions.
• Might not cater to extremely niche markets.

2. SHIPBOB – Top Choice for Next-Day Shipping

ShipBob isn’t just about shipping; it’s about empowering startups in the USA with the tools they need to succeed in e-commerce. 

Recognized for its swift shipping options, ShipBob ensures that startups can find a fulfillment provider that not only aligns with their needs but also enhances their customer’s experience. 

Their transparent pricing and integration capabilities make them a favorite among budding entrepreneurs.

Key Features:

• Swift next-day shipping options.
• Sufficient intergrations.
• Reasonable pricing. 

Pros:

• Efficient system that reduces shipping costs.
• Reliable delivery. 
• User-friendly dashboard for easy management.

Cons:

• Limited international shipping options.
• Storage fees can be high during peak seasons.

3. RED STAG FULFILLMENT – Specializing in Large and Heavy Items

Red Stag Fulfillment isn’t your typical fulfillment service. They’ve carved a niche for themselves by specializing in large and heavy items. 

Startups dealing in unique, oversized products no longer have to worry about the intricacies of shipping and handling.
With Red Stag’s advanced security measures and specialized services, every product, no matter its size, is in safe hands.

Key Features:

• Specialized handling for large and heavy items.
• Advanced security measures in fulfillment centers.
• Real-time inventory and order tracking.

Pros:

• Perfect for businesses with unique product needs.
• Offers damage-free guarantee.
• Efficient order fulfillment service.

Cons:

• Might be overkill for businesses with standard-sized products.
• Higher base pricing compared to competitors.
• Limited international shipping options.

4. AMAZON MCF – Best Option for Companies Outside the Amazon Marketplace

Amazon MCF breaks the barriers of traditional fulfillment services. It’s not just for those on the Amazon Marketplace; it’s for every startup that dreams big. 

With the power of Amazon’s vast network of fulfillment centers, startups can ensure their products reach customers efficiently, whether they sell on Amazon or elsewhere. 

It’s the perfect blend of reliability and extensive reach, making it a top choice for e-commerce startups.

Key Features:

• Multi-channel fulfillment across various platforms.
• Access to Amazon’s vast fulfillment centers network.
• Reliable customer support.

Pros:

• Extensive reach and efficiency.
• Suitable for both Amazon and non-Amazon sellers.
• Competitive shipping rates.

Cons:

• Storage fees can be high.
• Strict guidelines and requirements for packaging.
• Potential for co-mingling of products.

5. FULFILLMENT.com – Great Choice for Amazing Customer Satisfaction

Fulfillment.com is renowned for its commitment to customer satisfaction.

As one of the best ecommerce fulfillment services, they prioritize the needs of startups, ensuring seamless operations.

Their advanced support system and efficient order processing make them a top choice for startups looking for the best fulfillment companies for small businesses.

Key Features:

• Advanced customer support system.
• Real-time order and inventory tracking.
• Integration with major e-commerce platforms.

Pros:

• High levels of customer satisfaction.
• Efficient ecommerce order packaging and fulfillment service.
• Competitive pricing for startups.

Cons:

• Limited to specific regions.
• Might have longer shipping times for international orders.

6. COMPLEMAR – 70+ Years of Industry Experience 

Complemar isn’t just another name in the fulfillment industry; it’s a legacy. With over 70 years of experience, they bring unparalleled expertise to the table. 

Startups can benefit from Complemar’s extensive order fulfillment experience and tailored solutions, ensuring they find a fulfillment provider that understands the nuances of the industry.

Key Features:

• Decades of industry knowledge and expertise.
• Customized fulfillment services tailored to business needs.
• Advanced warehousing and distribution solutions.

Pros:

• Rich industry experience ensures reliable service.
• Offers specialized solutions for unique business needs.
• Efficient ecommerce merchant shipping fulfillment services.

Cons:

• Might be pricier than newer competitors.
• Limited technological integrations.
• Setup might require more time due to customization. 

7. FULFILLMENT SERVICE – Top Choice for Low Minimum Orders

Fulfillment Service stands out for its flexibility. Recognizing the challenges startups face, they offer plans with low minimum orders, making them a top choice for budding e-commerce businesses. 

This startup fulfillment company’s efficient services help new business owners to scale without the burden of large order requirements.

Key Features:

• Flexible plans with low minimum order requirements.
• Swift order processing and shipping.
• Integration with popular e-commerce platforms.

Pros:

• Ideal for startups and small business fulfillment.
• Competitive pricing structure.
• Efficient fulfillment service for eCommerce businesses.

Cons:

• Limited international shipping options.
• Might not cater to niche markets.
• Customer support might be limited during peak times.

8. FEDEX FULFILLMENT – International Shipping Giant 

FedEx Fulfillment, an arm of the international shipping giant FedEx, offers corporate fulfillment delivery and B2C services, reaching global locations. 

 
Startups looking to tap into international markets can trust FedEx’s vast network and expertise.

Their reputation in shipping translates to a reliable fulfillment service that startups can depend on.

Key Features:

• Extensive international shipping network.
• Reliable tracking and delivery systems.
• Customized packaging options.

Pros:

• Trusted name in international shipping.
• Competitive international shipping rates.
• Offers additional services like warehousing.

Cons:

• Might be pricier for domestic shipping.
• Strict packaging guidelines.
• Might have longer processing times during peak seasons.

9. AMAZON FBA – Fantastic Option for Amazon Sellers 

Amazon FBA is a game-changer for sellers on the Amazon platform. By handling storage, shipping, and returns, Amazon FBA allows startups to focus on their products and marketing. 

With the added advantage of Prime shipping, startups can be sure that their products will reach a vast audience efficiently.

Key Features:

• Access to Amazon’s vast customer base.
• Reliable customer support and return management.
• Storage and shipping are handled by Amazon.

Pros:

• Perfect for businesses selling on Amazon.
• Competitive shipping rates for Prime members.
• Extensive reach and efficiency.

Cons:

• Storage fees can be high.
• Strict guidelines and requirements for packaging.
• Potential for co-mingling of products.

10. RUDBY HAS FULFILLMENT – Ideal Choice for Rapidly Growing Businesses

Rudby Has Fulfillment understands the pace of rapidly growing businesses. Their scalable solutions ensure that startups don’t hit roadblocks as they expand.

With advanced inventory systems and tailored services, they are the go-to for businesses on the fast track to success.

Key Features:

• Scalable solutions for growing businesses.
• Advanced inventory management systems.
• Integration with major e-commerce platforms.

Pros:

• Tailored solutions for rapidly expanding startups.
• Efficient ecommerce order packaging and fulfillment service.
• Competitive pricing for bulk orders.

Cons:

• Might not cater to extremely niche markets.
• Limited international shipping options.

What Small Business Fulfillment Services Are Available?

As we have already seen, there are a number of ways that you can meet your business’s order fulfillment needs. 
 

You could choose to handle your fulfillment in-house, through drop shipping, or outsourced fulfillment services.

In the section below, we take a closer look at these three options to help you determine which one would be best for your eCommerce business.

1. In-house Fulfillment

One of the most obvious ways to handle your shipping and fulfillment needs is by performing these processes on your own. This is referred to as in-house fulfillment.

While this method certainly has its advantages, especially for small businesses and those just starting out, it can certainly prove expensive, time-consuming, and impractical in the long run.

 
An excellent way to determine whether in-house fulfillment is the right way to go is to determine your daily, weekly, and monthly order rates.

Fulfillment companies (which we will discuss later) often have a minimum order rate, so this type of fulfillment may be best for you if you receive a small number of orders. 

However, as your business begins to grow, you may need to outsource your order fulfillment processes to a third party.

2. Dropshipping

Dropshipping involves having your supplier or manufacturer deal with your order shipments.

While this may certainly be a convenient way to handle order fulfillment, there are drawbacks to choosing this order fulfillment method.

These include less control over the process, the lack of analytics that can provide helpful insight into the performance of your products, and the fact that the customer is the one who will get to see the final product.

If there has been a manufacturing defect, your customer will be the one to pick up on it, which could lead to quality concerns, poor reviews, and reduced sales.

3. Third-party Logistics Provider (3PL)

The most efficient way to process and ship orders is by using an outsourced eCommerce order fulfillment company like Fulfyld.

Third-party fulfillment services, often known as third-party logistics providers or 3PL are a fulfillment alternative in which company owners outsource this portion of the distribution chain.

Partnering with a 3PL can save you both time and money. It also puts you in the driver’s seat by allowing you to have more control over your order processing.

This means that you can provide custom packaging to improve the customer experience and ensure that any product defects are identified before the customer sees the defective product, which can help to maintain a good reputation.

It also ensures that you and your customers get consistency with each order.

You employ a third party to store your products, prepare and package your orders, and manage the order deliveries for you, so you have more time to focus on important aspects of your business, like skyrocketing revenue! 

What Does a Fulfillment Center Do For Startups?

An eCommerce fulfillment company will be responsible for processing and delivering your orders. These companies also help startups with order fulfillment through these services:

• Receiving goods

• Storing and preserving inventory

• Processing customer orders

• Picking and packing

• Attaching packing slips

• Delivering orders 

Why You Should Choose a Third-party Fulfillment Company For Your Small Business

You probably won’t need outsourced order fulfillment services if you run a small business from your basement.

However, when your business grows, the fulfillment process can become complex and time-consuming, so a fulfillment company can be extremely valuable in these cases.

As you may have already noticed, there are loads of advantages to choosing to outsource your fulfillment processes to a company like Fulfyld. 

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of outsourced fulfillment services.

1. It Can Save You Time

Fulfillment companies are experienced in logistics and order processing and can take care of everything from storing your goods to shipment of your client’s orders.

These service providers also include automation features that reduce the risk of human error and save you time and money long-term.

Automation also provides analytical data, which can help you determine which products are 

selling fast and which ones are slow selling. This means that you can find the information you need in real time to help you make smart business decisions!

2. Fulfillment Companies Provide Services to a Broader Area

It may be hard to process orders for another state or county if you fulfill orders in-house. 

Because shipping orders to other areas is so difficult, most small eCommerce business owners choose to lose customers and restrict their business activities to one location.

You can get greater coverage by choosing an eCommerce fulfillment center because they have warehouses in multiple locations, ensuring that you reach customers in different places quickly and efficiently.

Business owners can easily arrange with manufacturers and ask them to ship things to the nearest fulfillment center.

3. Save Money on Shipping Costs

Fulfillment service providers benefit from economies of scale that allow them to relay savings to eCommerce business owners. You can then offer these savings to your customers in the form of free or reduced shipping. 

Purchasing dunnage and packaging material on a large scale is less expensive than purchasing a smaller quantity to handle the orders for a single store’s sales. These fulfillment companies can also negotiate lower shipping prices because they process orders in bulk.

4. Improve Customer Experience with Custom Packaging

If you’ve been operating an online store for a time, you’ve probably realized that each item has its own unique packing requirements. 

You will have limited control over the kind of packaging material used and the overall customer experience if you choose to use dropshipping.

However, when you work with a third-party logistics provider like Fulfyld, you have more control over the last stage of the process, which includes choosing custom packaging.

5. Regulated or Perishable Items Will Need Special Packaging

Some items require more packaging than others, while others may be shipped safely in an envelope or a box. 

Regulated or perishable goods must also be packed to precise specifications to avoid contamination or damage during transit.

A fulfillment company will select the appropriate dunnage and packaging materials, taking your specifications into account, and ensuring that products do not move around unnecessarily while being shipped.

Create a Memorable Unboxing Experience

Custom packaging is also available from fulfillment service providers like Fulfyld to provide a memorable unboxing experience, increasing the possibility of customer loyalty. 

Organizations that take an environmentally sustainable approach can also opt for eco-conscious packaging materials.

6. You Get to Focus on Your Sales Channels

Instead of scurrying around trying to dispatch orders, you can concentrate on really developing your business model after all the tiresome fulfillment responsibilities are off your plate.

You can spend more time selling your products, conducting product and market research to extend your product line, conducting consumer satisfaction surveys, and using that data to enhance the user experience on your eCommerce site.

Business owners can also dedicate more time to focusing on building a good website, conversion funnels, generating leads, and offering additional services to their customers. 

Ultimately, a fulfillment company will help you save time and focus on expanding your business! 

7. Inventory Management Advantages

Inventory management entails constant monitoring of stock levels, acquiring and replenishing inventory, as well as collecting customer information to help estimate the amount of stock required!

Built-in features in Fulfyld’s innovative software let you view real-time stock levels at the fulfillment center.

Startups can plan in advance for restocking, which prevents running out of stock. They can also obtain insight into how products performed, such as which ones sold quickly, and which didn’t.

This will ensure you invest your funds and resources into products that will definitely generate revenue! 

8. Faster Shipments

As explained previously, timely delivery is essential for a business’s survival in the competitive world of eCommerce.

Customers expect quick and effortless delivery that gets their orders to them as fast as possible without compromising quality.

3PL providers have networks of fulfillment centers, which means that they have facilities in several areas that can fulfill an order dependent on the specified location, ensuring that your customers’ demands for speedy deliveries are met.

9. You Have Access to Fulfillment Experts

You don’t just get access to a storage facility when you employ a third party to handle the fulfillment process, but you also gain access to experts who manage the fulfillment center.

If you practice in-house fulfillment, you’ll almost certainly need to employ workers as your business grows. It takes time to manage a team. When your company isn’t stable, as many small online stores are, you may be hesitant to offer somebody a job.

Instead, you should outsource the work to logistics and fulfillment like Fulfyld and delegate the task of locating and employing qualified personnel to them.

Each third-party provider has a dedicated team of logistics specialists and support personnel on hand to assist you. They take care of all the work for acquiring, managing, processing, and delivering orders, providing you with a whole new level of convenience.

How To Choose a Fulfillment Service For Your Startup

A simple Google search will be enough to prove that there are hundreds of options for order fulfillment services. Choosing a 3PL can be challenging, especially if you don’t know what to look for.

The truth is that no two-order fulfillment service provider is the same. Each has its own strengths and limitations and finding a fulfillment services company that provides what you need is essential for the success of your business.

In the section below, we provide you with a few tips to help you find a fulfillment company for your online store.

Determine What the Minimum Order Threshold Is

Smaller retailers may not be able to use large 3PL providers because these companies often demand that their clients reach a high minimum order level.

While these fulfillment companies would work great for larger eCommerce businesses, they aren’t suitable for smaller companies that may struggle to meet the minimum order thresholds.

Find Out More About the Length of the Contract

Another point to consider is the duration of the contract. You should avoid signing a long-term contract if at all possible. A month-to-month contract is preferable for online stores and allows you to simply change to a new option if conditions should change.

Don’t Rule Out Long-term Contracts

On the other hand, long-term agreements should not be ruled out by default because they can still be changeable if there are few consequences for terminating the agreement.

What Kind of Customer Support Can You Expect?

One of the best ways to determine whether a service provider is right for you is to take a closer look at its customer support.

You can do this by talking to current or past clients, by looking up reviews online, or by inquiring about the customer support measures that the company has in place.

Unparalleled Customer Support

One of the advantages of choosing Fulfyld is that you get unmatched customer support from a dedicated account manager who is always up to date on your business goals and activities.

 
This means that you never have to spend a significant amount of time explaining your complaint to a new representative every time you call the customer support department.

The account manager will walk you through the entire process, guiding you through the pricing structure, minimum order requirements, features, analytics, and more.

Learn How the Company Deals with Damaged or Lost Items

As an eCommerce merchant, your business relies on the sales of goods and products, and it isn’t uncommon for parcels to be damaged or lost. This is why it is essential that you determine what policies and procedures are in place to deal with these events when they do occur.

 
You’ll want them to take on most of the responsibility. Some contracts include provisions for breakages and damages but be sure to inquire about these clauses before making your decision.

 This works similarly to an insurance deductible in that the business owner is liable for the losses up to a particular amount, after which the fulfillment firm pays the balance.

Damages and Lost Products During Shipment

Mistakes are bound to occur. Orders can be misplaced or sent to the incorrect address. Fragile items can get broken throughout the process, among other things.

You must understand what a fulfillment firm does to prevent and address these issues. Inquire about how they adhere to SLAs, the speed with which purchases are fulfilled, and the accessibility of order tracking information.

More importantly, inquire about what occurs if they fail to follow your orders. Determine what the company policy is so that you can safeguard your business and clients in the event that something goes horribly wrong.

The Services and Features on Offer

Compare the services and features that could be beneficial to your enterprise to the services offered by the 3PL provider.

Do you wish to label your shipments with a unique, branded logo or other advertising elements? A few fulfillment companies like Fulfyld offer these services.
 

You might also be interested in a process known in the industry as “kitting,” which is merging numerous stock-keeping units, or SKUs, into a single container or package. Such services are not available from every fulfillment firm.

Experience with Similar Clients

Another great way to tell whether a service provider is a good fit is to determine whether it has previous experience with clients in your niche. If you sell perishable goods, for example, a 3PL provider with prior experience in storing and transporting perishable goods is a must.

This is because there are special rules and regulations governing these products and how they should be stored and transported. They may also require storage facilities with climate control to prevent them from spoiling or becoming damaged.

The Technological Tools on Offer

Many fulfillment companies offer a wide range of digital tools for managing inventory, keeping track of stock levels, analyzing sales rates, and more. If this is something that is important to you, be sure to ask what software the company uses and what features you can expect.

Fulfillment companies like Fulfyld are at the forefront of shipment and fulfillment technologies and real-time data collection, allowing us to enhance customer satisfaction while reducing distribution and logistical risks.

Choose a fulfillment service company that provides more than just order delivery. Find out more about how the company you are interested in is investing in technology, expanding its integrations, and aiding eCommerce entrepreneurs in solving difficulties with top-notch analytical features.

Inquire About the Number of Fulfillment Centers in the Company’s Network

The number of fulfillment centers a provider has helps determine whether larger businesses would benefit from it. An operation’s size can also influence the delivery time, and a company with an extensive network may just be a necessity for large eCommerce businesses.

 
However, the size of the network of fulfillment centers may not make a difference in delivery time. This depends on the fulfillment provider’s efficiency, work ethic, organizational skills, and technological implementations.

Supported Sales Channels and Integrations

Another crucial factor to take into consideration is the supported sales channels and integrations that the 3PL provider has to offer.

 
The provider you choose should support your preferred integration to guarantee seamless operations.

Even though most 3PLs offer popular integrations such as eBay, Shopify, and WooCommerce, this does not guarantee that their solutions will be suited for your company.
 

Check whether the software the 3PL company you are interested in employs works with your framework.

Suppose you choose Fulfyld for your shipping and fulfillment needs. In that case, the chances are that you will never have to worry about compatibility as Fulfyld offers integrations with Shopify, Shopify Plus, eBay, Amazon, Magento2, BigCommerce, 3D Cart, Walmart Marketplace, ShipStation, TradeGecko, and ChannelAdvisor.

Why Choose Fulfyld for Your Small Business Fulfillment Needs?

With so many great 3PL companies on the market, you may be wondering why Fulfyld is the best option for your business. Here are a few reasons why Fulfyld is the leading fulfillment provider.

1. An Impressive Number of Service Offerings and Features

One thing that sets us apart from other 3PL companies is that we offer our customers a host of services and features. Here are just a few of the features you can expect when working with Fulfyld.

• Integrations with major eCommerce platforms
• Specialized Support for small businesses
• Custom packaging and fulfillment
• Omnichannel eCommerce fulfillment
• Crowdfunding campaigns
• B2B distribution
• Subscription box fulfillment 
• And more!

2. Efficient and Timeous Delivery

With Fulfyld, you get two-day guaranteed shipping, which means that as an entrepreneur, you can build lasting relationships with your customers as they come to expect consistent and reliable services from your online store. Orders that are received by 1 P.M. will qualify for same-day shipping!

3. A Personal Touch

While most logistics companies choose to automate every process, including as little human contact as possible, Fulfyld believes that nothing beats the personalized experience you get from human contact.

This is why we assign you an account manager who will walk through the entire eCommerce fulfillment process and help you if you are experiencing any difficulties.

4. Upfront Fee Structure

We believe in building trusting relationships with our clients, which is why you’ll notice that our pricing structure is upfront. You won’t find any hidden fees and expenses when you choose Fulfyld for your shipping and fulfillment needs.

5. Cloud-based Management Software

Thanks to our cloud-based applications, you can track your inventory levels, delivery status, and more from any device at any time of the day or night.

Get in Touch with Us Today for a Free, No-obligation Quote!

The fulfillment and shipping process can make or break your startup business. Get it wrong, and you’ll have angry customers who post negative reviews online about your online store. 

However, if you get it right, you can build a good relationship and secure lifelong customers.

Contact us today to get a free quote and find out more about all we have to offer you and your startup business!

Get a quote!