When tracking your online order, you may encounter various status updates, one of which is “Sent to Fulfillment.” This status might not be as common or familiar as “Shipped” or “Delivered,” but it’s an important part of the order processing journey. 

So, what does “Sent to Fulfillment” really mean? Seeing this status can leave you wondering what stage your order is in and what’s happening behind the scenes. Understanding this phase can give you better insight into how long it may take before your order is shipped out.

The Role of “Sent to Fulfillment” in Your Order’s Journey

“Sent to Fulfillment” means that your order has been processed and is now being handed over to the fulfillment team or facility. This is the stage where the fulfillment center near you takes over, preparing your items for packing and shipping. 

In simpler terms, your order has been approved, and it’s in line to be picked, packed, and eventually sent out for delivery.

Once the order is in the fulfillment stage, the items you’ve ordered are physically gathered from the warehouse, checked for accuracy, and packaged for shipment.

The Fulfillment Process: After Your Order is Sent

When your order is “Sent to Fulfillment,” the following steps typically occur:

• Inventory Selection: The items in your order are picked from the warehouse’s stock.
• Order Verification: The fulfillment team double-checks the order to ensure that the correct items are selected.
• Packing and Labeling: After verification, your items are securely packed and labeled for shipment. This includes applying shipping labels, adding any necessary documentation, and preparing it for handoff to a shipping carrier.

This process ensures that your order is ready for the next stage: shipping.

How Is It Different from “Shipped”?

The key difference between “Sent to Fulfillment” and “Shipped” is that the former indicates your order is still within the fulfillment center, whereas the latter means your order has left the facility and is en route to your destination. 

“Sent to Fulfillment” is one step closer to shipment, but the package is not yet on its way.

What to Expect Next After Sent to Fulfillment?

Once your order is marked “Sent to Fulfillment,” several key steps will follow:

• Next Status: Shipped: The next update you’ll likely see is “Shipped,” which can take a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the retailer.
• Tracking Information: Once the order is shipped, you’ll receive tracking details to monitor its progress.
• 3PL Provider Benefits: Partnering with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider can streamline fulfillment and reduce delays.
• Improved Efficiency: These services help orders move quickly from fulfillment to shipping, boosting overall customer satisfaction.

Shipping is Coming Soon

The “Sent to Fulfillment” status is a critical milestone in the order processing cycle. It means your order is no longer in the initial review or processing stage and is actively being prepared for shipment. 

With this update, you can expect your order to be on its way soon, with shipping information and tracking details to follow shortly. Keep an eye out for the next update to track your package as it heads toward delivery.