Three Key Areas of Focus for 3PL Performance in E-commerce

Katherine Wroth • July 18, 2024

Ever wondered about the role of a third-party logistics company (3PL) in your e-commerce operations? Partnering with a 3PL like 51ÊÓÆµ 51ÊÓÆµCenters offers numerous advantages. These benefits include efficient order shipping, kitting, light assembly, value-added services, reverse logistics for retail, e-commerce businesses and wholesale distribution.

The relationship you seek is not just a service but, more importantly, a long-term partnership. From a supply chain strategy perspective, we have e-commerce partners who have used our services for 10+ years. This can only be achieved by fostering a strong partnership and consistently measuring performance.


To ensure top-notch 3PL performance in e-commerce, we focus on three key areas:


1. On-Time Order Fulfillment

Customers expect their orders to be processed and shipped quickly, making on-time fulfillment a critical performance metric. This is often measured through the "click to fulfill" rate, which tracks the time from when an order is placed to when it is processed and ready for shipment. Ensuring that orders are out on time satisfies customer expectations and builds trust and reliability, crucial for repeat business and brand loyalty.


2. Accurate Inventory Management

Accurate inventory management is the backbone of successful order fulfillment. It ensures that the right products are available for picking and shipping, minimizing errors and delays. For 51ÊÓÆµ, maintaining accurate inventory is a core component of achieving the "perfect order," which includes correct picking, packing, and on-time shipping. Implementing robust inventory management systems and regular audits helps track stock levels accurately, preventing stockouts and overstock situations. Accurate inventory management also supports effective demand forecasting and replenishment, vital for maintaining smooth operations and meeting customer demand.


3. Comprehensive Parcel Services

Offering a wide range of parcel services is another critical area of focus for 3PL performance in e-commerce. The ability to provide diverse shipping options that align with the customer's checkout preferences boosts the overall shopping experience. For 51ÊÓÆµ, being shipping agnostic—working with multiple carriers—allows for greater flexibility and reliability in delivery services. This includes leveraging different carriers for various shipping needs, whether standard, expedited or international. A comprehensive parcel service strategy ensures that orders can be delivered on time, regardless of destination, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the fulfillment process.


Conclusion

In summary, the three key focus areas for 3PL performance in e-commerce are on-time order fulfillment, accurate inventory management, and comprehensive parcel services. These elements are interconnected, each contributing to successfully executing the "perfect order." By prioritizing these areas, e-commerce brands like yours can enhance performance, meet customer expectations and drive business growth.


Looking for a reliable 3PL partner experienced in supporting high-growth eCommerce brands? Contact us now to speak with a 51ÊÓÆµ expert.

Recent Blog Posts

By Katherine Wroth May 15, 2025
Let’s be honest—most 3PLs aren’t built for high-touch brands. With premium price tags come premium expectations, and fulfillment is no exception. Whether it’s monogrammed leather goods or curated skincare kits, today’s high-touch brands can’t afford to treat logistics like a commodity. At 51ÊÓÆµ, we work with boutique luxury and personalized brands every day. One thing is clear: fulfillment is more than getting a product from Point A to Point B. It’s the final critical touchpoint in the customer experience and needs to feel as premium as the product itself. The Fulfillment Factor Behind High-Touch Brand Loyalty 71% of consumers expect personalization and 76% get frustrated when they don’t get it (Source: McKinsey & Company, 2021) You’ve done the hard work. Your product is beautiful, your website is curated and your brand story is compelling. But if the unboxing experience feels generic or careless, it can cheapen everything. In the luxury space, fulfillment is brand extension. That’s where we come in. What High-Touch Brands Need from a 3PL Here’s what we’ve learned working with some of the fastest-growing personalized and luxury DTC brands: 1. Inventory Accuracy That Doesn’t Miss When you offer custom options like embroidery, personalization, or mix-and-match bundles, flawless inventory control is essential. The entire order will be delayed or incorrect if one SKU is missing. At 51ÊÓÆµ, we achieve 99.9% inventory accuracy through advanced warehouse management systems and real-time visibility that integrates directly with platforms like Shopify and Amazon. 2. Kitting + Personalization Whether it’s applying branded tissue paper, adding thank-you notes, or assembling kits with care, we support: Custom kitting and assembly Packaging inserts SKU-level quality control Custom labeling and wrapping We’ve helped brands build everything from personalized PR kits to retail-ready gift boxes that align and enhance branding. 3. Speed Without Sacrificing Experience Yes, customers want fast shipping. But luxury shoppers expect care. That’s why we help brands strike the right balance by delivering quickly without cutting corners. With 24+ fulfillment centers across the U.S. , we enable 1 to 2-day ground shipping to 95% of the country while maintaining consistent handling processes that protect quality. 4. A Warehouse That Reflects Your Brand You’ve built a brand that stands out. Your 3PL should reflect that. At 51ÊÓÆµ, we offer: In-warehouse banners to spotlight your brand Co-branded unboxing content and marketing support A dedicated support team that understands your business and cares about the details Your brand isn’t an afterthought. It’s part of the daily operation. The Results: Better Reviews, Fewer Returns and Higher LTV According to Deloitte, brands that deliver a consistent customer experience across all touchpoints enjoy 2.4x higher customer loyalty. When fulfillment meets expectations, it drives repeat purchases, positive word-of-mouth and long-term growth. Ready for Your Forever 3PL? If you’re a high-touch, high-growth eCommerce brand, it’s time for a fulfillment partner that gets it. Contact us for a complimentary supply chain consultation and see what your brand can do with the right 3PL.
By Harrison Smith May 14, 2025
Tired of Being Too Small for Big 3PLs? We Built This Just for You!
By Katherine Wroth May 13, 2025
What's the biggest touchpoint in eCommerce? It’s when the order finally lands on your customer’s doorstep. With eCommerce projected to surpass $7.4 trillion globally by 2030 (Statista), the question isn’t just how fast you ship, but how you show up at your customer’s doorstep. For many brands, packaging is no longer just a protective layer. It’s an experience. And in a noisy, competitive digital space, it can be a significant differentiator. So, should your e-commerce brand invest in branded packaging? Let’s break it down. What Counts as “Branded Packaging”? Branded packaging is more than putting a logo on a box. It’s the full packaging experience; your choice of box design, inserts, colors, materials and even the tape you seal it with. Done well, it communicates your brand before a customer even opens the flap. Think: Custom-printed boxes with your brand colors Inserts with product tips or thank-you notes Packaging designed to be photographed and shared Its packaging has a purpose and has become an extension of the product for many brands. The Upside: Why Branded Boxes Work 1. Boosts Brand Visibility Generic brown boxes don’t spark recognition. But boxes that reflect your identity build brand equity. Studies show branded packaging can increase brand recall by up to 80%. 2. Enhances the Customer Experience The first physical interaction with your brand is when someone receives your product. A well-thought-out unboxing experience can reinforce trust and create excitement. In fact, 68% of consumers say it makes them more likely to recommend a brand. 3. Generates Organic Buzz Branded packaging gets shared, especially when it’s visually appealing. Customers are more likely to post about their unboxing, which becomes free marketing and expands your reach. 4. Can Lower Shipping Costs  Custom mailers built around product dimensions can reduce dunnage, lower dimensional weight and reduce parcel costs. BARRETT PRO TIP: A 51ÊÓÆµ client cut freight spending by optimizing box sizes for product kits, improving efficiency and presentation. The Tradeoffs: What to Watch Out For 1. Higher Upfront Costs Custom boxes and inserts require upfront investment in materials and design. That said, many brands recover costs through shipping savings or customer retention. 2. Fulfillment Complexity More packaging options mean more room for packing errors. Unless you have a WMS with visual guides, this can lead to longer training times and fulfillment mistakes. 3. Security Risks Branded boxes can attract attention on doorsteps. With porch piracy losses reaching $12 billion in 2024, clearly labeled packages may become targets. Consider shipment protection to safeguard your customer experience and reputation. Packaging Options: Which Route Is Right? Not all brands need fully branded packaging. Here’s a quick breakdown: Plain Packaging: Simple and cost-effective. Works for brands that prioritize speed or a clean look. Fully Branded: Custom prints and full-color designs that create a premium unboxing moment. Partially Branded: Generic exterior with branded inserts or inner packaging. A balanced approach. Dual-Purpose: Packaging that doubles as storage or display. Helpful in cutting waste and adding value. Final Take: Packaging That Works For You At 51ÊÓÆµ, we support brands at every stage of growth. The best packaging solution reflects your customer promise, fits your budget and runs smoothly through your fulfillment operation. Are you ready to optimize your packaging and fulfillment? Contact us for a complimentary supply chain consultation today.
More Posts