Multiple Shipping Options
What is it? The platform’s ability to offer various shipping methods to customers (e.g., standard, expedited, freight).
Why is it important? A distributor can cater to diverse customer needs by offering options for speed, cost, and order size. This flexibility can be a significant competitive advantage, especially for B2B buyers who prioritize different fulfillment options.
Questions to ask an eCommerce vendor:
- What shipping integrations does your platform offer?
- Can customers choose from multiple shipping options at checkout?
- How do you handle international shipping and customs?
Dropshipping
What is it? Dropshipping capabilities allow distributors to process orders directly from suppliers to customers without holding inventory. This feature expands product offerings without increased warehouse space or inventory costs.
Why is it important? Dropshipping is important because it reduces inventory risk and costs while expanding product range. It allows businesses to test new markets with minimal investment, improves cash flow, and can lead to faster fulfillment.
Questions to ask an eCommerce vendor:
- How does your platform integrate with suppliers' systems for real-time inventory updates and automated order processing?
- Can we set different pricing and shipping rules for dropshipped items compared to our stocked inventory?
- How does your system handle returns and customer service inquiries for dropshipped products?
Order Tracking
What is it? Provides customers with real-time visibility into the status of their orders (e.g., processing, shipped, delivered).
Why is it important? Empowers customers with order transparency, fostering trust and satisfaction. It also reduces customer service inquiries by allowing them to track progress themselves.
Questions to ask an eCommerce vendor:
- How can customers track their orders on your platform?
- Can we provide real-time updates on order status?
- How is shipping information integrated into order tracking?
Returns and Refunds Management
What is it? The platform’s ability to efficiently manage product returns and issue refunds to customers.
Why is it important? This functionality simplifies a crucial customer service touchpoint, reducing friction and ensuring customer satisfaction. This is important for distributors where fostering trust and long-term relationships is key.
Questions to ask an eCommerce vendor:
- How does your platform handle returns and refunds?
- Can we set up automated return processes?
- How flexible is the system in handling different return scenarios?
Real-Time Inventory Visibility
What is it? Ensures customers see accurate product availability on the platform, reflecting current stock levels.
Why is it important? Real-time inventory visibility prevents overselling out-of-stock items, avoiding order fulfillment issues and customer frustration. This transparency builds trust and improves the overall customer experience.
Questions to ask an eCommerce vendor:
- How does your system display real-time product availability?
- Can we show accurate lead times for made-to-order products?
- How are backorders and pre-orders handled?
Real-Time Shipping Rates
What is it? Real-time shipping rates allow customers to see accurate shipping costs upfront during checkout, based on factors like order weight and destination.
Why is it important? Transparency builds trust. Customers know exactly what to expect regarding shipping costs, reducing surprises and potential cart abandonment. This can lead to higher conversion rates.
Questions to ask an eCommerce vendor:
- How does your platform calculate real-time shipping rates?
- Which shipping carriers are integrated for real-time rates?
- Can we add handling fees or other surcharges to shipping costs?
