Traditional grocery retailers are increasingly integrating online versus in-store shopping experiences. In July 2024, illustrating the evolving landscape of grocery e-commerce. This “brick meets click” approach emphasizes the importance of flexible delivery and pickup options, catering to consumer demand for convenience. Retailers are leveraging technology to streamline operations, enhance inventory management, and improve customer engagement, ultimately reshaping how shoppers interact with their local stores. As competition intensifies, the focus is on providing seamless, efficient services that meet the diverse needs of today’s consumers.
Our Cold Chain Experts have compiled a list of five key factors to consider when launching your eCommerce fulfillment brand and selecting an order fulfillment partner. RLS Logistics is a third party logistics provider that offers cold chain solutions such as cold storage warehousing, less than truckload and truckload transportation, and direct to consumer fulfillment solutions for the refrigerated and frozen food industry. Being a family owned business in the cold chain industry for over fifty five years, we know how important it is to protect the integrity of your brand and we make that our priority. These five questions can guide you in the right direction to establish a strong eCommerce brand and how to choose the right direct to consumer fulfillment partner for your business.
Is there capacity for growth?
The right eCommerce fulfillment partner, like RLS Logistics, scales with you to provide the most efficient solutions for your needs. Fulfillment solutions are never one size fits all; they are just as unique as your company. Map out your forecasted goals and be sure to partner with a 3PL that can provide high service levels and scalability. The partnership should be logical in terms of size and capacity. Consider your prospective partner’s facility locations and if they are going to be moving into any new market areas. If you have expansion plans, the right eCommerce fulfillment partner can give you an instant foothold into new markets.
How should I package my products?
In frozen food fulfillment, this question is especially important. You must understand how your product reacts to different climates and situations. We recommend that you supply your packaging for shipment to find the perfect pack-out solution to keep your product’s integrity and protect it from damage. This requires testing and product knowledge. The answer will be unique for each company and product. Some key considerations include branded packaging, marketing materials, insulation, and many more.
Should I ship products with dry ice or gel packs?
This is a key decision in the direct to consumer food industry that RLS Logistics serves. Whether you are shipping frozen beverages, frozen seafood, pet food, or DIY meal kits, you want to select the best option to deliver your product safely. If you are shipping temperature controlled products, dry ice is great to keep products frozen during travel, whereas gel packs keep products refrigerated during travel. Your decision will depend on how you want the product to arrive to the end consumer.
Can my frozen fulfillment partner provide 1-2 day shipping direct to consumers?
Today’s consumer has grown to not only expect but demand speedy shipping. The Amazon effect can be blamed for this phenomenon as customers now expect more variety, faster shipping, timely response, and convenience. Delayed shipping can deter a customer from shopping for your brand. Having a clear understanding of who your customer is and where your customers are is key to selecting an eCommerce fulfillment partner. RLS Logistics can reach 95% of the U.S. population with 2 day ground shipping. Partner with a 3PL that can meet your demands for delivery time and locations for optimized customer satisfaction.
What role does your marketing strategy play in eCommerce fulfillment?
One of the many perks of an eCommerce business model is that you are the leader of your brand’s reputation and perception. With numerous social platforms available, customers are giving their unsolicited opinion at no cost to your company. Take advantage of these conversations with customers and tie consumer insights into your marketing strategy moving forward. Keep track of key performance indicators and shifts in consumer behavior. Teaming up with a direct to consumer fulfillment partner, like RLS Logistics, can support your company in meeting these goals. The right fulfillment partner can help you reach your target audience at the right time.
If you are ready to expand on and build a strong eCommerce brand for your frozen fulfillment business, reach out to our fulfillment team at 800-579-9900 for a no obligation call. You can also contact us online anytime.
ABOUT RLS LOGISTICS: Headquartered in Glassboro, NJ, RLS Logistics is a family-owned, third-party logistics provider specializing in value-added cold chain solutions, including LTL and FTL transportation, cold storage warehousing, and direct-to-consumer fulfillment. Founded in 1968, the company has been owned and managed by the Leo family for over 55 years and has grown into a leading integrated cold chain 3PL. For more information, visit https://www.rlslogistics.com/.
