Why might my online sales suddenly spike?
Going viral on social media, getting positive press coverage, running promotions, and increasing advertising are some top reasons driving sales spikes.
What steps can I take to prepare for more orders?
Evaluate your fulfillment workflow, consider hiring seasonal staff, ensure enough warehouse space and supplies, renegotiate shipping contracts to get better rates, and partner with a 3PL provider.
When should I outsource order fulfillment?
If you have a high SKU count, many product variations, and are reaching peak capacity even with temporary hires, outsourcing to experts can help you scale.
How much warehouse space do I need?
Plan for at least enough space to store 2-4 weeks worth of inventory to account for restock lead times. More space allows flexibility to handle sales spikes.
What shipping carrier should I use?
Shop rates with USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL. Large 3PLs can negotiate the best pricing. Ensure your packing methods align with carrier requirements.
Should I hire seasonal warehouse staff?
Temporary workers can help in the short-term but require hiring, training, and management time. Multi-channel fulfillment providers already have trained teams.
What common fulfillment mistakes should I avoid?
Not having enough inventory, warehouse space, or staff can lead to shipping delays and errors. Poor packing and inaccurate order processing also causes problems.
