The retail universe has undergone significant changes since its inception. Today’s shoppers are more particular about their product deliveries. They need something that bridges the gap between in-store experiences and online shopping. That’s where the role of SFS or Ship From Store comes into being. And in this all-encompassing post, you will learn everything about SFS.
Ship From Store is an omni-channel retailing service that has gained much prominence recently. SFS’s purpose is to send orders from the physical retailers’ outlets. Back then, orders placed online were managed by warehouses. So, these warehouses required having the products in stock. Cut to the modern era, retail stores have become involved in order processing. That’s the new culture of the retail universe. So, among other omnichannel services, SFS transforms POS (point of sale) into an order fulfillment center.
The Perks of SFS: Why Is Shop From Stores Worth Your Choice?
Such technology can simply identify any unavailability rate of the e-commerce site by crawling pages on the website. The following are the benefits of SFS:
1) Lower Shipping Expenses
Conventional e-commerce models include shipping products from the centralized warehouse. They need higher transportation expenses. Fortunately, Ship From Store allows retailers to tap into the store infrastructure. At the same time, it reduces shipping costs and distances. Altogether, it’s a cost-effective strategy for retailers to optimize logistics costs.
2) Improved Stock Clearance
SFS can offer items from any POS. That means the stocks can be sold speedily. More items are sold at the given price. You don’t have to worry about discounts during sales. The number of unsold items is automatically minimized at the end of the season.
3) Engaging Sales Team
Handling online orders makes it simpler for retail teams to reach sales targets. They stay motivated to fill the orders, especially while allocating competitive orders. Note that these allocations are associated with a first-come-first-served rule that improves competitiveness and engages employees.
4) Optimizing Inventory
Ship From Store helps businesses take advantage of store inventories efficiently. Businesses may distribute items throughout several locations rather than storing surplus inventory in unified commerce space, like warehouses. This lowers the risks of overstocking or stockouts. The inventory management strategy leads to increased turnover and improved profitability.
Besides inventory visibility, SFS eliminates the need to notify customers of out-of-stock items. Customers seldom face these issues. With more choices comes more loyal customers. In addition, shoppers can enjoy a sustainable method that preserves Mother Nature. SFS reduces the carbon footprint – kudos to the environmentally friendly delivery choices. It builds loyalty among customers and improves brand value.
Steps you Need to Undertake to Incorporate SFS
However, regarding SFS, there are certain things to keep in mind. On that note, here are the steps to successfully implement SFS.
1) Retailers Should Have Real-Time Visibility
Do you wish to implement Ship From Store? As a retailer, you need real-time visibility into the whole inventory. Inventory management systems offer updated information around different channels and are crucial for SFS operations.
2) OMS or Order Management System
How about integrating a robust OMS? Simply put, it’s the key to effectively organizing the store fulfillment process. When choosing an OMS, you must select the one that directs orders to optimal stores depending on some parameters. These factors include shipping expenses, inventory levels, and more.
3) Staffing and Training
Proper training is required for all shop employees participating in the Ship From Shop procedure. Employees should be well-versed in selecting, packaging, and shipping operations. That ensures utmost efficiency and accuracy. Adequate staffing is imperative to help manage the increased effort of fulfilling online purchases.
4) Technological Implementation
Integrate technological solutions that let online and in-store activities connect more easily. This comprises barcode scanners and order pickup devices. You may need software that improves communication between the digital system and individual retailers.
5) Collaborations with Shipping Partners
You may improve your relationship with shipping partners. Choose partnerships with dedicated shipping carriers that ensure smooth handling of products from stores to delivery. You may negotiate shipping rates and other delivery choices.
Wrapping Up
SFS has emerged as a logistical innovation for all retailers who want to pave the path to omnichannel retailing success. If you are a retailer, you may use the inventory and infrastructure of your physical stores. You may improve efficiency, reduce expenses, and offer a great user experience.
Thus, incorporating Ship From Store is a practical move. However, you need technological updates, staff training, and strategic collaborations. Now that you understand the benefits of SFS, it’s time you look further and meet your customers’ expectations more speedily.
