Compare fulfillment providers

Finding the right fulfillment provider is like the famous search for a needle in a haystack. We will show you what you should look out for when choosing the right fulfillment provider for your products and how RHIEM, as a globally active & reliable fulfillment partner, has been dealing with our customers’ requirements for smooth international fulfillment for decades.

How to find the right fulfillment provider for your products

Development of eCommerce in Europe in recent years

E-commerce has developed rapidly and impressively in Germany in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic in particular has increased the importance of online retail, as more and more consumers are using digital shopping options.

This has led to continuous growth in the e-commerce sector and more and more companies have since been increasingly pursuing omnichannel strategies to link physical and digital sales channels and offer a seamless shopping experience. At the same time, mobile commerce also experienced a significant increase, as the spread of smartphones made shopping on the move easier and increasingly popular.

Sustainability and ethics became important topics, as consumers now placed greater value on environmentally friendly and ethical products.
However, cross-border trade also increased significantly and regulatory developments, such as the GDPR, had a noticeable impact on the business practices of eCommerce companies.

Overall, it can be said that e-commerce has developed into a dynamic economic sector in Germany that continues to grow and is constantly adapting to changing consumer requirements.

In order to meet all of these requirements, many local e-commerce companies outsource their logistics (software solutions, warehousing, shipping and customer service), some of which are now very complex, to fulfillment providers based in Germany.

Logistics in Germany: why the FRG is the perfect location for companies expanding into Europe

In the heart of Europe: Germany is perfectly aligned geographically

Germany is geographically located in the heart of Europe, which makes it a strategically favorable location for efficiently serving the entire European market. This enables short transportation routes to the most important European markets.

Competitive prices for parcel logistics compared to other European countries

Due to a well-established and efficient infrastructure, which includes both road and rail networks, Germany can offer attractive prices in parcel logistics compared to other European countries. The strong presence of international logistics companies and the variety of services available also help to keep prices competitive.

German logistics companies have optimized their processes to ensure fast and reliable delivery, resulting in competitive shipping costs.

Germany’s strategic location in the center of Europe facilitates cross-border trade and enables cost-efficient transport solutions. In addition, Germany has invested heavily in innovative technologies in recent years to further increase the efficiency of parcel logistics.

Affordable commercial space at central transportation hubs

In addition to its economic stability, Germany offers favorable commercial space at central transport hubs and a well-developed transport infrastructure: a dense highway network, modern airports and one of Europe’s largest inland ports in Hamburg. This facilitates the transportation of goods and raw materials. Germany also has a high level of competition among logistics companies, which leads to attractive prices for parcel shipping. This makes it cost-effective for companies and consumers to send parcels domestically and internationally.

Outsourcing of logistics tasks – the fulfiller takes over these tasks

When is fulfillment worthwhile?

A company should consider using fulfillment services when order volumes increase to the point where internal resources are overwhelmed. Outsourcing fulfillment offers efficiency gains and allows the company to focus on its core business. Fulfillment can also be useful if a company is looking to expand internationally to ensure a smooth supply chain and customer satisfaction.

What are fulfillment costs?

Fulfillment costs (also referred to as fulfillment costs) include all expenses associated with the processing and execution of customer orders. These costs are incurred throughout the entire process, starting with the storage of products, through picking and packing, to shipping to the end customer. The specific fulfillment costs include:

It is important for companies to closely monitor and optimize these costs in order to maximize the efficiency of their fulfillment process while ensuring customer satisfaction.

Storage of your items with inventory & data synchronization

Stocking your items with inventory and data synchronization enables precise control over your inventory by providing real-time updates across all sales channels. This synchronized data ensures an accurate availability display for customers, minimizes the risk of overselling and promotes efficient inventory management. The integration of these functions not only improves transparency in warehouse management, but also ensures a seamless and consistent experience for customers throughout the ordering process.

Processing orders from your own online store, but also from the connected eCommerce platforms, apps & marketplaces

Processing orders from your own online store as well as from connected eCommerce platforms, apps and marketplaces offers companies centralized control of their sales. This integrated approach enables efficient order processing, as orders from different sales channels can be seamlessly merged and processed in one system. This holistic management not only optimizes the workflow, but also ensures a consistent customer experience across all sales platforms.

Picking, packing & commissioning orders

Picking, packing and commissioning orders is a central step in the logistics process, in which products are precisely selected from the warehouse, properly packed and prepared for dispatch. These steps require efficient organization to ensure the accuracy of orders and minimize delivery times. An optimized picking and packing process helps to increase customer satisfaction and maximize the overall efficiency of the fulfillment system.

Assembling orders and / or packaging

Assembling orders and/or packaging involves combining different products or items into individual orders or sets. This specific customization enables companies to respond to the individual needs of customers and offer personalized products. An effective packaging process not only helps to improve customer loyalty, but also enables flexible and customized order fulfillment.

Up-to-the-minute dispatch of orders with transparent delivery status for orderers & fulfillment customers at the same time

Sending orders on a daily basis with transparent delivery status updates provides customers and fulfillment partners with clear insights into the delivery process. This real-time information not only promotes customer satisfaction through precise delivery tracking, but also enables efficient planning and control of the entire fulfillment process. Transparency in shipping strengthens customer confidence and supports the optimization of logistics processes.

Processing returns, returns of goods or defective goods

Processing returns, returns of goods or defective goods is a key aspect of after-sales service that requires fast and transparent processing. Efficient return handling processes are crucial to address customer concerns and ensure smooth returns processing. Careful processing of returns not only contributes to customer satisfaction, but also enables precise inventory management and quality control.

Customer service, processing of payments and refunds and distribution of profits to the fulfillment customer

Effective customer service, the smooth processing of payments and refunds and the prompt distribution of profits to fulfillment customers are decisive factors for the success of a fulfillment company. Excellent customer service strengthens customer loyalty and promotes trust, while efficient processing of payments and refunds ensures the financial integrity of the system. The rapid distribution of profits to fulfillment customers is not only an incentive for a long-term partnership, but also supports the financial stability of the companies involved.

Who is the best fulfillment provider for you? What should you pay attention to when choosing a fulfillment provider?

The best fulfillment provider fits your processes, products and technology perfectly!

Choosing a suitable fulfillment provider for your company requires careful research and evaluation.
First, define your requirements. What kind of products do you sell? How many orders do you expect? What storage and shipping services do you need? The exact determination of your needs is the starting point.
We would be happy to discuss this information with you during an initial meeting in order to calculate the expected costs for your fulfillment at RHIEM.

Of course, the reputation of the fulfillment provider in terms of quality, service and reliability plays a major role. Customer ratings, references and testimonials can provide helpful information here. With over 50 years of experience in fulfillment, RHIEM offers a variety of positive reviews & reputations.

The location of the fulfillment provider is crucial

As already mentioned in detail, location and logistics infrastructure are of great importance, so you should not ignore the geographical conditions of your provider’s warehouses. A favorable location in relation to your main markets can shorten delivery times. Here, too, we offer you almost ideal conditions: located in the heart of the vibrant Ruhr area with fast connections to several highways in all directions. The direct connection to rail transport and major waterways such as the Ruhr and Rhine, which can be reached via the large inland port in Duisburg, also make RHIEM an attractive new fulfillment partner for both national and international customers.

Does the fulfiller ship the goods themselves or do you only talk to an intermediary who outsources the actual fulfillment to subcontractors?

A fulfillment company’s shipping practices can vary widely and depend on the fulfillment company’s specific business strategy and infrastructure. Some fulfillers ship the products directly, while others act as intermediaries and outsource the actual fulfillment to subcontractors or partners. It is important to note that there are different models depending on the services offered by the fulfiller and the requirements of the customers.
For further information, in particular about our shipping practices at RHIEM, please contact one of our competent employees directly by email or telephone.

Do you have the possibility to intervene spontaneously in the dispatch of orders?

The ability to intervene directly in the shipping process of orders depends on the agreements and flexibility with your fulfillment partner. As a rule, direct intervention in current orders by a fulfillment partner will be limited, especially if the orders are already advanced in the shipping process.

However, it is important to agree clear communication channels and processes in advance. In some cases, you may be able to make changes while orders have not yet been processed or shipped. This could be done by notifying your fulfillment partner in good time.

Do you have a personal contact beyond the onboarding phase?

To ensure effective communication and avoid potential misunderstandings, it is important to have a direct contact person at your fulfiller. This means that specific requirements, changes or concerns can be discussed and resolved in real time, which increases flexibility in the fulfillment process. Personal contact also enables a faster response to unforeseen events and helps to maintain a trusting partnership. At RHIEM, we naturally offer each of our customers a personal contact person to guarantee the above points at all times.

Does the fulfillment provider work transparently?

The transparency of a fulfillment provider is crucial as it promotes trust between the company and the service provider. Clear insights into inventory management, shipping processes and cost structures enable effective collaboration and prevent misunderstandings. A transparent way of working helps companies to make better-informed decisions and promotes a long-term, successful partnership in the area of fulfillment.

Does the fulfillment service provider offer additional packaging options?

The question of whether a fulfillment service provider offers additional packaging options is crucial to ensure that the company’s specific requirements are met. Additional packaging options could include product customization, bundling or personalized packaging options. A service provider with extended customization options often offers more flexibility and tailor-made solutions that meet the company’s needs.

Does the fulfillment provider have sophisticated and proven solutions for interfaces to your online store and the marketplaces that you already serve?

It is important to know whether a fulfillment provider offers sophisticated and proven solutions for interfaces to your online store and the marketplaces you already serve, as smooth integration supports efficiency gains throughout the logistics process. Well-developed interfaces enable seamless data exchange between your store and the fulfillment system, resulting in accurate inventory management, precise order processing and transparent shipping information. The availability of such solutions not only facilitates implementation, but also helps to minimize potential problems and delays as you continue to develop your online store and marketplace business.

How transparent are the fulfillment partner’s prices and services? How are terms defined?

It is important to know how transparent the fulfillment partner’s prices and services are in order to enable clear budget planning and cost control. A transparent price structure helps to avoid hidden fees and enables an accurate assessment of the total cost of the fulfillment service. Defining clear lead times is also important to ensure that expectations regarding processing and delivery times are met and that effective logistics planning is possible.

RHIEM Services – Your global fulfillment partner in Germany

That is why RHIEM is the perfect filler not only for companies in the cosmetics, food and technology sectors

Direct market entry into neighboring European countries without customs stress

Reliable returns management

Reliable returns management in fulfillment is crucial to ensure a positive customer experience. It enables efficient processing of returns, improves transparency and increases customer satisfaction. Well thought-out returns management not only contributes to customer loyalty, but also enables precise inventory management and quality control.

Sustainable fulfillment

By using environmentally friendly packaging, efficient route planning and renewable energy sources, our sustainable fulfillment model helps to reduce our ecological footprint.

Fully digitalized fulfillment

Fully digitalized fulfilment is characterized by the comprehensive use of digital technologies along the entire logistics process. Automated warehouse management systems, robotic picking and electronic order processing are key elements of our technological equipment at RHIEM that increase efficiency and minimize human error. Digitalization in fulfilment therefore enables us to monitor in real time, perform precise data analyses and help to make logistics processes more agile and transparent.

Spontaneous intervention in active dispatch processes

RHIEM offers you the option of intervening in the active dispatch process at any time, provided this is still technically possible and sensible.