How to Speed Up Your Order Fulfillment Process
Fast, accurate order fulfillment is essential for customer satisfaction—and for keeping your business efficient and profitable. Whether you’re managing fulfillment solo or with a small team, shaving minutes off each order adds up over time. From smart batching techniques to optimizing your workspace and using automation, here’s how to speed up fulfillment without cutting corners.
Streamline your picking and packing workflow
Start by organizing your workspace for maximum efficiency. Use shelves or bins to store bestsellers within arm’s reach and group similar SKUs together. Tools like Sortly or Zoho Inventory can help you build a digital map of your inventory so you always know where everything is.
Use a first-in, first-out (FIFO) approach to reduce inventory spoilage and make sure older stock is shipped before newer arrivals. This is especially important for food, cosmetics, and seasonal products.
Use batch processing for speed
Instead of handling orders one at a time, process similar orders together. Platforms like ShipStation and Pirate Ship allow you to batch print labels, apply automation rules, and even sort orders by destination, weight, or product type. This reduces repetitive motions and increases throughput.
Automate repetitive shipping tasks
Set up automation rules in your shipping software to apply default carriers, services, and package types based on order criteria. For example, assign USPS First Class to packages under 1 lb or set UPS Ground as the default for orders over a specific value.
Tools like Easyship and Shippo also offer label automation, customs form generation, and synced tracking for multiple carriers—all in one dashboard.
Pre-package common orders
If you sell standardized items or bundles, pre-package them before orders come in. This reduces the number of steps required during active fulfillment and can make same-day shipping more achievable.
Use thermal printers and self-adhesive labels
Upgrade from inkjet printers and tape to thermal printers like the Rollo or DYMO 4XL. Paired with adhesive 4″ x 6″ labels, they eliminate the need for tape and reduce label smudges and misreads.
For supplies, you can earn cashback with a Staples gift card or buy discounted shipping materials with a gift card from Office Depot via Fluz. This helps reduce your per-order cost while increasing your output.
Reduce packing decision time
Use standardized packaging when possible. Keeping 3–4 box sizes and a consistent fill material (like kraft paper or bubble wrap) reduces the decision-making time per order and speeds up training for new staff.
Final thoughts
Speeding up fulfillment doesn’t mean rushing—it means designing smarter systems. By batching orders, automating routine tasks, and sourcing supplies cost-effectively through platforms like Fluz, you can boost your shipping efficiency and keep customers coming back.
