Fulfilment quote checklist: what to send providers
FULFILMENT SCOUT · PRACTICAL GUIDES
A detailed brief helps providers price the same job and reduces surprises after onboarding. You do not need perfect forecasts: label estimates clearly and show the range you expect.
Use the checks below to compare what providers will actually do for your business.
Your business and products
Include store URL, product category, active SKU count and typical unit dimensions and weights. Flag liquids, fragile goods, expiry dates, batch tracking or special storage requirements. Provide representative examples, and distinguish individual units from bundles and multipacks.
Orders and delivery
Share average monthly orders, peak daily orders, items per order and the share of UK and international destinations. Describe delivery services you want to offer and whether you use your own courier account. Explain any order holds, manual orders or customer-specific packing instructions.
Inventory and inbound deliveries
Estimate pallets, cartons or volume held and how frequently suppliers replenish stock. Say whether deliveries arrive on pallets, in containers or as parcels. Describe barcodes, labels and the quality checks you expect at receiving. Include branded packaging and other materials that need storage.
Technology and customer experience
List your ecommerce platform and any subscription, bundle or order-management systems. Specify the stock and tracking updates you need. Ask how your team can see order progress and charges, and name the contact who will resolve day-to-day exceptions.
Ask for a comparable response
Request an itemised quote, minimum charges, setup costs, notice terms and a sample invoice. Ask providers to mark exclusions and assumptions explicitly. Include your preferred start date and any stock move. Send the same brief to each provider and keep a written record of later changes.