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The Complete Comparison Guide Between Your 3 Ecommerce Fulfillment Options: Drop-Shipping, 3PL or Self-Fulfillment

BigCommerce

While small businesses can often manage their inventory , packing, and shipping , as the operation scales up, additional support is needed and beneficial. In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about three of the most popular strategies: Drop-shipping. Order management. Customer communication. Self-fulfillment.

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Product Substitution: How Savvy Retailers and Manufacturers can Build Supply Chain Resiliency, Reduce Costs and Improve Customer Experiences

Retail TouchPoints

Shipping delays and stockouts lead to frustration and disappointment, especially when logistical problems impact time-sensitive purchases, such as special occasion gifts, event tickets or prescription medications. When customers place ecommerce orders, the last thing they want is an unhappy surprise.

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When and How to Charge Sales Tax on Shipping

BigCommerce

As an online seller, chances are good that you charge your customers for shipping or delivery fees at least some of the time. In the US, this can present a challenge because some US states require that retailers charge sales tax on shipping charges, while other states do not. Sales Tax and Shipping: Laws and Regulations.

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Forrester: Seek New Revenue Sources to Avoid Commodity Price Wars

Retail TouchPoints

Retailers need to readjust their strategies business-wide as they prepare to meet empowered customers who have more choices than ever in a tough economy that’s giving them more reasons than ever to seek out the best price — wherever it may be. The result? Marketplaces Forcing Retailers to Get Unique.

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Note to Retailers: How to Maximize the Post-Purchase Experience With a Modern Order Management System

Retail TouchPoints

According to PwC, businesses that reduce friction for consumers and empower all employees to make things right whether through returns, price adjustments or other policies bring higher customer satisfaction and more forgiveness. Delivering a smooth and frictionless post-purchase experience should be a top priority for every retailer.

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How to Optimize Your Business’ Contribution Margin Ratio

Kissmetrics

Understanding the finances behind your business can help you increase your profits, cut back on expenses, and operate more smoothly. A contribution margin ratio is the difference between sales and variable costs within a company. The difference will then get used for fixed costs, like rent and insurance.

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How to Create, Setup and Launch a Profitable Online Store (Seriously)

BigCommerce

Reference Chapter 1 for a breakdown with examples of how other entrepreneurs found niche success. Sure, you might be able to sell your item for much less than the competition, but will shipping costs obliterate your margins? Reference chapter 2 for more information. Reference chapter 4 for more detail.