Properly packaging and preparing wholesale orders ensures they arrive safely and meet retailer expectations. Below are key steps to follow when preparing wholesale orders for shipment.
Step 1: Review Retailer’s Instructions
- Log in to your Folklore Dashboard and go to the Wholesale Orders page under Commerce in the navigation bar.
- Select the specific wholesale order and review the retailer’s packing instructions carefully.
- Ensure all packaging and labeling requirements are understood before proceeding.
Step 2: Gather Required Packaging Materials
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Packaging Supplies: Ensure you have the following materials:
- Sturdy, brand-new boxes or shipping mailers.
- Protective materials like tissue paper, poly bags, or bubble wrap to prevent product damage.
- Product tags, size/care labels, and branded thank-you notes (optional but encouraged).
- Packing slips, commercial invoices (for international orders), and any required documentation.
Step 3: Package Products Individually
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Product Packaging:
- Ensure each product has necessary tags and size/care labels attached.
- Wrap products individually in protective materials to prevent damage during shipping.
- Avoid using excessive packaging – aim for efficiency while ensuring protection.
Step 4: Pack All Items Neatly and Securely
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Order Packaging:
- Place all items from the order in the same package.
- Line the box with tissue paper or other shipping materials to protect against external elements.
- Ensure boxes are free from damage or third-party branding (other than your brand or courier’s).
- Include a packing slip inside each package.
- For international orders, include a commercial invoice and customs documentation if required.
Step 5: Generate and Attach Shipping Documents
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Shipping Labels:
- Use The Folklore platform to generate shipping labels, which include retailer’s address details.
- Ensure all information on the label is accurate (product descriptions, weights, dimensions, etc.).
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Commercial Invoices (for international orders):
- Automatically generated if using The Folklore platform, or manually prepared if using your own shipping method.
- Return Shipping Labels: Include a return label inside the package for easy return handling, if necessary.
Step 6: Arrange for Shipping
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Courier Collection:
- Arrange for the courier listed on the shipping label to collect the package.
- Alternatively, drop off the package at the designated courier location.
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Track and Communicate:
- Provide tracking information to the retailer so they can track the shipment.
- Use The Folklore Messenger to update the retailer on the status of their order. To learn more about the messaging portal, visit here.
Step 7: Review and Confirm Shipping Details
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Final Checks:
- Double-check that all packaging, labels, and shipping details are correct before dispatching.
- Ensure any required duties, VAT, or customs documentation are included.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure that wholesale orders are properly prepared for delivery, helping to minimize errors and ensure a smooth shipping process for your retailers.