Business to Business

With over twenty years of experience in retail shipping, a2b Fulfillment knows the unique requirements and stringent rules of B2B and Retailer fulfillment.

We built our business supporting B2B / retail distribution.

At a2b, we’re retail fulfillment specialists with over 20 years of experience. We navigate the complexities of retail distribution effortlessly, ensuring compliance with unique retailer guidelines while tackling the daily challenges of B2B fulfillment. Our expertise makes us the trusted partner you need.

What is Retail Fulfillment?

Retail fulfillment means sending large amounts of products to stores or their distribution centers. Retailers sell these products individually to customers in physical or online shops. These shipments typically consist of smaller items in large quantities, palletized for delivery.

Retail fulfillment is different from direct-to-consumer (DTC) orders. It uses LTL (less-than-truckload) or FTL (full-truckload) freight instead of parcel carriers. This means it needs different warehousing, fulfillment, and shipping processes.

B2B Fulfillment vs. DTC Fulfillment

DTC fulfillment is straightforward: a consumer order triggers picking, packing, and shipping via carriers like UPS or FedEx. In contrast, B2B fulfillment is more intricate.

Retailers, fulfillment centers, and carriers all impose specific requirements, often communicated through EDI (Electronic Data Interchange). This includes tailored labeling, invoicing, and shipping documentation, plus adherence to retailer-specific inventory receiving rules. At a2b, our robust Warehouse Management System (WMS) with EDI integration ensures seamless retail fulfillment.

What Do Retail Fulfillment Centers Do?

As a top-tier fulfillment partner, a2b bridges the gap for big-box retailers, manufacturers, and eCommerce businesses needing wholesale order fulfillment. Our services include:

Receiving and warehousing inventory
Inventory management
EDI communication
Picking, packing, and kitting
Retailer-specific labeling and routing compliance
Freight shipping (LTL/FTL)
Returns management
Value-added services like customer support

B2B Fulfillment Requirements

Retail fulfillment involves strict regulations, especially for hazardous materials, heavy items, or international shipping. Compliance requires precise packaging, labeling, and documentation - tasks simplified by EDI. Bulk orders, shipped via pallets, demand specialized labor (e.g., forklifts) and handling. While two-day shipping isn’t typical, timely delivery per retailer schedules remains critical.

Why a2b Excels in B2B Fulfillment

Trust is the foundation of any partnership. a2b has built strong relationships with hundreds of retailers, understanding the stakes of reliable fulfillment for over two decades. A poor partner can cost you time and money, but a2b’s long-term approach ensures success. Our cutting-edge technology, including EDI and real-time inventory tracking, keeps data transparent and operations efficient.

How We Deliver B2B Fulfillment

Step 1: EDI Connectivity - We connect directly with retailers via EDI, with automatic notifications for new purchase orders.

Step 2: Efficient Processing - Approved orders flow into our WMS, paired with retailer-specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Step 3: Accurate Fulfillment - Our retail team picks, preps, and labels orders per SOPs, using scanning for precision.

Step 4: Quality Assurance - Orders undergo QA checks, with photos documenting preparation for chargeback defense.

Step 5: Shipment Scheduling - Shipments align with retailer guidelines, with an Advance Shipping Notice (ASN) sent via EDI.

Step 6: Seamless Invoicing - Post-shipment, review and send invoices effortlessly through our EDI portal, with automation options available.

Partner with a2b

Choose a2b for B2B fulfillment that combines expertise, efficiency, and compliance. From order to invoice, we ensure a smooth, accurate process tailored to your needs.

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