Every ecommerce company owner must consider order fulfillment. If you are unable to get the products to consumers who want them, it is no use having the best products in your industry.
There are many options for shipping and fulfillment. You can pay for shipping costs yourself via suppliers such as FedEx or USPS. This is not always the best option for a growing business or the most cost-effective.
It is better to select a shipping fulfillment partner who can do the heavy lifting for you and offer a discount on shipping rates.
ShipBob & ShipMonk are two of the most prominent fulfillment companies in today’s marketplace. We’ll be comparing both companies side-by-side to help you decide which option is best for you.
ShipBob continues its dominance in the fulfillment market. We’ll be highlighting the pros and con of each service in this review and showing you how ShipBob can help you get more for your buck, better technology and a stronger experience.
Overall Review: Your Guide To ShipBob
ShipBob has been a market leader for eCommerce fulfillment. This all-in-one platform is easy to use and scales well. It gives you the fulfillment services that you need to improve your customer relationships and increase your chances of recurring profits.
ShipBob allows you to ship the products your customers most to their place of residence, no matter where they may be located. You can access next-day and 2-day delivery options in some cases – ideal for clients who are very busy.
ShipBob’s integration with top ecommerce tools such as BigCommerce and WooCommerce is one of its most appealing features.
ShipBob features include:
- There are 10 fulfillment centers in Europe, America, and Canada
- International fulfillment in Europe, USA and Canada
- Worldwide shipping available
- There are only a few fixed costs to ensure a transparent pricing strategy
ShipBob also has a TrustScore score of 4.3, making it one the most reliable services when searching for fulfillment companies. ShipBob also offers the detailed analytics you need to make informed business decisions. ShipBob’s reporting and analytics tools are a recent innovation – launched to reduce logistic costs. These analytics can be used by companies for:
- You can check how many orders were completed on time
- Identifying the orders that you are unable to fulfill due to insufficient stock
- Find out how long it takes to deliver orders
- Learn how often ShipBob fails to meet its SLAs
ShipBob Order Fulfillment: The Pros and Con
ShipBob is just like any fulfillment platform. There are both positive and negative aspects to ShipBob. This solution is great for order management and customer support, but some eCommerce businesses may prefer an alternative.
ShipBob, for example, has fulfillment centers all over the globe to support many brands. However, it does not help marketplaces such as Etsy, Wish or Groupon.
These are the pros and cons to be aware of:
ShipBob Pros
- You can optimize order fulfillment with global scalability and analytics
- Great pricing model, no hidden fees to be concerned about
- A robust marketplace for integrations that offers many extension possibilities
- The best-in-class technology
- Fulfillment centers around the world
- Worldwide shipping available
- Simple interface for beginners
- This product is suitable for both small and large companies.
- Uses existing tools for eCommerce companies
ShipBob Cons
- There are no order fulfillment options available for Jet, Groupon, Jet or similar marketplaces.
- FBM is the only solution to SFP
- Support is not as extensive for those who ship less than 400 items per month
- This is not ideal if you sell mostly FBA or B2B.
ShipBob Order Fulfillment: The Pros
Let’s take a closer look at the benefits you get when you sign up for ShipBoborder fulfillment.
Amazing analytics and global scaleability
ShipBob allows you to choose the best fulfillment locations for your business, grow in new areas over time and allow your company to grow organically. Without the need to search for a partner, you can explore fulfillment centers in other countries. You get the analytics that you need to make growth-oriented decisions.
Simple pricing model without hidden fees
ShipBob is among the few online fulfillment companies that provide transparent pricing. Store owners don’t have to worry about hidden fees. This allows them to plan their spending and budget for each period.
An Increasing Integrations Market
ShipBob integrates seamlessly with existing eCommerce tools, as we have already mentioned. ShipBob also integrates seamlessly with other solutions, making tracking everything for companies easier, from inventory purchase orders to returns administration.
The Best Technology in the Industry
ShipBob’s most outstanding feature is its ability to be a leader in the fulfillment landscape. The dashboard is available to both merchants and companies of 3PLs. The dashboard allows you to see all the information about the purchase journey from the back-end. Inventory is automatically accounted for.
These four top featuresof ShipBob are just a few of the many bonuses available. Other benefits include extensive networks and powerful tools.
ShipBob Order Fulfillment: The Cons
ShipBob is a poor choice.
ShipBob is a great tool for fulfilling your needs. However, you have some limitations. Take, for example:
Limited Marketplaces
ShipBob integrates with many of the top online sellers like Amazon, Walmart, and eBay. However, there are no other options. The company does not offer fulfillment services for Etsy or Groupon, Wish, or other similar marketplaces.
Only Offers FBM, Not SPF
ShipBob’s Amazon integration only allows Fulfillment by Merchant. There is no Seller Fulfilled Prime option. You should also consider using the FBA if you are interested in working with ShipBob.
A DIY or Self-service model for small merchants
ShipBob can help any company, but you will not get the same level of support if your sales are below 400 products per month. You will not receive as much support with account setup, but you can technically still use the service if you have a small store and are just getting started.
It is not the best option for FBA sellers or B2B sellers
ShipBob is a fulfillment company that specializes in direct-to-consumer orders. Although they provide B2B fulfillment services you might need to consider the majority of your orders and whether they are eCommerce-based. FBA options should be kept separate if you sell from Amazon.
ShipBob: The Verdict
ShipBob has been a leader in eCommerce order fulfillment. There are so many options for inventory and eCommerce management that it can be difficult to choose the right one for you. ShipBob ticks all of these boxes.
Integration with your existing eCommerce platform means you can spend less time switching between tools. You also get access to many bonus features that will make managing your business easier. All of these features are part of the package, including warehouse management tools, fulfillment centers, inventory management, and more.
ShipBob, a cloud-based service, is flexible and easy to use. It allows you to divide inventory among multiple fulfillment centers in the most important cities around the globe. Your functionality can change as your business grows.
Overall Review: ShipMonk’s Guide to ShipMonk
How does ShipMonk stack up against other fulfillment companies? ShipBob offers one-day shipping to many locations worldwide. But does ShipMonk offer this same service?
ShipMonk, a provider of fulfilment services to brands, is on the rise. This service is gaining attention from small businesses that are interested in SKU tracking and warehousing. ShipMonk gives you access to many integrations that will allow you to grow faster.
This cloud-based 4-in-1 software includes LTL shipments, warehouse software, inventory software technology, packaging support, and more. ShipMonk has limitations.
These features include:
- 3 fulfillment centers (all in the USA).
- International shipping rates but not global shipping fulfillment
- Although there are hidden costs, the pricing is reasonable
- All-in-one software for order and inventory management
- Transparent inventory overview
- Modern, user-friendly interface with a user-friendly platform
- Many marketplace integrations available with sites like Etsy and Sears.
- Seller Fulfilled Prime is now available
- Subscription fulfillment, custom packaging, B2B order, kitting and onboarding
- FBA preparation and claims management as well as returns processing
ShipMonk has around 1000 customers in the world, which is much smaller than ShipBob. ShipBob has more integrations with marketplaces, but many of the features are identical. ShipBob allows you to sell via Etsy.
ShipMonk has a high fee for setup and hidden fees that can quickly increase the cost of your software. ShipMonk is not compatible with all ecommerce platforms. This makes fulfillment a bit more complicated.
The pros and cons of ShipMonk
ShipMonk is a reliable solution to your order fulfillment network. It will allow you to provide service for customers around the globe. Shipmonk.com allows you to view everything, from shipment tracking to order volumes statistics in real time. ShipMonk does not have the same reputation and excellent results as ShipBob.
This platform has a Trust Score of 3.1. Hidden costs make it less appealing to smaller businesses that need to plan their budgets. These are the most popular ShipMonk pros and cons:
Pros
- There are many customization options available, including thank-you notes and curated boxes.
- They have no minimum order requirements to provide order fulfillment services.
- Great for crowdfunding and Groupon/Etsy fulfillment
- There are many marketplace integrations
Cons
- Scalability is limited regardless of order volume
- Hidden costs and fine print price elements
- Shipping options are not available internationally
- In some cases, monthly minimums can be prohibitive
ShipMonk Review: The pros
We’ve already looked at the major pros and cons of ShipBob. Now it’s time to look at the positives and negatives of ShipMonk. This solution is often a trusted tool for small businesses looking for shipping options.
ShipMonk can be used to manage subscription boxes and provide unique tools not available anywhere else. There are also some serious drawbacks. Let’s begin by looking at the positives.
Many customization options
When you want to establish a positive relationship, customization is essential. ShipMonk allows you to access ideas like handwritten thankyou cards and other kitting projects. Specialty stickers, packaging materials, and promotional items are also available.
No Minimum orders
There are no minimum order requirements, so you don’t need to be worried if your business is just starting. The company will be open to you shipping as few as one order per day. ShipMonk is open to everyone.
Different business types can use this product
ShipMonk is a more flexible provider than other providers, offering a wide range of functionality. ShipMonk is great for crowdfunding campaigns, Etsy, and Groupon. There are many types of businesses you can build.
Many market integrations
ShipMonk offers a lot of flexibility in terms of integrations, just like ShipBob. ShipMonk doesn’t just focus on eCommerce tools. It also looks at other marketplaces such as Etsy, Wish, Jet and Wish. This software could be the best option for wholesalers who need more shipping services.
ShipMonk Review: The Cons
Software solutions come with their own ups and downs. ShipMonk has many benefits, but it also has some issues that make it difficult to trust the software.
ShipMonk has many negative aspects, including hidden costs and pricing in fine print, as well as issues with international reach.
Pricing and Hidden Costs
ShipMonk customers frequently complain about hidden fees such as fuel surcharges and high pack and pick charges. For many companies starting with a small budget, this is a problem. Overcharging can result in high costs that reduce your profit margins.
Limited Scalability
ShipMonk is not as flexible as other fulfillment options. The US has only three fulfillment centers, and shipping costs with this provider are slightly higher. International fulfillment is not an option.
Expensive Monthly Fees
There are no minimum order quantities for ShipMonk. However, you will need to pay a minimum amount for picking fees and storage fees. These confusing costs will cost you around $250 per month, even if your customers don’t order a lot.
ShipBob and ShipMonk: FAQ
Have questions about ShipMonk and ShipBob?
These quick answers should be helpful.
What is the price difference between ShipBob & ShipMonk?
A: ShipBob, ShipMonk both are affordable fulfilment companies. While the pricing is similar for both solutions, there are important differences. ShipBob is an example of transparent pricing. There are no surprises and you know exactly what you will pay.
ShipMonk, on the other hand is not as reliable when it comes to pricing. Many customers have complained that working with ShipMonk is more costly than they anticipated due to the hidden costs. ShipMonk seems to have an inordinate amount of fees, which can make it very stressful.
How does ShipBob compare to ShipMonk in terms of order management and inventory?
A: While pricing is an important consideration, it’s not all that you should consider when selecting the right software. It’s important that you review the features available when using fulfilment tools. ShipBob, ShipMonk and ShipMonk both 3PLs that have a lot to offer in terms of tech.
From an analytics perspective, ShipBob is better. Analytics services are available for free and can be used to help you plan your next steps in your business. ShipBob has its own warehouse management software. However, ShipMonk’s technology has its problems. ShipMonk can sometimes record incorrect inventories and deliveries.
What is the ShipMonk and ShipBob comparison on hidden costs?
A: ShipMonk has a lot of pricing issues that must be sorted out. ShipBob lets you know exactly what you will pay for order fulfillment services. The price of your order fulfilment services does not suddenly change.
ShipMonk charges a lot that can be hard to see, especially if you are just starting out with an online business. This can be problematic for small businesses.
ShipMonk Review: The Verdict
ShipMonk has a lot to offer in certain areas. This service is very easy to use if your business wants to ship via marketplaces such as Wish and Groupon. ShipMonk allows you to personalize your shipping experience.
ShipMonk is not suitable for large companies or long-term growth. You’ll find it difficult to export your products from the US as you grow. This will limit your profit margins.
ShipMonk’s hidden costs and pricing factors make it difficult to believe that they will give you the best deal. It is difficult to predict what professional fees you will have to pay each month. This is a problem that every growing company must address.
ShipBob vs ShipMonk – The Best Value for Money
Both ShipBob provide a convenient way to improve your fulfilment processes. This technology means that you don’t need to rely on spreadsheets and screenshots of SKUs to make your customers happy. Both tools can be useful, but they are not always as effective as one another.
ShipMonk is in many ways a less-expensive version of ShipBob. ShipMonk has fewer features, higher fees, and less growth opportunities. ShipMonk is not able to expand your brand internationally. And although ShipMonk has access to many marketplaces, this single benefit doesn’t outweigh ShipBob’s performance.
ShipBob is the best choice if you are looking for inventory management, WMS and fulfillment service all in one. ShipBob grows with your company and can keep up with you if you expand to other regions. ShipBob is the preferred 3PL for direct-to customer fulfilment.
ShipMonk is the winner in one area: marketplace sales. ShipMonk is the best place to get support in marketplace selling in America.
