Answer
Jul 25, 2019 - 08:33 PM
While using multiple suppliers does add some inherent complexity to the dropshipping process, it can be done - and done well. However, there’s no way to get multiple suppliers to aggregate items into a single order, so you’ll need to finesse this situation to keep your customers happy.
Here are some of your options.
Image via Pixabay.
Consolidate Items Yourself
While this isn’t the sleekest solution, one option is to route any orders involving multiple suppliers through your home or business location. When you complete this kind of order for your customers, you’ll arrange to have each item shipped to you first. Then, you can put each item together in a nice package and send it along.
If not many customers make this kind of order, you won’t need to worry about things like inventory space. However, if you anticipate lots of your customers making this kind of order, you could face the kind of problem you were hoping to avoid with dropshipping. And, of course, this solution can increase shipping times significantly.
To make this work, it’s helpful to work supplier initials into your SKUs. Then, if you see an order with SKUs from multiple suppliers, you’ll know right away that it needs to be routed through you. Using the initials of each supplier in your SKUs also helps prevent accidental duplicate SKUs.
Post Inventory Averages
If you have two suppliers for the same item, one way to reduce split orders is to change the way you post the available inventory.
For example, you’d typically list the inventory quantity as the sum of the quantities available from each supplier. This ensures that the product shows up as “in stock” when it is in stock. However, this also increases the risk of split orders.
Instead, you can try entering an inventory number that’s an average of the available inventories from each supplier. That way, no one can place an order for more items than a single supplier can provide. While your product will show as in stock for a shorter period of time this way, it may be worth the reduced hassle of split orders.
Image via Pixabay.
Use Suppliers with Different Product Types
You can also reduce split orders by using suppliers that carry very different product types. If it’s unlikely that someone will be ordering such different types of products at the same time, it’s unlikely that you’ll receive a split order.
For example, you could use a single supplier for each main product category you carry. Of course, this will only work well if the categories aren’t likely to be combined by your customers.
Find Larger Suppliers
You can also look for larger dropshipping suppliers that carry more of the items you sell. That way, even if you’re using multiple suppliers, there’s a greater chance that a single one will be able to provide every item in an order. And, of course, the fewer suppliers you use, the fewer split orders you’ll get.
Still, there’s almost no way to completely prevent the risk of a split order. So no matter which of these methods you use, it’s wise to send a disclaimer to your customers, letting them know that there’s a chance their order will arrive in separate packages at separate times. And, of course, only work with dropshippers who can fulfill orders quickly, accurately, and professionally, to minimize errors and keep your customers happy.
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