Based on my evaluation, ShipBob remains the top fulfillment company in 2025, retaining its position as the leading provider from last year’s rankings.
Best Fulfillment Companies for Small Businesses
This article is part of a larger series on Retail Management.
The best fulfillment companies handle receiving, shipping, and all the logistics in between at affordable costs, while providing retailers with transparency into their stock. The providers on this list were selected for their affordability, transparency, and scalable features that support growing operations.
To find the best fulfillment companies for small businesses, I evaluated providers and graded them against a 25-point scale I developed, which factored in pricing, features, specialty services, ease of use, and real-world user reviews.
What are order fulfillment services?
An order fulfillment service acts as your warehouse and shipping team once you’ve outgrown packing boxes yourself. You connect your online store, send inventory to the provider’s warehouses, and it handles storage, picking and packing, shipping through major carriers, and returns.
Best fulfillment companies of 2025: Which ranked the highest?
Order fulfillment provider | Best for | Monthly order minimum |
|---|---|---|
Best overall; growing ecommerce brands that need fast, affordable nationwide fulfillment | 400 (US), 1,000 (Europe) | |
Heavy and high-value products | None | |
Startups and crowdfunding projects | Custom | |
High-volume ecommerce | 250+ | |
Transitioning to third-party fulfillment | 500+ | |
Amazon sellers | None | |
Selling on competitive marketplaces | $500* | |
Fulfillment with coworking space | None | |
*Between July 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025, a $500 monthly minimum fulfillment spend is applicable to all accounts. Starting January 1, 2026, the minimum will be increased to $5,000. | ||
Most providers on this list cover the same core jobs: receiving and checking in inventory, storing products, tracking stock levels in real time, packing orders, arranging discounted shipping, handling returns, and syncing everything with major ecommerce platforms and marketplaces.
Fulfillment partners make the most sense once orders start to strain your space or staff. They’re especially useful for growing ecommerce brands, subscription box businesses, Amazon sellers that want Prime, companies shipping heavy or fragile products, and retailers expanding into new regions or adding basic B2B and wholesale orders.
Best order fulfillment services compared
Our score (Out of 5) | US warehouse locations | Error rate | Order weight limit | Standout feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 4.53 | 60+ | 0.05% | 50 lbs | Strong 2-day US coverage |
 | 4.44 | 2 | 0.02% | None | Zero-shrink accuracy guarantee |
 | 4.29 | 8 | 0.05% | 50 lbs | Advanced kitting and batch processing |
 | 3.82 | 9 | 0.01% | 30 lbs | 1-2 day delivery via nationwide network |
 | 3.68 | 7 | 0.1% | 20 lbs | Powerful warehouse management software |
 | 3.63 | 150 | Undisclosed | 50 lbs | Prime-eligible fulfillment |
 | 3.57 | 5 | Undisclosed | 50 lbs | Integrated freight + fulfillment |
 | 3.46 | 11 | <1% | 45 lbs | Onsite workspace with fulfillment support |
Methodology: How I evaluated order fulfillment companies (update notes included)
ShipBob scored highest as the best overall pick for most small ecommerce brands, with Red Stag standing out for heavy and high-value products, ShipMonk for startups and crowdfunding projects, and ShipNetwork (Rakuten) for high-volume ecommerce, while ShipHero, FBA, Flexport, and Saltbox each serve more specific use cases.
To be able to recommend the best order fulfillment companies, I focused on the factors that matter most to small retail and ecommerce businesses. I compared eight top providers using a 25-point rubric that covers pricing, core fulfillment features, advanced and niche capabilities, and ease of use and support, plus expert and user scores.
This rubric has been shaped by Fit Small Business retail experts over several update cycles, ensuring our evaluations reflect editorial insight, real fulfillment workflows, and small business priorities. With each revision, we adjust the scoring criteria to reflect current ecommerce needs, shipping expectations, and the way merchants actually use 3PL and fulfillment services.
Here’s how our evaluation system has changed through the years:
- 2023: Established the first structured fulfillment rubric focused on core operations. Evaluations centered on warehouse footprint, order turnaround time, shipping options, basic software integrations, and error rates. Pricing and feature scoring were present but relatively simple, aimed at distinguishing basic capabilities from stronger options.
- 2024: Expanded the rubric to give more weight to day-to-day operations and practical costs. Receiving workflows, inventory accuracy, and pick-and-pack performance were scored more explicitly. Pricing was broken out into clearer components, such as onboarding costs, storage, and handling, which improved comparisons for small and mid-sized ecommerce brands. This version began shifting toward more detailed, criteria-based scoring rather than high-level impressions.
- March 2025: Introduced a more formal multi-category structure and separated core fulfillment performance from advanced and niche capabilities. New criteria were added for kitting and assembly, subscription box support, B2B and retail compliance, international fulfillment, specialized handling, and distributed warehouse networks. Ease of use and support also became a defined category, capturing onboarding, dashboard usability, integration stability, and support quality in a more systematic way.
December 2025 (current rubric): Finalized the 25-point scoring system and the current weighting across five major areas: Pricing, General Fulfillment Features, Advanced and Niche Capabilities, Ease of Use and Support, and Expert and User Scores. Each subcriterion was given clear 0-1 scoring descriptions to improve consistency and repeatability. The current rubric emphasizes pricing transparency, operational reliability, specialty services such as subscription and B2B support, practical ease of use, and real-world sentiment from both experts and users.
Below is a more detailed breakdown of my evaluation criteria:
- Pricing (20%): This category grades how affordable and accessible a provider is for small businesses and how easy it is to understand what you will pay each month. Overall value for money is scored once storage, pick-and-pack, shipping markups, and minimums are factored in, then weighed against how clearly the provider presents its fees and whether you can realistically forecast charges. I also check how friendly the contract terms and minimums are for growing brands, how easy it is to scale up or down, and how much setup fees are, onboarding charges, or other extras that tend to hit small merchants the hardest.
- General fulfillment features (30%): This is the core operational score and carries the most weight. It reflects how well each provider handles the day-to-day work of fulfillment: receiving and checking in inventory, tracking stock accurately at the bin level, and maintaining reliable pick-and-pack accuracy backed by clear expectations or SLAs. I also look at shipping options, how quickly packages can reach customers, and the provider’s carrier coverage. On top of these, I check policies around returns management, the availability of ecommerce and marketplace integrations, and how much real visibility merchants get from dashboards, tracking tools, and operational reports.
- Advanced and niche capabilities (20%): Some providers go beyond standard fulfillment, and this category captures those extra capabilities that can be critical for certain brands. I consider how well each service supports kitting, bundling, and light assembly, and whether it is set up for subscription boxes and custom packaging rather than treating them as awkward one-offs. I also look at B2B and retail readiness, including handling pallets, case packs, routing guides, and EDI. International reach plays a role here, with points for clear duties and tax handling and workable cross-border options. Finally, I assess whether the provider can handle specialized storage or handling for heavy, fragile, or regulated items and whether it operates a distributed warehouse network that can actually support multi-node inventory and faster delivery.
- Ease of use and support (20%): Even the strongest feature set fails if the service is hard to adopt or manage, so this category looks at how straightforward it is to get started and stay running smoothly. I evaluate the onboarding experience from importing SKUs and connecting channels through to shipping the first orders, then assess how intuitive the dashboard is for monitoring stock, orders, and issues. Integration setup and ongoing stability matter as well, since broken syncs can ruin an otherwise good operation. I also factor in the quality and responsiveness of customer support across available channels, and how strong the provider’s documentation, help center, and self-service tools are for answering everyday questions without opening a ticket.
- Expert and user scores (10%): To balance the rubric with real-world experience, this category blends my own expert judgment with aggregated customer feedback. My expert score reflects how I rate each provider after reviewing its features, limitations, and fit for small and mid-sized ecommerce businesses. I then add signals from user ratings on major review platforms, looking both at the average score and at how many reviews a provider has, since a high rating based on only a handful of reviews is less meaningful than strong scores backed by a larger customer base.
Why You Can Trust Fit Small Business
I have more than a decade of experience managing several Shopify ecommerce stores and Amazon private label brands that outsource their order fulfillment, so I factored in my experience in our evaluation while adhering strictly to the Fit Small Business editorial policy.
Our team regularly updates and fact-checks this piece to provide the latest information.
Retail Software Expert at Fit Small Business
Which order fulfillment provider is right for you?
Unsure which order fulfillment provider to choose? Take this five-question quiz to see which option best matches your order volume, sales channels, and growth plans.
Which Fulfillment Service is Right for You?
ShipBob: Best overall
Overall Score:
4.53 / 5
Pros
- Large global network with 60+ US warehouses and 10+ international locations
- Strong proprietary WMS, real-time inventory tools, and broad integrations for both DTC and B2B.
- Advanced reporting and analytics software
Cons
- Higher entry bar with minimums of 400 shipments per month in the US and 1,000 per month in Europe
- Onboarding starts at $975, which can feel steep for very lean teams
- Some advanced services and customization can add to the overall cost, so brands need to model their true all-in rate
Why I chose ShipBob as the best order fulfillment provider
ShipBob is my top overall pick because it combines strong tech, a large global network, and consistently high performance across the categories that matter most to small and mid-market ecommerce brands.
In my 25-point rubric, ShipBob earned about 4.5 out of 5 overall, the highest score in this guide. It is one of only two providers to receive a perfect 5 out of 5 for general fulfillment features, and it also leads the list in advanced and niche capabilities such as kitting, subscription support, B2B and retail compliance, international fulfillment, and specialized handling.
ShipBob also has one of the largest fulfillment networks on my list, offering advanced distribution and same-day shipping for orders placed before noon. Only Amazon has more warehouses, but ShipBob delivers Amazon-level fulfillment with accessible pricing.
Compared with the other providers in this roundup, ShipBob does not always have the absolute lowest pricing score, but it delivers the strongest combination of network reach, feature depth, and ease of use. Its proprietary WMS powers both its own fulfillment centers and in-house or hybrid setups, and US-based 3PLs can even use ShipBob’s infrastructure and white-labeled tech to serve their own clients.
For brands that meet the shipment minimums and want a single partner to handle DTC, B2B, and multi-region fulfillment, ShipBob stands out as the most complete solution in this list.
Who should use ShipBob:
- Small to mid-sized ecommerce businesses: ShipBob offers scalable fulfillment solutions, making it easy for growing brands to manage inventory and shipping efficiently.
- Businesses needing fast, affordable shipping: With two-day shipping options and multiple warehouse locations, ShipBob helps businesses reduce transit times and costs.
- Ecommerce brands selling across multiple channels: ShipBob integrates with Shopify, Amazon, WooCommerce, and other platforms, ensuring seamless multichannel fulfillment.
- DTC brands that want custom packaging: ShipBob supports branded packaging and kitting, enhancing the unboxing experience for customers.
- Companies expanding into global markets: ShipBob’s international fulfillment network enables faster shipping and reduced customs delays for cross-border sales.
- Subscription box and bundled product sellers: With kitting and assembly services, ShipBob makes it easy to ship curated product bundles and subscription boxes.
- Retailers handling both B2B and DTC orders: ShipBob accommodates wholesale orders alongside direct-to-consumer shipping, streamlining fulfillment for businesses selling in both spaces.
Since Our Last Update: Since our March 2025 update, ShipBob implemented an increase on accessorial fees for 2025, which primarily affected picking fees for regular, fragile, and dangerous items. These changes are reflected below.
ShipBob charges a single fulfillment fee for each order, which includes pick and pack (up to four items), basic packaging materials, and shipping costs.
I reached out to ShipBob, and they responded with the ballpark pricing information listed below. To get pricing for freight and import services, contact ShipBob.
- Onboarding: Full implementation starts at $975, which includes a dedicated implementation specialist who supports you through setup and stays involved for about 30 days after you go live.
- Storage fees:
- Pallet (48 x 40 x 54 inches): $40/month
- Shelf (42 x 12 x 23 inches): $10/month
- Small Shelf (22 x 12 x 14 inches): $7.50/month
- Bin (21 x 7 x 11 inches): $5/month
- Receiving
- Cost for the first two hours: $35
- Cost for each succeeding hour: $45/hour
- Picking (B2C, fragile): $0.30 per unit
- Picking (dangerous goods/HAZMAT):
- $0.15 per order containing products marked as dangerous goods for merchants onboarded before January 19, 2025
- $0.25 per order containing products marked as dangerous goods for merchants onboarded on January 19, 2025 or later
- Kitting fees: ShipBob charges a combination of flat setup fees and per-action fees for kitting. Kitting fees vary based on how many steps your workflow requires. A kitting order includes:
- Training and workstation setup: $25
- Per-SKU pick: $0.07
- Construct box/packaging: $0.56
- Close box/packaging: $0.04
- Place item in box: $0.10
- Pack in ShipBob packaging: $0.15
- Affix pre-provided label: $0.21
- Affix ShipBob-printed label: $0.26
- Exact label placement: $0.07
- Remove item from package: $0.21
- Remove packaging/insert: $0.28
- Add dunnage (yours or ShipBob’s): $0.11
- Construct divider insert: $0.28
- Wrap item: $0.28
- Seal item with tape or sticker: $0.08
- Inspection: $0.21
- Change item SKU to kit SKU: $0.02
- Fulfillment minimum fee: ShipBob requires merchants to meet a $275 monthly minimum in combined fulfillment and kitting fees. This includes B2C, B2B, and kitting orders, but does not include storage, inbound receiving, or other non-fulfillment costs. A 90-day grace period begins after your first full month of inventory being stored in a ShipBob fulfillment center. After the grace period, the $275 minimum applies monthly.
Note: Prices are based in the US as the country of fulfillment and are subject to a 3% credit card processing fee.
Clients’ bills are assessed and updated daily, and all charges are visible in a fully itemized format from your dashboard. In the same tab, shipping details can be toggled to estimate variable order costs.
- Large global fulfillment network: More than 60 US and 10 non-US locations in over 200 countries.
- Two-day shipping options: Expedited shipping across major regions to improve customer satisfaction.
- Ecommerce platform integrations: Seamlessly connects with Shopify, Amazon, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, and more.
- Real-time inventory management: Cloud-based dashboard for tracking stock levels, order status, and analytics.
- Customization options: Branding options to enhance customer experience
- Highly flexible: D2C orders, subscription boxes, and B2B sales with EDI compliance
- Retailer dropshipping service: Items listed on Bed Bath & Beyond, Best Buy, Chewy, Nordstrom, Target, and more ship directly from ShipBob to customers
- Managed freight program: ‘FreightBob’ offers a comprehensive freight and inventory management service, improving transit times and visibility for shipments from China
- WMS (Warehouse Management Software): Proprietary WMS available for use in self-managed warehouses, compatible with ShipBob’s fulfillment services.
Red Stag Fulfillment: Best for heavy and high-value items
Overall Score:
4.44 / 5
Pros
- 100% accuracy guarantee
- Affordable shipping and handling for oversized items
- Low order minimums and no long-term contracts
Cons
- Only two warehouse locations
- Shipping can be more expensive for lightweight DTC brands that don’t need heavy/fragile handling
- Not designed for startups seeking the lowest all-in fulfillment cost.
Why I chose Red Stag Fulfillment
Red Stag stands out because it delivers performance in areas where most 3PLs struggle: heavy goods, oversized items, high-value inventory, and ultra-high accuracy standards. In the scoring rubric, Red Stag earns one of the highest marks in specialized storage and handling and in pick, pack, and order accuracy, outperforming every other provider on the list. Its <0.02% error rate is one of the strongest accuracy results in the industry.
While companies like ShipBob and ShipMonk offer broader networks and more ecommerce-focused tools, Red Stag shines for brands that cannot afford breakage, shrinkage, or mispicks — industries like furniture, fitness equipment, electronics, outdoor gear, subscription boxes with fragile components, and commercial goods. It’s also a strong option for merchants who want premium handling without being forced into a high-volume minimum.
Compared with the rest of this list, Red Stag is the best pick for merchants whose products require careful handling, precision, or specialized workflows, even if order volume is still growing.
Who should use Red Stag Fulfillment:
- Ecommerce retailers specializing in heavy, oversized, or fragile items: Red Stag Fulfillment excels in handling large, bulky, and delicate products, ensuring safe and efficient delivery.
- Businesses dealing with high-value merchandise: With advanced security measures and liability coverage, Red Stag provides peace of mind for companies shipping valuable goods.
- Companies requiring hazardous materials shipping: Red Stag is equipped to handle hazardous or dangerous goods, adhering to strict safety protocols. It’s also one of the only 3PLs that accepts hazardous merchandise (like ammunition).
- Businesses aiming for Seller-Fulfilled Prime (SFP) eligibility: Red Stag’s services align with Amazon’s SFP requirements, assisting sellers in achieving Prime status.
- Companies requiring customized logistics solutions: Red Stag offers tailored services, including kitting and assembly, to meet specific business needs.
See how Red Stag compares to the top-ranking provider in our ShipBob vs Red Stag comparison review.
Red Stag pricing is custom to each client based on a combination of order volume, package weights, and SKU count. I confirmed this with the Red Stag’s team, and they said they provide free onboarding and discounted rates with carriers.
Red Stag Fulfillment allows you to partner with it risk-free for 30 days to see if it’s a good match for your needs. If you’re unsatisfied with its people, processes, and services at the end of the guarantee period, it won’t bill you for any of your fulfillment service fees.
- Specialized handling for heavy, oversized, and fragile products: Designed for bulky and high-value items with secure and damage-free fulfillment.
- 100% order accuracy guarantee: Ensures precise picking, packing, and shipping to minimize errors and returns.
- Secure warehouses with advanced monitoring: Facilities feature 24/7 security, redundant backup systems, and loss prevention measures.
- Seller-Fulfilled Prime (SFP) support: Helps businesses qualify for Amazon Prime without using FBA.
- Service guarantees: Red Stag is so confident in its storage, packing, and tracking systems that it will remedy issues for free and pay you $50 for any errors on its part. It also has guarantees for receiving and unloading inventory within 48 hours of the shipment arriving at Red Stag warehouses.
- Turnaround times: Same-day fulfillment is offered for orders placed before 5 p.m.; compare this to ShipBob, which has same-day with a cutoff of noon.
- Mobile-friendly fulfillment software: Red Stag’s RSF OPS software is specifically designed for use on mobile. Although we didn’t find it as user-friendly as others, it would be helpful if you frequently work on the go.
- Management and quality control: Video tracking throughout Red Stag warehouses to prevent losses through damages, mistakes, or theft.
ShipMonk: Best for startups, crowdfunding campaigns, and subscription services
Overall Score:
4.29 / 5
Pros
- Dedicated rep with client-specific training
- Warehouse automations
- Affordable batch fulfillment
Cons
- Limited international fulfillment network
- Hidden fees reported in fine-print pricing
- Not the best fit for heavy, oversized, or specialty products requiring precise handling
Why I chose ShipMonk
ShipMonk is one of the best choices for startups, crowdfunding campaigns, and subscription-based ecommerce brands because of its kitting strength and user-friendly software. In my rubric, ShipMonk scores well in advanced/niche capabilities, especially around kitting, bundling, and subscription workflows — areas where most 3PLs lag. It also performs well in ease of use, offering one of the more approachable dashboards in this list.
Compared with ShipBob and Red Stag, ShipMonk sits in the middle:
- More flexibility for startups (vs ShipBob’s higher minimums).
- Better kitting and subscription support (vs ShipHero).
- More ecommerce-friendly than Red Stag, though not as specialized for heavy/fragile goods.
ShipMonk is especially attractive for brands with SKUs that require assembly, box-building, multi-unit packaging, or staged subscription drops. If your business depends on kitting accuracy, recurring shipments, or handling variable pledge levels from a Kickstarter or Indiegogo campaign, ShipMonk is one of the strongest options on the market.
Who should use ShipMonk:
- Subscription box businesses: With special pricing and kitting services, ShipMonk supports brands offering recurring shipments and curated product bundles.
- Groupon, Etsy, and subscription box sellers: ShipMonk integrates with platforms that many competitors don’t, providing specialized fulfillment for unique marketplaces.
- Crowdfunding projects: ShipMonk offers affordable batch fulfillment, making it a great option for startups shipping pre-orders in bulk.
- Amazon sellers: ShipMonk is Seller-Fulfilled Prime (SFP)-eligible, allowing businesses to meet Prime standards without using FBA.
See how ShipMonk compares to the top-ranking provider in our ShipBob vs ShipMonk comparison review.
ShipMonk uses a structured fulfillment pricing model with an associated monthly minimum that reflects your typical order volume and pick fees. Here’s how it works:
The monthly minimum is a standardized fee set during onboarding based on your expected monthly orders and your first-item pick fee. ShipMonk determines your pick fees through the sales process, then calculates the monthly minimum by multiplying your projected monthly order volume by your first-item pick fee and reducing that total by 20%. The result is your required minimum spend on fulfillment and pick activity each month.
The monthly minimum helps ShipMonk plan labor, address seasonality, and guarantee accurate volumes to carrier partners.
Unlike some flat-fee models, ShipMonk’s pricing shifts with your activity and ensures that your minimum aligns with your order volume and pick profile.
- Subscription Services: ShipMonk specializes in handling subscription box orders, with special pricing, inventory forecasting, kitting, custom packing procedures from wrapping to inserts, and more.
- Advanced automation: Warehouse automation technologies increase ShipMonk’s efficiency and effectiveness, resulting in quicker fulfillment times, higher picking accuracy, cheaper fulfillment costs, and more secure storage.
- Quality control: Improved order accuracy with features like “Snap n’ Pack,” which takes a photo of packed orders before they’re shipped, and automatic reshipment of orders whose tracking number hasn’t been updated.
- Duty-free import with Section 321: Sellers can ship merchandise to ShipMonk’s Mexico location and then incrementally import it into the US, divided into multiple $800 portions. This eliminates duties for volume importers.
ShipNetwork (Formerly Rakuten Super Logistics): Best for high-volume ecommerce
Overall Score:
3.82 / 5
Pros
- One- to two-day US ground delivery network
- Can support high-volume orders
- Specialty fulfillment services (refrigeration)
Cons
- Restrictive minimum order volume requirements
- No custom packaging
- No international warehouses
Why I chose ShipNetwork (Rakuten Super Logistics)
ShipNetwork earns its place in this guide as the best fit for high-volume ecommerce brands that prioritize fast, nationwide delivery. In the rubric, ShipNetwork scores strongest on shipping options, speed, and carrier coverage, and performs well on general fulfillment features like receiving, order accuracy, and integrations. It is built to support merchants that have already proven demand and need to tighten delivery times and consistency.
Compared with other providers on this list, ShipNetwork sits closer to ShipBob in terms of focus: both target brands that want widespread one- to two-day delivery and reliable fulfillment at scale. However, ShipNetwork is more narrowly tuned to established, high-volume ecommerce brands, while ShipBob also supports hybrid and global setups.
ShipNetwork does not compete with Red Stag on heavy/fragile specialization or with ShipMonk on subscription-focused kitting, but it is a strong fit if your main need is high-velocity DTC parcel shipping across the US.
For brands shipping hundreds or thousands of orders a month and wanting to lock in faster delivery promises without building their own warehouse network, ShipNetwork is one of the strongest options in this roundup.
Who should use ShipNetwork:
- Small businesses needing enterprise-level fulfillment: ShipNetwork supports enterprise-grade logistics while remaining accessible with a 250-order-per-month minimum, making it a scalable option for growing businesses.
- Companies requiring high order accuracy: With a 100% order accuracy guarantee, ShipNetwork guarantees a 0% error rate for customer satisfaction.
ShipNetwork does not disclose its pricing online — all onboarding, receiving, storage, pick and pack, and account management costs are custom-quoted. Contact ShipNetwork for a quote.
You can use the pricing calculator on ShipNetwork’s pricing page to get an estimated per-order cost based on your order volume, package weight, SKU count, and packaging type
- Xparcel: This program lets you compare quotes to choose the fastest and least expensive carrier. Others, like Flexport, choose the shipping service for you.
- Freight forwarding: ShipNetwork’s in-house team of freight experts can handle your domestic and international freight service needs.
- Customer support: US-based client service: Unlike many large-scale 3PLs, ShipNetwork does not outsource its customer service outside the US. Clients can receive support via live chat, phone, and email during standard business hours.
- Ecommerce smart tools: ShipNetwork provides online tools, including a shipping optimizer and customs guide with clearing support.
- Lot tracking: Manufacturers and retailers can work with ShipNetwork to track, fulfill by expiration/freshness dates, and properly recall product lots along the supply chain.
- Temperature control: The company offers climate control and refrigeration in some of its facilities. While others like ShipBob, Saltbox, FBA, and Red Stag claim climate control, ShipNetwork is the only one with refrigeration capabilities.
- Guaranteed accuracy: ShipNetwork promises 100% order accuracy and 100% of orders shipping within a day.
ShipHero: Best for transitioning to third-party fulfillment
Overall Score:
3.68 / 5
Pros
- Affordable two-day shipping to lower 48 states
- Zone-free shipping costs for ultra-predictable pricing
- Amazon SFP-eligible
Cons
- High minimum monthly order requirement
- Limited warehouse network
- No climate control
Why I chose ShipHero
ShipHero is my top pick for brands transitioning from in-house to third-party fulfillment, or for merchants who want 3PL services backed by one of the strongest WMS platforms in the industry. In my scoring rubric, ShipHero performs particularly well on ease of use, inventory visibility, and integration stability, making it ideal for hands-on operators who still want visibility and control even after outsourcing.
Compared with others in this list:
- More control than ShipBob or ShipNetwork thanks to a WMS-first approach.
- Better warehouse software than ShipMonk, especially for brands that manage multiple SKUs and need detailed operational workflows.
- Not as strong for specialized handling (e.g., oversized or fragile goods) as Red Stag.
Where ShipHero stands out is in its ability to support a hybrid model: merchants can use ShipHero’s WMS in their own warehouse, outsource part of their operations to ShipHero’s fulfillment centers, or combine both. This flexibility sets it apart from most other 3PLs and makes it a strong fit for scaling brands with growing operational needs.
Who should use ShipHero:
- Ecommerce retailers shipping nationwide: ShipHero’s no shipping zone pricing offers flat-rate shipping based on parcel size and weight, making fulfillment costs predictable for small businesses and startups.
- Businesses using 3PLs or hybrid fulfillment: ShipHero’s robust warehouse management system (WMS) helps manage warehouses efficiently, making it ideal for those balancing in-house and outsourced fulfillment.
- Ecommerce businesses seeking comprehensive warehouse management: ShipHero offers an all-in-one Warehouse Management System (WMS) that streamlines inventory control, order processing, and shipping, enhancing operational efficiency.
- Third-party logistics (3PL) providers desiring specialized tools: ShipHero offers functionalities tailored for 3PL operations, including client management and customized workflows, enhancing service offerings.
See how ShipHero compares to our top pick in our ShipBob vs ShipHero comparison guide.
ShipHero uses an ‘all-in-one’ fulfillment fee structure that includes flat-rate postage, pick and pack (for one item), and packaging materials. These rates are custom-quoted; the company states that because fulfillment needs vary, it can better meet expectations by offering personalized quotes.
However, ShipHero universally charges $0.70/cubic foot per day for storage and $0.33 per additional pick.
ShipHero’s warehouse management system (WMS) is a separate offering from its order fulfillment services. This software is used to manage and optimize day-to-day fulfillment operations and logistics in a self-managed warehouse. Prices start at $1,995/month.
- Fulfillment network: Seven US and two Canadian warehouse locations
- Warehouse management software: ShipHero WMS is used by large-scale warehouses globally. Although pricey, its comprehensive inventory and shipping management capabilities can offset costs in time and expenses
- No shipping zone pricing: Flat-rate shipping based on parcel size and weight for predictable fulfillment costs.
- Mobile pick and pack technology: Barcode scanning and mobile picking reduce errors by 99.9% for faster, more accurate fulfillment.
- Multi-carrier rate shopping: Optimizes shipping costs with real-time rate comparisons across major carriers.
- Integrations: Over 50 turnkey integrations plus API options
- Batch fulfillment: Offers per-project services for crowdfunding campaigns and product launches
- FBA prep and Seller-fulfilled Prime Eligibility: Power your Amazon sales with ShipHero’s programs and qualify for an Amazon Prime badge
- Operational visibility: See order status in real time, including photos of every packed box
- Accessible customer support: Dedicated support contact for personalized customer service
FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon): Best for Amazon sellers
Overall Score:
3.63 / 5
Pros
- Prime shipping designation provides access to over 200 million Prime subscribers
- Fast turnaround and shipping times
- Hands-off return and refund management
Cons
- Expensive storage fees that fluctuate seasonally
- Low visibility into stock levels and pooling products between sellers may put you at risk
- No common specialty services like kitting, assembly, or branded packaging
Why I chose FBA
I chose FBA because it delivers something no other provider on this list can match: Prime eligibility. In my scoring rubric, FBA performs exceptionally well in areas tied to speed and automation, thanks to Amazon’s massive nationwide network and deeply integrated logistics system.
Compared with providers like ShipBob, ShipMonk, or ShipNetwork, FBA offers significantly faster delivery coverage and requires far less day-to-day management from the seller. Brands that depend on Amazon as their primary sales channel benefit from baked-in SEO advantages, higher Buy Box competitiveness, and the trust associated with Prime shipping.
However, FBA is less flexible for multichannel retailers than ShipBob or ShipMonk unless they use Multi-Channel Fulfillment, which can become expensive. For sellers who are Amazon-first and want a hands-off fulfillment model with industry-leading delivery speed, FBA is the clear winner in this roundup.
Who should use FBA:
- Amazon sellers looking for Prime eligibility: Amazon FBA enables fast, Prime-eligible shipping, increasing visibility and conversion rates on the marketplace.
- Amazon sellers looking to win the Buy Box: FBA improves Buy Box placement, giving products a competitive edge in Amazon’s ranking algorithm.
- Ecommerce brands seeking multi-channel fulfillment: Through FBA Multi-Channel Fulfillment (MCF), sellers can use Amazon’s network to ship orders from Shopify, eBay, and other platforms.
FBA’s pricing structure is complicated, especially if you’re using FBA to fulfill orders from channels other than Amazon. Plus, its fees are slightly higher if your products are apparel or what it considers to be dangerous goods (which is anything that includes lithium batteries or magnetized material).
To address this, Amazon offers a host of useful fee tools to provide transparency and predictability for existing clients and potential customers estimating their profitability.
See how FBA’s pricing and features compare to the top-ranking company in our FBA vs ShipBob comparison review.
- Huge international fulfillment network: FBA has over 150 warehouse locations in the US and 75 international fulfillment centers. This blows away the competition.
- Quick delivery: Shipping times are driven by the Amazon Prime shipping guarantees, which have set the industry standard. Shoppers can select their delivery speed too, and Amazon orders largely arrive as expected.
- Scalability: Sellers that move from 10 products to millions of products monthly can use Amazon FBA. It’s important to monitor stock levels closely to optimize costs as you grow, but you won’t outgrow FBA’s fulfillment capacity.
- Specialty services: FBA items are eligible for Amazon’s gift services, and offering this doesn’t add to your fulfillment costs. Amazon does manage customer service and refunds for orders it fulfills, which is not typical.
- Search rankings: Amazon’s product-search algorithm favors products that are fulfilled by FBA, which can boost the visibility and sales of your goods.
Flexport: Best for selling on competitive marketplaces
Overall Score:
3.57 / 5
Pros
- Strong marketplace and platform relationships (including Shopify, Walmart, and SHEIN Marketplace), making it a good fit for brands selling in competitive channels
- Prime-like badges to advertise fast shipping
- Technology-driven fulfillment with SKU-level visibility, 99% on-time shipping, and 97%+ on-time delivery
Cons
- Monthly minimum fees that quickly price out many small and mid-sized merchants ($500 in 2025 and jumping to $5,000 in 2026)
- Pricing is complex and heavily customized
- Overkill for merchants that just need straightforward US DTC fulfillment rather than full global supply chain support
Why I chose Flexport
I chose Flexport for this list because it is one of the few providers that can truly act as an all-in-one 3PL and global logistics partner, handling everything from international freight and customs to ecommerce and B2B fulfillment.
In my rubric, Flexport scores well in advanced features and network capabilities, especially for brands that import products, sell across multiple marketplaces, and want tight control over both inbound and outbound logistics. It is also recognized in my broader 3PL coverage as a leading all-in-one 3PL solution, rather than just a warehouse and shipping provider.
Compared with ShipBob or ShipMonk, Flexport is less about simple DTC fulfillment and more about owning the whole supply chain: freight, customs, storage, and last-mile delivery all sit on a single platform. It offers stronger global visibility than most providers in this guide, and its performance metrics (like 99% on-time shipping and 97%+ on-time delivery) are competitive with the top ecommerce-focused 3PLs.
That said, Flexport is no longer a small-business-friendly option. The introduction of a $500 monthly minimum in 2025, and the scheduled jump to a $5,000 monthly minimum in 2026, clearly target higher-volume and more complex programs. In this roundup, Flexport is the best fit for brands that are already operating at scale, selling across multiple marketplaces, and need integrated freight plus fulfillment, not for early-stage ecommerce sellers.
Who should use Flexport:
- Businesses needing digital freight brokerage: Flexport connects with hundreds of carriers to offer flexible shipping solutions for small businesses selling online and enterprise-level customers.
- Ecommerce brands selling on non-Amazon marketplaces: Unlike FBA, Flexport specializes in fulfillment for Walmart, eBay, Wish, Facebook, Instagram, and Google Express
- Businesses engaged in global trade: Flexport’s comprehensive logistics solutions and global network simplify international shipping and customs processes, making it ideal for companies involved in importing and exporting goods.
- Companies looking for integrated supply chain solutions: Flexport’s end-to-end platform connects various aspects of global trade, empowering businesses to grow and innovate.
Since Our Last Update: Flexport has updated several parts of its pricing, including monthly minimums and adjustments to storage, B2B, and special-project fees. These changes are reflected in the section below.
Flexport uses a usage-based pricing model with a monthly minimum fulfillment spend and separate fees for storage, wholesale (B2B), non-compliance, and warehouse value-added services.
From July 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025, Flexport charges a $500 monthly minimum fulfillment spend to all accounts. Starting January 1, 2026, that minimum increases to $5,000. This fee is applied only if your non-D2C storage spend (fulfillment, reserve storage, parcel, FTL/LTL booked via Seller Portal, pallet/case handling, label services, prep, and credit card processing) is below the minimum. If you spend less than $500 in a month, Flexport bills the difference on your next invoice.
In August 2025, Flexport also updated several B2B, reserve storage, non-compliance, and value-added service rates. Changes include higher pallet storage rates at the San Bernardino reserve facility, new shelf-storage rates for reserve storage, new wholesale order-processing and portal-management fees, updated non-compliance fees for inbounds, and a standardized set of warehouse special-project rates (such as prep minimums, hourly inspection and cycle count fees, and certified disposals).
- Social selling: In addition to Shopify, Etsy, Walmart, and the other venues most on our list offer, Flexport also works with Facebook, Instagram, and Google.
- Prime-like badges: Offers badges on marketplace listings to promote fast shipping, automatically displayed for eligible customers on qualifying venues, signaling next-day or two-day delivery.
- Shipping carriers: Support for 12 shipping carriers, including FedEx, UPS, USPS, and DHL.
- Multi-modal shipping options: Supports ocean, air, truck, and rail freight for flexible transportation solutions.
- Sustainability initiatives: Provides carbon offset programs and tools to track emissions, helping businesses meet environmental goals.
- Advanced logistics: Flexport’s order fulfillment services are backed by an extensive logistics ecosystem, specializing in a broad range of services including freight and customs, with comprehensive logistics tools.
Saltbox: Best for fulfillment with coworking space
Overall Score:
3.46 / 5
Pros
- Custom packages include combination of in-house and/or third-party services
- Easy access to inventory and facilities keeps sellers in full control
- Membership includes amenities such as office space
Cons
- Limited volume capacities may not work for large or enterprise-level businesses
- Business-only customer support hours
- Lacks amenities for cold storage
Why I chose Saltbox
I chose Saltbox because it fills a gap none of the other providers in this guide address: hands-on fulfillment support with flexible warehouse space for small and growing brands.
Saltbox performs well in my scoring rubric on ease of use, onboarding, and specialty services, especially for businesses that need in-person help with receiving, prep, kitting, or photography. It’s also the most approachable option for sellers who want a blend of DIY control and outsourced fulfillment.
Compared with the rest of this list, Saltbox offers something very different from ShipBob or ShipNetwork, which are built for high-volume distributed fulfillment. Saltbox is more suitable for makers, boutique ecommerce brands, early-stage sellers, or businesses that want a physical workspace without committing to a full warehouse lease. Saltbox can only handle brands shipping 20,000+ orders per month, which may limit scalability at a certain point. For larger businesses with enterprise-level needs, ShipNetwork is a better fit.
It also stands apart from Red Stag and ShipMonk by being the only provider with staffed onsite assistance available to help with product prep, content creation, and operational tasks. For sellers who still want control over their inventory but need help scaling operations, Saltbox is one of the most flexible solutions available.
Who should use Saltbox:
- Small ecommerce brands needing workspace: Saltbox offers coworking spaces with integrated fulfillment, ideal for hands-on entrepreneurs.
- Growing businesses needing flexible fulfillment: No long-term contracts and scalable storage make it easy to adjust as business needs change.
- Brands wanting fulfillment and logistics support: Provides in-house fulfillment services, warehousing, and carrier partnerships for streamlined shipping.
- Local businesses wanting hands-on inventory access: Unlike traditional fulfillment centers, Saltbox allows direct access to inventory for packing, labeling, or custom branding.
- Entrepreneurs looking for a supportive community: Offers networking opportunities, shared resources, and an ecommerce-focused work environment.
Saltbox’s pricing is built around flexible membership plans that scale with your business. Instead of traditional per-order 3PL contracts, you choose a plan based on how you want to work:
- Virtual membership: Starting at $99/month, includes a professional business address and community access.
- Access plan: Starting at $199/month, includes shared workspaces, packing stations, and basic logistics support.
- Scale plan: Starting at $349/month, adds more robust receiving and outbound logistics capabilities.
- Workspace plans: Typically start around $500/month, offering dedicated warehouse or office suites for ecommerce teams that want onsite inventory space plus fulfillment tools.
For fulfillment, Saltbox offers in-suite pick and pack starting at $3 per order, available to workspace and bookable-suite members. Shipping and supplies are additional.
Optional add-ons include:
- Special projects and labor (kitting, bundling, FBA prep, wholesale handling, photography, inspections) at roughly $45/hour
- Overflow storage such as pallets at about $10 per pallet per day
- Container receiving fees for large inbound shipments
Saltbox does not require monthly order minimums, making it one of the most accessible options for small ecommerce sellers, new brands, and merchants who want hands-on control with the flexibility of onsite support.
- Coworking and fulfillment hybrid: Combines office space, warehousing, and fulfillment services for small businesses.
- Flexible services: Create your own hybrid fulfillment arrangement—Saltbox is the only order fulfillment service with this kind of flexibility
- Direct inventory access: Unlike traditional 3PLs, businesses can visit their space to manage products, pack orders, or customize branding.
- On-site logistics support: Provides carrier partnerships, shipping assistance, and fulfillment staff to streamline operations.
- Entrepreneurial community: Networking opportunities and shared resources for ecommerce business owners.
- Integrations: Over 30 integrations available, including Shopify, WooCommerce, Amazon, Etsy, Magento, and Walmart — plus CSV upload and API options
- Crowdfunding/batch fulfillment: Support for crowdfunding ventures and limited product launches at the same capacity as standard DTC businesses
How to choose the best fulfillment service for your business
Choosing a fulfillment partner comes down to a few practical questions about your goals, numbers, and business model. The right provider should save you time, control costs, and keep orders going out on time.
Step 1: Get clear on your goals
Decide what you want a fulfillment provider to fix first.
- If shipping is too slow, look for multi-warehouse providers with solid 1-2 day coverage.
- If costs are creeping up, focus on clear storage, pick-and-pack, and shipping markups.
- If you are Amazon-first, you may need FBA or an SFP-friendly partner.
- If you run subscriptions or bundles, make kitting and custom packaging a priority.
- If you ship heavy or fragile products, look for specialists with documented accuracy and low damage rates.
Clear goals help you quickly rule out providers that are not built for your needs.
Step 2: Know your numbers
A few basic numbers will tell you which providers are realistic options.
- Monthly order volume
- Under 200 orders: you need low or no minimums.
- Around 200 to 500 orders: mid-tier services with more features open up.
- 1,000+ orders: you can usually access better pricing and bigger networks.
- SKU count: small catalogs are easy; large catalogs need stronger inventory tools.
- Average weight and size: heavy or oversized items knock out many entry-level 3PLs.
- Sales channels: Shopify only is simple; Shopify plus Amazon, Walmart, and others needs broader integrations.
- Customer locations: if most orders go to one region, you want a warehouse close to that region; if you have international volume, you need cross-border support.
Having these numbers ready makes quotes more accurate and conversations with providers more useful.
Step 3: Match providers to your seller type
Use your profile to narrow your shortlist.
- If you ship about 200 orders a month with a small catalog, prioritize low minimums, simple pricing, and strong support over a huge network.
- If you ship 500 to 1,000 orders across multiple channels, look for multi-node networks, solid integrations, and good reporting.
- If you run subscription boxes or crowdfunding campaigns, require kitting, batch fulfillment, and custom packaging.
- If you sell heavy, fragile, or high-value items, focus on accuracy guarantees, damage handling, and special storage.
- If you plan to add B2B or wholesale, ask about pallets, routing guides, and retailer compliance.
This makes it more likely you pick a provider you will not outgrow in a year.
Step 4: Check for red flags and test the experience
As you compare providers, watch for common warning signs:
- Vague pricing or “call us” for basic fees
- Only one warehouse and no clear shipping-time maps
- No accuracy data or written commitments
- High minimums or long contracts that do not match your volume
- Limited or no returns handling
- Outdated or clunky software
Before signing, ask for a sample invoice based on your actual order profile, a quick demo of the dashboard, and a realistic timeline for onboarding.
If you still are not sure which direction to go, you can also use WarehousingAndFulfillment.com as a backup matching tool. It compares your needs against hundreds of pre-screened fulfillment companies and sends you a shortlist of options at no cost, which can be a helpful second check before you commit.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Click through the sections below to find the answers to common questions about product fulfillment services.
An order fulfillment company stores your products and ships orders for you. Instead of packing boxes yourself, the provider handles inventory storage, order processing, picking and packing, shipping labels, and returns. For many small retailers, it works like having a dedicated warehouse and shipping team without leasing space or hiring staff.
Costs vary based on your product size, order volume, and storage needs, but most providers charge a combination of storage fees, pick-and-pack fees, packaging costs, and shipping rates. You may also see receiving fees when you send inventory in. As a benchmark, expect to pay per-order charges plus storage each month, with larger or heavier items costing more. Providers with multiple warehouses or specialty services may price differently, so it’s smart to compare a few quotes based on your actual order profile.
Most small businesses outsource when shipping starts taking too much time or when space and staffing become a challenge. You may be ready if you’re falling behind on orders, running out of room for inventory, or spending more time packing than selling. Outsourcing can also help if your customers are spread across the country and you want faster delivery than you can provide from a single location.
Once you sign up, you send inventory to the provider’s warehouse and connect your online store. When an order comes in, the fulfillment company picks the item, packs it, and ships it using its carrier partners. Most services update your inventory automatically and provide tracking information to your customers. You manage everything from an online dashboard where you can see orders, stock levels, and returns.
A 3PL (third-party logistics provider) is a broader term that includes warehousing, shipping, freight, and sometimes transportation or distribution services. A fulfillment company focuses specifically on storing inventory and shipping customer orders. Many 3PLs offer both, but small ecommerce businesses typically use the fulfillment side for direct-to-consumer orders.
Start by listing your order volume, product weights, sales channels, and where your customers are located. Then check whether a provider has warehouse locations that match your shipping needs, clear pricing, and integrations with your store. It’s also helpful to request a demo or sample invoice so you understand actual costs. If you want more personalized options, you can take our quiz or use WarehousingAndFulfillment.com to get a short list of services that match your specific requirements.
Bottom line
Outsourcing your order fulfillment to a third party can help save time and money. It’s typically recommended when your growing business can no longer fulfill orders in-house without adding more people or space.
Overall, I found ShipBob the best order fulfillment service for small businesses. It has reasonable pricing, no order minimums, and a wide range of services.
If you didn’t find what you are looking for, WarehousingAndFulfillment.com can compare your specific needs to over 500 pre-screened fulfillment companies to find the best fit for your business. Plus, the service is completely free to use.