In the ever-evolving world of e-commerce, sellers are continually searching for innovative solutions to streamline operations and enhance profitability. Walmart Fulfillment Services (WFS) stands out as a powerful tool, leveraging Walmart’s extensive logistics network to help sellers meet customer expectations efficiently.
This blog dives into the insights shared by industry experts Deepak Goyal, Co-founder & CEO – of Optiwise.ai, and Mark Fleming from Walmart WFS during a recent webinar organized by Optiwise.ai, offering valuable knowledge on the benefits and operational intricacies of WFS.
The Strategic Importance of WFS
Deepak Goyal emphasized the transformative impact of WFS on Walmart Marketplace operations. Before the introduction of WFS, sellers faced significant challenges in managing shipping, handling, and returns. The launch of WFS addressed these pain points, making it easier for sellers to utilize Walmart’s vast logistics network. Goyal noted that WFS has become indispensable for many sellers, with 80% of Optiwise.ai’s top 50 customers already using the service and the rest in the process of enrolling.
Key Benefits of WFS
1. World-Class Supply Chain:
Mark Fleming, onboarding lead for WFS, emphasized Walmart’s position as a top-tier logistics company. Walmart ranks among the top three logistics businesses globally, leveraging its massive infrastructure to offer expedited, affordable, and dependable shipping. This capability allows sellers to fulfill orders within two days across the contiguous United States, significantly enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty. Additionally, over 90% of U.S. households live within 15 miles of a Walmart store, facilitating easy in-store returns and further leveraging Walmart’s extensive logistics network.
2. Significant Growth Opportunities:
Sellers using WFS see an average 50% increase in gross merchandise value (GMV). Even those with existing logistics networks benefit from a substantial GMV lift, thanks to the “Fulfilled by Walmart” tag, which assures customers of fast and reliable delivery. Fleming mentioned that Walmart.com was the number one visited website on Black Friday 2022, underscoring the massive customer base available to WFS sellers.
3. Access to Walmart Plus Customers:
WFS sellers gain access to Walmart’s high-value loyalty program members. Walmart Plus customers exhibit higher spending patterns and frequent repeat purchases, further boosting sales and profitability for sellers. This program includes benefits like free home delivery, discounts on fuel, and access to streaming services, making it a valuable asset for increasing customer loyalty and sales.
4. Comprehensive Customer Support:
WFS provides robust customer service and phone support, ensuring sellers and buyers receive timely assistance. This support network includes strategic advisory services, enhancing the overall seller experience on Walmart Marketplace. Walmart’s customer service is available seven days a week, offering a high level of support to both sellers and customers.
Operational Insights
Mark Fleming detailed the streamlined process for integrating with WFS, highlighting the simplicity of the cost structure. Sellers benefit from reduced inbound shipping rates with Walmart’s preferred carriers and transparent fulfillment fees based on item weight. Walmart handles all customer care and returns, offering hassle-free in-store returns for customers and flexible return options for sellers. Additionally, WFS offers prep services such as labeling and poly bagging, ensuring products meet Walmart’s requirements.
Program Benefits
Inbound Logistics and Prep Services:
WFS provides access to Walmart’s shipping rates with preferred carriers and offers prep services for labeling and packaging. Sellers can ship inventory to Walmart fulfillment centers using these rates, ensuring cost-effective logistics. Walmart takes liability for shipments from the moment they are picked up by preferred carriers, providing peace of mind for sellers.
Product Suitability:
WFS is ideal for premium brands, high-moving items, and non-perishable products. Walmart does not accept items that can spoil but manages products with expiration dates efficiently. Items are stored in a way that maximizes picking speed and efficiency, ensuring quick delivery to customers.
Flexibility in Shipping:
Sellers can send small parcels, less-than-truckload shipments, or full container loads to Walmart fulfillment centers. Walmart provides reduced rates for these shipments and handles the logistics from the fulfillment centers to the customer’s doorstep.
Conclusion
Walmart Fulfillment Services offers a compelling value proposition for sellers aiming to optimize their operations and increase profitability on Walmart Marketplace. You can read more about the benefits of WFS here.
By leveraging Walmart’s logistics expertise and extensive infrastructure, WFS enables sellers to meet customer expectations efficiently and scale their businesses effectively. As the e-commerce landscape continues to evolve, integrating with WFS can provide a competitive edge, driving growth and success in the dynamic marketplace.
Optiwise.ai is here to help you navigate and optimize your e-commerce strategy, ensuring that you can leverage the full potential of services like WFS. Our AI-driven automation and data insights simplify the process, making it cost-effective and efficient. Join the future of e-commerce today with Optiwise.ai and watch your business thrive.
Newsletter 