The free online knowledge base for retail suppliers - built by suppliers.

Pulling reports in Scintilla is a whole new ball game compared to the old way in DSS. 

How to Pull Reports in Scintilla

In this eBook, we walk through, step-by-step, some of the most essential reports in Scintilla.

Welcome to SupplierWiki 

Learn about:

-   Amazon's Product Receive Workflow

-   How the Parcel Identifier (PID) Process Works

-   What Amazon's Receive Process Means for Suppliers

* * * * *

Amazon suppliers have two primary shipping options: Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and Fulfillment by Merchant (FMB). Suppliers who opt for FBA must comply with Amazon's rules for packing, labeling, and shipping their products to Amazon's warehouses. Understanding how Amazon manages the arrival of products at its warehouses is crucial for suppliers. Failure to adhere to Amazon's guidelines can result in delays and chargebacks. So, let's take a look at how Amazon's receiving process works.

**Related Reading:** *[How to Dispute an Amazon Chargeback](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/how-to-dispute-an-amazon-chargeback)*

Amazon's Product Receive Workflow
---------------------------------

Using sophisticated technology, Amazon optimizes and automates its receiving and sorting processes to stow supplier products quickly and safely. This process typically takes place in four steps:

**1.  Trailer Unload/Breakdown:** This step is when the pallets received are broken down into the carton level. Please note: product received via pallet label is outside the scope of this article, as that process uses a different workflow.

**2.  Carton Receive:** The initial receive attempt happens at the carton level. Amazon receives freight at the carton level using a Parcel Identifier (PID). The PID is used to scan the carton content label. Without opening the carton the PID marks all the products in the carton as received using ASN data to determine what is in the carton.

**3.  Tote:** Next, the products are removed from the carton into a yellow tote, then travel to the stow station.

**4.  Stow Station:** Finally, all products are stowed at a single sellable unit level in a stow station. From there, sellable units are picked as soon as the order comes in.

Amazon receives most freight at the carton level using a Parcel Identifier (PID). The PID is used to scan the carton content label. Without opening the carton the PID marks all the products in the carton as received using ASN data to determine what is in the carton. This process deviates from the processes used by many other retailers, as the more standard process receives and stows products at the pallet level. 

How the Parcel Identifier (PID) Process Works
---------------------------------------------

Once the carton is received, the PID will execute the following checklist on each carton:

**1.  Label check**

**2.  ASN check**

**3.  ASIN check**

**4.  Carton check**

The success of the PID checks will determine precisely how the carton is received. If some or all of the PID checks fail, the process is not as straightforward. 

### Error at First Receive Attempt

Depending on the status of the PID checks (pass/fail), the carton will follow 1 of 4 workflows. The specific workflow a carton falls into will determine the speed of the receive process and any potential chargebacks for the supplier.

**If all checks are successful, then:**

A.  PID Carton Received → Efficient (or Auto) Receive

**If there is a fail, then:**

B.  Manual Each Receive → Slow

C.  Prep Each Receive → Slower

D.  Problem Each Receive → Slowest

![Amazon Receive Process.png](https://us-east-1.graphassets.com/AaZQD68KNQ46abk6wQUdWz/rzZwueuwTTifDPkm5VHf)

### Receive Paths

Once the initial receive attempt has failed, there are three basic methods to receive products:

![Amazon Receive Process (1).png](https://us-east-1.graphassets.com/AaZQD68KNQ46abk6wQUdWz/ZwID9r7kQZqB3Ts59Tgu)

#### Efficient (or Auto) Receive

Within the Efficient Receive path, there are two different receive paths:

**1.  Auto-Receive** utilizes PID to scan labels on cartons as they move on a conveyor. The items are received and recorded based on the ASN data.

**2.  Manual LP** is a process where an Amazon fulfillment center associate scans labels on individual cartons. This process also receives items based on the ASN data.

#### Each Receive

The Each Receive method requires an Amazon fulfillment center associate to open the cartons and scan each sellable item individually to receive the products. 

#### Prep Receive

The Prep Receive process is the most inefficient and costly process out of the three. Amazon frequently receives products that are not adequately packaged for shipment.  The Prep Receive process ensures the products align with Amazon's e-commerce-ready-packaging standards for shipments to end customers.

For example, fragile products made of glass, ceramics, etc., must be bubble-wrapped and securely boxed to ensure they reach their final destination intact. Even non-fragile items like clothing, plush toys, and pillows might require additional prep, like bagging, to prevent dust, dirt, or moisture from damaging the product in transit. After the items are packaged according to Amazon's standards, they can move on to the stow stations.

What Amazon's Receive Process Means for Suppliers
-------------------------------------------------

Due to the PID process, and the high level of automation in this process, it's crucial for suppliers to precisely prepare, pack, and ship their products to fulfillment centers.

For example, if a supplier sends an order with the correct quantity but messes up the Advanced Shipping Notice (ASN), it could lead to a failed initial receive or shortage. Additionally, inconsistencies in packaging or labeling can cause delays and incur additional costs for suppliers. For instance, if products arrive without proper labeling or packaging, they may need to be manually processed, leading to inefficiencies and potential chargebacks.

Suppliers must ensure compliance with Amazon's packaging and labeling requirements to facilitate smooth receive processes and maintain positive relationships with the e-commerce giant.

**Related Reading:** *[EDI 856: Ship Notice/Manifest -- Explaining EDI](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/edi-856-ship-notice-manifest)*

SupplyPike for Amazon Suppliers
-------------------------------

Ready to take control of your revenue and minimize deductions? SupplyPike's software solution for Amazon automates validity checks and dispute resolution to ensure that Amazon suppliers stay ahead of deductions, including AP, Co-Op, and chargebacks.

Don't let lost revenue eat into your bottom line. [Meet with a SupplyPike team member today](https://www.supplypike.com/schedule-a-demo) to discover how our solution can protect your profits and optimize your business operations.

How Amazon's Receive Process Impacts Suppliers

[SupplyPike](https://www.supplypike.com/) helps you fight deductions, increase in-stocks, and meet OTIF goals in the built-for-you platform, powered by machine learning.

SupplyPike

Bekah Tatem

Sr. Content Writer

Sourcing in the CPG Industry

How to Create Custom Datasets in Scintilla

In this article, learn about:

-   How suppliers managed POs before the program

-   What is Walmart's National PO Program?

-   Benefits of the National PO Program

-   Walmart's shift towards regional receiving

* * * * *

Walmart is always looking for ways to make their supply chain smoother and more efficient for themselves and their suppliers. Their latest innovation? **The National PO Program.** 

It is important to note that not all suppliers have access to the National PO Program yet. This new initiative is being selectively rolled out to suppliers who meet specific requirements. 

How Were Suppliers Managing Purchase Orders Before the Program?
---------------------------------------------------------------

Suppliers sending products to Walmart locations across the country are required to work with various **Regional Distribution Centers** (RDCs). To get products to these RDCs, separate purchase orders had to be created for each location, which often meant managing dozens of POs, prepping multiple pallets, and handling a lot of repetitive administrative work.

This process was not only time consuming but also often costly, especially for suppliers with **Less than Truckload** (LTL) shipments.

**[Related Reading: *What Is LTL Shipping?*](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/what-is-ltl-shipping)**

What Is the National Purchase Order Program? 
---------------------------------------------
The National PO Program was introduced to address these inefficiencies. Rather than generating multiple POs for each Regional Distribution Center (RDC), suppliers in the program now have the option to create a single national PO. This consolidated approach allows a single pallet with the national PO to be prepared and shipped to one of Walmart's consolidation centers---either an Automated Consolidation Center (ACC) or a Manual Consolidation Center (MCC). Once the shipment arrives, Walmart handles the breakdown and forwarding of the products to the relevant RDCs.

### How Does a Purchase Order Work?

A purchase order is typically the starting point of your supply chain. It is a legally binding agreement between a trading partner and a buyer, detailing items that the buyer would like to order from the trading partner. It contains prices that both parties have agreed to, including discounts, as well as delivery terms. Once a purchase order has been sent to the trading partner, then the whole life cycle of the order begins.

### How Does the Program Work? 

For example, a supplier of household cleaning supplies needing to distribute products nationwide would previously have had to:

-   Create multiple POs---one for each RDC receiving the product.

-   Label and prepare separate pallets for each PO.

-   Ship those pallets to a consolidation facility, where they would eventually be grouped into full truckloads and sent onward.

This process added labor, time, and expenses, especially for those dealing with LTL shipments that did not fully utilize truck space.

Under the National PO Program, suppliers can now:

-   Create one single PO for all the RDCs.

-   Prepare and label a single pallet with all the products for that PO.

-   Ship the pallet to a Walmart consolidation center.


From there, the consolidation center takes over, breaking down the shipments and redistributing products to the appropriate **Regional Distribution Centers** (RDCs), creating a smoother and more optimized process.

The Benefits of the National PO Program
---------------------------------------

This isn't just about cutting down on labels or avoiding paperwork. The National PO Program offers substantial, tangible benefits that positively affect both costs and the effectiveness of Walmart's supply chain.

**Lower Costs** 

By consolidating shipments into one, suppliers can sidestep the added costs of multiple LTL shipments. Fewer pallets, fewer labels, and a single PO translate to savings in transportation, labor, and packaging.

**Simplified Operations**

Fewer POs and shipments mean fewer administrative tasks. This simplicity minimizes errors and reduces the hassle of getting products where they need to go.

**Shorter Lead Times** 

Consolidated shipments reduce the time it takes for products to reach stores. With fewer delays, products are on shelves faster, benefiting both suppliers and Walmart.

**Enhanced Inventory Management** 

With Walmart overseeing redistribution from the consolidation centers, they can respond more rapidly to demand changes. This flexibility ensures that products reach the right place at the right time, reducing the likelihood of out-of-stock situations.

### Walmart's Shift Towards Regional Receiving

One big part of the National PO Program is Walmart's move toward a more regional receiving model. Instead of depending only on Local Distribution Centers (LDCs), Walmart now utilizes regional facilities such as crossdock and consolidation centers to manage shipments more effectively. These centers function as hubs where large shipments are received, sorted, and then distributed to the appropriate RDCs.

**Related Reading:  [*What is Cross-Docking?*](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/what-is-cross-docking)**

### Avoiding Delays at RDCs

Suppliers have sometimes experienced delays or confusion at RDCs, where shipments might get held up or misplaced. One of the key goals of the National PO Program is to reduce these kinds of issues. By centralizing the intake and sorting of shipments at the consolidation centers, Walmart can better track where products are and make sure they get to the right RDC without unnecessary hiccups or delays.

In Summary
----------

The **National PO Program** is all about making the supply chain more efficient and supplier-friendly. Fewer POs, fewer pallets, and simplified shipments mean you save on costs and reduce the amount of time spent on logistics. It's an easier, more streamlined way to do business with Walmart.

Beyond that, Walmart's increased flexibility in managing inventory through their consolidation centers means suppliers' products are more likely to be available when and where they're in demand. 

Protect Your Business at Walmart 
---------------------------------

Deductions and compliance fines are commonplace when selling to any retailer. [SupplyPike](https://www.supplypike.com/) helps Walmart suppliers get paid and get better. Our software tests the validity of deductions, collects proof documentation, and takes disputing a claim down to a few (or zero) clicks.

Our software also helps suppliers avoid fines by digging into root cause analysis and providing executive-level oversight of the supply chain. [Schedule a meeting](http://supplypike.com/schedule-a-demo) with a team member to find out if SupplyPike is right for your retail business.

Continued Learning: SupplierWiki's Resources
--------------------------------------------

For more free educational content like this ([eBooks](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/ebooks), [Cheat Sheets](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/cheat-sheets),[ Webinars](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/events), and[ Articles](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles)), sign up for our[ newsletter](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/). We cover material essential for retail suppliers, especially related to revenue loss at Walmart, Amazon, CVS, Target, Kroger, and Home Depot.

What Is Walmart's National PO Program? 

Hudson Bercier

Associate Product Manager

Finding The Right Purchase Order: EDI 850 Vs. EDI 875

Finding The Right Purchase Order: EDI 850 Vs. EDI …

Danielle Gloy

Content Writer

Learn about:

-   Defining supply chain resilience

-   Key elements of a resilient supply chain

-   Impact of global disruptions on supply chains

-   Common vulnerabilities in global supply chains

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In today's rapidly evolving global market, supply chain resilience is the key to thriving amidst uncertainty. A healthy supply chain does not just weather disruptions; it anticipates them, adapts swiftly, and emerges stronger. By leveraging advanced analytics, diversifying suppliers, and enhancing real-time visibility, businesses can transform potential threats into opportunities for growth.

Imagine a supply chain that is as dynamic as its challenges---responsive, robust, and ready to deliver, no matter what. **Ensuring continuity, fostering innovation, and achieving excellence in unpredictable environments is the essence of supply chain resilience.** Some examples of recent global supply chain disruptions include conflict in the Red Sea, pirate attacks off Somalia, concerns over attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, port congestion in the Western Med, and drought in the Panama Canal. The disruptions caused by these incidents highlight the importance of supply chain resiliency.

Defining Supply Chain Resilience
--------------------------------

[Supply chain resilience](https://www.sap.com/products/scm/integrated-business-planning/what-is-a-resilient-supply-chain.html) is the ability of a supply chain to prepare for, respond to, and recover from unexpected disruptions. It encompasses the capacity to absorb shocks, adapt to changing conditions, and maintain continuity of operations in the face of various challenges.

Supply chain resilience is crucial for minimizing the impact of disruptions on business operations, ensuring the timely delivery of products, and sustaining competitive advantage. By incorporating the following elements, businesses can create more robust supply chains that withstand and quickly recover from unforeseen events, reducing downtime and maintaining operational stability.

Key Elements of a Resilient Supply Chain
----------------------------------------

-   **Flexibility:** The ability to adapt to changes in demand, supply, and market conditions quickly and efficiently.

-   **Redundancy:** Having backup options within centers of excellence, such as multiple suppliers or additional inventory, ensures continuity in case of disruptions.

-   **Responsiveness:** The speed at which a supply chain can react to changes and disruptions.

-   **Visibility:** The ability to monitor and track supply chain processes and inventory in real time to identify and address issues promptly.

-   **Risk Management:** Proactively identifying potential risks and developing strategies to mitigate their impact.

-   **Collaboration:** Improve information sharing and joint problem-solving by building strong relationships with suppliers, partners, and stakeholders.

**Related Reading:** *[An Introduction to Supply Chain Management](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/understanding-supply-chain-management)*

Global Disruptions on Supply Chains
-----------------------------------

The concept of supply chain resilience has gained visibility in recent years due to a series of global disruptions that exposed vulnerabilities in traditional supply chain models. The COVID-19 pandemic and extreme weather events have underscored the critical need for resilient supply chains to maintain business continuity and competitiveness.

The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly disrupted global supply chains across industries in unprecedented ways. Key issues highlighted by the pandemic include:

-   **Supply Shortages:** Many companies faced critical shortages of raw materials and finished goods as factories shut down and transportation was restricted. For instance, the shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical supplies became a significant problem early in the pandemic.

-   **Demand Fluctuations:** There were sudden and dramatic shifts in consumer demand. While some sectors, like e-commerce and healthcare, saw spikes in demand, others, such as travel and hospitality, experienced steep declines.

-   **Operational Delays:** Lockdowns and quarantine measures delayed manufacturing, shipping, and distribution. Ports, warehouses, and distribution centers faced labor shortages, further complicating logistics.

-   **Global Interdependencies:** The pandemic highlighted how interconnected and interdependent global supply chains are. Disruptions in one part of the world had cascading effects globally, affecting production schedules and delivery times.

**Related Reading:**  *[Reimagining Supply Chain Resilience After COVID-19](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/reimagining-supply-chain-resilience-after-covid-19)*

Extreme weather events, exacerbated by climate change, have also brought supply chain resilience into sharp focus:

-   **Hurricanes & Typhoons:** Severe storms can devastate infrastructure, disrupt transportation networks, and halt production. For example, Hurricane Harvey in 2017 caused significant flooding and damage to the US Gulf Coast, disrupting supply chains for petrochemicals and other industries.

-   **Wildfires:** Increasingly frequent and intense wildfires, such as those in California and Australia, have led to evacuations, infrastructure damage, and air quality issues, impacting logistics and worker safety.

-   **Flooding:** Heavy rainfall and flooding can damage facilities, destroy inventory, and disrupt transportation routes. For example, the 2011 floods in Thailand severely affected the global electronics and automotive supply chains.

-   **Droughts:** Drought conditions can affect agricultural production, leading to shortages of raw materials and increased costs for food and beverage industries.

Common Vulnerabilities in Global Supply Chains    
--------------------------------------------------

Despite their efficiency and scale, global supply chains are increasingly susceptible to various vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities can cause significant disruptions, leading to operational, financial, and reputational damage:

### Single Source Dependency 

Single source dependency refers to reliance on a single supplier for critical components or raw materials. If a sole supplier faces a disruption, such as natural disasters, political instability, or operational failures, it can halt the entire supply chain. For example, Japan's 2011 earthquake and tsunami disrupted the global supply of automotive and electronic components.

### Lack of Visibility

Companies struggle to respond promptly to disruptions without [proper visibility](https://www.supplychaindive.com/spons/3-reasons-supply-chain-visibility-is-vital-to-retail-resilience/704540/) into their inventory and supply chain processes, leading to delayed decision-making and inefficiencies. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies faced challenges in tracking the movement of goods and assessing the status of their supply chains.

### Limited Flexibility and Agility

Limited flexibility and agility in supply chain operations create rigidity and limit a company's ability to adapt. Inflexible supply chains cannot quickly pivot in response to sudden market changes, such as spikes in demand or supply shortages. This was evident during the pandemic when demand for certain goods (e.g., PPE) surged while others plummeted.

### Geopolitical Risks 

Political instability, trade wars, tariffs, and regulatory changes worldwide will always pose significant risks for global supply chains. Geopolitical events can disrupt trade routes, increase costs, and create uncertainty. The US-China trade war, for instance, led to increased tariffs, forcing companies to rethink their supply chain strategies and shift production locations.

### Cybersecurity Threats

Cybersecurity threats highlight vulnerabilities in digital infrastructure and cyberattacks targeting supply chain systems. Cybersecurity breaches can compromise sensitive data, disrupt operations, and cause financial losses. High-profile incidents, such as the NotPetya ransomware of 2017 and 2022, affected global companies like Maersk and Expeditors, leading to significant operations disruptions.

### Natural Disasters and Climate Change

Exposure to extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, exacerbated by climate change can severely impact supply chains. Natural disasters can damage infrastructure, halt production, and disrupt transportation networks. 

### Labor and Skill Shortages

Labor and skill shortages can disrupt supply chains due to a lack of skilled labor and workforce interruptions from strikes, pandemics, or demographic changes. Labor shortages can lead to production delays, increased labor costs, and reduced efficiency. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerability of supply chains to workforce availability issues, as seen in the manufacturing and logistics sectors. 

### Inventory Management Issues

Poor inventory management practices, such as overstocking or understocking, can hurt supply chain efficiency. Inaccurate inventory levels can lead to excess inventory, increasing holding costs, or stockouts, resulting in lost sales and customer dissatisfaction. The pandemic exposed the pitfalls of just-in-time inventory practices as companies struggled with sudden surges in demand.

### Financial instability of Suppliers

Financially unstable suppliers are more likely to experience disruptions in their operations, which can affect the entire supply chain. The bankruptcy of a key supplier can lead to significant operational challenges for dependent companies.

### Transportation and Logistics Challenges

Complex logistics networks are prone to disruptions like port congestion, transportation delays, and rising fuel costs. The blockage of the Suez Canal in 2021 by the Ever Given vessel is a prime example, which halted global trade flows and caused extensive delays. The most recent Red Sea challenges are another key example.

**Related Reading:**  *[Red Sea/Suez Canal Crisis Disrupts Global Logistics](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/canal-crisis-disrupts-global-logistics)*

Supply Chain Resilience as a Strategic Investment
-------------------------------------------------

Given these ongoing and emerging challenges, supply chain resilience has become an essential strategic priority for businesses. The ability to anticipate, prepare for, and respond to disruptions can significantly reduce the negative impacts on operations. Companies that invest in resilient supply chain strategies are better positioned to:

-   **Maintain Operational Continuity:** Ensure critical functions continue despite disruptions, minimizing downtime and service interruptions.

-   **Protect Revenue and Market Share:** Quickly adapt to changes in supply and demand to avoid lost sales and market opportunities.

-   **Enhance Customer Trust and Loyalty:** Deliver consistent and reliable service to customers, even in times of crisis, thereby building stronger customer relationships.

-   **Gain Competitive Advantage:** Outperform competitors who may be slower to respond to disruptions, gaining a foothold in the market.

-   **Improve Long-Term Sustainability:** Develop robust, sustainable practices that address immediate risks and contribute to long-term environmental and social goals.

Companies must adopt a proactive approach, incorporating risk management, diversified sourcing, technological advancements, and flexible operational strategies to mitigate these vulnerabilities and ensure continuous and efficient supply chain operations.

Stay Informed with SupplierWiki
-------------------------------

Interested in more content like this? SupplierWiki helps suppliers navigate supply chain complexities with timely updates, strategies, and best practices. [Sign up for our weekly newsletter](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/) to receive expert advice, actionable tips, and the latest news directly to your inbox.

What is Supply Chain Resilience?

KP Global Logistics Consulting was founded to help small to mid-sized businesses optimize their global logistics supply chain networks. The approach at KP Global Logistics is simple – rely on the lessons learned from decades of experience and prioritize ethical business practices for sustainable, long-term results. The core elements found throughout KP Global Logistics consulting are an emphasis on social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and universal ethics.

KP Global Logistics Consulting

Kevin Parkerson

Founder & President, KP Global Logistics Consulting

Welcome to SupplierWiki, a knowledge base built for suppliers by suppliers. Learn all things retail, supply chain, and more!

homepage

SupplierWiki Home

How to Become a Home Depot Supplier

Lowe's Vendor Gateway Map

Invoicing Best Practices at Lowe's

Standard Deduction Codes at Lowe's

Lowe’s Deduction Dispute Process

Vendor Performance (Compliance/OTIF) at Lowe's

Lowe’s Returns

Packaging and Shipping Guidelines at Lowe's

Lowe’s Terms and Acronyms Cheat Sheet-9

Lowe’s Vendor Performance (Compliance) Glossary 

Lowe’s Distribution Center List

Ordering at Home Depot

Open Invoices and POD Dispute Packages at Home Depot

Home Depot Deduction Types, Remittance List, and Contact Information-9

Home Depot DCs List-10

Selling to Lowe’s and Home Depot can transform your business — but navigating their processes can be challenging. 

A Supplier's Guide to Home Improvement Retailers

Download your guide to working with Lowe’s and Home Depot 🛠️ 

Introduction to Report Builder in Scintilla

How to Pull the Vendor Scorecard-10

How to Pull Reports for Sales and Inventory in Scintilla

How to View Walmart Instocks-9

How to Pull Reports for Demand Forecasts

How to Create Custom Datasets in Scintilla-ebook

Pulling Data Segmentation with a Custom Dataset

The Difference Between Walmart's Basic and Charter in Report Builder 

DSS Aliases in Scintilla

Introduction- Accounting Playbook for CPG Suppliers

Crash Course Accounting for CPG Suppliers

Inventory Management and Accounting

Trade Deductions and Chargebacks

Accounts Receivable and Collections

Compliance Audits at Major Retailers

Actionable Improvements for CPG Accounting

Appendices- The accounting Playbook

📖 We didn’t write the book on accounting for CPG suppliers, but this resource is a good start! Download this eBook to learn common formulas, definitions, and best practices. 

Accounting Playbook for CPG Suppliers

Download this eBook 📖 to learn common formulas, definitions, and best practices for accounting in the CPG supplier space.

Introduction

First Steps to Sell on Walmart Marketplace

Setting Up Your Catalog on Walmart Marketplace

Learn about:

*   Shipping options for Walmart Marketplace sellers
*   Marketplace shipping standards
*   Expected Ship Date and Expected Delivery Date

* * *

Walmart Marketplace provides merchandise sold at Walmart’s physical stores along with various products from third-party marketplace sellers that Walmart has examined and approved. There are six shipping methods available to sellers: **Value, Standard, ThreeDay, TwoDay, Next Day,** and **Freight**. Sellers must support a minimum of one shipping method.

**Free Value Shipping**
-----------------------

The default shipping method for all Marketplace sellers is **Free Value Shipping.** This method offers free delivery to the customer in the continental 48 states with a transit time of 3-7 business days.

The advantage of this method is that it allows sellers to take their time in fulfilling the order, and the cost is lower for the customer. However, this means that sellers may not charge the customer for shipping, regardless of the seller’s costs.

This option may not be disabled in the Seller Center, but sellers may exclude items during set up from Free Value Shipping by using the same item spec sheet. For more information on overrides, go to the [**Shipping Overrides article**](https://sellerhelp.walmart.com/s/guide?article=000007906) on the Marketplace knowledge base.

**Standard, ThreeDay, and Next Day Shipping**
---------------------------------------------

**Standard, ThreeDay,** and **Next Day** shipping are optional methods sellers can set up in Seller Center, along with **TwoDay** shipping (more on that later). Walmart defines the transit times for each shipping option as such:

*   **Standard shipping**: 2-5 business days
*   **ThreeDay shipping:** 2-3 business days 
*   **Next Day shipping:** The same or following day as the order was received

Walmart restricts these transit times to the continental 48 states for both street and post office box addresses. Outside of that region, such as Hawai’i or Army Post Office boxes, sellers can select the transit times.

For these three options, sellers can select their shipping pricing model. Sellers may choose a flat rate, an order weight, or an order price range (e.g., orders $35 and up are $5 for ThreeDay Shipping). Sellers can also specify rates for each region, broken down as follows:

*   The contiguous 48 United States street addresses
*   The contiguous 48 United States post office boxes
*   Alaska and Hawai’i street addresses
*   Alaska and Hawai’i post office boxes
*   US Protectorates (e.g., Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands) street addresses
*   US Protectorates post office boxes
*   Army/Air Force and Fleet Post Office boxes (APO/FPO)

Of course, sellers may also offer any of these shipping options for free.

**TwoDay Shipping**
-------------------

As with Standard, ThreeDay, and Next Day shipping, sellers may select **TwoDay** shipping on their shipping page in Seller Central and specify its terms. TwoDay shipping is different, however, for a few reasons.

TwoDay shipping allows for customers to create orders for free delivery within 1-2 days. These orders are unlimited, with no membership requirements or order limits. The TwoDay shipping program offers two options for fulfillment as well: **Seller-Managed** and **Third-Party** via Deliverr. 

### **Seller-Managed**

As the name suggests, **Seller-Managed fulfillment** requires the Marketplace seller to fulfill and ship orders from its warehouse or 3PL. Walmart requires that sellers meet certain requirements to be eligible for this option. The criteria are as follows:

*   Sellers must either have been on the Marketplace for more than 90 days or have filled at least 100 Marketplace orders.
*   Sellers must have a returns policy that allows for quick and easy merchandise returns for a large variety of reasons.
*   Sellers must have good Order Defect Rate (ODR) scores within the most recent thirty days, matching these metrics:
    *   **On-Time Shipping:** greater than 95%
    *   **On-Time Delivery:** greater than 95%
    *   **Valid Tracking Rate:** greater than 95%
    *   **Cancellation Rate:** less than 1.5%

Walmart requires that sellers fulfill at least 20 orders within the previous 7 days of applying to be seller-managed in order to review these metrics and determine eligibility.

To become seller-managed, sellers must click on the Request Access button in the Shipping settings page in Seller Central. Next, Walmart will review the seller’s performance and ODR. Walmart typically approves sellers within 48 hours. Once approved, sellers will be able to [**set up fulfillment**](https://sellerhelp.walmart.com/s/guide?article=000008289) within the TwoDay shipping page or [**integrate the API**](https://developer.walmart.com/forums/index.php/whats-coming/marketplace-2d-geo-shipping).

### **Third-Party Managed**

**Third-party managed fulfillment** simply means the seller utilizes Walmart’s partner, [**Deliverr**](https://deliverr.com/). Deliverr has its own fulfillment centers and is available to every Marketplace seller regardless of performance. However, there are a few requirements that sellers’ products must meet to eligible for Deliverr’s fulfillment:

*   Each product cannot weigh more than **75 US pounds.**
*   Each product must conform to the following measurements:
    *   The longest side cannot be more than **40 US inches**.
    *   The median side must be less than **30 US inches**.
    *   The shortest side must be less than **15 US inches**.
*   The product must not be on [**Deliverr’s restricted product list**](https://support.deliverr.com/hc/en-us/articles/115002943554-Restricted-product-list).

Sellers can sign up with Deliverr and connect to their Seller Central accounts to set up their items. Deliverr will display each item’s delivery cost and ways to manage the seller’s account. Additionally, sellers can use any of the following services to create split-channel orders:

*   [ChannelAdvisor](https://www.channeladvisor.com/), 
*   [CedCommerce](https://cedcommerce.com/), 
*   [GeekSeller](https://www.geekseller.com/), 
*   [Sellbrite](https://www.sellbrite.com/), 
*   [SellerActive](https://www.selleractive.com/), or 
*   [Zentail](https://www.zentail.com/).

**Freight Shipping**
--------------------

Walmart utilizes [**less-than-truckload (LTL) freight shipping**](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/what-is-ltl-shipping/) for items that are too large to ship via basic ground or air carrier services, such as UPS. Sellers must configure freight shipping via shipping overrides in Seller Central, not through the shipping settings page.

Freight shipping will override any other shipping options selected for the specified item in Seller Central. This option is available for all shipping regions, and sellers set the item’s delivery price individually, including free delivery. Walmart presets the transit time to 5-10 business days for all regions, including Alaska, Hawai’i, APO/FPOs, etc.

**_[Related Reading: Pros and Cons of Selling on Walmart’s Marketplace](https://supplierwiki.supplypike.com/articles/three-pros-and-cons-of-selling-on-walmart-marketplace/)_**

**Shipping Standards**
----------------------

Walmart has implemented specific shipping standards for each option, including fulfillment times and schedules. These standards are as follows:

*   **Processing Schedule**
*   **Order Cutoff Time**
*   **Item-Level Fulfillment Lag Time**
*   **Transit Time** in business days for the contiguous 48 US states
*   **Total Fulfillment Time** in business days for the contiguous 48 US states

### **Processing Schedule**

Walmart defines the seller **processing schedule** as the days of the week that the seller chooses to fulfill orders. Walmart requires sellers to process orders Monday through Friday (i.e., business days). Walmart does not consider Saturdays and Sundays as business days and has chosen to disable these days.

Sellers may disable processing days via the **Additional Days Off portal** on the Partner Profile page for company holidays or days where fulfillment is not possible (e.g., severe weather conditions or closings due to COVID-19). Walmart restricts these days off and still requires sellers to provide exceptional customer service even on these days. Sellers should take care not to use days off excessively, or Walmart may choose to delist their products due to performance standards.

### **Order Cutoff Time**

The **order cutoff time** refers to the time during which a customer places an order. This time determines when Walmart expects the seller to process the order. For all shipping options, **the order cutoff time is 2 PM local time, Monday through Friday.** 

So, if a customer places an order at 1:59 PM within the same time zone as the seller on a business day, the seller must begin processing that order that day. If, however, a customer places the order at 2:01 PM, then the seller may start to process the order the next business day. 

Order cutoff times are subject to the seller’s processing schedule, so sellers may begin processing orders placed on holidays, etc., on the next scheduled business day.

For sellers with fulfillment centers in different time zones, they can configure order cutoff times to match their FC’s local time. The allowed time zones for order cutoff times are EST, CST, MST, and PST.

### **Item-Level Fulfillment Lag Time**

Sellers determine **fulfillment lag time** at the item level, depending on the number of days it takes to prepare that particular item for shipment to the customer. Sellers may create lag time exceptions to individual items in Item Setup product categories. Changes to fulfillment lag time may take up to 24 hours to appear on the Marketplace.

Sellers should be careful utilizing lag time, as it can negatively impact the customer’s experience and cause low performance scores. By default, Walmart requires that sellers have a lag time of less than one business day to remain on their specified order processing schedule.

Walmart limits approval of lag time exceptions based on the type of product. Once approved, the seller will be able to add the lag time within the allowed product category by uploading the “[**Lag Time Feed**](https://sellerhelp.walmart.com/seller/s/guide?article=000005986).” Typically, Walmart accepts exceptions to lag time for categories that require additional time, such as made-to-order products, customized items, and print-on-demand services. Additionally, Walmart will approve up to 10 business days of lag time for Freight/LTL shipping.

Walmart will reject lag time exceptions for sellers who use third-party vendors for fulfillment or processing. Additionally, Walmart will not approve exceptions for SKUs or categories that are preorder, are on backorder, or need extra time to ship due to issues with the seller’s supply chain.

### **Transit Time**

Walmart defines an order’s **transit time** as the number of business days the order is with the carrier after the seller has sent it out. Transit times for each of the shipping methods are as follows:

*   **Free Value:** 3-7 business days
*   **Standard:** 2-5 business days
*   **Three Day:** 2-3 business days
*   **TwoDay:** 1-2 business days
*   **Next Day:** 0-1 business days 

**Note:** Walmart bases these transit times on shipping to the contiguous 48 US states. Transit times increase for other regions.

Sellers have lots of carrier options to choose from when it comes to shipping Marketplace orders. Sellers should be careful when selecting a carrier, as longer-than-expected transit times that fail to meet delivery schedules can impact the seller’s ODR and cause Walmart to delist the seller’s items. Sellers can configure transit times in the Seller Center under the [**Partner Profile settings**](https://sellerhelp.walmart.com/seller/s/guide?article=000006416).

### **Total Fulfillment Time**

Finally, Walmart calculates the seller’s **total fulfillment time** according to the order cutoff time, fulfillment lag time, and transit time to determine the expected delivery date that appears on the customer’s order tracking page. The total fulfillment time for each shipping option is as follows:

*   **Free Value:** no more than 9 business days
*   **Standard:** no more than 7 business days
*   **ThreeDay:** no more than 4 business days
*   **TwoDay:** no more than 3 business days
*   **Next Day:** no more than 2 business days

**Expected Ship Date (ESD) and Expected Delivery Date (EDD)**
-------------------------------------------------------------

Every order placed on Walmart’s Marketplace comes with an **Expected Delivery Date (EDD)**, which Walmart determines using the total fulfillment time. With each order, Walmart will give the seller an **Expected Ship Date (ESD)** that the seller must adhere to or else face a decrease in ODR.

### **Expected Ship Date (ESD)** 

Walmart determines the Expected Ship Date (ESD) of an order by calculating the product’s fulfillment lag time and the order cutoff time. Walmart expects sellers to provide an order’s shipping confirmation and tracking number by the ESD to mark the order as “**Shipped On-Time**.”

Walmart breaks down the ESD for orders as follows:

**Fulfillment Lag Time**

**Expected Ship Date (ESD)**

0 days

On the same day

1 day

The next day

2 days

The day after next

Order cutoff times apply as well. So, if an order has a fulfillment lag time of zero days, and the seller receives the order at 2:01 PM local time, Walmart will expect the seller to ship the order the next day.

### **Expected Delivery Date (EDD)**

When a seller receives an order, Walmart will calculate the Expected Delivery Date (EDD) based on the ESD and send it to the customer. The EDD is the date on which the customer must receive the order in order for Walmart to consider the order “**Delivered On-Time**.” If an order arrives after the EDD, it will negatively impact the seller’s ODR.

For more information on Walmart’s Marketplace ODR program, visit the [**Seller Central knowledge base**](https://sellerhelp.walmart.com/s/guide?article=000007175#Order_Defect_Rate).

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