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Determine your Ideal
Warehouse Location

As a growing ecommerce brand, you should know exactly what your shipping costs will be before partnering with a 3PL. A centrally located fulfillment operation is most times the best solution as it helps you reduce shipping costs and shipping times to customers.

Factors we consider when building your analysis

A box with atomix logo on and green tape.

Package Weight

Package weight determines shipping cost and ensures compliance with carrier restrictions.

To weigh it, use a scale accurate to the nearest ounce or gram, like digital, shipping, or platform scales.

Package Destination

The destination of a package is one of the key factors that determines the cost of shipping with a carrier.

Be aware of destination-specific restrictions, including international shipping rules, taxes, customs duties, and carrier requirements like documentation (e.g., commerce invoice or certification of origin).

Atomix plane, truck, and van displaying the brand identity.
Box with atomix branded tape with a package delivery timeline.

Delivery Times

Shipping times vary based on method, destination, and handling. Choose from options like ground, expedited, or overnight, but remember that estimated
delivery times are not guaranteed.

Track your package to stay updated and address issues promptly.

Atomix Shipping Analysis

How Does it Work?

01

What's the best warehouse location?

Brands with an even distribution of customers - 50% of customers on the east coast and west coast - and monthly order volume of 0-12,000 orders, should use a centrally-located warehouse. This can provide a huge advantage when trying to lower shipping costs.

However, if you have 60%+ of customers on one coast, you might see greater benefits of a warehouse located on the same coast.

Ultimately, the shipping rates of the 3PL and finding the right partner are important factors to consider.
Learn more
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02

How are shipping rates calculated?

To calculate shipping costs, you will need the following:
- Your Package Weight (review DIM calculations),
- Your Method of Delivery (Carrier, Expedited, etc.)
- Your Origin Zip Code (Atomix is 53233)
- Your Average Shipping Zone (calculated by Atomix)

First, determine the weight and dimensions of the package. Next, decide on the shipping method, such as standard ground or expedited service. Then, use the package information and shipping method to get a rate quote from a shipping carrier.

Important: Carriers may have specific packaging recommendations for fragile or valuable items. Make sure to follow the carrier's guidelines and to properly package the item to ensure its safe delivery.
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03

How to Determine the Package Weight?

The weight of a package is used to determine the shipping cost and also to ensure compliance with carrier's weight restrictions.

To weigh a package, you will need a scale that is capable of measuring the weight of the package to the nearest ounce or gram. Some common types of scales used for package weighing include digital scales, shipping scales, and platform scales. You can follow our guidelines here or reach out with any questions to Atomix.
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Image of an Atomix Micro Pod. Dark color scheme. Two desks sit perpendicular to a packing station conveyor belt. The station sits in front of a shelving rack filled with packed and taped boxes ready to ship. KW: Micro Pod, custom fulfillment, customized order fulfillment, customized fulfillment, kitting project, special project
04

Shipping Destination

The destination of a package is one of the key factors that determines the cost of shipping with a carrier. The destination address, including the country, state, and zip code, is used to calculate the distance that the package will need to travel and to determine the shipping cost.

It's also important to be aware of any restrictions or regulations that may apply for certain destinations, such as international shipping restrictions, taxes and custom duties. Some carriers may also have restrictions on shipping to certain destinations or may require additional documentation, such as a commercial invoice or a certificate of origin.
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05

Delivery Times

Delivery times for shipping with a carrier depend on several factors, including the shipping method, destination, and package handling.

When shipping a package, you can choose from a variety of shipping options, such as ground, expedited, or overnight service. Most carriers provide an estimated delivery time for each shipping option, but it's important to note that these are estimates and actual delivery times may vary. It's also good practice to track the package throughout the shipping process, in order to stay informed about the delivery status and to be able to promptly address any issues that may arise.
Learn moreReceive a Free Analysis
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