Useful tips for new clients who feel overwhelmed by the process
Starting a new project with a fulfillment partner can be exciting—but if you’re not familiar with the lingo, it can also feel overwhelming. At Selby Marketing, we believe in making your journey as smooth as possible. That’s why we’ve put together a quick-reference glossary of common fulfillment terms, paired with easy visual cues to help you remember them.
1. Fulfillment
The process of receiving, storing, packing, and shipping your products or materials to their final destination.
Tip: Knowing the steps in your fulfillment process will help you anticipate timelines and costs.
2. Pick and Pack
Selecting (picking) items from inventory and securely packaging them (packing) for shipment.
Tip: Accurate pick-and-pack services reduce shipping errors and returns, saving you time and money.
3. Inventory Management
The system used to track the quantity and location of your products in storage.
Tip: Regular inventory updates help you avoid stockouts and over-ordering.
4. Kitting
Combining multiple separate items into one packaged unit; for example, a custom branded journal, pen, and bookmark.
Tip: Kitting can increase efficiency and save on postage when items ship together.
5. SKU (Stock Keeping Unit)
A unique identifier (often a number or alphanumeric code) assigned to each product for tracking purposes.
Tip: Consistent SKU naming helps avoid mix-ups—especially if you have similar products.
6. Lead Time
The amount of time it takes from placing your order to when it’s ready to ship.
Tip: Always factor in lead time when planning time-sensitive campaigns or events.
7. Postage Optimization
The process of selecting the most cost-effective and timely shipping method for your project.
Tip: Ask us about postage optimization to keep your mailing budget in check without sacrificing delivery speed.
8. Proof
A sample or mock-up provided for approval before production or mailing.
Tip: Always review proofs carefully—this is your chance to catch errors before they go to print or ship.
9. Returns Processing
Managing products that come back from customers, whether due to defects, exchanges, or cancellations.
Tip: A clear returns policy keeps customers happy and reduces confusion.
At Selby Marketing, we’re more than just your fulfillment partner—we’re your guide. We want you to feel confident, informed, and supported from day one. If you have questions about these terms—or anything else—just ask! We’re here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.