In ecommerce and logistics, a lot of terms sound similar—but that doesn’t mean they mean the same thing.

“Backorder” vs “backlog” are two terms that often get used interchangeably. But while they both relate to delays in fulfillment, they refer to very different supply chain problems—and solving them requires two very different approaches.

If you’re looking to streamline operations, improve delivery times, or just communicate more clearly with your customers, it’s worth understanding the difference.

What Is a Backorder?

A backorder occurs when a product is out of stock when an order is placed, but the order is still accepted, with the intention of being fulfilled later.

This is a customer-facing issue, and it usually stems from:

Example:
 A customer places an order for a product that’s currently sold out but is expected to restock in two weeks. The order is accepted, and the customer is notified that it’s on backorder.

Backorders are common in e-commerce, especially when managing limited inventory or pre-launch product drops. However, they can be managed with clear communication and accurate ETAs.

What Is a Backlog?

A backlog refers to a buildup of unfulfilled orders that could be shipped, but aren’t—usually due to internal processing delays.

This is an operational issue, and it’s often caused by:

Example:
 Your warehouse has inventory available, but it’s falling behind in order processing because your team can’t keep up with the daily volume.

Backlogs don’t always impact customers immediately—but if left unchecked, they can quickly snowball into missed delivery windows and support headaches.

Why the Difference Matters: Backorder vs Backlog

Understanding whether you’re facing a backorder vs backlog helps you:

Both problems affect the customer experience—but solving them requires different strategies.

How eHub Helps Brands Reduce Backorders and Backlogs

At eHub, we help ecommerce brands and 3PLs simplify fulfillment from checkout to delivery—and that includes reducing both backorders and backlogs.

Here’s how we help:

Streamlined Fulfillment Partner Matching

If your current warehouse can’t keep up with volume, we help connect you to vetted 3PLs with the capacity and systems to scale—so backlogs don’t pile up.

Shipping Automation

eHub automates label generation, carrier selection, and tracking to eliminate manual steps that slow down order processing.

Fulfillment Visibility

By centralizing carrier and shipping activity, eHub gives your ops team better visibility into what’s moving—and what’s stuck—before problems escalate.

Support for Scalable Growth

When brands grow faster than their fulfillment can handle, both backorders and backlogs become more likely. We help ensure your backend is ready before it breaks.

Backorders are about inventory. Backlogs are about throughput. eHub helps you plan for both.

Final Thoughts: Fix the Right Problem, Not Just the Symptom

Backorders and backlogs may both slow down fulfillment—but they stem from entirely different causes. Knowing the difference helps you ask better questions, make smarter decisions, and keep your operations moving smoothly.

Whether you’re navigating a supply issue or struggling with fulfillment speed, eHub is here to help you simplify the process and find a better way forward.

When it comes to e-commerce fulfillment, the “last mile” is often the hardest—and most expensive—part of the journey. It’s also the most visible to customers.

Today’s shoppers expect fast, affordable, and transparent delivery. Meeting those expectations without breaking the bank is one of the biggest challenges brands and 3PLs face.

If you’re exploring 3PL last mile delivery solutions, understanding how third-party logistics providers approach this critical phase—and how technology like eHub can make it even better—is key to building a fulfillment strategy that scales.

What Is Last Mile Delivery in a 3PL Context?

Last mile delivery refers to the final step of the shipping journey: moving a package from a fulfillment center to the customer’s doorstep.

When you work with a 3PL (third-party logistics provider), they typically manage:

Some 3PLs also offer additional last-mile options through local couriers, regional carriers, or hybrid delivery models to balance cost and speed.

Key Challenges in 3PL Last Mile Delivery

Delivering that final mile isn’t as simple as slapping on a label. 3PLs—and the brands they serve—face a number of challenges:

Cost Pressures

The last mile can represent over 50% of total shipping costs. Residential deliveries, fuel surcharges, and accessorial fees add up quickly.

Speed vs. Affordability

Consumers want two-day (or even same-day) delivery, but expedited options drive costs higher. Striking the right balance between speed and affordability is critical.

Visibility Gaps

Customers expect real-time tracking and proactive updates. Gaps in tracking or communication can create a poor delivery experience.

Returns Complexity

Reverse logistics—handling returns—is a growing challenge, especially for 3PLs managing high-volume ecommerce operations.

How eHub Supports 3PL Last Mile Delivery

At eHub, we make last-mile delivery more innovative and more cost-effective for both 3PLs and the brands they serve.

Here’s how:

Multi-Carrier Access

Through eHub Ship, users can access USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL, and regional carriers from a single platform. This gives 3PLs and merchants greater flexibility in managing last-mile delivery strategies.

Shipping Automation

Our platform automatically selects the best carrier and service level based on order parameters, helping reduce manual decision-making and optimize costs.

Cost-Effective Parcel Solutions

eHub makes it easier for fulfillment providers to access competitive shipping options for affordable residential delivery.

Simplified Returns Management

With eHub, merchants and 3PLs can better manage return labels and workflows, closing the loop on the post-purchase experience.

Scalable Fulfillment Partnerships

Through our network of vetted 3PLs, eHub helps brands expand into new fulfillment centers and markets, shortening delivery distances and supporting faster, more affordable last-mile solutions.

From checkout to final delivery, eHub helps fulfillment teams optimize speed, cost, and visibility across the last mile.

Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just About Speed—It’s About the Customer Experience

Winning in e-commerce isn’t just about offering faster shipping—it’s about delivering a consistent, reliable experience that keeps customers coming back.

A strong 3PL partner combined with innovative last-mile optimization tools can help you achieve both.


And that’s where eHub fits in.

Whether you’re growing your brand, expanding into new regions, or looking to simplify complex logistics challenges, we’re here to help you build a fulfillment strategy that delivers on every promise you make.

Choosing the right fulfillment partner is one of the most important decisions an e-commerce brand can make—and one of the hardest. With thousands of 3PLs (third-party logistics providers) across the country offering different services, rates, and capabilities, finding the right fit isn’t simple.

That’s where 3PL consultants come in.

Whether you’re scaling your first fulfillment operation or replacing a provider that can’t keep up, working with a knowledgeable advisor can save you time, money, and a lot of second-guessing.

In this post, we’ll break down what 3PL consultants actually do—and how eHub helps brands find the right fulfillment partner without the traditional consulting fees.

What Is a 3PL Consultant?

A 3PL consultant is an expert who helps ecommerce brands and retailers select, evaluate, and optimize their fulfillment strategy.

Typically, a consultant will:

Some 3PL consultants work independently and charge hourly or project-based fees. Others partner with fulfillment networks to make introductions.

No matter the model, the goal is the same: to help brands make better decisions about how, where, and with whom they fulfill orders.

When Should You Consider Working With a 3PL Consultant?

Not every brand needs a consultant on Day 1—but specific inflection points make expert guidance extremely valuable:

If any of these sound familiar, getting expert advice can save months (or years) of trial and error.

How eHub Serves as Your 3PL Matchmaker

At eHub, we don’t call ourselves traditional 3PL consultants—but for many brands, we play a very similar role.

Here’s how we help:

We Connect You to the Right 3PLs

Through our vetted network, we match you with fulfillment providers that fit your order volume, product type, service level needs, and growth plans.

No endless vetting. No wasted time chasing warehouses that aren’t a fit. We’ve already done the heavy lifting for you. 

We Don’t Charge Consulting Fees

Unlike traditional consultants, we don’t bill you by the hour. Our business model is built around successful long-term partnerships—not upfront advisory fees.

We Optimize Your Shipping Costs

Beyond finding a 3PL, we layer in our intelligent shipping platform:

We Focus on Scale, Not Just Survival

Our goal isn’t just to plug a hole—it’s to help you build a foundation that supports long-term growth, better customer experiences, and healthier margins.

eHub acts like your fulfillment consultant—without the consulting price tag.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Fulfillment Partner Is Worth It

Finding the right 3PL isn’t just about faster shipping or cheaper rates. It’s about building a logistics engine that supports your brand’s next stage of growth.

Whether you’re navigating fulfillment for the first time or reworking a duct-taped system, having a knowledgeable partner in your corner can make all the difference.

And at eHub, we’re ready to help.

If you’ve ever packed your own ecommerce orders at 2 a.m. with tape stuck to your elbow and boxes stacked to the ceiling, you already know why pick and pack fulfillment services exist.

As brands scale, so do the complexities of order fulfillment. That’s where outsourcing pick and pack operations can become a game-changer. The right partner takes fulfillment off your plate while keeping your customers happy and your shipping costs in check.

So what exactly are pick and pack order fulfillment services, and how do you find a provider that fits your business? Let’s walk through the essentials—and how platforms like eHub can help you simplify the entire process.

What Are Pick n Pack Order Fulfillment Services?

“Pick and pack” refers to the hands-on process of preparing online orders for shipment. It includes:

These services are usually handled by third-party logistics providers (3PLs) that specialize in e-commerce fulfillment. They store your inventory, process orders as they come in, and ensure that each package goes out quickly and accurately.

Whether you’re shipping apparel, supplements, or custom kits, a solid pick and pack partner helps you deliver a consistent, professional experience at scale.

What’s Typically Included in Pick n Pack Order Fulfillment Services?

Here’s what you can expect from a full-service pick and pack fulfillment partner:

When Should You Outsource Pick and Pack Fulfillment?

Outsourcing isn’t just for mega-brands. It’s a smart move when:

If packing orders is holding your business back, it might be time to consider a fulfillment partner.

What to Look for in a Pick and Pack Fulfillment Partner

Not all providers are created equal. Here’s what to prioritize:

✔️ Accuracy + Speed

Look for partners with tight SLAs and proven pick/pack accuracy.

E-commerce Integrations

They should integrate seamlessly with your store (Shopify, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, etc.) and any marketplaces you sell through.

Strategic Warehouse Locations

Multi-location coverage can reduce shipping times and costs.

Packaging Flexibility

Can they support branded inserts, eco-friendly materials, or custom kitting?

Transparent Pricing

Watch for hidden fees in storage, pick/pack, materials, or returns.

Returns Management

If returns are a major part of your business, make sure it’s built into their workflow.

How eHub Helps You Find (and Optimize) Pick and Pack Fulfillment

At eHub, we connect you with trusted fulfillment partners who are already dialed into the pick and pack process.

But we don’t stop there.

Here’s how eHub makes fulfillment easier:

3PL Matching That Makes Sense

We work with a network of vetted 3PLs, and we help you find one that fits your size, SKUs, and business model. Whether you need regional fulfillment or nationwide reach, we help you choose smart.

Shipping Automation Built In

Once your orders are packed, eHub automatically selects the best shipping method and rate using our intelligent platform. No guesswork, no wasted spend.

Real-Time Order Flow

We connect your e-commerce store directly into your fulfillment stack. Orders flow instantly—there is no manual processing or delay.

Lower Label Costs

Our multi-carrier rate shopping engine helps you save on every shipment by comparing USPS, UPS, DHL, FedEx, GLS, and more.

eHub is the layer that makes your fulfillment partner faster, smarter, and more cost-effective.

Is It Time to Hand Off Pick and Pack?

If you’re burning out on boxes or worried about scaling into Q4, it might be time to outsource your pick and pack operations—and we can help you make the move with confidence.

In the world of e-commerce, the moment an order is placed is just the beginning. What happens next—how that order is processed, packed, shipped, and tracked—can make or break your customer’s experience. That’s why choosing the right ecommerce order processing services is critical to growing your brand and meeting rising customer expectations.

Whether you process 50 orders a day or 5,000, efficient order fulfillment is no longer a back-office function—it’s a core part of your brand promise.

So, what should you look for in a reliable ecommerce order processing solution? And how can platforms like eHub help you scale smarter without sacrificing visibility, speed, or cost?

Let’s break it down.

What Are Ecommerce Order Processing Services?

Order processing refers to every step between a customer clicking “Buy” and the order arriving at their doorstep. These services often include:

Some brands build these capabilities in-house, while others outsource them to third-party logistics providers (3PLs) or fulfillment partners to reduce overhead, improve speed, and focus on growth.

Why It Matters More Than Ever

Order processing used to be something you figured out after you scaled. Today, it’s a competitive edge—and a potential risk if mishandled.

Here’s why brands are doubling down on fulfillment:

A great order processing setup can cut costs, reduce WISMO tickets (“Where is my order?”), and increase repeat purchases.

What to Look for in Ecommerce Order Processing Services

Not all fulfillment partners—or platforms—are created equal. Here’s what to prioritize when evaluating ecommerce order processing solutions:

1. Speed and Accuracy

You need a team that consistently ships fast and gets it right. Even a 1% error rate can snowball into lost customers and support costs.

2. Tech Integrations

Look for services that integrate with your e-commerce stack, such as Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, marketplaces, and more.

3. Shipping Automation

Manual label generation or carrier selection is a red flag. The best solutions use automation to choose the most cost-effective shipping method for every order.

4. Real-Time Visibility

Both you and your customers should be able to track orders through every step, from processing to doorstep delivery.

5. Returns Management

Returns are part of e-commerce. Make sure the provider offers a clear, scalable way to manage them without creating friction.

6. Transparent Pricing

You shouldn’t have to guess what you’re paying for. Look for clear pricing on storage, pick/pack, materials, and shipping.

How eHub Helps You Simplify and Scale Order Processing

At eHub, we don’t operate warehouses—we connect you to top-tier fulfillment partners and give you the tools to optimize your entire shipping layer.

Here’s how we fit in:

Seamless 3PL Connections

We match you with vetted 3PLs that specialize in ecommerce order processing. Whether you need regional coverage or specific service levels, we help you find the right fit.

Smart Shipping Tech

Our platform uses automation to:

Order Flow Integration

eHub integrates directly with your order sources—no more downloading CSVs or copy-pasting into shipping software. Your fulfillment partners get what they need in real time.

Hands-On Support

We don’t just plug you in and disappear. Our team works with you to ensure smooth onboarding, cost optimization, and growth planning.

eHub makes ecommerce order processing easier, more affordable, and more flexible—whether you’re just starting or scaling fast.

Is It Time to Outsource Your Order Processing?

If your in-house team is overwhelmed, accuracy is slipping, or you’re spending too much on shipping, it might be time to explore new options.

The good news? You don’t need to guess.

Our fulfillment advisors can help you explore options that fit your current needs and grow with you. Whether you need multi-warehouse support, better shipping rates, or just a reliable partner, we’ll help you get there.

Louis DeJoy has officially stepped down as Postmaster General and CEO of the U.S. Postal Service, ending a nearly five-year tenure marked by sweeping operational changes and bold modernization efforts.

Doug Tulino, the current Deputy Postmaster General, will serve as acting Postmaster General while the USPS Board of Governors searches for DeJoy’s permanent successor. Global leadership advisory firm Egon Zehnder is leading that search.

DeJoy’s time at USPS was defined by a push for financial sustainability through major network consolidations, shifts in transportation strategy, and a more competitive stance against private carriers like FedEx and UPS. He also sought to modernize USPS’s relationships with package consolidators and launch new products aimed at bolstering its parcel delivery presence.

In his official statement, DeJoy expressed confidence in the agency’s direction, noting that USPS is “well positioned and capable of carrying forward” its transformation strategy.

Why It Matters

Leadership transitions at USPS often ripple across the logistics and e-commerce world. For merchants, shippers, and 3PLs who depend on USPS for affordable and reliable last-mile delivery, the coming months may bring shifts in pricing structures, service offerings, or strategic focus.

We’ll continue monitoring developments as the USPS board selects its next leader—and what that might signal for the future of U.S. shipping infrastructure.

Change is on the horizon for the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) as Postmaster General Louis DeJoy has announced his plans to step down. After leading the USPS for over four years and spearheading significant operational shifts under the “Delivering for America” initiative, DeJoy has tasked the USPS Board of Governors with selecting his successor. While no specific timeline has been outlined, the transition is set to have significant implications for the shipping and logistics industry.

For businesses that rely on USPS for package delivery, this leadership shift raises essential questions about the future of shipping rates, service levels, and operational changes. Here’s what we know and what it could mean for shippers.

DeJoy’s Tenure: A Period of Transformation and Controversy

Since assuming the role of Postmaster General in 2020, Louis DeJoy has overseen sweeping changes at USPS, many of which have directly impacted the logistics and e-commerce industries. His “Delivering for America” plan aimed to modernize USPS operations, reduce costs, and reposition the agency as a competitive force in the package delivery market.

Key initiatives under his leadership included:

While DeJoy’s vision sought to make USPS more financially viable, it has faced criticism over service slowdowns, pricing adjustments, and concerns about accessibility, particularly in rural areas.

What This Means for Shippers and the Industry

With DeJoy preparing to step down, businesses that depend on USPS for last-mile delivery, e-commerce fulfillment, and cost-effective shipping should be paying close attention. The appointment of a new Postmaster General could signal changes in key areas:

What’s Next for USPS?

The shipping and logistics industry will watch closely as USPS prepares for a leadership transition. The decisions made in the coming months will have lasting effects on businesses of all sizes, particularly e-commerce merchants and fulfillment providers.

At eHub, we stay ahead of industry shifts to help businesses optimize their shipping strategies no matter what changes come their way. Whether it’s navigating USPS pricing adjustments, finding the most efficient carrier mix, or leveraging multi-carrier solutions to stay competitive, we provide the tools and insights to keep your business moving forward.

Want to future-proof your shipping strategy? Connect with us today to explore how eHub can help you adapt to USPS changes and make smarter shipping decisions.

Introduction

Logiwa, a leading warehouse management system (WMS), is built for high-volume e-commerce and fulfillment operations. To enhance shipping efficiency, Logiwa seamlessly integrates with eHub’s shipping platform, unlocking access to competitive carrier contracts and powerful automation. This partnership streamlines shipping, reduces costs, and maximizes efficiency for e-commerce businesses.

1. Seamless Integration: Unlock Competitive Carrier Contracts

2. Rate Shopping Made Easy: Compare and Save

3. Optimize Shipping Strategies with Data & Automation

4. Key Features That Elevate Shipping Operations

5. The Result? A Smarter, More Cost-Effective Shipping Solution

By combining Logiwa’s powerful WMS with eHub’s shipping platform, businesses can:

Ready to optimize your shipping with Logiwa and eHub? Contact us today!

As the demands of enterprise logistics grow more complex, success hinges on streamlined operations and strategic shipping. That’s why eHub and Deposco have joined forces to transform how businesses manage shipping and fulfillment.

Deposco, a leader in enterprise-level Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), empowers organizations to streamline their operations. eHub enhances this offering with a full-service shipping platform that simplifies logistics, reduces costs, and provides data-driven insights. Together, these tools give enterprise clients an unmatched advantage in today’s complex logistics landscape.

Here’s how this powerful partnership is reshaping shipping for enterprises:

What the Integration Offers

a. Plug & Play Shipping Efficiency

b. Comprehensive Carrier Access

The Analytics Advantage

a. Real-Time Insights

b. Actionable Data for Smarter Decisions

c. ROI Through Data-Driven Shipping

Value for Deposco Customers

a. Cost-Effective Solutions

b. Enhanced Operational Efficiency

c. Fast & Seamless Onboarding

Why This Partnership Stands Out

a. Built for Enterprise

b. Combined Expertise

c. Scalable & Future-Ready

Unlock Your Enterprise Shipping Potential

The eHub and Deposco partnership is more than an integration—it is a solution built for enterprise success. Combining Deposco’s cutting-edge WMS with eHub’s advanced shipping capabilities gives businesses the tools to streamline logistics, cut costs, and deliver exceptional results.

Ready to see the difference? Contact us today to learn more or request a demo to experience the eHub & Deposco advantage firsthand.

Smarter Data, Smarter Shipping: The Future of Enterprise Logistics with eHub & Deposco.

Shipping costs can quickly eat into your profit margins, but with the right strategies, you can effectively lower these expenses without sacrificing service quality. This guide outlines ten actionable methods to help your business save money on shipping. Learn how to reduce shipping costs right away.

Key Takeaways  

– Negotiate carrier rates: Use your shipping volume and service needs to secure better pricing.  

– Optimize packaging: Minimize weight and dimensions to avoid unnecessary fees.  

– Stay informed: Regular shipment audits and awareness of rate changes can uncover savings opportunities.  

1. Negotiate Competitive Carrier Rates 

Carriers play a significant role in your shipping expenses, and negotiating favorable rates can make a big difference. Leverage your shipping volume, compare multiple carriers, and consider bundling services for better terms.  

– Volume Discounts: Commit to higher shipping volumes to access lower per-shipment rates.  

– Carrier Comparison: Use your existing contract as leverage to shop for better offers.  

– Service Bundling: Combine shipping and warehousing services for potential discounts—though this approach may limit future flexibility.

Pro Tip: Negotiating with carriers can be complex. A third-party expert, like eHub, can help you secure the best terms by analyzing your shipping data and carrier contracts.

2. Optimize Package Weight and Dimensions  

Shipping costs often depend on the size and weight of your packages. Optimizing packaging can significantly reduce costs.  

– Custom Packaging: Use the right-sized packaging to minimize wasted space.  

– Lightweight Materials: Swap heavy materials for lighter options like poly mailers or air pillows.  

– Accurate Reporting: Ensure your shipments’ dimensional weight and size are correct to avoid overcharges.

3. Use Carrier-Provided Packaging 

Take advantage of free or discounted packaging from carriers like USPS, UPS, or FedEx. Using their standardized options can reduce dimensional fees and save up to 20% on costs.

4. Source Discounted Shipping Supplies  

Buying shipping materials in bulk can lead to substantial savings. Check with wholesalers, local suppliers, and online marketplaces for discounted boxes, bubble wrap, and mailers.

5. Adopt Prepaid Shipping  

Prepaid shipping labels allow you to lock in discounted rates for consistent shipment sizes. Many carriers and eCommerce platforms offer prepaid options that can save up to 20%.  

– Simplified Pricing: Prepaid labels make it easier to calculate shipping costs and offer flat-rate shipping to customers.  

– Predictable Costs: Ideal for businesses with uniform shipment sizes.  

6. Utilize Third-Party Insurance  

Third-party insurance is often more affordable than carrier-provided options. For example, insuring $100 through a carrier might cost $0.90, while third-party providers charge around $0.55.  

Switching to third-party insurance can reduce expenses while protecting against shipping risks.

7. Explore Hybrid Shipping Solutions  

Hybrid shipping services combine the strengths of multiple carriers to cut costs. For instance, UPS can handle initial transit, while USPS manages last-mile delivery.  

– Cost Savings: Save up to 50% compared to a single carrier.  

– Tradeoffs: This may result in slightly longer delivery times.  

8. Audit Your Shipping Processes  

Regular audits can help you uncover cost-saving opportunities. By reviewing invoices and shipment details, you can:  

– Identify overcharges.  

– Verify package dimensions.  

– Optimize routes and shipping speeds.  

At eHub, we provide tools to help you stay on top of your shipping data, ensuring maximum efficiency and savings.

9. Leverage Technology for Rate Comparison  

Shipping rate comparison tools simplify finding the most affordable options for each shipment. eHub’s platform lets you compare rates across carriers and integrate seamlessly with your systems to streamline the entire process.

10. Partner with a 3PL Provider  

Third-party logistics (3PL) providers like those in eHub’s exclusive network can help optimize your entire fulfillment process. With services like inventory management, kitting, and shipping optimization, 3PLs ensure your products reach customers efficiently and affordably.  

Save More with eHub  

At eHub, we specialize in helping businesses reduce shipping costs through tailored solutions, expert negotiation, and access to discounted rates. Whether you’re looking for carrier comparisons, 3PL matching, or advanced shipping analytics, we’re here to help your business thrive.