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In a blog post, Jeff Ashcroft, director of business development at SCI Group, the provide of supply chain solutions, pointed to the challenges around distracted sales staffs and rising store out-of-stocks coupled with retail costing five to tens times more per square foot than warehouse space. He labeled ship-from-store "truly a flawed solution to the omni-commerce puzzle."

Sometimes I harken back to when free shipping became a phenomenon online. For me, it was L.L. Bean’s announcement in 2011 that all orders would ship for free. Not everything lasts forever, as their current policy is free shipping with a $50 threshold or being part of their credit card program. But ultimately, Nordstrom extended free shipping that same year, which turned the tables, causing many other retailers to follow suit.

"RSL works collaboratively with its clients to assess their fulfillment and shipping needs and leverage RSL's facility and carrier network in the most effective manner possible to meet consumer demand." Manzione said. "RSL's newest product is Xparcel Expedited, a ground-breaking, cost-effective shipping solution that provides 2-5 day transit times with lower costs, allowing small to mid-size eCommerce retailers to compete with larger brands."

Yes, folks, it’s high time to rethink the store. How much square footage do we really need for our in-store shoppers? Do we really need to place all the merchandise on the floor? Should we be looking at a model like Hointers uses? How, where and what kind of associates will be required?

Many stores are also carrying greater inventory to not only support online orders but in-store pickup. Finding storage space for the extra goods and avoiding excess inventories become challenges.

Despite the importance of free shipping slipped down from 81% in 2014 to 74% in 2017, it is still the most important option for the majority of US shoppers when checking out for products/services online. That’s why 94% of US online shoppers – who surveyed – indicated that they have taken action to qualify for free shipping.

Subscription box fulfilment services are a great way to ensure fast shipping and delivery. Customers can schedule their orders in advance, and the products will be delivered at specific times. These services can also help to increase customer satisfaction. The subscription box industry is expected to grow to PS1.8 billion in the next few years.

Angela Myers is the Public Relations and Marketing Intern at Market America | SHOP.COM. Angela is a sophomore at Elon University double majoring in Professional Writing and History. Her passions include business writing, travel and fitness.