Split Shipments

Ever ordered something online and received it in two separate boxes on different days? That’s an example of split shipments. It happens more often in logistics than most people think, and it’s not always a bad thing.

Let’s take a look at how it works and why companies choose to split their orders.

Split Shipment Definition

Split shipments happen when a single order is shipped in multiple packages or from different locations.

For example, if one warehouse has part of your order and another has the rest, the system might break it up into two separate deliveries. This helps avoid delays and keeps the customer happy.

Why Do Businesses Use Split Shipments?

Split shipments are sometimes the best option when:

1. Products are stored in different warehouses

2. Some items are backordered

3. A partial order is ready to go and the rest would delay delivery

Shipping in parts helps businesses fulfill orders faster and reduce waiting time for customers.

Benefits of Split Shipments

Some may see it as inefficient, but there are clear split shipments benefits:

1. Faster delivery of available items

2. Improved customer satisfaction

3. More flexibility in inventory management

4. Lower risk of losing the entire order if a shipment gets delayed

For high-volume operations, it can even reduce warehouse pressure.

Split Shipments in E-commerce

In e-commerce, split shipment is common, especially with platforms like Amazon and Shopify.

For example, Amazon optimized split shipments are designed to make deliveries faster by pulling inventory from the nearest fulfillment center. Likewise, split shipments Shopify users often rely on are meant to help sellers meet delivery promises even when stock is spread out.

Final Thoughts

Split shipments may seem inconvenient at first, but they play a key role in meeting delivery expectations. At Newl, we help businesses plan better by managing inventory across multiple locations and optimizing how goods are shipped. Whether it’s one box or five, we’re here to make sure it all arrives smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does split shipment cost more to ship?

They can. Multiple packages may mean higher shipping fees, unless the business absorbs the cost to improve customer experience.

2. Can customers track each part of a split shipment?

Yes. Each package typically comes with its own tracking number and estimated delivery time.

3. Are split shipments only for e-commerce?

No. Businesses of all types use them, especially when shipping bulk orders from different warehouses or suppliers.