Switching third-party logistics (3PL) providers is one of the most complex decisions a brand can face. The risks are real: inventory discrepancies, delayed shipments, unhappy customers, and significant operational stress. But with the right process and partner, transitions can become a smooth stepping stone to faster fulfillment, better accuracy, and ultimately, stronger customer satisfaction.

GoBolt has earned a reputation for handling these transitions with exceptional care and precision. Here’s a closer look at how they do it — and why it works so well for fast-growing brands.

1. Pre-Transition Planning: Building the Blueprint

Before any inventory moves or systems are touched, GoBolt works closely with the brand to create a detailed transition roadmap. This includes:

• Aligning timelines based on business goals, product launches, and seasonality
• Building brand-specific SOPs for order workflows, packaging, returns, and more
• Assigning clear responsibilities across both sides to avoid miscommunication
• Accounting for operational peaks and team bandwidth

The more thorough the planning, the fewer surprises arise during execution.

2. Pre-Integration of Tech & Data: Getting the Pipes Ready

GoBolt invests heavily in making sure systems are fully integrated and tested before anything goes live. They focus on:

• Integrating OMS, ERP, and ecommerce platforms early
• Running test orders to confirm inventory accuracy and data flow
• Validating shipping carrier integrations for smooth tracking updates
• Reconciling inventory data to avoid costly discrepancies

Fulfillment is only as strong as its tech backbone — GoBolt makes sure that backbone is solid before launch day.

3. Fulfillment Continuity: No Pause Button

To avoid any service disruption during transition, GoBolt ensures:

• The current 3PL keeps fulfilling orders while GoBolt receives and organizes inventory
• There’s no blackout period where customer orders stop shipping
• Their team can learn the product catalog and fine-tune operations before taking over fully

This approach helps brands maintain customer trust through consistency.

4. Thoughtful Inventory Transfer: More Than Just a Truckload

Inventory transfer is a strategic process, not just logistics. GoBolt offers two smart approaches:

• Wave transfers:
  
  • Prioritizing fast-moving SKUs for immediate availability
  • Slower SKUs follow in later phases, reducing overwhelm
• Depletion-based transfers:
  
  • Receiving only new inventory at GoBolt
  • Letting the old 3PL fulfill from existing stock until depletion
  • Enabling a clean break and simplified handoff

This careful approach keeps fulfillment running smoothly without introducing chaos.

5. Ongoing Support & Optimization: Staying Hands-On

GoBolt doesn’t disappear after go-live. For the first 90 days, they:

• Actively monitor operations with an implementation team
• Track pick accuracy, shipping speed, and process adherence
• Hold regular check-ins with brand teams
• Quickly adjust SOPs and workflows as needed
• Proactively solve issues before they impact customers

The result? Continuous improvement from day one.

What Brands Can Learn From This Approach

If you’re considering switching 3PLs, take a page out of GoBolt’s book:

• Map out the transition in detail
• Start tech integrations and testing early
• Keep orders flowing during the handoff
• Transfer inventory strategically, not all at once
• Stay closely involved for the first 90 days to optimize

Brands that follow these steps — and partner with 3PLs that prioritize careful, hands-on transitions — are set up for long-term success.

Looking for a 3PL That Can Handle Transitions Like This?

The right 3PL partner makes all the difference. If you’re thinking about switching, or just starting to explore your options, start with Slotted.

👉 Compare top 3PLs, review real brand experiences, and find the perfect fulfillment partner for your business at Slotted.

Your next great 3PL is waiting — and we’ll help you find them.

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