Sending Your First Inventory

Purpose

This guide explains how to prepare, label, and send your first inventory shipment to eFulfillment Service (EFS). Following these steps ensures accurate receiving and faster turnaround in the Fulfillment Control Panel (FCP).

1. Log Into Your Fulfillment Control Panel (FCP) Dashboard

Before sending inventory, confirm that your Fulfillment Control Panel (FCP) account is active and your products are created in the system.

If your SKUs are not yet added, follow the instructions for adding products to the FCP and upload them before proceeding.

If you have more than 25 SKUs, your Client Care Specialist can provide you with a SKU template to complete and we can upload to your account for you

2. Prepare Your Products and SKUs

Every product should have a unique SKU and accurate description when it arrives at our facility.

Labeling: Each product must have a visible, scannable SKU label. If you cannot provide this, contact EFS to arrange labeling services.
- You can find all labeling requirements here.
Bundling: Multi-unit sets must be securely bundled (shrink-wrap or polybags) and labeled as a single SKU.
- You can find all Bundling Requirements here.
Insurance: Your products remain your property. EFS insurance does not cover your inventory while in transit or stored at our facility. We recommend purchasing your own coverage.

3. Choose a Shipping Carrier

Use the following guidelines for cost-effective domestic shipping:

Under 200 lbs: FedEx or UPS Ground.
200–500 lbs: Truck Freight Service.
Over 500 lbs: Truck Freight Service.
Freight Discount: EFS offers an inbound truck freight program with a 70% discount. Contact your account representative for a quote to have these charges passed through to your EFS invoice.
International: If importing products, you must arrange for an international brokerage. EFS can provide a referral if you do not have a preferred firm.

4. Shipping Address and Labeling

Every box or pallet must display your Company Name and our Receiving Department information. You must include “Unit D” in the address to avoid receiving delays.

Label must include:

Your Company Name
Attn: Receiving Dept
Purchase Order Number
807 Airport Access Rd – Unit D
Traverse City, MI 49686

Affix one label per box or pallet.
Ensure all SKUs inside the box are labeled with visible, scannable barcodes.
Remove any old or conflicting shipping labels from packaging.

If multiple SKUs are in one box, group them in labeled inner cartons or bags for clarity.

For freight shipments:

Schedule delivery between 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM ET, Monday through Friday.
Include your Purchase Order Number on all paperwork.

Make sure to list your company name as the recipient, as this can cause delays for the incoming receipt. We need to know who the inventory belongs to.

5. Submit the Receiving Form (ASN)

You must notify EFS of your shipment before it arrives by submitting an Advanced Shipment Notice (ASN) in the Fulfillment Control Panel.

Log in to the FCP and navigate to QUICK LINKS > ADVANCED SHIPMENT NOTICE.
Provide the Carrier, Tracking Number, PO Number, and a count of boxes/pallets.
Itemize the SKUs and quantities included.
Packing List: Include a physical packing list inside the shipment. If one is not included, you must submit it as a digital attachment via a support ticket in advance.

6. What to Expect After Arrival

Processing Time: Standard receiving takes 2–3 business days once the carrier delivers the shipment.
Additional Prep: If bagging, labeling, or kitting is required, allow an additional 2–3 business days.
Inspection: EFS performs a count and inspection of all items. We also weigh and measure every SKU when it arrives for the first time to ensure accurate billing and shipping calculations.

Find information about the full Receiving and Check-In process here.

Next Steps

Up next, our guide on the “Fulfillment Control Panel (FCP)” will explain how to use our 24/7 web-based portal for managing orders, inventory, and reporting.