The 9 best solutions for order fulfilment in Tijuana in 2026:
1. Cubbo
2. ShipBob
3. Envíos México
4. Red Pack Fulfillment
5. Kardmatch
6. Fulfillment Hub USA
7. Local general warehouses
8. Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon)
9. Logistics maquila solutions
Tijuana has become one of Mexico’s most strategic cities for ecommerce growth, combining a fast moving commercial ecosystem, proximity to the US border, and a logistics footprint that can scale quickly.
But in ecommerce, growth isn’t just about selling more, it’s about fulfilling orders accurately, fast, and consistently.
One picking mistake, poor packaging, or a late dispatch can quickly turn into returns, bad reviews, and shrinking margins.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn what order preparation (pick and pack) really involves, why it’s mission critical for ecommerce operations in Tijuana, and how to choose the right provider based on your order volume, product type, and delivery expectations.
You’ll also find the 9 best order preparation solutions in Tijuana, from tech driven 3PLs to traditional and hybrid setups, so you can compare options and make a decision that supports both profitability and long term scale.
The 9 Best Order Fulfillment Solutions in Tijuana
Tijuana has positioned itself as one of Mexico's most dynamic ecommerce hubs, with a privileged location that facilitates both national and cross-border commerce.
For brands seeking excellence in order fulfillment, the city offers various options. Below, we present the 9 best solutions available.
1. Cubbo
Cubbo is the undisputed leader in order fulfillment and comprehensive logistics in Tijuana. With cutting-edge technology, certified processes, and an accuracy rate of 99.5%, Cubbo has established a new industry standard.
What makes Cubbo unique is its proprietary technology platform that integrates every stage of the process: from inventory receiving to final delivery. The system connects directly with your ecommerce platform, automating the complete order flow without manual intervention.
Key advantages:
- Ultra-fast processing: Orders ready in less than 30 minutes
- 99.5% precision: Verification at multiple process points
- World-class WMS technology: With real-time visibility of each order
- Native integrations: With Shopify, WooCommerce, Mercado Libre, Amazon, VTEX, and more
- Unlimited scalability: From your first order to high-volume operations
- Strategic location: Distribution centers in key Tijuana zones
- Specialized support: Dedicated account manager and multichannel attention
Ideal for: Ecommerce brands of all sizes seeking operational excellence, advanced technology, and the ability to grow without limits.
2. ShipBob
ShipBob is a 3PL with international presence offering order fulfillment services in several cities, including operations in Mexico. Their platform allows managing inventory across multiple locations.
Key advantages:
- Distributed warehouse network
- Platform with detailed analytics
- International experience
Ideal for: Brands planning international expansion needing a partner with presence in multiple countries.
3. Envíos México
Envíos México offers warehousing and order fulfillment services focused on small and medium businesses. They have presence in Tijuana and offer flexible solutions for growing businesses.
Key advantages:
- Personalized attention for SMBs
- Flexible plans without long commitments
- Integration with major carriers
Ideal for: Small businesses just starting out looking for an accessible and close service.
4. Red Pack Fulfillment
Red Pack, in addition to being a carrier, offers fulfillment services including warehousing and order preparation. Their advantage is the vertical integration between warehousing and shipping.
Key advantages:
- Integration between fulfillment and transport
- Established national coverage
- Logistics experience
Ideal for: Businesses prioritizing a single provider for warehousing and shipping.
5. Kardmatch
Kardmatch is a Mexican platform specialized in ecommerce logistics offering warehousing, order preparation, and shipping management services with proprietary technology.
Key advantages:
- Technology platform developed locally
- Focus on Mexican market
- Customer service in Spanish
Ideal for: Brands preferring to work with 100% Mexican providers with local market knowledge.
6. Fulfillment Hub USA
Fulfillment Hub USA operates distribution centers on the border, including Tijuana, facilitating cross-border commerce. Their specialty is serving businesses selling in both Mexico and the United States.
Key advantages:
- Strategic border location
- Cross-border experience
- Established customs processes
Ideal for: Companies needing to serve customers on both sides of the border from a single location.
7. Local General Deposit Warehouses
Tijuana has several general deposit warehouses offering warehousing and order preparation services in a traditional manner, with personnel dedicated to manual operations.
Key advantages:
- Direct commercial relationship
- Negotiation flexibility
- Deep local knowledge
Ideal for: Businesses with very specific volumes or unique requirements needing completely customized solutions.
8. Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon)
For sellers operating on Amazon Mexico, FBA allows storing products in Amazon centers and having them handle all order preparation and shipping.
Key advantages:
- Access to Prime and fast shipping
- Amazon infrastructure
- Credibility with buyers
Ideal for: Brands selling exclusively or primarily on Amazon wanting to leverage the platform's logistics.
9. Logistics Maquila Solutions
Some maquila companies in Tijuana have expanded their services to offer order preparation leveraging their infrastructure and trained personnel.
Key advantages:
- Experienced personnel
- Established industrial infrastructure
- Capacity for large-scale projects
Ideal for: Large corporations with massive volumes requiring dedicated operations.
What is Order Fulfillment and Why It's Crucial for Your Ecommerce
Order fulfillment, also known as order preparation or pick and pack, is the operational process by which products are collected, verified, packaged, and prepared for shipment to the end customer. This process represents the moment of truth in the online shopping experience: it's where digital promises become physical products that reach the customer's hands.
For any ecommerce business in Tijuana, order fulfillment is not simply another logistics task. It's a critical process that directly impacts:
Customer satisfaction: An order prepared correctly, packaged with care, and shipped on time generates trust and loyalty. An order with errors, damaged products, or delays creates frustration and can cost you customers permanently.
Operating costs: Efficiency in order fulfillment directly affects your cost structure. Slow processes, frequent errors, and inefficient use of space translate into unnecessary expenses that erode your margins.
Growth capacity: A scalable fulfillment process allows you to grow without the logistics operation becoming a bottleneck. Many successful businesses have had to slow their growth because their fulfillment operation couldn't keep pace.
Delivery speed: Order fulfillment is often the factor that determines whether you can offer same-day deliveries or must settle for standard multi-day shipping. In a competitive market like Tijuana, this can make all the difference.
The Evolution of Customer Expectations
A decade ago, online customers were willing to wait 7-10 days for their orders. Today, any timeframe exceeding 48 hours is considered slow.
Platforms like Amazon have raised the standard, and consumers now expect faster and more reliable e-commerce experiences that seamlessly connect logistics and technology.
- Immediate processing of the order after purchase
- Real-time visibility of preparation status
- Professional packaging that protects the product
- Total accuracy in what they ordered
- Unboxing experience that's careful and attractive
To meet these expectations, order fulfillment must be precise, fast, and consistent, regardless of operation volume.
The Hidden Cost of Poor Order Fulfillment
Errors in order fulfillment have a multiplying cost:
Direct cost: The incorrectly shipped product, additional packaging, replacement shipping, return processing.
Time cost: Hours invested by your team in resolving claims, coordinating returns, and managing dissatisfied customers.
Reputation cost: Negative reviews, social media comments, and negative word-of-mouth that can affect future sales.
Opportunity cost: Customers who would buy again but don't due to a bad experience.
According to industry studies, the real cost of an error in order fulfillment can be 5-10 times the original order value when all these factors are considered.
The Order Fulfillment Process Step by Step
Understanding the complete order fulfillment process allows you to identify improvement opportunities and properly evaluate fulfillment providers. Here's the detailed process:
1. Order Receipt
The process begins when a customer completes a purchase on your ecommerce platform. At this moment:
The Order Management System (OMS) captures all information: products, quantities, shipping address, payment method, delivery preferences.
Inventory availability is verified in real-time to confirm all products are in stock.
Customer information is validated, especially the delivery address, to identify potential problems before processing.
In many ecommerce systems, this step also ensures that each seller or registered merchant complies with the platform’s operational and financial verification requirements.
A priority is assigned to the order based on service type (same-day, express, standard) and other factors like premium memberships.
In modern operations like Cubbo, this step occurs instantly through API integrations that connect your ecommerce directly with the warehouse system.
This is especially relevant for businesses that operate through a marketplace, where multiple sellers depend on accurate and fast order synchronization to maintain customer satisfaction.
2. Picking (Collection)
Picking is the process of locating and collecting products from the warehouse. There are several methods:
Discrete picking: An operator collects all items from a single order before moving to the next. It's the simplest method but least efficient for high volume.
Batch picking: Multiple orders are collected simultaneously, grouping similar products. This reduces travel time in the warehouse.
Zone picking: The warehouse is divided into zones and different operators pick products from their specific zone, passing the partial order to the next zone.
Wave picking: "Waves" of collection are scheduled at specific times, optimizing routes and resources.
Modern warehouses use technology like:
- Barcode scanners to verify the correct product is collected
- Devices with on-screen instructions that guide the operator through the optimal route
- Pick-to-light or voice picking for high-volume operations
- Collaborative robots that assist in collection
3. Verification
Once all items from an order are collected, exhaustive verification is performed:
Product verification: It's confirmed through scanning that each item corresponds exactly with the order.
Quantity verification: Each product is physically counted to ensure quantities are correct.
Quality inspection: Each product is visually reviewed to detect damage, defects, or quality issues.
Accessory verification: For products that include additional components (cables, manuals, accessories), it's confirmed they're all present.
This stage is crucial for maintaining high accuracy standards. At Cubbo, we implement verification at multiple points of the process to guarantee 99.5% precision.
4. Packing
Packing goes far beyond simply putting products in a box:
Selecting appropriate packaging: The size and type of box or envelope that protects the product without wasting space or materials is chosen.
Filler material: Necessary protective material (paper, bubbles, foam) is added considering product fragility and transport method.
Presentation: For brands that care about unboxing experience, branding elements, personalized cards, or product samples are included.
Secure sealing: The package is closed so it can't accidentally open but without making opening excessively difficult for the customer.
Labeling: The shipping label with all tracking information and necessary barcodes is printed and attached.
Professional packing significantly reduces damage during transport and improves customer perceived value.
5. Final Scanning and Documentation
Before the package leaves the preparation area:
Exit scanning: It's registered in the system that the order is complete and ready for shipping.
Documentation generation: Necessary documentation is created (shipping label, invoice, content declaration if international).
Inventory update: The system automatically deducts units from available inventory.
Customer notification: An email or SMS is automatically sent informing that the order has been dispatched, with tracking information.
6. Consolidation and Dispatch
Prepared orders are consolidated according to:
Carrier: Packages going with the same carrier are grouped.
Destination: They're separated by geographic zone to optimize collection routes.
Urgency: Priority or same-day orders are separated for immediate dispatch.
Pickup time: They're organized according to carriers' scheduled times.
Finally, when the carrier picks up packages, they're scanned again to confirm delivery to carrier and update tracking.
The Importance of Speed at Each Step
In Tijuana, where ecommerce competition is intense and customers value speed, every minute counts. Leading operators like Cubbo have optimized this complete process to execute it in:
- Less than 30 minutes for simple orders (1-3 products)
- 45-60 minutes for complex orders (multiple products, special packaging)
- Continuous processing throughout the day to allow multiple dispatches
This speed, combined with 99.5% accuracy, is what enables offering competitive services like same-day deliveries.
Specific Challenges of Order Fulfillment in Tijuana
Although Tijuana offers exceptional logistics advantages due to its strategic location, it also presents unique challenges that impact order fulfillment.
Infrastructure and Industrial Spaces
The accelerated growth of ecommerce in Tijuana has generated high demand for storage spaces. This results in:
High rental costs: Industrial spaces suitable for fulfillment operations have prices comparable or higher than other Mexican cities.
Limited availability: Finding spaces with necessary characteristics (ceiling height, fire systems, loading docks, strategic location) can be complex.
Variable infrastructure: Not all industrial parks have the service infrastructure (stable electricity, high-speed internet, security) that a modern fulfillment operation requires.
For small and medium businesses, investing in their own warehouse with these characteristics represents a significant entry barrier.
Climate and Environmental Conditions
Tijuana's climate presents specific considerations:
Temperature variations: Differences between summer and winter can affect sensitive products (cosmetics, food, electronics).
Humidity near the ocean: Areas close to Playas de Tijuana require special humidity control for certain products.
Storage conditions: Products like chocolates, candles, or certain cosmetics need controlled environments to maintain their quality.
Professional warehouses invest in climate control systems, but not all operations have this.
Personnel Availability and Turnover
Tijuana's labor market has particular characteristics:
High competition for talent: The maquiladora industry and other sectors compete for the same worker pool.
High turnover: Personnel turnover in logistics operations can be 20-30% annually, complicating consistency and quality maintenance.
Constant training: Order fulfillment systems require trained personnel, and turnover forces continuous training investment.
Seasonality: During peak seasons (Buen Fin, Hot Sale, Christmas) hiring additional personnel can be challenging.
Specialized companies like Cubbo absorb this challenge through standardized processes, solid organizational culture, and systems that minimize the learning curve.
Complexity in Addresses and Local Deliveries
Tijuana has geographic peculiarities that complicate correct order preparation:
Confusing nomenclature: Many neighborhoods have streets with similar names or ambiguous addresses.
Local references: Customers often provide references requiring local knowledge ("near the corner oxxo").
Hard-to-access zones: Some neighborhoods have complicated access that may require special, more resistant packaging.
Proximity to United States: Many customers use mailbox addresses in San Diego, adding processing complexity.
A good order fulfillment system must include address validation and the ability to request clarifications before dispatch.
Extreme Seasonal Peaks
Ecommerce in Tijuana experiences significant demand variations:
Peak seasons: Buen Fin, Hot Sale, Christmas can generate 3-5 times normal volume of orders.
Special events: Successful or viral promotions can generate unpredictable spikes.
Cross-border shopping: Events like Black Friday in the United States also impact local demand.
The ability to scale quickly the order fulfillment operation without sacrificing quality is a critical differentiator.
Returns Management
Returns are an inevitable reality of ecommerce, and in Tijuana:
Fast processing expectations: Customers expect returns to be processed as quickly as shipments.
Inventory reintegration: Returned products must be inspected, repackaged if necessary, and returned to available inventory quickly.
Reverse logistics: Coordinating pickups and processing returns requires specific systems and trained personnel.
Return causes: Analyzing why products are returned helps improve future order fulfillment.
While Tijuana faces unique challenges, other regions like Mexico City also offer valuable operational models. For example, understanding how logistics companies in México City manage infrastructure and labor dynamics provides key insights that can be applied to Tijuana’s fast-growing fulfillment environment.
Technology Applied to Modern Order Fulfillment
Digital transformation has revolutionized order fulfillment. Modern operations no longer depend on printed lists and manual processes, but on integrated technology that maximizes efficiency and precision.
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
A WMS is the brain of the order fulfillment operation. This system:
Optimizes product placement: Places high-turnover items in easily accessible areas and low-turnover items in secondary areas.
Generates optimal picking routes: Calculates the most efficient sequence to collect products, minimizing distances traveled.
Manages inventory in real-time: Instantly updates stock with each entry and exit.
Automatically prioritizes orders: Identifies which orders should be prepared first according to urgency, value, or service type.
Generates operational metrics: Provides data on productivity, accuracy, processing times, and other KPIs.
Cubbo uses a world-class WMS that integrates seamlessly with your ecommerce platform.
Scanning and Verification Systems
Scanning technology virtually eliminates human errors:
Product scanning: At picking time, the operator must scan each product. If it doesn't match the order, the system issues an alert.
Quantity verification: The system confirms the correct number of units was scanned.
Location scanning: It's verified that the product comes from the correct warehouse location.
Package scanning: It's confirmed the product was placed in the correct package when there are multiple simultaneous orders.
This verification at multiple points is what enables accuracy rates above 99%.
Integration with Ecommerce Platforms
Direct integration between your online store and the order fulfillment system is fundamental:
Automatic order flow: When a customer buys, the order reaches the WMS instantly without manual intervention.
Real-time inventory update: Your store always shows real availability, avoiding selling out-of-stock products.
Automatic tracking: Tracking numbers are automatically updated on your platform.
Returns synchronization: Processed returns automatically update available inventory.
Cubbo integrates natively with platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, Mercado Libre, Amazon, VTEX, and many more.
Robotic Automation (when applicable)
For very high volume operations, robotic automation can include:
Automated transport systems: Conveyor belts that move products between zones.
Autonomous mobile robots (AMR): Robots that bring products to fixed picking stations.
Automatic sorting systems: Technology that automatically separates packages by destination or carrier.
Pick-to-light and put-to-light: Light systems that guide the operator to the correct product.
While these technologies are powerful, they're not necessary for most operations. Cubbo implements the appropriate level of technology for each operation scale.
Analytics and Real-Time Reports
Data intelligence enables continuous optimization:
Real-time dashboards: Visualize what's happening in the warehouse right now.
Productivity analysis: Identifies which processes or teams are most efficient.
Demand prediction: Anticipates inventory and personnel needs based on historical patterns.
Error analysis: Identifies root causes of errors to implement improvements.
Custom reports: Generates specific reports on any aspect of the operation.
This visibility allows making strategic decisions based on real data, not intuition.
Customer Communication Systems
Proactive communication improves experience:
Automatic notifications: SMS, email, or WhatsApp at each process stage.
Tracking portal: Links where customers can see their order status in real-time.
Problem alerts: If there's any delay or problem, the customer is automatically notified.
Satisfaction surveys: Automatically sent after delivery to capture feedback.
How to Choose an Order Fulfillment Provider in Tijuana
Selecting the right partner to outsource your order fulfillment is a strategic decision that will directly impact your ability to grow and customer satisfaction.
Strategic Location in Tijuana
The warehouse location directly affects delivery times and costs:
Proximity to high customer density zones: Warehouses located near main residential and commercial areas enable faster deliveries.
Access to main roads: Quick connection to the city's main arteries reduces transit times.
Proximity to border crossings: For businesses with customers on both sides of the border, this can be relevant.
Low-risk zones: Areas with low security incidents are preferable to protect your inventory.
Ask potential providers about where exactly their warehouse is and visit it if possible.
Proven Technological Capability
Not all providers have the same technological level:
Proprietary vs. off-the-shelf systems: The best providers invest in proprietary or world-class systems.
Available integrations: Verify they integrate with your specific ecommerce platform.
Real-time visibility: You should be able to see your orders' status anytime.
Reports and analytics: The provider should offer detailed data about your operation.
Technology track record: Ask how long they've been using their current system and how frequently they update it.
Accuracy and Quality Standards
Precision in order fulfillment is non-negotiable:
Accuracy rate: The best providers achieve 99%+ accuracy. Anything below 97% is unacceptable.
Verification processes: Ask specifically what verifications they do and at which process points.
Special product handling: Do they have experience with your product type? (fragile, temperature-sensitive, high-value, etc.)
Quality protocols: There should be documented processes and continuous personnel training.
Certifications: Certifications like ISO can indicate commitment to quality.
Scaling Capability
Your business will grow, and your provider must be able to grow with you:
Current vs. projected capacity: Can they handle your current volume and also 3x or 5x that volume?
Peak season experience: How have they handled demand spikes in the past?
Space flexibility: Can you adjust storage space according to your real needs?
Contingency plans: What do they do if there's an unexpected spike exceeding their capacity?
Implementation time: If you need to scale quickly, how long does it take them to be ready?
Transparent Cost Structure
Costs should be clear and predictable:
Detailed breakdown: Receiving, storage, picking, packing, materials, systems, should all be clear.
No hidden costs: Explicitly ask about additional charges for things like special handling, order changes, or returns.
Price scales: How do costs change with increasing volume?
Payment terms: Is it monthly, per order, a hybrid?
Real comparison: When comparing providers, make sure to include all costs for a fair comparison.
Customer Service and Support
The support you receive is as important as the operation itself:
Availability: Can you contact them when you need them? Do they have 24/7 support or only office hours?
Communication channels: Phone, email, WhatsApp, web portal?
Response time: How long do they typically take to respond to inquiries or resolve problems?
Dedicated account manager: Will you have a direct contact who knows your operation?
Exception management: How do they handle situations outside the ordinary?
Experience in Your Industry
Specific experience in your product type can make the difference:
Client portfolio: Have they worked with brands in your industry?
Specific knowledge: Do they understand your products' particularities? (regulations, special packaging, delicate handling, etc.)
Success cases: Can they share concrete examples of how they've helped similar businesses?
References: Are they willing to connect you with current clients for references?
Fintech companies are increasingly turning to specialized logistics providers to manage their product distribution and storage. Understanding the specific requirements of fulfillment in Mexico for fintech helps ensure regulatory compliance, data security, and efficiency in handling high-value or sensitive items.
Cubbo: Operational Excellence in Order Fulfillment
Cubbo has established a new standard in order fulfillment in Mexico, and especially in Tijuana, where our operation is particularly strong. This is what differentiates us:
99.5% Precision in Every Order
Our commitment to accuracy is not just a goal, it's a consistent result:
Verification at multiple points: Each order goes through at least three verifications before leaving the warehouse.
Advanced scanning technology: Systems that make sending the wrong product virtually impossible.
Highly trained personnel: Continuous training programs and internal certifications.
Zero-defect culture: Every team member understands that precision is not optional.
This accuracy rate translates into fewer returns, fewer claims, and more satisfied customers for your brand.
Industry-Leading Processing Speed
Time is critical in ecommerce. At Cubbo:
Processing in less than 30 minutes: For standard orders of 1-3 products.
Multiple dispatch windows: We don't wait to consolidate orders; we dispatch continuously throughout the day.
Intelligent prioritization: Urgent orders are automatically identified and processed with maximum priority.
Extended operation: Broad hours that allow processing orders received late in the day.
This speed is what enables our clients to offer same-day deliveries and next-day delivery consistently.
World-Class Proprietary Technology
Cubbo's platform is the result of years of development and optimization:
Plug-and-play integration: Connect your ecommerce in minutes, not weeks.
Intuitive dashboard: Visualize your complete operation in real-time.
Open APIs: For custom integrations according to your business's unique needs.
Continuous updates: We constantly improve the platform based on feedback and new technologies.
Mobile-first: Our operations team uses mobile devices optimized for maximum efficiency.
Unmatched Flexibility and Scalability
With Cubbo, you grow without restrictions:
No minimum volume commitments: From the first order to thousands daily, the service is the same.
Adjustable space: Your storage space adjusts monthly according to your real needs.
Proven capacity: We've successfully handled massive campaigns with spikes of 5x-10x normal volume.
Geographic expansion: If you want to expand to other cities, we have presence in Mexico's main markets.
Total Transparency in Operation and Costs
At Cubbo, there are no surprises:
Clear and simple pricing: You know exactly what you pay and why.
Cost dashboard: Visualize your operation's cost in real-time.
Detailed invoicing: Every line on your invoice is clear and verifiable.
No hidden penalties: We don't charge for "special handling" or other charges common in the industry.
This transparency allows you to plan financially with certainty.
Human Support When You Need It Most
Although technology automates 95% of the operation:
Dedicated Account Manager: An expert who knows your business and is available when you need them.
Multichannel support: WhatsApp, email, phone, or web portal.
Quick response: Most inquiries are resolved in less than 2 hours.
Effective escalation: For complex situations, we have clear escalation processes.
Proactive communication: If we detect any potential problem, we contact you before it becomes a real problem.
Environmental Commitment
Cubbo is committed to sustainability:
Packaging optimization: We use the right box size for each order, reducing waste.
Recyclable materials: We prioritize recyclable and biodegradable packaging materials.
Energy efficiency: Our warehouses implement energy-saving practices.
Shipment consolidation: We optimize routes to reduce carbon footprint.
Benefits of Outsourcing Order Fulfillment with a 3PL
Many entrepreneurs and companies wonder whether to outsource their logistics operation or keep it internal. The reality is that for most ecommerce businesses, working with a specialized 3PL (Third-Party Logistics) like Cubbo offers decisive advantages:
Elimination of Infrastructure Investment
You don't need your own warehouse:
- No initial investment in industrial space leasing
- No equipment purchase (racks, forklifts, systems)
- No long-term contracts limiting your flexibility
- No worries about facility maintenance
This frees up capital you can invest in inventory, marketing, or product development.
Access to World-Class Technology
Developing or buying a quality WMS can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars:
- Cubbo gives you access to cutting-edge technology from day one
- Updates and continuous improvements at no additional cost
- Integrations already developed with major platforms
- No need for internal technical staff to maintain systems
Focus on Your Core Business
Your time is your most valuable asset:
- Dedicate yourself to what you do best: developing products, marketing, sales
- Leave logistics to specialists who do this day after day
- Dramatically reduce time spent "putting out fires" logistically
- Make strategic decisions instead of operational ones
Instant Scalability
With your own warehouse, scaling is slow and expensive:
- With a 3PL, your capacity grows at your business's pace
- During peak seasons, the 3PL absorbs the increase without you having to hire temporary personnel
- If your business grows 3x, so does your fulfillment capacity
- If you have a slow season, you only pay for what you use
Variable vs. Fixed Costs
The cost structure with a 3PL is much healthier:
With your own warehouse you have high fixed costs (rent, personnel, utilities) regardless of your volume.
With a 3PL like Cubbo, your costs are mostly variable: you pay for what you use.
This is especially valuable for growing businesses with variable cash flows.
Experience and Best Practices
A specialized 3PL has solved thousands of times the problems you'll face:
- Optimized and proven processes
- Knowledge of industry best practices
- Experience handling products similar to yours
- Established relationships with carriers and suppliers
You don't have to reinvent the wheel or learn by trial and error.
Risk Reduction
Operating your own logistics carries significant risks:
- Inventory risk (theft, damage, obsolescence)
- Labor risk (accidents, lawsuits)
- Compliance risk (regulations, permits)
- Capacity risk (what if you grow faster than expected?)
A professional 3PL absorbs these risks and has insurance and established protocols.
Access to Preferential Shipping Rates
3PLs process thousands or millions of shipments:
- They negotiate rates with carriers you couldn't obtain individually
- They have access to premium services (same-day, next-day) at reasonable costs
- Volume consolidation benefits all their clients
Simplified Geographic Expansion
When you want to expand to other cities:
- A 3PL with national presence facilitates the process
- You don't need to establish operations in each new city
- You can offer fast delivery times in multiple markets
- One partner for your entire national operation
Common Mistakes in Order Fulfillment and How to Avoid Them
Even with the best technology, there are common mistakes that can sabotage your order fulfillment operation:
Mistake 1: Not Validating Addresses Before Shipping
The problem: Incorrect or incomplete addresses are the number one cause of failed deliveries.
The solution: Implement address validation at checkout and before processing the order. Request additional information when the address seems ambiguous.
How Cubbo solves it: Our system cross-references addresses with geographic databases and automatically flags problematic addresses for review.
Mistake 2: Not Having Multiple Verification Process
The problem: Relying on a single verification dramatically increases error probability.
The solution: Implement verification at least at two points: during picking and during packing.
How Cubbo solves it: Three-point verification with mandatory scanning, making sending the wrong product virtually impossible.
Mistake 3: Inadequate or Inconsistent Packaging
The problem: Products damaged during transport or disproportionate packaging that increases costs.
The solution: Standardize packaging options and create clear guides on what to use for each product type.
How Cubbo solves it: Library of optimized packaging options and algorithms that automatically select the ideal packaging.
Mistake 4: Not Prioritizing Orders Correctly
The problem: All orders are processed in order of arrival, delaying urgent shipments.
The solution: Implement a prioritization system that considers service type, customer value, and urgency.
How Cubbo solves it: Automatic prioritization based on multiple factors, with manual override capability when necessary.
Mistake 5: Lack of Visibility for the Customer
The problem: Customers don't know their order status and constantly contact to ask.
The solution: Automatic notifications at each process stage and accessible tracking portal.
How Cubbo solves it: Automatic notifications via SMS/email/WhatsApp and real-time tracking with driver location visualization.
Mistake 6: Not Analyzing Operation Data
The problem: The same mistakes repeat because there's no root cause analysis.
The solution: Implement detailed reports and regular analysis sessions to identify patterns and improvement opportunities.
How Cubbo solves it: Dashboard with complete analytics and review sessions with your Account Manager for continuous optimization.
Mistake 7: Not Planning for Demand Spikes
The problem: Peak seasons collapse the operation because there was no preparation.
The solution: Advance planning of peak seasons, including extra inventory, temporary staff, and simplified processes.
How Cubbo solves it: We work with you to anticipate spikes, pre-position resources, and scale seamlessly without affecting quality.
For brands that sell directly to consumers, optimizing direct sales fulfillment in Mexico can significantly reduce delivery times and operational costs. This approach allows businesses to maintain tighter control over brand experience while leveraging 3PL scalability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What exactly is order fulfillment?
Order fulfillment is the complete process of receiving a purchase order, locating products in the warehouse (picking), verifying they're correct, packaging them appropriately, labeling them, and leaving them ready for shipment. It's also known as order preparation or pick and pack.
This process includes inventory management, professional packaging, and coordination with carriers so the product reaches the end customer in perfect condition.
How much does order fulfillment cost in Tijuana?
Cost varies according to several factors:
- Order complexity: Simple orders (1-2 products) cost less than orders with multiple SKUs
- Product type: Fragile or high-value products may have additional handling costs
- Volume: Higher volume, lower cost per order
- Additional services: Custom packaging, gift cards, or special services increase cost
Generally, the preparation cost of a simple order can be between $30-80 MXN, plus monthly storage cost. With Cubbo, you get transparent and competitive pricing from the start.
How long does it take to prepare an order?
In optimized operations like Cubbo:
- Simple orders (1-3 products): 15-30 minutes
- Medium orders (4-10 products): 30-45 minutes
- Complex orders (more than 10 products or special packaging): 45-90 minutes
These times allow processing orders received in the morning for same-day dispatch, enabling same-day delivery.
What's the difference between order preparation and fulfillment?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but technically:
Order preparation refers specifically to the picking, packing, and preparation process for shipping.
Fulfillment is a broader concept that includes order preparation plus: inventory storage, stock management, merchandise receiving, and returns processing.
In practice, when you hire a fulfillment service with Cubbo, you get the complete package.
Can I maintain control of my inventory if I outsource preparation?
Absolutely. With a modern 3PL like Cubbo:
- You have real-time visibility of your inventory
- You receive automatic alerts when stock is low
- You can do audits whenever you want
- The inventory remains legally yours
- You maintain total control over what's sold and at what price
In fact, many clients report having better control with a professional 3PL than when they handled everything internally.
What happens if there's an error in order preparation?
The best providers have clear protocols:
At Cubbo, if an error occurs (which is rare given our 99.5% accuracy):
- The error is identified as soon as possible
- The affected customer is immediately contacted
- The correct product is sent with priority shipping at no cost
- Return of the incorrect product is coordinated
- Root cause is analyzed to prevent repetition
- In applicable cases, compensation is provided according to established policies
How do you ensure my products won't be damaged during preparation?
Product protection is a priority:
- Personnel training in appropriate handling according to product type
- Standardized packaging processes with appropriate materials
- Visual inspection of each product before packing
- Resistance tests to determine optimal packaging
- Specialized zones for delicate or high-value products
- Insurance covering eventualities
At Cubbo, the percentage of products that arrive damaged to the customer is less than 0.3%, well below the industry average.
Can I visit the warehouse where my orders are prepared?
Of course! In fact, we recommend it. At Cubbo:
- We organize warehouse tours for potential and current clients
- You can see exactly how your orders are processed
- You meet the team handling your operation
- You verify your products' storage conditions
- We give you on-site access when you need it (by appointment)
This transparency is part of our commitment to trust and quality.
What happens during peak seasons like Buen Fin or Christmas?
Peak seasons require special preparation:
At Cubbo:
- We plan with you weeks in advance
- We pre-position trained additional personnel
- We adjust operating hours if necessary
- We implement simplified processes for maximum efficiency
- We maintain constant communication about operation status
- We prioritize according to your specific needs
We've successfully processed campaigns where volume increased 10x without affecting quality or delivery times.
Do I need a minimum volume to start?
No. At Cubbo we believe every business deserves access to world-class fulfillment, regardless of size.
- You can start with your first order
- There are no minimum volume commitments
- Pricing adjusts to your current reality
- As you grow, your costs automatically improve
Many of our largest clients started processing only handfuls of monthly orders and grew with us.
Ready to transform your order fulfillment in Tijuana? Discover how Cubbo can help you offer an exceptional fulfillment experience without the complications of doing it yourself. Schedule a free demo and learn why we're the fulfillment leader for ecommerce in Mexico.
