Apparel Fulfillment


Clothing and Apparel Logistics

The apparel industry faces many complex challenges when it comes to inventory management and order fulfillment. 

Why is accuracy so important for apparel fulfillment?


HOW IS INVENTORY MANAGED FOR APPAREL FULFILLMENT?

With a high volume of SKUs, poor inventory management can be an apparel brand killer.  Adding the fact that fashion and styles change quickly, brands can be left with aged, unsold product that loses value and costs money to store season-after-season.


Brands must balance fill rate with a disciplined SKU assortment strategy to keep inventory levels as lean as possible. Item activity level reporting from a modern warehouse management system can proactively help clothing brands identify slow moving inventory to make room for new seasonal merchandise. This active inventory management will help your fulfillment provider keep its slotting plan up to date and enable more efficient picking.


HOW IS SEASONALITY MANAGED FOR APPAREL FULFILLMENT?

Many apparel brands have seasonal surges in order volume. Whether it’s around the holidays, or through social media promotions or as the temperatures change, being able to scale your fulfillment capacity at these times is vitally important. When logistics companies can prepare for seasonal or promotional marketing events by leveraging communication, forecasting and planning, it drives improvements in order cycle time. Fulfillment providers can operate in a much more cost-effective and efficient manner when not in a “reactionary mode."


WHAT ARE THE PACKAGING DEMANDS FOR APPAREL FULFILLMENT?

Apparel packaging is an important consideration from both a branding and product protection standpoint. If an order is going directly to a consumer, the packaging and presentation is essential.  If an order is going to a retail outlet, the carton needs to be labeled properly to avoid chargebacks. To improve industry best practice is for master cartons and units to be barcoded and packaged with one style, size and color per carton.  Does your apparel, or a specific product line require hangers?  If so, your fulfillment facility will need dedicated hanging space.  Considerations and steps also need to be made if your inventory needs to be bagged, packaged, or folded in a certain way. 


WHAT VALUE-ADDED SERVICES ARE IMPORTANT FOR APPAREL FULFILLMENT?

Value-added services are an increasingly important consideration for apparel brands. Based on your specific needs and customer expectations, these additional options can offer a competitive advantage and reinforce your brand’s image. Packaging, kitting, bundling, labeling and personalization are five common and popular value-added services. Whether you need custom designed packaging or have a variety of components that need to be transformed into finished kits, there are different service options that can meet these needs.


HOW ARE RETURNS HANDLED FOR APPAREL FULFILLMENT?

Every warehouse is not for everyone, however, the relationship with 91¶¶Òõ has been more of a partnership and an extension of our company versus a traditional client-customer relationship. It is invaluable to have a partner who is just as equally invested in your success.

— eCommerce Apparel Retailer

our team has been doing a great job for us. We are subject to the vagaries of major customers, which often create logistical challenges. The 91¶¶Òõ team has been a great partner to support us in successfully navigating through those challenges.

— CEO Active Lifestyle Apparel Brand

The team works with and supports the changes in our business. As the business continues to grow, 91¶¶Òõ has grown with us, contributing to the success of our business.

— Luxury Apparel Retailer

91¶¶Òõ understands how important it is to turn orders as quickly as possible to capitalize on our season. Their management of the Walmart inventory and assemblies has been great and has resulted in high OTIF scores.

— CEO Active Lifestyle Apparel Brand

APPAREL FULFILLMENT BLOG

By Katherine Wroth December 9, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Franklin, MA — 91¶¶Òõ Distribution Centers , a leading third-party logistics provider recognized for its expertise in eCommerce and omnichannel fulfillment, is proud to announce a new partnership with Maxwood Furniture to support its Western US DTC fulfillment operations. The partnership marks a significant milestone for Maxwood as the company continues to scale its nationwide distribution strategy. Maxwood Furniture is a global manufacturer of precision-engineered wood furniture with more than 20 years in the market. The company offers several distinct brands and product lines that ship from its US-based distribution centers or directly from its 1.3 million-square-foot factory in Vietnam. Maxwood serves retailers, design and procurement firms, hotel groups and turnkey project companies around the world. “We walked away from our visit to 91¶¶Òõ’s Montebello operations genuinely impressed with the visibility their systems provide,” said Heidi Germann , senior manager of operations at Maxwood. “Their integration, reporting and thoughtful approach to network design really stood out. 91¶¶Òõ’s geographic footprint fits where we’re headed and their team’s thoroughness helped us determine the best transition path.” After the initial transition, 91¶¶Òõ will begin planning a Dallas warehouse location to support Maxwood’s continued growth. “We are excited to partner with the Maxwood Furniture brand and team,” said Mark Healy , vice president of customer solutions at 91¶¶Òõ. “Our companies are aligned culturally and operationally, which creates a powerful combination to support Maxwood’s market-leading growth initiatives.” The launch is scheduled for mid December with outbound DTC order processing beginning shortly after. About Maxwood Furniture: Maxwood Furniture is a family-owned and operated import and wholesale business that designs, manufactures, and distributes solid wood furniture products across North America and around the globe. Our products are meticulously engineered in our fully accredited factory to meet or exceed US & EU safety standards. We manufacture using the latest equipment & best materials, including industrial-grade hardware, to create products that are made to last. Our customers range from designers to small independent & large retailers such as Rooms to Go, Jordan’s Furniture, and Bernie & Phyl’s. About 91¶¶Òõ Distribution Centers Since 1941, 91¶¶Òõ has provided customized third-party logistics (3PL), direct-to-consumer (DTC) eCommerce fulfillment, omnichannel distribution, managed transportation solutions and retail compliance for clients across all industries, with a focus on apparel & footwear, health & beauty, consumer packaged goods (CPG) and education. 91¶¶Òõ continues to be a leading 3rd party logistics provider in North America, known for superior execution, customer engagement and direct access to senior leadership decision makers. As a member of Inc's fastest growing companies list 15+ times, 91¶¶Òõ is big enough to do the job and still small enough to deeply care about your business. Brands interested in a new 3PL partnership may contact 91¶¶Òõ directly here . Official Release Here
By Katherine Wroth November 28, 2025
As a marketer, I can’t help but think about how much “fluff” is in advertising and how people are bombarded daily with thousands of generic messages. And as I begin my holiday shopping, it honestly hurts my soul knowing that dad is getting another set of generic socks, sister is getting another plain ceramic coffee mug, and mom is getting another non-stick pan that will end up with the hundreds she already has. Then I started noticing people line up for HOURS to get their bags monogrammed, their journals engraved, and their gifts wrapped with custom notes — and it hit me. Personalization is all about a feeling. The feeling that you thought deeply about someone when choosing a gift, and that it wasn’t just another HomeGoods candle regift (we’ve all been there — no judgment, but I am squinting). And yes, these are the things that keep me up at night. But on a larger scale, I’m always thinking about what brands could be doing better. And the data is in: personalization is one of the most effective ways to stand out. According to Salesforce, 78% of consumers are more likely to repurchase from brands that personalize their offerings , and Adobe reports that 52% of consumers now expect personalized offers from retail brands . What used to be a “nice touch” is now the expectation. Below are the personalization trends we see leading the charge this holiday season — many of which you’ll spot in our recent personalization workflow video. 1. Monogramming is having a moment Embroidery remains one of the most requested personalization services. It creates an emotional connection that gift shoppers love, and when it’s built directly into fulfillment operations, it avoids the bottlenecks brands often face. 2. UV printing is becoming a go-to for fast customization UV printing delivers a premium look quickly and works across a wide range of materials. It provides brands with the flexibility to offer personalization without compromising shipping promises. 3. Laser engraving continues to stand out for gifting Engraving adds depth, permanence, and a premium feel that elevates even simple products. With 86% of shoppers stating that personalization influences their purchasing decisions , engraving has become a strategic differentiator for gifting moments. 4. Debossing is rising in popularity for premium and corporate gifting The subtle, elevated finish resonates with shoppers seeking something that feels intentional and gives professional vibes. It also photographs beautifully, which matters when unboxing content drives discovery. 5. Handwritten notes still matter There’s nothing more human than a handwritten message. A simple note can turn a routine order into a moment worth sharing, and shoppers notice the effort. 6. Gift wrapping expectations are higher than ever Gift wrapping used to be a “nice-to-have." Shoppers want gifts to arrive ready to give, and they expect the wrap to match the quality of the item. When a 3PL integrates wrapping into its workflow, brands get consistency without sacrificing speed. 7. Kitting and curated sets are on the rise Gift sets and bundles remain one of the strongest trends of the season. Customers love the convenience and the elevated presentation, but behind the scenes, kitting requires organization and accuracy — especially during peak. That’s where strong fulfillment workflows matter. 8. Custom packaging shapes the unboxing experience Personalized tissue, belly bands, stickers, sleeves, and inserts transform a simple shipment into a brand moment. Deloitte found that 54% of consumers expect a personalized unboxing experience , and 70% say that custom packaging enhances their perception of a brand . Packaging is all about storytelling. Why personalization matters more this season Across retail, personalization drives: Higher repeat purchases Increased AOV Stronger first impressions Better loyalty More organic social content With 40% of consumers spending more than planned when they receive personalized experiences , the value is undeniable. The brands that stand out are the ones that can deliver personalization consistently, accurately, and quickly — especially when volume spikes. How 91¶¶Òõ brings personalized fulfillment to life Within 91¶¶Òõ facilities, personalization is an integral part of the operational workflow for many of our partners. Our teams support brands with: Monogramming and embroidery UV printing Laser engraving Debossing Gift wrapping Handwritten notes Custom packaging setups Kitting and bundling Real-time visibility and reporting Brands get the elevated customer experience they want without compromising speed or accuracy. Big plans for custom services next year? If your brand wants to introduce new custom services or scale the ones you already have, an experienced 3PL partner is non-negotiable. Contact us for a free personalization supply chain consultation today.
By Bryan Corbett November 3, 2025
Inbound Logistics Selects 91¶¶Òõ Distribution Centers as 2025 Top 100 3PL
SHOW MORE

CASE STUDY

APPAREL FULFILLMENT

APPAREL FULFILLMENT CASE STUDY

We have also dealt with requirements for counterfeit product detection and management of the brand threat, while ensuring that all solutions position Vibram to scale, with orders and delivery (direct to consumer and to retail channels) capable of fast response as orders grow in number and complexity.

READ MORE