The 8 Biggest Logistics Challenges eCommerce Brands Face and How 91¶¶Òõ Helps You Overcome Them

Katherine Wroth • April 4, 2025


Budgets are tight. Inflation and consumer expectations are rising. And the e-commerce space is oversaturated.


At 91¶¶Òõ Distribution Centers, we understand the complexity of scaling your business. Whether you're managing B2B and DTC fulfillment, expanding into new channels or trying to meet next-day delivery expectations without draining your budget, we’re here to help.


Here are eight of the most common logistics challenges brands face and how 91¶¶Òõ helps solve them.


1. Implementing Modern E-Commerce Strategies


Growth strategies like bundling, upselling, order consolidation, pre-orders and personalized delivery options require operational flexibility and the right systems to execute. Legacy systems can slow brands down or block these strategies altogether.


91¶¶Òõ offers modern fulfillment solutions supported by integrated systems that enable operational agility. Our technology and processes are designed to help brands turn strategy into execution without adding complexity.



2. Expanding Sales Channels Without Adding Chaos


As brands expand into retail, marketplaces and new DTC platforms, the backend operations can quickly become overwhelming. Overselling, underselling and inconsistent customer experiences can wear down trust and revenue.


91¶¶Òõ helps you grow across channels with confidence. Our systems support multichannel inventory management, centralized order routing and scalable fulfillment that adapts to the specific needs of each sales channel.



3. Choosing a 3PL That Grows With You


Too often, brands outpace their 3PL provider. As demand grows and needs evolve, having the wrong partner can limit scalability and compromise customer experience.


91¶¶Òõ supports both DTC and B2B fulfillment with a unified solution. Whether you’re shipping to a consumer’s doorstep or replenishing inventory for a major retail partner, our nationwide network and customized approach ensure we scale with you.



4. Adapting to Economic Pressures


Economic shifts and uncertainty pressure consumer behavior, supply chain costs and your bottom line. Operational efficiency and adaptability have become key to staying ahead.


91¶¶Òõ helps brands offset these pressures by optimizing fulfillment networks, reducing time in transit and streamlining inventory placement—all while delivering an excellent customer experience.



5. Scaling in a Cost-Conscious Environment


Rising transportation, labor and warehouse costs can quickly eat into profitability. Growth needs to be smart not just fast.


91¶¶Òõ’s strategic inventory placement and network optimization help reduce shipping zones and transportation costs. We provide tools and insights that help you plan smarter, forecast more accurately and avoid costly inefficiencies.



6. Staying Agile in an Ever-Changing Market


Your fulfillment operations must be responsive and agile, from seasonal surges to supply chain disruptions. 


91¶¶Òõ’s flexible infrastructure allows you to ramp up, scale down and shift priorities quickly. We work closely with you to ensure your supply chain can flex with changing conditions without disrupting your customer experience.



7. Managing Capital and Inventory Smarter


Growth capital is harder to access and many brands are rethinking how they manage working capital and inventory risk. Overstocking, long lead times and slow-moving inventory can limit your ability to invest where it matters.


91¶¶Òõ’s demand-driven fulfillment approach reduces unnecessary holding costs and frees up working capital. We help brands align inventory with demand so resources are available to drive growth rather than sitting on the shelf.



8. Delivering a Consumer Experience That Builds Loyalty


At the end of the day, consumers expect fast, accurate and seamless experiences. A missed delivery or poor post-purchase experience can cost more than just a refund—it can cost loyalty.


91¶¶Òõ is built around delivering that high-touch experience. With best-in-class DTC fulfillment, responsive communication, real-time visibility and post-purchase support, we help our brand partners exceed consumer expectations every time.



What You Can Do Now


E-commerce and omnichannel brands can take action today by aligning the right strategies, technology and partners. That means:


  • Implementing fulfillment strategies that support bundled orders, subscriptions or personalization
  • Expanding into new sales channels without operational risk
  • Optimizing inventory placement across fulfillment nodes
  • Choosing a 3PL partner like 91¶¶Òõ with proven retail and DTC experience
  • Leveraging data and forecasting tools to reduce risk and improve planning



Why Brands Choose 91¶¶Òõ


91¶¶Òõ Distribution Centers powers high-growth consumer brands across apparel, health and beauty, home goods, specialty retail and more. With 20+ strategically located fulfillment centers across the U.S., we deliver fast, reliable service and scalable solutions tailored to your business. We are proud to support innovative brands through every stage of growth—from startup to enterprise.


Are you looking for your forever 3PL?  Contact us now to learn more about how 91¶¶Òõ can support your next phase of growth.

Recent Blog Posts

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
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