When you want to start an e-commerce business with physical products, such as a bol.com store or a webshop, logistics are often not the first thing on your mind.
E-commerce & logistics: what you need to know upfront
Warehouse storage, fulfillment, and shipping
Just three terms that play a role in the logistics process of an e-commerce company. Where do you store the purchased products? How do you handle fulfillment (all actions between the moment an order is placed and the moment the customer receives the product at home) in the smartest way possible?
If you sell on bol.com, the choice is relatively simple. Either you handle storage, fulfillment, and shipping of packages yourself, or you outsource it to bol.com.
The pros and cons of shipping yourself as a bol.com seller
Advantages of shipping yourself:
- As a starting seller, you learn the entire process – You absorb all aspects of the operation, which prevents you from running into problems with outsourced logistics later on.
- No storage costs – Home storage eliminates warehouse costs, which is especially attractive in the beginning.
- Full control – You have a grip on every aspect of the customer journey, from packaging to shipping.
- Flexibility – You can easily adapt to changing circumstances.
Disadvantages of shipping yourself:
- Time-consuming – Every order takes time: packing, labeling, taking it to the pickup point.
- Scalability issue – As you grow, it quickly becomes unsustainable.
- Shipping costs – As a small sender, you often pay higher rates.
The pros and cons of logistics via Bol
Advantages of Logistics via Bol (LvB):
- Saves a lot of time – Especially when you sell at least 50 products per day, you can focus your time on business development.
- More responsibility with bol.com – Bol.com is strict about service requirements and takes over this responsibility.
- Includes customer service – The platform automatically manages customer communication.
- In many cases, LvB is cheaper – Shipping cost reductions often compensate for storage and processing costs.
- Higher conversion – Inventory handled by bol.com receives preferential treatment on the platform.
- Bol.com packaging – Professional branding increases customer perception and trust.
Disadvantages of Logistics via Bol:
- Storage costs – You pay per cubic meter, which can add up for slow-moving products.
- Less control – You are dependent on bol.com's processes.
- Not suitable for all products – There are limitations in terms of dimensions and weight.
Conclusion: Logistics via Bol or shipping yourself?
The choice depends on your situation:
- Just starting out? Start with shipping yourself to learn the process.
- Selling 50+ products per day? LvB becomes interesting.
- Want to scale? LvB offers the infrastructure to grow.
- Have unique packaging wishes? Shipping yourself gives you more control.
The good news: you don't have to choose. Many sellers combine both: shipping themselves for certain products and LvB for others. Test what works best for your business!
