Frequently Asked Questions

What fulfillment services does ShipTop offer?
​ShipTop provides DTC eCommerce fulfillment, B2B/retail fulfillment, Amazon FBA/FBM, warehousing and storage, returns and reverse logistics.
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What is the difference between B2B fulfillment and DTC fulfillment?
​B2B fulfillment ships cases and pallets to retailers or distributors, while DTC fulfillment ships individual parcels directly to consumers.
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Can ShipTop handle mixed B2B and DTC orders for the same client?
​Yes, ShipTop can fulfill both B2B and DTC orders using shared inventory and consistent operating processes.
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How quickly are orders processed after they are received?
​Orders are typically processed same-day or next business day based on cutoff times, order volume, and any holds (inventory or address issues).
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What are your order cutoff times?
​ShipTop fulfills orders placed before 12pm local fulfillment center timezone, same-day, and orders placed after 12pm, next-day.
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Can you handle subscription or recurring orders?
​Yes, ShipTop supports subscription and recurring orders through standard order imports from all major eCommerce platforms like Shopify, Amazon, TikTok Shop, and more.
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Do you support custom packaging or branded inserts?
​Yes, ShipTop can include branded inserts, custom packaging, and marketing materials as part of value-added services.
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How do you ensure order accuracy?
​ShipTop uses barcode scanning, system validation, and quality checks to maintain high pick/pack accuracy.
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What happens if an order cannot be fulfilled?
​If an order cannot be fulfilled (out of stock, address issue, or payment hold), ShipTop places the order on hold and notifies the client for resolution.
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How do you manage inventory across multiple fulfillment centers?
​ShipTop provides multi-location inventory visibility and can distribute inventory across warehouses to reduce shipping zones and improve delivery speed.

Do you fulfill cosmetics and beauty products?
​Yes, ShipTop fulfills cosmetics and beauty products for both DTC and wholesale channels. Fulfillment for makeup, hair, and skin care products.
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Are your facilities compliant with cosmetic storage requirements?
​ShipTop follows appropriate handling and storage practices for cosmetics, and we confirm any special product requirements during onboarding. ShipTop warehouses and FDA registered and Health Canada compliant.
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Can you handle small, fragile, or liquid beauty products?
​Yes, ShipTop supports fragile and liquid items with appropriate packing materials and shipping methods.
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Do you support lot tracking and expiration dates for cosmetics?
​Yes, ShipTop can support lot and expiration tracking when required for your SKUs and workflows. We offer FEFO (Fist Expired, First Out) and FIFO (First In, First Out).
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Can you handle kitting or bundles for beauty products?
​Yes, ShipTop provides kitting services for beauty, hair and skin care brands, gift sets, bundles, and promotional packs.
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Are your warehouses FDA registered?
​ShipTop warehouses are FDA registered for warehousing and fulfillment of cosmetic and skin care products.

Do you fulfill health and wellness products?
​Yes, ShipTop fulfills health and wellness products including fulfillment services for supplements, protein powders, wellness goods, and regulated products where applicable.
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Are your warehouses compliant with Health Canada requirements?
​ShipTop warehouses hold Health Canada Site Licenses and follow compliant processes for applicable product types.
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Are your warehouses FDA registered?
​ShipTop warehouses are FDA registered for warehousing supplements, beverage and food products.
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Can you manage lot codes and expiration dates?
​Yes, ShipTop can manage lot codes and expiration dates for products that require traceability.
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Do you support recalls or quarantine inventory if needed?
​Yes, ShipTop can quarantine inventory, manage recall workflows, and help with controlled disposition based on client instructions.

Do you fulfill large or oversized home goods?
​Yes, ShipTop fulfills oversized and bulky home goods, including products that ship via parcel or freight.
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Can you handle fragile or breakable items?
​Yes, ShipTop supports fragile items with protective packaging, special handling, and carrier selection.
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Do you support multi-item orders with mixed SKUs?
​Yes, ShipTop handles multi-SKU orders and uses scanning and validation to improve accuracy.
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Can ShipTop handle seasonal home goods inventory?
​Yes, ShipTop supports seasonal volume swings with scalable storage and fulfillment processes.

Do you fulfill pet products?
​Yes, ShipTop fulfills pet products including accessories, consumables, and bundled items.
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Do you support heavy or bulky pet products?
​Yes, ShipTop supports heavy and bulky pet products and can ship via parcel or freight as needed.
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Can ShipTop manage subscription shipments for pet brands?
​Yes, ShipTop supports subscription shipping and recurring orders for pet brands.
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Are your warehouses FDA registered?
​ShipTop warehouses are FDA registered for warehousing pet food, pet treats, and pet supplements.

Do you fulfill apparel and fashion products?
​Yes, ShipTop offers fulfillment services for apparel, accessories, and shoe DTC brands.
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Can you handle size, color, and SKU variations?
​Yes, ShipTop supports high-SKU-count catalogs with size/color variations and location-level inventory visibility.
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Do you support folding, polybagging, or tagging?
​Yes, ShipTop offers apparel prep services such as folding, polybagging, and labeling as value-added services.
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Can you process returns and exchanges for apparel?
​Yes, ShipTop supports returns processing and can follow your exchange rules and disposition instructions.
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Do you support kitting or bundles for apparel brands?
​Yes, ShipTop supports apparel bundles, multi-item kits, and promotional packs.

Do you fulfill beverage products?
​ShipTop can fulfill many beverage products, and we confirm product type and shipping rules during onboarding.
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Can you handle heavy cases or breakable bottles?
​Yes, ShipTop supports heavy and fragile shipments using appropriate packaging and shipping methods.
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Do you support palletized beverage shipments?
​Yes, ShipTop supports palletized beverage shipments and freight shipping where required.
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Are there restrictions on shipping beverages across borders?
​Yes, cross-border beverage shipments can have restrictions and compliance requirements (eg. FDA Prior Notice), and ShipTop reviews eligibility before shipping.
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Are your warehouses compliant with Health Canada requirements?
​ShipTop warehouses hold Health Canada Site Licenses and follow compliant processes for warehousing and fulfillment of beverage products.
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Are your warehouses FDA registered?
​ShipTop warehouses are FDA registered for warehousing beverages, food, and supplement products.

Which parcel carriers does ShipTop work with?
​ShipTop works with national and regional carriers in Canada and the US including UPS, FedEx, DHL, Canada Post, USPS, DHL Ecommerce, Fleet Optics, UniUni, OnTrac and other regional partners depending on destination and service level.
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How do you select the best carrier for each order?
​ShipTop selects the carrier and shipping method based on price, transit time, service performance, destination, and any delivery requirements.
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Can clients use their own carrier accounts?
​Yes, ShipTop can ship on client carrier accounts where supported and configured during onboarding.
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Do you support discounted shipping rates?
​Yes, ShipTop offers access to highly discounted shipping rates, and we can compare options based on your shipping profile.
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Do you offer shipping rate comparisons?
​Yes, ShipTop can rate-shop across carrier services to choose the best option based on cost and delivery speed.
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How is tracking information provided to customers?
​Tracking numbers are generated at shipment creation and automatically pushed to your store/platform when integrated.
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What happens if a parcel is lost or damaged?
​ShipTop helps initiate carrier claims and provides documentation support, while outcomes depend on carrier policies and declared value.
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Can ShipTop ship to PO boxes?
​Yes, ShipTop can ship to PO boxes when the selected carrier service supports it (often postal services).
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Do you support signature-required deliveries?
​Yes, ShipTop supports signature-required and adult-signature options where available.

Do you offer LTL and FTL freight services?
​Yes, ShipTop supports both LTL and FTL freight for inbound, outbound, and B2B distribution.
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What types of freight can ShipTop handle?
​ShipTop handles palletized freight, case-pack shipments, and many oversized items, subject to packaging and carrier requirements.
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Can you ship pallets and oversized freight?
​Yes, ShipTop can ship pallets and oversized freight using LTL/FTL carriers and proper packaging standards.
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Do you support domestic freight across Canada and the US?
​Yes, ShipTop coordinates domestic freight shipments across Canada and the US from our network of North American 3PL fulfillment centers.
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Can ShipTop coordinate freight pickups from your warehouse?
​Yes, ShipTop can schedule freight pickups from our warehouses or coordinate inbound pickups from suppliers when arranged.
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Do you offer freight consolidation services?
​Yes, ShipTop can consolidate multiple shipments to reduce freight cost and improve efficiency.
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How are freight rates calculated?
​Freight rates typically depend on weight, dimensions, freight class, origin/destination, accessorials, and service level.
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Do you help with freight class determination?
​Yes, ShipTop can assist with freight class guidance, though final classification can depend on carrier rules and commodity details.
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Can ShipTop manage freight claims?
​Yes, ShipTop helps manage freight claims with supporting documents, photos, and shipment details.
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Do you support cross-docking for freight shipments?
​Yes, ShipTop supports cross-docking for freight to reduce storage time and move inventory quickly.

Do you support cross-border shipping between Canada and the US?
​Yes, ShipTop specializes in cross-border shipping and fulfillment between Canada and the United States. ShipTop owns and operates multiple warehouses across Canada and the United States.
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Can ShipTop help reduce duties and taxes for US shipments?
​Yes, ShipTop offers compliant cross-border strategies that can reduce duty and tax impact depending on product eligibility and shipment structure.
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Do you offer US fulfillment through your network?
​ Yes, ShipTop offers US fulfillment from our network of fulfillment centers across the United States.
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How are customs documents handled?
​ShipTop generates or collects the required customs data (product descriptions, values, HS codes where needed) and supports compliant documentation workflows.
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What products are restricted from cross-border shipping?
​Restrictions vary by country and carrier, but common restricted items include certain supplements, hazmat, regulated goods, and items requiring special licenses.
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How long does cross-border shipping take?
​Transit times depend on destination and service level, but ShipTop can offer options ranging from economy to expedited shipping.

Do you support international shipping outside of Canada and the US?
​Yes, ShipTop supports international shipping to many global destinations depending on carrier service availability and product eligibility.
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Which countries does ShipTop ship to?
​ShipTop ships internationally to a wide range of countries, and we confirm supported lanes based on your products and target destinations.
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How are duties and taxes handled for international orders?
​Duties and taxes can be billed to the recipient (DDU) or prepaid (DDP) depending on the service and configuration.
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Do you support Delivered Duties Paid (DDP) shipping?
​Yes, ShipTop can support DDP options where carriers and lanes allow it.
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Can ShipTop provide HS code classification?
​ShipTop can assist with HS code guidance, though final classification should be confirmed by the merchant for compliance. HS code consulting services are available from a certified customs broker.
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How do you handle customs delays?
​ShipTop monitors tracking and supports documentation requests, but customs clearance timing ultimately depends on border authorities.
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Can you ship internationally using express and economy services?
​Yes, ShipTop supports both express and economy international shipping options based on destination and carrier availability.
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Do you support international returns?
​ShipTop can support international returns workflows depending on destination country rules and return shipping method.
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Are there products that cannot be shipped internationally?
​Yes, certain products may be restricted internationally due to hazmat, batteries, liquids, regulated goods, or country-specific import rules.

How does ShipTop pricing work?
​ShipTop pricing typically includes receiving, storage, fulfillment (pick/pack), shipping, and any value-added services based on your program. Our pricing structure is based on a clients’ order volume and/or inventory storage needs.
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What fulfillment fees should I expect?
​Fulfillment fees usually include a pick/pack fee per order plus packaging materials, and any special handling requirements.
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How are storage fees calculated?
​Storage is commonly billed based on location type; pallet positions, bin/shelf locations, cubic footage, or a defined storage model depending on your setup.
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Are there minimum monthly fees?
​Some programs may have minimum monthly fees depending on volume, complexity, and warehouse requirements.
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How often are invoices issued?
​Invoices are typically issued monthly or semi-monthly, with supporting billing details and reports.
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What payment methods does ShipTop accept?
​Payment methods can include ACH/EFT, e-transfer, credit card and other standard business payment options, which are confirmed during onboarding.
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Can I receive detailed billing reports?
​Yes, ShipTop provides detailed billing breakdowns covering storage, fulfillment activity, shipping costs, and accessorials.
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How are shipping charges billed?
​Shipping charges are billed based on the selected carrier service and rate, with options for ShipTop rates or client carrier accounts.
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Are there additional fees for peak season?
​Peak season fees may apply depending on carrier surcharges and operational requirements, and ShipTop communicates these in advance when possible.
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How are billing disputes handled?
​ShipTop reviews billing questions promptly and can provide shipment IDs, order references, and supporting documentation to resolve disputes.

What platforms does ShipTop integrate with?
​ShipTop integrates with major eCommerce platforms and tools, including Shopify, Amazon, Magento, WooCommerce, TikTok shop and supports additional integrations depending on your tech stack.
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Do you integrate with Shopify?
​Yes, ShipTop integrates with Shopify to sync orders, fulfillments, tracking, and inventory.
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Do you integrate with Amazon?
​ShipTop integrates with Amazon for FBM fulfillment and FBA prep.
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Do you offer API access?
​Yes, ShipTop offers an open API access for custom integrations and automation needs.
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Can ShipTop integrate with custom systems?
​Yes, ShipTop can support custom integration requirements using API workflows or file-based processes depending on complexity.
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How is inventory synced across platforms?
​Inventory sync depends on the integration setup, but ShipTop aims to keep inventory accurate through system updates and operational controls.
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How often does inventory update?
​Inventory updates can be near real-time or scheduled based on integration method and platform capabilities.
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Do you provide real-time order and inventory visibility?
​Yes, ShipTop provides visibility into orders, shipments, and inventory levels through system dashboards and reporting.
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Can I export reports from your system?
​Yes, ShipTop can provide exports and reports for shipments, orders, inventory, Cost of Goods Sold, and billing data.

Does ShipTop integrate directly with Shopify?
​Yes, ShipTop integrates directly with Shopify for automated order import, fulfillment updates, and inventory management.
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How does Shopify order fulfillment work with ShipTop?
​Once integrated, Shopify orders flow into ShipTop for picking, packing, shipping, and tracking updates back to Shopify.
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Can ShipTop fulfill Shopify orders automatically?
​Yes, ShipTop can automate Shopify fulfillment for eligible orders based on your rules and inventory availability.
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Do you support multiple Shopify stores?
​Yes, ShipTop can support multiple Shopify stores, including brands with separate storefronts or regional stores.
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How are returns handled for Shopify orders?
​ShipTop can receive returns, inspect items, and update return dispositions based on your return rules and Shopify workflows.
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Can ShipTop manage Shopify inventory across multiple locations?
​Yes, ShipTop supports multi-location inventory strategies to improve delivery speed and reduce shipping costs.
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Do you support Shopify Markets?
​ShipTop can support Shopify Markets workflows depending on your configuration, shipping lanes, and customs setup.
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Can ShipTop fulfill both Canadian and US Shopify orders?
​Yes, ShipTop fulfills Shopify orders across Canada and the US using our warehouse network, including Blaine, WA.

Do you support Amazon FBA prep services?
​Yes, ShipTop supports Amazon FBA prep including FNSKU labeling, kitting, polybagging, carton labeling, and packaging requirements.
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Can ShipTop ship inventory directly to Amazon fulfillment centers?
​Yes, ShipTop can prepare and ship inventory into Amazon fulfillment centers according to Amazon routing and appointment requirements. Amazon FBA shipments may include both SPD (Small Parcel Delivery) and LTL/FTL freight.
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Do you offer Amazon FBM fulfillment?
​Yes, ShipTop integrated directly with Amazon and offers FBM fulfillment by shipping orders directly to end customers on your behalf.
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Can you handle Amazon labeling and prep requirements?
​Yes, ShipTop follows Amazon packaging and labeling requirements for FBA and other inbound programs.
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Does ShipTop integrate with Amazon?
​ShipTop directly integrates with Amazon Seller Central to sync FBM orders, manage inventory, and more.
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Can ShipTop manage Amazon returns?
​ShipTop provides Amazon return and inventory removal services, including receiving, sorting, kitting, labeling, fulfillment and disposal services.
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Do you support removal orders from Amazon?
​Yes, ShipTop can receive and process Amazon removal orders, including re-stocking, inspection, or rework.
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Can you handle multi-channel fulfillment alongside Amazon?
​Yes, ShipTop supports multi-channel fulfillment so you can serve Shopify, Amazon, retail, and other channels from shared inventory.

Do you fulfill wholesale and retail distribution orders?
​Yes, ShipTop supports wholesale and retail distribution, including case-pack and palletized shipments. Our team of B2B experts have extensive experience shipping to major retailers and distributors including Costco, Walmart, Target, Canadian Tire, Home Depot, and more.
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Can ShipTop ship to major retailers?
​Yes, ShipTop can fulfill orders and ship to major retailers and distributors including Costco, Walmart, Target, Canadian Tire, Home Depot, and more.
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Do you support EDI and retail compliance?
​Yes, ShipTop supports retail compliance workflows, and EDI integrations through our partner SPS Commerce.
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Can you handle palletized and case-pack shipments?
​Yes, ShipTop handles both palletized and case-pack B2B shipments for distributors and retailers.
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Do you support routing guides and appointment scheduling?
​Yes, ShipTop can follow routing guides and schedule appointments where required by retailers and DCs.
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Can ShipTop manage retailer-specific labeling requirements?
​Yes, ShipTop supports retailer labeling such as carton labels, pallet labels, SSCC labels, and other program-specific requirements.
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Do you support cross-docking for retail orders?
​Yes, ShipTop supports cross-docking to move products quickly for time-sensitive retail replenishment.
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Can you consolidate multiple retail orders into one shipment?
​Yes, ShipTop can consolidate orders when routing guides and retailer requirements allow it.

Where are ShipTop’s fulfillment centers located?
​ShipTop owns and operates fulfillment centers in Toronto, Vancouver, and Washington State to serve Canada and the US efficiently.
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Do you have warehouses in Toronto and Vancouver?
​Yes, ShipTop has warehouses in Toronto and Vancouver for Canadian fulfillment and distribution.
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Does ShipTop have a network of fulfillment centers in the US?
​Yes, ShipTop operates a network of US locations, including Blaine, WA, Seattle, WA and more. ShipTop US warehouses offer 3PL services including B2B and DTC fulfillment, storage, freight and cross-border strategies.
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How do you decide which warehouse fulfills my orders?
​ShipTop selects the best fulfillment location based on inventory availability, destination zones, delivery speed, and cost.
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Can inventory be split across multiple locations?
​Yes, ShipTop can distribute inventory across multiple warehouses to reduce shipping costs and improve delivery times.
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Do you support cross-border fulfillment from Blaine and Vancouver?
​Yes, ShipTop Blaine and Vancouver locations can be used for US and Canada order fulfillment and cross-border programs depending on your strategy.
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Are all locations FDA registered and compliant?
​Yes, ShipTop warehouses are FDA registered and ShipTop facilities hold Health Canada Site Licenses where applicable.
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Can I tour a ShipTop warehouse?
​Yes, warehouse tours can be arranged by appointment for qualified prospects and active clients.
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What are your receiving hours at each location?
​Receiving hours vary by warehouse, and ShipTop provides exact receiving windows and appointment rules during onboarding.

How do I get started with ShipTop?
​You can get started by requesting a quote, confirming scope and pricing, and then completing onboarding steps for integration and receiving.
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What is the onboarding process like?
​Onboarding includes integration setup, warehouse configuration, shipping preferences, inventory receiving setup, and test orders before go-live.
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How long does onboarding take?
​Onboarding time depends on integrations, SKU count, and complexity, but ShipTop provides a clear timeline during kickoff. Most onboarding is completed within 24-48 hours.
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What information do you need to onboard a new client?
​ShipTop typically needs product/SKU data, carton/pallet details, shipping settings, integration access, and receiving plans to onboard properly.
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Can ShipTop help migrate inventory from another 3PL?
​Yes, ShipTop can coordinate inventory transfers from another 3PL, including inbound scheduling, receiving, and reconciliation.
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Is there a minimum volume requirement?
​Minimums vary based on service needs and warehouse requirements, and ShipTop confirms fit during the quote process.
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Who is my main point of contact after onboarding?
​After onboarding, you’ll have a dedicated point of contact or support channel for ongoing operations and service management.