Fulfilling Orders and Shipping Expectations

As a vendor on the LocalZ Marketplace, you are responsible for fulfilling customer orders accurately and on time. This article outlines the platform’s expectations for shipping and provides clear steps for completing the order fulfillment process.

• All orders must include free shipping within the United States

• Vendors must ship products within the timeframe specified in their store settings

• Accurate tracking information should be provided whenever available

• Orders must be packaged securely to prevent damage in transit

When setting up your store, you’ll be asked to define your average order processing time. This is the time it takes to prepare and ship an order after it’s placed.

• Most vendors offer processing times between 1–5 business days

• The selected timeframe should reflect your real capabilities

• Customers expect their orders to be shipped promptly — delays should be communicated clearly

1. Check for New Orders

   • Log in to your Vendor Dashboard

   • Go to Orders and review any new or processing orders

2. Prepare the Product

   • Package the product securely using appropriate packing materials

   • Include a packing slip or note (optional)

   • Ensure product presentation is clean and professional

3. Ship the Order

   • Use your preferred U.S.-based shipping provider (e.g., USPS, UPS, FedEx)

   • Choose a service level that matches your promised delivery timeframe

   • Pay for shipping and label the package correctly

4. Update the Order Status

   • In your dashboard, open the order

   • Set the status to Completed once the product has shipped

   • (Optional) Add the carrier and tracking number in the order notes

• Always confirm the shipping address before fulfilling the order

• Use tracking and delivery confirmation whenever possible

• If shipping multiple items, ship together and note the number of packages

• Take a photo of the packaged product before shipping in case of disputes

If your shipment is delayed due to inventory, weather, or personal issues:

• Contact the customer using their order contact information

• Provide a new estimated ship date

• Keep communication polite, clear, and prompt

Transparent communication helps reduce refund requests and builds trust with buyers.

All products must be shipped within the United States. Vendors are not permitted to:

• Offer international shipping

• Add international delivery options to product listings

• Accept orders from customers outside the U.S.

If a package is lost or damaged during shipping:

• Work directly with your shipping carrier to file a claim

• Contact the customer to explain the situation

• Offer a replacement or refund if appropriate (per your store policy)

• Keep records of your shipment and tracking to support your claim

If a package is returned to you (e.g., incorrect address):

• Notify the customer

• Confirm the correct address

• Resend the package or issue a refund, depending on your return policy

To complete your order process setup:

• Review and publish your store’s return and refund policy

• Learn how to handle returns and refunds professionally

• Monitor your dashboard regularly for new orders and messages