Why Outsource Fulfilment with a 3PL Provider Like Complete Packaging Over the Christmas Season

How Outsourcing Fulfilment Can Transform Your Peak Season Performance

Every retailer knows that Christmas can be both the most profitable and the most stressful time of year. Demand surges, customers expect faster delivery than ever, and a single late shipment can damage your reputation. This is where outsourcing fulfilment to a trusted UK fulfilment service like Complete Packaging can make all the difference. Our dedicated seasonal fulfilment service is designed specifically to help businesses handle festive peaks smoothly, keeping orders on time and customers happy.

In this post, we’ll explore why outsourcing fulfilment, also known as 3PL fulfilment, is a smart move for businesses looking to scale during the busy seasonal period, the challenges to be aware of, and how to prepare for success.

What Is 3PL Fulfilment?

3PL stands for “third party logistics”, meaning you partner with a specialist company to manage key parts of your supply chain, including:

• Warehousing & stock storage (3PL warehousing)
• Picking and packing orders
• Shipping & tracking
• Handling returns

Instead of handling these processes in-house, you send inventory to a professional fulfilment centre that takes care of the rest. This frees you up to focus on marketing, sales, and growth.

Why Outsource Fulfilment Over the Christmas Period

1. Handle Order Spikes Without Stress

We all know Christmas is a busy time, and demand can double or even triple over this period. Rather than hiring and training temporary staff or leasing additional storage, a 3PL already has the space, systems, and staff in place to cope with sudden order surges.

2. Meet Customer Delivery Deadlines

Customers expect next-day or even same-day delivery during the festive period. With a professional order fulfilment service, you can maintain speed and accuracy without overstretching your own team.

3. Improve Stock Management

Running out of stock means lost sales, but over-ordering ties up cash flow. A good 3PL provides real-time inventory tracking and stock control, helping you balance supply and demand effectively.

4. Reduce Costs & Improve Efficiency

By outsourcing, you only pay for the space and labour you need. 3PLs like Complete Packaging often secure discounted courier rates, saving you money on every shipment.

5. Enhance Customer Experience

Accurate, beautifully packed orders with reliable delivery turn one-time shoppers into repeat customers. Many 3PLs even offer custom packaging such as gift wrapping and branded packaging options to enhance the unboxing experience.

Challenges & Risks to Consider

Outsourcing fulfilment is a strategic decision. Be aware of:

• Potential loss of control over custom packaging (choose a provider who supports your brand requirements)
• Integration of your e-commerce platform with the fulfilment centre
• Understanding seasonal pricing and service level agreements (SLAs)

Working with an experienced partner like Complete Packaging helps mitigate these risks.

How to Prepare for Seasonal Outsourcing

To get the most out of outsourcing fulfilment during peak periods:

• Forecast demand early: share sales data with your 3PL so they can plan staffing & space
• Send inventory in advance: avoid last-minute stock shortages
• Check integrations: make sure your e-commerce platform syncs with their system
• Agree clear SLAs: know exactly what delivery times and order accuracy rates to expect

Planning ahead ensures a smooth partnership and happy customers.

Why Choose Complete Packaging as Your 3PL Partner

At Complete Packaging, we provide reliable and scalable ecommerce fulfilment services designed for businesses of all sizes. With our flexible 3PL warehousing, experienced team, and strong courier partnerships, we ensure your orders are picked, packed, and delivered on time, even at peak season.

Whether you need bespoke packaging, real-time inventory tracking, or support with returns management, our solutions are built to help you deliver a five-star customer experience.

Ready to Outsource Your Fulfilment This Christmas?

Outsourcing fulfilment during Christmas doesn’t just reduce stress, it can save you money, improve customer satisfaction, and allow you to scale without the risk of operational bottlenecks.

If you’re ready to make this Christmas your smoothest yet, contact us today about our UK fulfilment service and explore how our seasonal fulfilment service can keep you ahead of demand during the festive rush.