Product Packaging & Shipping Operations Workflow

**Estimated Time:** 4-8 hours per order | **Difficulty:** Beginner | **Team Size:** 1-3 people A standardized workflow for fulfillment teams to package and ship customer orders accurately and on time. This process covers order verification, protective packaging, labeling, carrier coordination, and delivery tracking to ensure every shipment arrives safely and meets customer expectations. **What this template covers:** - Order item consolidation and verification - Protective packaging selection and application - Shipping label creation and attachment - Carrier pickup coordination - Delivery tracking and confirmation **Best for:** E-commerce fulfillment centers, warehouse operations, retail shipping departments, and any business that ships physical products to customers.

11 steps

Transportation/Logistics shipping

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Process steps

Consolidate order items from warehouse inventory

2 hours from previous step

task

Gather all items for this order from warehouse locations. Use the pick list to locate each SKU efficiently. Verify quantities match the order exactly. Flag any items that are out of stock or on backorder immediately and notify the customer service team. Bring all items to the packing station together to prevent mix-ups. Client name: {{client-name-7736085}} Client contact: {{client-contact-7736083}} Client address: {{client-address-7736086}} Item(s) ordered: {{item-s-ordered-7736084}}

Verify packing list matches customer order

3 hours from previous step

task

Compare each item at the packing station against the packing list. Check product names, SKUs, quantities, and variants like size or color. Mark off each item as verified on the checklist. Do not proceed if anything is missing, damaged, or incorrect. Report discrepancies to the supervisor immediately before packing begins. Client name: {{client-name-7736085}} Client contact: {{client-contact-7736083}} Client address: {{client-address-7736086}} Item(s) ordered: {{item-s-ordered-7736084}}

Apply protective packaging for fragile items

4 hours from previous step

task

Wrap fragile or delicate items with bubble wrap, foam padding, or tissue paper. Use packing peanuts, air pillows, or crinkle paper to fill empty space in the box. Ensure items cannot shift or collide during transit. Double-box high-value or extremely fragile products for added protection. Seal inner packaging securely before placing in the outer shipping box. Client name: {{client-name-7736085}} Client contact: {{client-contact-7736083}} Client address: {{client-address-7736086}} Item(s) ordered: {{item-s-ordered-7736084}}

Print and attach shipping address label

5 hours from previous step

task

Print the shipping label with complete and verified destination address. Double-check recipient name, street address, city, state, and postal code for accuracy. Attach the label to the largest flat surface of the box where it is clearly visible. Cover with clear packing tape to protect from moisture and weather damage. Ensure barcode is not creased, folded, or obscured so scanners can read it. Client name: {{client-name-7736085}} Client contact: {{client-contact-7736083}} Client address: {{client-address-7736086}} Item(s) ordered: {{item-s-ordered-7736084}}

Record package on daily shipping manifest

6 hours from previous step

task

Log the package on the daily shipping manifest for tracking and audit purposes. Record the tracking number, carrier name, service level (ground, express, overnight), package weight, and dimensions. Note any special handling requirements or declared value for insurance claims. Include ship date and expected delivery date. This manifest creates an essential audit trail for all outbound shipments. Client name: {{client-name-7736085}} Client contact: {{client-contact-7736083}} Client address: {{client-address-7736086}} Item(s) ordered: {{item-s-ordered-7736084}}

Stage package in carrier pickup area

7 hours from previous step

task

Move the labeled and documented package to the outbound staging area. Organize packages by carrier and service level for efficient loading by drivers. Ensure packages are accessible and not blocked by other items or equipment. Place time-sensitive and express shipments in priority positions for first pickup. Confirm package is visible and ready before the scheduled carrier pickup time. Client name: {{client-name-7736085}} Client contact: {{client-contact-7736083}} Client address: {{client-address-7736086}} Item(s) ordered: {{item-s-ordered-7736084}}

Perform final quality check before sealing

1 hours from previous step

task

Before sealing the package, perform a final quality check. Confirm all ordered items are present and in good condition. Verify special instructions such as gift wrapping, custom notes, or handling requirements have been followed. Ensure packing materials are adequate and items are secure. Seal the package with quality packing tape on all seams and edges.

Select correct box size for shipment weight

4 hours from previous step

task

Choose the right box size based on product dimensions and weight. Avoid using oversized boxes that require excessive filler material or increase shipping costs. Ensure the box can support the weight of contents without structural failure. Consider double-walled boxes for heavy items. Test the package by gently shaking it - if contents move, add more protective fill.

Validate shipping address using carrier tools

5 hours from previous step

task

Use the carrier address validation tool to verify the delivery address is complete and deliverable. Correct any address issues before printing the label. Confirm the service level matches customer expectations and delivery timeline. Add any required handling labels such as Fragile, This Side Up, or Hazmat if applicable. Generate and save the tracking number in your order system.

Confirm carrier pickup and receive scan confirmation

8 hours from previous step

task

Verify the carrier driver has picked up all packages and received initial scan confirmation. Check your shipping dashboard for the pickup scan event. If the pickup scan does not appear within 2 hours of scheduled pickup, contact the carrier to investigate. Document any issues or delays for follow-up with the customer if needed.

Complete delivery confirmation and close order

5 day from previous step

task

Once delivery is confirmed by the carrier, verify proof of delivery in your system. Check for any delivery exceptions, damages reported, or customer complaints. Update the order status to Delivered in your order management system. Archive shipping documentation for record retention. If any issues arose during shipping, document lessons learned for process improvement.