Unlock Your DTC Potential with RealCold’s Expertise

Unlock Your DTC Potential with RealCold’s Expertise 

Scaling direct-to-consumer (DTC) operations can be a pivotal milestone for businesses ready to reach new heights. At RealCold, we specialize in providing robust cold chain solutions for businesses entering or expanding their presence. Whether you’re an established brand or a growing eCommerce startup, our tailored approach ensures you overcome operational challenges while optimizing efficiency and customer satisfaction. 

Understanding Your Scaling Needs 

DTC customers typically approach RealCold after experiencing hurdles in scaling their operations. These challenges often include: 

• High Shipping Costs: Managing cold chain logistics can become prohibitively expensive without proper strategies. 

• Lack of Expertise: Specialized knowledge is crucial for handling perishable goods and maintaining quality. 

• Logistical Roadblocks: Ensuring timely deliveries, especially for temperature-sensitive products, is no small feat. 

Even if your initial foray into DTC operations has been challenging, this experience provides invaluable insights. Historical data—such as shipping destinations, costs, and order sizes—allows RealCold to evaluate your current operations and project future performance. By analyzing these inputs, we make strategic recommendations on critical aspects like shipping methods, box sizes, dry ice requirements, and distributed inventory strategies to create an optimized network. 

Seamless Integration with eCommerce Platforms 

RealCold’s Order Management System (OMS) integrates effortlessly with platforms such as Shopify, Big Commerce, and NetSuite (and many others), enabling smooth order fulfillment. This integration is crucial for: 

• Real-Time Order Visibility: Ensuring we can view and process orders as they arrive. 

• Customizable Solutions: We configure our OMS to meet your brand’s specific needs and enhance customer experience. 

For example, if you’d like to include a personalized thank-you note for first-time buyers, our OMS flags these orders. The system instructs operators to print and include the marketing collateral during fulfillment—creating a tailored unboxing experience that leaves a lasting impression. 

Optimized Packout for Every Order 

Efficient packout is at the heart of successful DTC fulfillment. RealCold’s system determines the optimal box size, packing materials, and temperature controls for each order. Here’s how it works: 

1. Weather-Based Adjustments: Our system checks the destination’s weather conditions. For instance, an order heading to Denver in winter requires significantly less dry ice than one destined for Phoenix in summer. 

2. Inventory Allocation: If you’re utilizing multiple inventory locations within our network, the system recommends fulfillment from the most cost-effective and stock-optimized location. 

This intelligence ensures orders are packed and shipped in the most efficient and cost-effective manner while maintaining product integrity. 

From Inventory to Delivery 

Once your DTC systems are configured, RealCold takes care of the entire fulfillment journey. Here’s a snapshot of the process: 

1. Inventory Setup: Your products are transported to RealCold’s nationwide network of warehouses We assist in procuring transportation solutions to ensure seamless delivery. 

2. Storage: Goods are stored in temperature-controlled environments, whether coolers or freezers, until they’re ready for fulfillment. 

3. Order Fulfillment: 

• Products are moved to our refrigerated internal dock. 

• Operators pick and pack orders using the right materials (e.g., boxes, liners, dry ice, gel packs) as dictated by the OMS. 

• Any marketing materials or special instructions are flagged and executed. 

4. Shipping: 

• Packed orders are scanned for tracking visibility. 

• Labels are printed, and boxes are handed off to the appropriate carriers. 

• Real-time tracking ensures you and your customers have visibility throughout the delivery journey. 

Benefits of Partnering with RealCold 

Choosing RealCold as your DTC fulfillment partner brings numerous advantages: 

• Cost Efficiency: Optimized processes and strategic shipping decisions reduce overall costs. 

• Scalability: Our expertise supports your growth, ensuring smooth transitions as your operations expand. 

• Customer Satisfaction: Our team will tailor your experience and provide reliable metrics ensuring transparency, trust and loyalty.  

• Visibility and Control: Advanced technology provides real-time tracking and insights into your operations. 

Let’s Talk About Your DTC Goals 

This quick start guide only scratches the surface of what RealCold can do for your DTC operations. From OMS integration to optimized packouts and end-to-end logistics, our solutions are designed to help you scale efficiently and effectively. 

Ready to take your DTC business to the next level? Contact RealCold today to explore the full range of services and benefits we offer. Together, we can unlock your brand’s potential in the cold chain DTC market.