What automotive-parts fulfilment really costs

A fulfilment quote needs to cover the whole journey of a part, from receiving it to handling an order or return.

Count the work behind each order

Finding a part, checking it, choosing packaging, booking transport and answering delivery questions all take time. Compare the cost of doing that work in-house with the services you would actually buy from a warehouse provider.

What the total can include

• Receiving and stock check-in
• Storage by occupied bin, pallet position or oversize item
• Pick-and-pack charges based on the order size
• Heavy-item surcharges where applicable
• Courier, postage or third-party freight
• Returns administration when an order is returned

Prime’s M2 returns administration is £5 + VAT per returned order. Courier and freight are separate from pick and pack. Photography, listing support and specialist handling depend on the arrangement agreed; dismantling is a separate vehicle service.

Agree the stock before sending it

Provide product categories, approximate quantities, dimensions, weights, order volumes and delivery markets. Prime confirms stock classification and handling requirements before delivery. Mixed pallets are received as individual parts, rather than as one palletised component.

Compare a realistic month

Include slower-moving stock, receiving work, typical orders and likely returns in your comparison. A low storage rate alone does not describe the complete fulfilment cost. Dispatch timing depends on the agreed service and shipment; next-day dispatch is not a blanket guarantee.