We understand inconsistent packaging can result in the inability to predict fulfillment pricing, which is really frustrating. This is exactly why Spaceful has developed a box selection algorithm.
What is a Box Selection algorithm?
Our algorithm uses dimensions and your packaging preferences to tell us which package size we should use for any order combination, so your orders will have more consistent fulfillment pricing.
How Does it work?
To function, the algorithm needs 2 mandatory inputs:
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Dimensions and weight of the products in the order: this helps us calculate what size packaging we should use. You can learn more about how to update these details here.
These inputs then go into the algorithm, which creates an output or “prediction” of what size and type of packaging should be used out of our Standard Packaging Options.
What if you want to use custom boxes?
If you want your items packed in custom boxes, you will need to do 2 things:
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Ensure you have communicated to the merchant support team or your account manager (email merchantsupport@spaceful.ca) indicating you would like to use custom packaging
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Ensure Spaceful has these products set up as bundles including the custom box SKU. Note: if you’ve already done this, you do not need to do it again.
I’m still confused....example, please!
Let’s say you sell t-shirts and bowls. You want the t-shirts to be packed in poly mailers to save cost, and the bowls to be packed in boxes, so you update your Product Details accordingly.
With no Box Selection algorithm, this is what happens:
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Order A contains 1 T-shirt and goes out in a poly mailer
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Order B contains 2 T-shirts and goes out in a 6x5x4 box
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Order C contains 1 T-shirt and 1 Bowl and goes out in a 10x8x3 box.
With Spaceful's Box Selection algorithm:
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Same result - Order A goes out in a poly mailer
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Smaller weight/dims - Order B goes out in a poly mailer, too.
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Smaller weight/dims - Order C goes out in the right-sized box, which is 9x7x5
With Spaceful's Box Selection algorithm you save on weight and/or size on 2 of 3 orders, resulting in lower costs!
What happens when the algorithm fails?
If a given order for some reason doesn’t fit into the recommended packaging, our packaging associates will choose the closest available size and type.