When it comes to logistics, the terms “fulfillment” and “distribution” often get used interchangeably — but they’re not the same thing. In fact, understanding the distinction can be the difference between a well-oiled ecommerce machine and a costly logistics headache.
So why do some people call a fulfillment center a distribution center? Or confuse distribution logistics with direct-to-consumer shipping? At FulfillMe, we hear these questions a lot — and we’re here to clear the air.
We’re a technology-enabled 3PL that offers end-to-end logistics support for ecommerce sellers, including FBA prep, DTC fulfillment, and B2B/wholesale distribution. But first and foremost, we specialize in ecommerce fulfillment. Let’s unpack what that really means — and how it’s different from distribution.
What Is a Warehouse?
Before diving into fulfillment and distribution, let’s start with the basics.
A warehouse is a facility designed for long-term storage. It’s the most traditional form of logistics infrastructure: think rows of shelving, forklifts, and limited technology. It’s ideal if you need to store goods for an extended period — but not so ideal if you need quick turnaround, automation, or a tech-driven operation.
FulfillMe doesn’t operate standard warehouses. Our facilities are smart fulfillment centers built for fast-moving ecommerce and retail brands. That means real-time inventory tracking, automated processes, and seamless integrations with your storefronts.
What Is a Distribution Center?
A distribution center (DC) is designed to temporarily house large volumes of goods while they move through the supply chain. It’s where pallets of merchandise get routed closer to retail stores, wholesalers, or regional hubs before reaching their final destination.
Distribution centers serve bulk orders and are commonly used by:
- National retailers restocking store shelves
- Wholesalers shipping large volumes to resellers
- Freight carriers aggregating shipments by region
Distribution logistics focuses on moving high volumes quickly and efficiently, often in pallet or case quantities. These facilities rely on tight coordination with transportation partners and may use EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) to communicate with big-box retailers.
At FulfillMe, we support clients moving into wholesale by offering B2B fulfillment, full EDI compliance, and the flexibility to distribute goods to both storefronts and marketplaces.
What Is a Fulfillment Center?
A fulfillment center is a specialized logistics facility that handles small-parcel orders — often shipped directly to consumers. These are the workhorses behind modern ecommerce.
Here’s what happens in a FulfillMe fulfillment center:
- Goods arrive in bulk from your manufacturer or supplier
- We break them down into sellable units
- Items are stored in real-time tracked inventory
- When an order comes in, it’s picked, packed, labeled, and shipped
Whether your customer is ordering one t-shirt or a monthly subscription box, we handle the logistics behind the scenes — and we do it fast.
Our systems integrate with Shopify, WooCommerce, Amazon, Walmart, and more. We automate as much of the process as possible while keeping accuracy and speed at the core. Plus, if you sell on Amazon, we offer Amazon FBA prep services to meet even the strictest compliance requirements.
Fulfillment vs. Distribution: The Core Differences
Feature | Fulfillment Center | Distribution Center |
Order Type | Small-parcel, DTC | Bulk, B2B/wholesale |
Order Volume | Thousands of individual orders/day | Large shipments, fewer total orders |
Recipients | Individual customers | Retailers, wholesalers, or other warehouses |
Tech Infrastructure | WMS, order routing, storefront integrations | Freight tracking, EDI |
Turnaround Speed | Fast — often same-day | Medium — scheduled shipments |
FulfillMe Role | DTC fulfillment + Amazon FBA prep | B2B wholesale distribution |
What Is Logistics?
Logistics is the strategy, planning, and execution behind moving products efficiently — from raw materials to the customer’s doorstep. It includes everything from transportation and warehousing to software and reverse logistics.
At FulfillMe, we don’t just move packages — we orchestrate the entire fulfillment experience. That includes:
- Inventory syncing with your online store
- Order processing and smart routing
- Real-time shipment tracking
- Fast returns processing
- Integration with FBA and retail partners
We’re more than a logistics provider — we’re your growth partner.
Different Types of Logistics (And Where FulfillMe Fits In)
✅ Supply Chain Logistics
The entire journey, from manufacturer to end user. Our team helps ecommerce businesses optimize inventory flow, no matter where their products start.
✅ Distribution Logistics
Perfect for brands expanding into wholesale or selling through Target, Walmart, and other retailers. FulfillMe helps simplify B2B complexity with compliant, scalable solutions.
✅ Fulfillment Logistics
Where we shine. We specialize in pick, pack, and ship for thousands of DTC orders daily — powered by real-time inventory, automation, and multi-channel integrations.
✅ Reverse Logistics
Returns don’t have to be a pain. We process returns quickly, provide restocking support, and give your customers a better experience.
✅ Transportation Logistics
We partner with multiple carriers and use carrier-agnostic routing to reduce your shipping costs and improve last-mile delivery times — no matter the destination.
So, What Should You Use: Fulfillment or Distribution?
The answer is… both, depending on your growth strategy.
If you’re scaling DTC sales, launching a subscription product, or expanding into Amazon — fulfillment logistics is your foundation.
If you’re moving into wholesale, stocking retail shelves, or shipping by the pallet — you’ll need distribution logistics to back you up.
At FulfillMe, we offer hybrid support so you don’t have to choose. We help ecommerce brands manage multi-channel fulfillment and scale across DTC, Amazon, and retail.
Why FulfillMe?
- All-in-one logistics solution for ecommerce growth
- Fast, accurate fulfillment across the U.S. and beyond
- Amazon FBA prep experts — millions of units shipped
- B2C + B2B support for omnichannel brands
- Subscription Box: Recurring orders, monthly kits, and personalization — all automated.
- Tech-driven insights for inventory and order management
Let’s Talk Logistics — Your Way
Still not sure which solution fits your needs? Our team is here to guide you.
Whether you’re launching a new product, scaling your ecommerce operation, or exploring wholesale for the first time — FulfillMe can help you get there faster.
Contact us today to learn more about our fulfillment and distribution capabilities.
Looking for faster fulfillment, smarter shipping, and lower costs? FulfillMe is your partner for ecommerce growth.
