CNFANS: Mastering Partial Shipments – A Practical Guide
In e-commerce logistics, it’s common for sellers to face situations where not all items in an order are ready to ship at once. Whether due to stock delays, supplier issues, or pre-order items, partial shipments help maintain delivery momentum while managing customer expectations. CNFANS offers intuitive support for partial dispatches – here’s how to handle them smoothly.
When Should You Use Partial Shipments?
Common scenarios that call for splitting shipments include:
- One or more items are temporarily out of stock
- Products sourced from different warehouses
- Pre-order items with different release dates
- Oversized items requiring separate logistics
- International shipping restrictions on certain products
How to Split Shipments on CNFANS
Step 1: Access Order Management
Navigate to your Seller Dashboard → Order Management
Click "Partially Shipped""Split Shipment"
Choose the products that are available for immediate shipping. The system will automatically calculate adjusted shipping costs if applicable. Each partial shipment receives its own tracking number. CNFANS will create a unique tracking ID for the first dispatch while keeping the order active for remaining items. Use CNFANS' messaging system to inform the customer about the partial shipment, including:Step 2: Initiate Partial Shipping
Step 3: Select Items for First Dispatch
Step 4 Generate Separate Tracking
Step 5: Notify Customer (Recommended)
Managing Multiple Tracking Numbers
With partial shipments, tracking becomes multifaceted. Here's how to stay organized:
1. Order Status Transparency
CNFANS displays order status as "Partially Shipped"
Despite multiple tracking numbers, all shipments remain linked to the original order ID. Both sellers and customers can view the complete shipment history in one place. Enable CNFANS notifications to automatically update customers when each partial shipment is dispatched and delivered.2. Unified Order View
3. Automated Notifications
Avoiding Customer Confusion
Communicate Proactively
Don't wait for customers to notice the split shipment. Send a polite notice explaining:
- Why their order is being shipped separately
- Exactly which items are in each shipment
- Expected delivery windows for all packages
Update Order Notes
Use the internal order notes feature to document the reason for partial shipping. This helps customer service teams provide consistent information.
Clarify Billing and Returns
Ensure customers understand that they'll receive separate tracking numbers but won't be charged extra shipping fees (unless previously stated in your policy).
Best Practices for Partial Shipments
Priority Shipping
Ship the most valuable or anticipated items first to maintain customer satisfaction.
Document Everything
Keep records of inventory status, communication with customers, and tracking updates.
Monitor All Tracking
Regularly check the status of all partial shipments, not just the first one.
Set Clear Policies
Establish and communicate your partial shipment policy in your store FAQ or shipping information.
Conclusion
Partial shipments are a valuable logistics tool when managed correctly. By leveraging CNFANS' built-in features for split shipments, maintaining clear communication, and organizing multiple tracking numbers, you can turn potential customer service challenges into opportunities to demonstrate your professionalism and commitment to customer satisfaction.
Remember: transparent communication and systematic organization are the keys to successful partial shipments on CNFANS.