3PL Integration
The GrowthPath 3PL integration is a modular integration supporting custom logic and sophisticated optional modules.
Positioning
Section titled “Positioning”The GrowthPath 3PL is a semi-customised approach allowing customer-specific logic built on a range of optional modules (reusing existing customer requirements). These can be adapted and customised as required.
This approach takes longer to deploy and is more expensive than off-the-shelf alternatives. However, it allows you to add customer value by differentiating your fulfilment flow, and to introduce advanced efficiencies.
Advanced Modules
Section titled “Advanced Modules”| Module | Description |
|---|---|
| Order Header Rewriting | Location change, carrier/service level change based on rules |
| Bundles | Insert or rewrite order lines with activation dates and price redistribution |
| BOM Expansion | Expand Cin7 Core BOMs on the order, including multi-level BOMs |
| Auto Pick / Auto Backorder | Auto-pick orders where possible, including backorder filling |
| Partial Fulfilment Invoicing | Creates invoices matching only what has been shipped |
| Order Splitting/Rerouting | Split orders across locations based on custom logic |
| POs / Inbound Stock | Custom inbound stock handling |
| Returns / RMAs | Returns handling and RMA processing |
All Advanced Module logic is customisable. For example, you can control behaviour by sales channel or location.
Business Scalability
Section titled “Business Scalability”- Supports multiple 3PLs
- Handles high transaction volumes via the GrowthPath Application Server cache
File Exchange Options
Section titled “File Exchange Options”- Flat file exchange via FTP/SFTP
- XML exchange
- API exchange via webhooks and batch
- Custom exchange options
Front-End Options
Section titled “Front-End Options”Zero Touch Mode
Section titled “Zero Touch Mode”In Zero Touch mode, orders are sent to the 3PL when they reach the trigger stage (Authorised Pick or Authorised Pack). Processing happens automatically and the order is fulfilled in Cin7 Core when completed at the 3PL. Tracking information is written to Cin7 Core as it becomes available.
3PL progress is communicated via a status message on an Additional Attribute. Errors are sent via email.
Portal
Section titled “Portal”For more advanced use, GrowthPath provides a 3PL portal showing:
- Overview of orders in progress
- 3PL file information
- Advanced filtering and order fulfilment overviews
- Backorder management views
- XML message inspection for troubleshooting
Stock Sync
Section titled “Stock Sync”The 3PL integration fetches stock levels from the 3PL and reports 3PL stock levels vs Cin7 Core. Differences can be adjusted manually, or a draft Stocktake can be created to force Cin7 Core stock to agree.
Batch/Serial
Section titled “Batch/Serial”The integration supports batch and serial numbers if required, including the option to let only the 3PL manage this detail. The standard flow is to complete the fulfilment in Cin7 Core based on 3PL confirmation of completion. Tracking numbers and URLs can be written back at that point, or later.
Module Details
Section titled “Module Details”Location Change
Section titled “Location Change”Uses webhooks to react to order authorisations. Can change the order location (e.g., for Click and Collect, or for any type of customised logic).
Carrier/Service Level Rewrite
Section titled “Carrier/Service Level Rewrite”Custom rules to set Carrier/Service Levels based on customer, destination, product, and more.
Bundles
Section titled “Bundles”If you need bundles or logic to insert lines to orders, this module rewrites the order. It is controlled by a cloud spreadsheet-style front end including activation dates. Unlike using Kits, this module has start and end dates. It will rewrite order pricing per line if required, while keeping the order total unchanged.
BOM Expansion
Section titled “BOM Expansion”Expands Cin7 Core BOMs on the order, including multi-level BOMs. Exposes components on the order but shows all required components on one pick list.
Auto-Pick / Auto Backorder Filling
Section titled “Auto-Pick / Auto Backorder Filling”Auto-picks orders where possible. Controls whether partial fulfilments are allowed. Usually runs on a schedule and fills the oldest orders first, meaning that receipt of stock or returns will automatically pick backorders.
Partial Fulfilment Invoicing
Section titled “Partial Fulfilment Invoicing”Creates an invoice matching what was shipped. Cin7 Core’s automatic invoicing will invoice in full. The GrowthPath module invoices only what has been shipped, calculating the difference between what has been invoiced so far and what has been shipped so far.
Order Splitting
Section titled “Order Splitting”Splits an order into multiple fulfilments at different locations with custom logic. Enables dispatching orders from stock locations nearer to the customer, or using retail stock for faster fulfilment of online orders.
Deployment
Section titled “Deployment”The 3PL integration is hosted on a client-specific instance of the GrowthPath Application Server, which hosts the advanced cache and middleware library.