UPS launches digital platform targeting B2B SME e-commerce merchants


UPS has announced the launch of Ware2Go, a digital platform that matches available warehouse space and fulfilment services with merchants who need to get online orders to customers fast.

UPS stated: “The new business augments the company’s suite of custom e-commerce solutions designed to support small and medium-sized companies.”

Ware2Go recruits and certifies warehouses in strategic locations, establishing a network of vetted fulfilment partners. Merchants can then position products closer to their customers without the need for researching or vetting providers, or making long-term volume and time commitments.

According to UPS, because Ware2Go manages the relationships with warehouses, merchants get the service levels and pricing they might not receive on their own.

Warehouse operators who use Ware2Go already provide small-package pick and pack but may not have a dedicated sales team. They could benefit from working with customers outside their local area.

In practice, the platform works as follows:

  • Customers create an account (as a merchant, warehouse or both) and answer a few questions about their needs or capabilities.
  • Merchants provide details about their products, orders, space requirements and specific regional delivery needs. A portal enables merchants to upload and manage their inventory and orders across the Ware2Go network. The merchant maintains ownership of the inventory and is responsible for getting the products to Ware2Go-certified warehouses.
  • Warehouses provide their address and fulfillment services available, and Ware2Go inspects and certifies the warehouse.
  • The platform matches warehouses with merchants.
  • The Ware2Go platform also provides inventory visibility and tracks order progress for both the merchant and warehouse, streamlining communications.

“The flexibility Ware2Go offers merchants and warehouse operators, especially companies in the industrial, automotive and tech sectors, means they can compete more effectively and profitably in the market,” said Scott Price, UPS’ Chief Transformation and Strategy Officer.

Source: UPS