What is 3PL fulfilment software and how does it differ from a standard WMS?
3PL fulfilment software is designed specifically for third-party logistics providers managing warehousing and order fulfilment on behalf of multiple clients. Unlike a standard WMS focused on a single operation, 3PL software must handle multi-client inventory separation, client-specific workflows, billing structures, and carrier integrations—all within a single platform that maintains complete visibility for every account.
Can Keel's fulfilment software integrate with our existing ecommerce platforms and carrier systems?
Yes. Keel integrates via API with major ecommerce platforms including Shopify and Amazon, as well as carrier systems for automated label printing, tracking sync, and end-of-day closeouts. It also connects with IoT devices like barcode scanners and smart shelves. Integrations are configured to synchronise stock levels, orders, and returns seamlessly with your existing tech stack.
How long does it take to go live with Keel's 3PL fulfilment software?
Most operations go live within a matter of weeks. Keel's Build for Me service includes a managed migration from your existing systems, real-time workflow modelling, and a full handover to your team. The process is designed to minimise disruption while ensuring your new system is configured precisely to match how your warehouse actually operates.
Does Keel support multi-location warehouse management?
Yes. Keel's Inventory Management System provides real-time stock visibility across multiple warehouse locations, down to the bin level. It supports inter-warehouse transfers, reservation tracking, and location-specific workflows. Order Management and Fulfilment modules also support multi-location picking rules and automated warehouse routing based on your business logic.
What inventory tracking capabilities does the platform include?
Keel provides comprehensive inventory tracking including lot and batch control, serial number tracking, expiry date management, quarantine and hold statuses, and a complete audit trail for every adjustment. Automated reorder points, safety stock calculations, supplier lead time factoring, and demand-based suggestions are also built in, alongside FIFO, average, and standard cost inventory valuation.
Can we customise the workflows and rules to match our specific 3PL processes?
Absolutely. Customisation is central to Keel's design. Your receiving, put-away, picking, packing, and shipping workflows are all modelled around your exact process—including your layout, naming conventions, exception handling rules, and special client requirements. Unlike off-the-shelf tools that force you to adapt, Keel adapts to you, and your team can evolve workflows as the business changes.
How does Keel handle returns processing and exception management?
Returns processing is built directly into Keel's Fulfilment module. It includes structured workflows for receiving returned goods, quality inspection steps, inventory reinstatement or quarantine, and customer credit handling. Exception management covers short picks, carrier errors, damaged goods, and discrepancy resolution—all logged with a complete audit trail so nothing falls through the cracks.
Is Keel suitable for fulfilment operations in regulated industries?
Yes. Keel was born from Echo, a highly regulated online pharmacy shipping 50,000 medicines daily. The platform is built with compliance in mind, featuring row- and role-based permissions, deny-by-default access control, full audit logs, batch and serial number traceability, and ICO-registered UK data protection compliance. It's particularly well suited to regulated environments where traceability and access control are non-negotiable.
Does Keel support multi-client 3PL operations with per-client SLA tracking and reporting?
Yes—the fulfilment module includes SLA tracking and exception handling built around each account, and reporting is built into the platform so you can see performance across clients or drill into one. Client-specific rate cards and a client-facing portal aren't built-in features today; they're topics worth scoping upfront so your system is modelled around exactly how you bill and report to each client.
Can our 3PL fulfilment data be hosted in the UK?
Yes. Keel supports multi-region data residency, so you can choose where your environments are hosted, including in the UK. Keel is also registered with the UK's data protection authority, the ICO (reference ZB524558), and processes data as a UK GDPR processor under the Data Protection Act 2018.
Does Keel help 3PL operators handle VAT when billing multiple clients?
Order management handles taxes as part of the order lifecycle alongside pricing, discounts and credit terms, which extends to VAT on client billing. The procurement module also supports multi-currency purchasing, useful if your 3PL sources from both UK and overseas suppliers across client accounts.