With its algorithmic prowess and a user base that thrives on discovery, TikTok has created an environment where impulse buying is not just common—it’s almost inevitable. The platform’s short-form, visually-driven content has a unique way of capturing attention and encouraging spontaneous purchases, while LIVE shopping ads greatly increase engagement and interaction. All this makes TikTok a goldmine for businesses looking to drive sales.
However, for those new to TikTok Shop, a common concern is understanding how the logistics work, particularly when it comes to shipping. Many wonder if TikTok handles shipping directly or if it’s up to the seller to manage. In this article, we’ll explore both options—TikTok’s integrated shipping solutions and the seller-managed shipping process—so you can decide which is best for your business. Leveraging TikTok’s potential is crucial, but understanding how to navigate shipping options will ensure that your brand can meet customer expectations seamlessly.
What Are the Main TikTok Shop Shipping Options?
TikTok currently offers several convenient options for businesses to choose from when it comes to shipping their products to customers.
The default option is TikTok Shipping. The terminology is not quite consistent so you may also hear of Platform Shipping or Shipped via Platform, which is the same thing. In short, with this option, the collection and delivery of products are handled by TikTok rather than by the business.
Then there’s Seller Shipping. As its name suggests, it’s an option in which the business itself handles all shipping and delivery processes using selected logistics operators.
The most comprehensive solution is Fulfillment by TikTok or FBT, in which the platform takes care of everything from warehousing and packing to delivery and even customer service.
Now, let’s take a more detailed look at each of the options:
How Does TikTok Shipping Work?
TikTok Shipping, aka Platform Shipping or Shipped via Platform, is an option available to all sellers and it is the default option within the Seller Center, which is where all shipping-related options are set up. The platform works with several eligible carriers (USPS, UPS and FedEx). It automatically assigns a service for an order based on criteria like the buyer’s selected shipping options and the seller’s preferred carrier. This is offered by default, but sellers retain the right to select a different service while covering the difference in cost.
Splitting orders into separate packages or combining multiple orders into one is available, but here again the seller will cover the cost difference. As for the shipping discounts, TikTok offers free shipping on most orders. Uploading tracking numbers is handled by TikTok, and the platform also covers the costs in case of Return to Sender. Managing refunds and returns, ie. approving or rejecting claims, is handled by the seller.
When an order is placed, the Seller Center automatically generates a shipping label with integrated tracking information. Once the package is shipped, which can be done via Pick-up or Drop-off, the tracking info is automatically updated throughout transit.
TikTok Shipping is an excellent option for sellers who want to speed up their business and streamline operations with minimum effort involved and maximum time saved. They still need to handle warehousing and packing but once the package is ready and they select the “To Ship – Awaiting Collection” option, the selected carrier will collect and deliver the shipment in the next 2-3 days. Thanks to integrated tracking via printed labels, the seller will be able to monitor the process and the status of the shipment will be automatically updated in the Seller Center.
How Does Seller Shipping Work?
Seller Shipping, sometimes referred to as Seller Own Fleet or SOW, means sellers pack and ship orders using partner services outside of the TikTok network. While TikTok Shipping only involves three carriers, Seller Shipping can be done using a much wider range of service providers. The platform can help sellers by recommending reliable and trusting carriers but outside of that it’s up to the seller to decide which service will handle the shipping.
TikTok requires sellers to ship the orders within 3 business days and the platform’s end-to-end delivery requirement is 4 days for business and 7 days for express shipping. Tracking number upload is handled manually by the seller in the Seller Center, as well as delivery status. The seller is also responsible for costs related to Return to Sender, returns, and refunds.
In short, Seller Shipping requires a greater level of involvement on the seller side.
What Does Fulfilled by TikTok (FBT) Mean?
The most comprehensive solution for managing the shipment of goods sold through TikTok Shop is Fulfilled by TikTok or FBH. With this invite-only program, sellers can focus on growing other aspects of their business while TikTok manages everything from storing and picking to packing and shipping the goods to their customers. This program is fully integrated within TikTok Shop and getting started is quick and easy.
Merchant protection is one of the main benefits of FBT, as it protects sellers from violation points in case of late dispatch or seller fault cancellation. In addition, FBT reimburses the expenses that sellers incur when customers claim lost or damaged items, delivery of wrong items, or orders that never arrived.
FBT also comes with benefits for customers, like free shipping for new and returning customers, which helps brands grow sales and reach new customers.
Sellers can choose to have only specific products warehoused and shipped through FBT or they can use it for their entire catalog. Plus, there’s premium delivery service for the next working day as well as automated fulfillment for orders placed before 7pm on all days.
Finally, FBT does not impose any monthly minimums or long-term contracts, which is ideal for smaller operations. In addition, thanks to the 90-day free storage feature, any business that enters the program can simply try it out and see if it’s a good fit.
The only downside to Fulfilled by TikTok is that it’s an invite-only feature.
Wrapping It Up
As we saw, TikTok Shop offers a variety of shipping options that cater to different business needs, making it easier for sellers to find a solution that fits their operations. Whether you’re looking for the convenience of TikTok Shipping, the control of Seller Shipping, or the comprehensive service of Fulfilled by TikTok, there’s an option available to help you streamline your logistics and enhance customer satisfaction.
By aligning your shipping strategy with your business goals, you can leverage TikTok Shop to its fullest, ensuring that your products reach customers quickly and efficiently, while also creating a seamless shopping experience that encourages repeat purchases. As a TikTok Shop Partner agency, GrowMojo is your go-to address for setting up TikTok Shop, managing your catalog, advertising it, and connecting with affiliates, as well as for choosing the right shipping model for your business. Reach out to us and let’s create a winning TikTok Shop strategy for your brand!
