Article

Managing B2B Orders

Managing B2B Orders

B2B orders have unique requirements compared to retail orders.

B2B Order Lifecycle

1. Quotation Phase

  • Receive RFQ from buyer
  • Submit detailed quote
  • Negotiate terms if needed
  • Quote accepted -> Order created

2. Order Confirmation

  • Review order details
  • Confirm production capacity
  • Verify materials availability
  • Send order confirmation

3. Production Phase

  • Order raw materials
  • Begin production
  • Quality control checkpoints
  • Update buyer on progress

4. Quality Control

  • Inspect finished products
  • Conduct testing if required
  • Prepare quality certificates
  • Package for shipment

5. Shipping

  • Arrange freight/logistics
  • Complete customs documentation
  • Provide tracking information
  • Confirm delivery

6. Post-Delivery

  • Follow up with buyer
  • Handle any issues
  • Request feedback
  • Maintain relationship

B2B Order Statuses

StatusDescription
Quotation RequestedAwaiting your quote
Quotation SentQuote submitted
Quotation ApprovedReady to proceed
In ProductionManufacturing in progress
Quality CheckQC inspection
Ready to ShipAwaiting shipment
ShippedIn transit
DeliveredOrder complete

Communication During Production

Keep buyers informed:

  • Weekly progress updates
  • Milestone notifications
  • Any delays or issues
  • Quality checkpoint results
  • Shipping updates

Handling Changes

Change Requests:

  • Evaluate impact on timeline and cost
  • Document all changes
  • Get written approval
  • Update order details

Rush Orders:

  • Assess feasibility
  • May incur rush fees
  • Communicate clearly with buyer
  • Prioritize production

B2B Payment Terms

Common payment structures:

  • Net 30/60/90: Pay within 30/60/90 days
  • 50/50: 50% deposit, 50% on delivery
  • 100% upfront: Full payment before production
  • Letter of Credit: Bank-guaranteed payment
  • Escrow: Secure third-party holding

Production Planning

Use the production calendar to:

  • Schedule new orders
  • Identify available capacity
  • Avoid overcommitting
  • Plan for seasonal demand
  • Coordinate with suppliers

Quality Assurance

Maintain quality standards:

  • Document QC processes
  • Take photos during production
  • Provide inspection reports
  • Keep samples on file
  • Track defect rates