Lecture Notes: Fulfillment and Shipping with Laguna Studios

Introduction

• Speaker: Founder of Laguna Studios
• Topic: Fulfillment in Kickstarter campaigns
• Context: Fulfillment often seen as more daunting than the Kickstarter campaign itself.
  • Laguna Studios, a partner for fulfillment, used by 75% of their clients.

Background of Laguna Studios

• Initially a comic book publishing company, transitioned into fulfillment.
• Experienced in organizing and running Kickstarter campaigns (over 40 campaigns).

Key Strategies for Efficient Fulfillment

• Dedicated Packing Station:
  • Minimize clutter, maximize focus.
  • Adjustable height tables recommended.
  • Clear, labeled storage systems.
  • Use inventory systems like Sortly to manage stock.
• Packing Essentials:
  • Gather all necessary items (tape, labels, scale) in one accessible location.
  • Use the right type of boxes, like Gemini mailers for protection.
  • Prefer 200 lb cardboard for heavier items to prevent damage.
  • Use bubble wrap or foam for fragile items.

Live Demo Key Points

• Packing and Labeling:
  • Ensure labels are flat for easy scanning.
  • Stress test packages to ensure durability.
  • Add personal touches like thank you notes to enhance consumer connection.
• Custom Boxes and Packaging:
  • Custom boxes can enhance the unboxing experience.
  • Options for spot gloss, foil stamping, and custom branding.

Shipping Logistics

• Tools and Resources:
  • Invest in good scales (small for light items, larger for heavy items).
  • Use Pirate Ship for affordable international rates and ease of use.
• Understanding Shipping Methods:
  • Media Mail for books and flat items.
  • Ground Advantage for non-media items.
  • Pirate Ship's Simple Export Rate for affordable international shipping.

Handling Challenges in Fulfillment

• Address and Customs:
  • Address changes can be managed through Kickstarter or direct communication.
  • Customs fees are generally unavoidable but manage expectations.
• Dealing with Damages and Lost Packages:
  • Immediate replacement for damaged/lost items, with possible claims to postal services.

Working with Laguna Studios

• Service Offerings:
  • Fulfillment for both Kickstarter and regular shop orders.
  • White labeling options available.
  • Integration with platforms like Shopify, Backer Kit, etc.
• International Fulfillment:
  • Partnership allows for U.S. fulfillment for international creators.

Best Practices and Recommendations

• Simple Tier Structures: Avoid too many reward tiers for efficiency.
• Collaborative Planning: Work with Laguna for inventory management and logistics.
• Custom Products and Packaging: Consider using custom elements to enhance consumer experience.

Conclusion

• Laguna Studios aims to simplify creators’ fulfillment processes so they can focus on their projects.
• Encouraged ongoing communication and strategic planning to optimize fulfillment.