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NationStreet, Inc. is a new
e-commerce logistics manager offering a nationwide fulfillment network
for home delivery of large consumer durables such as furniture,
appliances, exercise equipment, and electronics. Funded by Internet
Capital Group (ICG), NationStreet has developed its offering
specifically for e-commerce players, both pure ìe-tailersî and ìold
economyî companies.
A case in point is Mercata, a b2c retailer that enables consumers to combine their purchasing power to achieve discounts on high-quality, brand-name products, including appliances, baby products, electronics, gifts and gadgets, home and kitchen items, lawn and garden products, luggage, sporting goods, tools, and watches and jewelry. In 1999, Mercata wanted to expand its on-line product offerings to include large consumer durables, such as large screen televisions and lawn tractors. But just offering the products for sale on the site was not enough. They knew that providing an outstanding e-fulfillment experience -- including free delivery, unpacking and setup of the products -- would be the key to customer satisfaction and loyalty. At first, Mercata looked to traditional parcel carriers to provide nationwide e-commerce fulfillment. However, those providers were unwilling and unable to fulfill orders for products greater than 150 pounds. To enable the e-fulfillment experience, Mercata approached NationStreet. Together, NationStreet and Mercata executives tailored the details of the e-fulfillment solution, providing Mercata with enhanced customer satisfaction and retention through on-time delivery, 24/7 Web tracking, and value-added services -- such as unpacking, assembly, installation, setup and old product removal, anywhere in the continental United States. Together, the features and benefits of NationStreetís technology and service allow Mercata to outsource the last mile of their e-commerce solution. ìAll they have to do is capture their orders,î Michael Dieter, NationStreetís Chief Technology Officer says. ìWe take it from there.î |