Kitting can seem complicated if you have never used a 3PL for it. So what do 3PL kitting services actually offer? If you have products that are sold in custom combinations, gift boxes, or monthly subscription sets, kitting is how those items come together. Not every fulfillment provider supports this well; some will just ship your items one at a time.
To get the best from kitting companies or your California fulfillment center, you need to align your needs from the start.
When to Use Kitting Services
Kitting is best for:
- Subscription boxes (where contents change monthly)
- Promotional gift sets (seasonal, holiday, or brand collabs)
- Product bundles sold as sets (for discounts or cross-sells)
- Custom packaging (unique inserts, wrappers, or notes)
A typical 3PL California might handle simple packs, but more complex assembly may need a specialist.
I once sent a round of samples to a new 3PL partner. Half the kits came back missing one or more pieces. Turns out, kitting was outsourced and communication got lost. That was an expensive lesson.
How a Kitting Service Works Inside a Fulfillment Center
Most California fulfillment center setups run kitting as a distinct workflow. When inventory arrives, it either gets stored for standard shipping or moved into an assembly section. Usually, there are two ways this is handled:
- Pre-kitted (kits assembled before orders come in, stored as units)
- Just-in-time (kits assembled as each order ships)
Both have pros and cons. Pre-kitting saves time during rush periods, but can leave you with unsold bundles if demand changes. Just-in-time is more flexible, but could slow orders if labor is short or if assembly is tricky.
Comparing Kitting Costs
Kitting fees are part of broader 3PL warehouse cost. These may be:
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Simple assembly (1-2 SKUs per kit) | 1 dollar per kit |
| Complex kitting (multiple pieces, custom packaging) | 2-4 dollars per kit |
| Custom inserts or branding | By quote only |
Always ask if kitting costs extra labor at busy times. Some centers bring in temp staff, and speed can drop.
Choosing a California Kitting Company
When searching for kitting companies or packaging and kitting services in California, your main criteria should be:
- Track record with your type of product (ask for examples or references)
- Quality control process (how errors or shortages are caught early)
- Flexibility (changing kit specs month to month)
- Packaging quality (are the kits packed to survive transit?)
A good kitting provider sends video or photo proof of a new kit before mass assembly. Some offer a checklist to approve before they start work.
What to Watch For in LA Fulfillment Services
Fulfillment services Los Angeles may charge a premium for kitting, given the cost of manual labor. If your kits are simple, look for a provider that uses in-house labor. For more complex or high-volume assembly, a specialist California fulfillment center may be better.
How to Estimate Inventory and Kitting Needs
If you pre-build kits, you lock up inventory. If you wait until the order comes in, your labor costs can spike unexpectedly. A good 3PL will suggest inventory buffers and update you if they see stock mismatches.
Sample Decision Table
| Scenario | Pre-kitting | Just-in-time |
|---|---|---|
| Stable demand, same kit every month | Efficient, lower pick fees | Risk of last-minute shortages |
| Changing kit content, high seasonal spikes | Excess stock risk | More flexible, but slower |
| Multiple kit types, low order volume | Inventory waste | Labor-intensive but manageable |
Should You Try a Local LA 3PL or Dedicated Kitting Company?
Some 3PLs, like those listed at www.idealfulfillment.com, offer kitting as one service among many. Others only do kitting and packaging. Both can work; much depends on your order volume and the complexity of your kits.
I usually recommend running a few trial kits before committing. If quality drops when they get busy, move on.
Qualities of Good Kitting Services
- Responsive communication; quick replies to questions
- Thorough checks before, during, and after assembly
- Ability to fix errors fast when they happen
- Willingness to share photos or videos during setup
- Reasonable labor costs for your specific assembly process
Finally, if your packaging is a major part of your brand, ask for a tour of the kitting area at your provider before sending final inventory. Even a video call will reveal if they treat your product with care or if it is just an afterthought.
