FedEx provides clients with the software for creating catalogs and an 800 number for technical assistance. The finished catalog resides on the FedEx server, although no reference to FedEx is apparent. If a client already has a Web site, surfers at the site access the catalog by a transparent link to the FedEx server. The server is monitored 24 hours a day and is secure for online purchases. Once a customer completes an order, VirtualOrder assigns a confirmation number for the customer's records.
Customers can use the number to track the status of their order at the catalog site.
They may also review their order history at the site. VirtualOrder downloads the orders to the FedEx PowerShip unit at the client's fulfillment center. The download is largely free of compatibility issues with the client's existing network because the transmission goes to a FedEx machine. For those clients fully integrated to VirtualOrder, the program automatically adjusts the client's inventory records. The client then fills the order and creates a shipping label and tracking number using the PowerShip unit.