1. Overview
This guide provides merchants with comprehensive information about integrating their Netsuite ERP system with the Flexport platform. This integration streamlines key logistics and commerce workflows by enabling seamless data exchange between the two systems.
The Flexport Netsuite Connector facilitates:
- Synchronization of your Product Catalog.
- Real-time or near real-time Inventory level updates.
- Creation of Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) orders from Netsuite to Flexport.
- Receiving Order Status updates back from Flexport to Netsuite.
This connection leverages a robust connector built by Flexport, minimizing the need for custom development for core functionalities. However, a one-time setup, configuration, and mapping process is required for each merchant. This involves steps taken by both the merchant within Netsuite (detailed in Section 4) and configuration by the Flexport Engineering team.
2. Capabilities
The standard Flexport Netsuite integration supports the following data flows:
- Product Catalog Sync (Netsuite to Flexport): Ensures consistent product data.
- Inventory Level Sync (Flexport to Netsuite): Provides accurate stock levels.
- DTC Order Creation (Netsuite to Flexport): Automates order entry into Flexport from Netsuite..
- Order Updates & Fulfillment Sync (Flexport to Netsuite): Sends status updates back to Netsuite.
Below capabilities are NOT yet available:
- Inbound creation (Netsuite to Flexport): Automates inbound order creation from Netsuite to Flexport
- Inbound receiving updates (Flexport to Netsuite): Sends receiving updates against an inbound order to Netsuite.
- B2B Order Creation (Netsuite to Flexport): Automates B2B order entry into Flexport from Netsuite..
- B2B Order Updates (Flexport to Netsuite): Sends status updates back to Netsuite.
3. Integration Process
Connecting Netsuite account involves a collaborative process:
- Step 1: Initiate Conversation: Express your interest in the Netsuite integration to your Flexport Account Executive (AE).
- Step 2: Scoping & Use Case Discussion: Your AE will arrange a meeting between your team (including relevant Netsuite knowledgeable personnel) and the Flexport Engineering team to discuss your specific needs and confirm the integration scope.
- Step 3: Information & Access Provision (Merchant Action): You will need to perform configuration steps within your Netsuite account to enable features and generate the necessary credentials, as detailed in Section 4: Generating Credentials & Required Information.
- Step 4: Configuration & Field Mapping (Flexport Action): Once you provide the required credentials, the Flexport Engineering team configures the connector and performs the crucial task of mapping data fields between Flexport and your Netsuite instance.
- Step 5: Testing: Flexport Engineering, in coordination with your team, will conduct tests using a sandbox or production environment to ensure data flows correctly. Your team will validate the data in both systems.
- Step 6: Go-Live: Once testing is successfully completed and approved by both parties, the integration is activated for live production use.
4. Cost
- There is a one-time setup fee (to be discussed with your representative).
- This fee covers the Flexport Engineering resources required for the scoping, configuration (using the credentials you generate), mapping, testing, and go-live process outlined above.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: How long does the integration process typically take?
- A: Timelines vary based on merchant readiness (completing Section 4 promptly), mapping complexity, and testing. Typically, it ranges from 2 to 6 weeks from the scoping call to go-live.
- Q: Is the data sync real-time?
- A: Sync frequencies vary. Some actions might trigger near real-time syncs, while others (like inventory) might be scheduled (e.g., every 15 minutes). This is confirmed during scoping.
- Q: What if my Netsuite instance has significant customizations?
- A: Discuss any custom fields, workflows, or scripts impacting integrated data during scoping. While flexible, extensive customizations might require analysis beyond the standard setup.
- Q: Can we integrate other data points later?
- A: Discuss future needs with your AE. New requirements may be future enhancements or require a separate scope and potential costs.