Which e-commerce system to choose? Custom solution vs. off-the-shelf tools

Choosing the right order management system is a crucial step for e-commerce businesses. Should you opt for off-the-shelf solutions like Baselinker or Apilo, or invest in a custom-built system tailored to your specific business needs? In this article, we analyze the advantages and disadvantages of both options and present a case study of Trada Meble—a company that achieved significant cost savings and improved operational efficiency by implementing a custom system.

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Challenges in e-commerce order management

Growing e-commerce businesses face several challenges in order management, including:

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• Increasing order volumes – Managing orders across multiple platforms requires synchronization and automation.
• Integration with multiple systems – Businesses rely on various tools, including marketplaces, warehouses, and accounting systems.
• Logistics optimization – Fast and efficient deliveries are key to customer satisfaction.
• High operational costs – Manual order processing and subscription fees for off-the-shelf systems can lead to unnecessary expenses.

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When are off-the-shelf systems a good choice?

Ready-made solutions like Baselinker and Apilo are attractive for businesses that are just starting and need a quick setup. Their main benefits include:

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• Low entry barrier – Quick installation and configuration.
• Pre-built integrations – Compatibility with popular marketplaces and courier services.
• Continuous feature updates – Regular improvements and technical support from providers.

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However, as businesses grow, they begin to notice the limitations of off-the-shelf solutions:

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• Lack of flexibility – Limited customization options for specific business processes.
• Increasing costs – Subscription fees and charges for additional features may exceed the cost of a custom system.
• Integration issues – Not all ready-made systems allow full adaptation to internal workflows.

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Why invest in a custom system?

A custom-built system is tailored to a company’s unique needs. Here are its key advantages:

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1. Full control over features

Unlike off-the-shelf systems, custom solutions allow businesses to design functions that precisely meet their requirements, such as automating logistics or integrating with proprietary tools.

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2. Scalability and flexibility

A custom system can grow alongside the business, avoiding the limitations imposed by pre-built platforms.

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3. Long-term cost savings

Although the initial implementation cost of a custom system is higher, it eliminates recurring subscription fees and optimizes operational expenses.

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Case study: How Trada Meble benefited from a custom system

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Trada Meble is a furniture company selling on multiple e-commerce platforms, including Amazon, Allegro, Kaufland, and PrestaShop. Initially, they used off-the-shelf solutions but soon encountered several limitations, such as:

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• Lack of automated delivery route planning,
• High subscription costs for Baselinker and Apilo,
• Insufficient customization options for their specific business needs.

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To address these issues, Trada Meble implemented TRADA SYSTEM, a custom-built order management solution that delivered the following benefits:

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• 90% reduction in operational costs – No subscription fees and optimized processes.
• 20% faster order fulfillment – Automation and seamless logistics integration.
• Improved customer service – Automated order status notifications.

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Conclusion – What should you choose?

The decision on which order management system to use depends on your company’s individual needs. If you're just starting and need a quick setup, off-the-shelf solutions might be a good choice. However, as your business grows, investing in a custom system can provide full control, scalability, and long-term savings.

Trada Meble is an example of how a personalized solution can bring real operational and financial benefits. If you want to learn how a custom system can help your business, contact us—we'll create a solution tailored to your needs.

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