This guide explains how you can set delivery timeframes, update order progress, and maintain transparency throughout the fulfillment process.
🧭 Step 1: Understanding Delivery Timeframes
Delivery timeframe refers to the estimated number of days it takes for a customer to receive their order after purchase.
It includes two main parts:
Processing Time – The time you need to prepare, pack, and hand over the item to the courier.
Shipping Time – The time it takes for the courier or logistics partner to deliver the item to the customer.
Example:
Processing Time: 1–2 business days
Shipping Time: 3–5 business days
Total Estimated Delivery Time: 4–7 business days
✅ Tip: Always allow a small buffer for weekends or public holidays.
🛍️ Step 2: Setting Delivery Timeframes in Your Product Listing
You can define your delivery time directly in your product settings.
To set or edit delivery timeframes:
Log in to your Vendor Dashboard.
Go to Products → Edit Product (or click “Add New Product”).
Scroll to the Shipping and Delivery Section.
Enter:
Processing Time: How long it takes you to ship the product after receiving an order.
Estimated Delivery Time: The number of days it usually takes for the customer to receive their order once shipped.
Save changes by clicking “Update” or “Publish.”
✅ Example:
Processing Time: 2 Days
Estimated Delivery: 3–5 Days Nationwide
These timelines will automatically display to customers on the product page and during checkout.
📦 Step 3: Updating Order Status After Receiving an Order
Keeping order statuses updated is critical for transparency and customer trust.
Each time an order moves to a new stage, update the status in your Vendor Dashboard.
Order Status Stages and Their Meaning
| Status | Description |
|---|---|
| Processing | Order has been received and payment confirmed. You’re preparing the item for shipment. |
| Shipped | Item has been handed over to the courier. Customer should receive tracking info. |
| Out for Delivery | Courier is currently delivering the package to the customer. |
| Delivered / Completed | The customer has received the order successfully. |
| Cancelled | Order has been canceled (by you, the customer, or support). |
| Refunded | Payment was returned to the customer. |
⚙️ Step 4: How to Update Order Status
Follow these steps to change an order status:
Log in to your Vendor Dashboard.
Go to Orders on the sidebar.
Find the order you want to update.
Click “View” or “Edit.”
From the Order Status dropdown, select the appropriate status (Processing, Shipped, etc.).
(Optional) Add Order Notes to inform the customer about shipment details or delays.
Click “Update.”
✅ Tip: Always change the order to “Shipped” as soon as it leaves your store and provide a tracking number if available.
📮 Step 5: Adding Tracking Information
When marking an order as Shipped:
In the same Order View Page, look for the Tracking Section.
Enter:
Courier/Logistics Company Name (e.g., GIG Logistics, DHL, Kwik, etc.)
Tracking Number or Link
Save your update.
This allows customers to monitor the progress of their delivery through the courier’s system or directly in their Made In Nigeria account.
✅ Tip: Providing tracking details significantly reduces customer complaints and “Where is my order?” inquiries.
🕒 Step 6: Updating Delayed or Exceptional Orders
If an order is delayed due to supply issues, weather, or courier problems:
Add an Order Note explaining the delay to the customer.
Update the Expected Delivery Date in your dashboard (if available).
Notify the customer through the built-in message system.
Transparent communication helps prevent cancellations or disputes.
📊 Step 7: Benefits of Accurate Delivery Updates
Keeping your delivery timeline and order statuses up to date helps you:
✅ Build trust and loyalty with customers
📈 Improve your vendor rating on Made In Nigeria
📦 Reduce refund or complaint cases
⏰ Avoid misunderstandings about order delays
💬 Improve communication between vendors and customers
💡 Best Practices for Vendors
| Practice | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Set realistic delivery timeframes | Prevents disappointment and refunds |
| Update order status promptly | Keeps customers informed |
| Add tracking details for every shipment | Builds credibility |
| Communicate delays immediately | Maintains good customer relationships |
| Mark orders as “Completed” only after confirmation | Ensures accurate records |
✅ Quick Summary
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Understand delivery timeframes (processing + shipping time) |
| 2 | Set delivery times in each product listing |
| 3 | Update order statuses regularly (Processing → Shipped → Delivered) |
| 4 | Add tracking numbers for shipped orders |
| 5 | Communicate delays transparently |
| 6 | Keep delivery timelines realistic and consistent |
💬 Need Help?
If you experience challenges updating order statuses or setting delivery timeframes, contact:
📩 vendors@madeinnigeria.com
📞 Vendor Support Line: +234-XXX-XXX-XXXX
Our support team will help you ensure your deliveries are well-tracked, well-timed, and efficiently managed.