Monthly Minimum
Monthly Minimum is a minimum amount a 3PL bills each month regardless of actual activity, charged as a top-up when a brand's fulfillment and storage fees fall below that threshold.
Why it matters for ecommerce brands
Minimums can make a low-volume or seasonal brand's effective cost per order much higher than quoted. Ask about minimums, ramp-up periods, and how they are calculated before signing.
Common questions
- What happens if I don't meet my 3PL's monthly minimum?
- The 3PL typically bills the difference between your actual fees and the minimum. Some offer a reduced minimum during the first months or during slow seasons, so it is worth negotiating.
Cite this entry
"Monthly Minimum." Fulfillment Lexicon, last reviewed October 16, 2026. https://fulfillment.wiki/glossary/monthly-minimum/