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How to handle your orders manually

Manual orders give you full control over the process, but require more time and effort to complete.

Introduction

Manual orders allow you to process sales without automation. This option best suits sellers who prefer full control of each purchase, suppliers that don’t support AutoDS automation, or situations where automation is not recommended.

⚠️ Important: Manual orders are more time-consuming, as product prices and stock may change before you complete the purchase.

For a smoother and safer workflow, we strongly recommend using Auto-Order or Fulfilled by AutoDS whenever possible.

👉 Learn More: 

 

Why use AutoDS for manual orders?

Even when you’re processing orders manually, AutoDS adds value by centralizing and simplifying your workflow:

  • Centralized order management: Track statuses, logs, and history in one place instead of using multiple spreadsheets or tools.

    👉 Learn More:
    Order logs and tracking updates
    Order Status Overview

  • Multi-store control: Manage orders across different sales channels (Shopify, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, etc.).

  • Extra tools for manual workflow, such as AutoDS Helper Extension or tracking conversion.

  • Smooth transition to automation: Manual orders can be a first step. With AutoDS, you’re already set up to switch to Auto-Order or Fulfilled by AutoDS when you’re ready to scale.

  • Prepared for growth: Even if some suppliers don’t support automation, AutoDS helps you stay organized and ready for expansion.

 

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Visit the supplier’s website: Go directly to a site like AliExpress, Amazon, or Walmart and search for the same product your customer ordered.

  2. Place the order: Buy the product manually by entering your customer’s details (name, address, etc.) — just as you would if you were purchasing a gift for a friend.

  3. Follow the tracking: Get the tracking number from your supplier’s website after placing the order. If your selling channel doesn’t support that tracking number, you may need to convert it to a compatible format or update your buyer manually.

👉 Learn More: How to convert your tracking numbers- the complete guide

 

Note: Unlike Auto-Order or FBA, this method doesn’t sync automatically with AutoDS. You’ll need to keep track of everything manually — including updating the order status, sending messages to your buyer through your selling channel, dealing with return requests, and more. All these little steps add up, making the process slower and more effort-intensive compared to automated solutions.

👉 Learn More: AutoDS order automation options: FBA and Auto-Order (semi and full automation)

 

 

Save time with AutoDS Helper Extension

The AutoDS Helper Extension makes handling manual orders faster and less error-prone. Instead of copying and pasting customer details one by one, the extension allows you to:

  • Extract product information directly from supplier websites (e.g., AliExpress, Amazon).

  • Copy customer shipping details from AutoDS into the supplier checkout page with one click.

  • Simplify tracking updates by retrieving tracking numbers more easily.

⚠️ Note: The Helper Extension does not turn manual orders into automation. It only speeds up certain steps, but you will still need to place and follow up the orders manually.

👉 Learn More: AutoDS Helper (Chrome Extension): One-click importer and buyer address copier for dropshipping

💡 Tip:

We highly recommend using the Fulfilled by AutoDS (FBA) service to streamline your order management process.

👉 Learn More: A full explanation & FAQ about the 'Fulfilled by AutoDS Service'