Supplier Onboarding Journey - Additional Resources & Contacts
Preparation Tips
Below are some considerations during your onboarding journey.
Checklist Section | Finance Considerations | Potential Solutions |
Company Information | May require updates to legal documents or DUNS registration | Use free DUNS registration via D&B; How to Get a DUNS Number - 866-815-2749 or emailing wmvendors@dnb.com; consult local U.S. SBA office for business structure help |
Tax Information | Tax form preparation (W-9, W-8 series) and potential legal review | Use IRS resources or affordable business tax prep services |
Product Submission | Time and resources to prepare product catalog and images | Use free spreadsheet tools and DIY product photography kits |
Contacts | No direct cost but requires internal coordination | Assign onboarding roles early to avoid delays |
Product & Brand | Brand registration or food safety documentation may be needed | Use Walmart’s templates and free FDA/USDA resources for food safety |
Insurance | Must procure liability insurance with specific coverage | Shop small business insurance providers for competitive rates |
Set up EDI-B2B | EDI setup and testing can be costly | Use Walmart-approved Web EDI or lower-cost providers |
Banking | May require a U.S.-based account or trade bank setup | Use existing business banking or explore other suitable fintech options |
Business Certification | Optional, but may require certification fees | Apply for free U.S. SBA certifications or use state or local business programs |
Quote (Direct Import) | Requires pricing, freight, and duty calculations | Use internal cost modeling or consult a freight forwarder for estimates |
Facility (Direct Import) | May require audits and documentation | Use Walmart’s audit guidelines and prepare documents in-house where possible |
Logistics | Costs for warehousing, shipping, and compliance (e.g., ASN) | Start with credible third-party logistics (3PL) providers or consider shared warehousing |
Acknowledgements | No direct cost, but time to review compliance documents | Assign a compliance lead to manage document review efficiently |
Agreements | Legal review of MSA and BTA may be needed | Use affordable legal services for contract review |
Assign Facility to Agreement | No direct cost but requires accurate facility data | Use internal operations team to gather and verify facility info |
Item Setup | Requires GTINs, images, and data entry | Use GS1 US for barcodes and develop internal staff capabilities for spreadsheet uploads |
Merchandising Resources
Below are some additional merchandising resources.
Processes | Details | Resource Links |
Navigating Walmart | Mastering Walmart’s processes, teams, and tools empowers suppliers to collaborate effectively, improve communication, and support the shared goal of delivering value to customers. | |
Ethics and Compliance | Compliance information about relevant laws and regulations, that ensures Walmart's operations remain lawful and avoid penalties. | |
Introduction to Supply Chain - Transportation | Overview of transportation channels and information on various programs used to ensure products are handled according to appropriate standards. | |
Introduction to Supply Chain - Replenishment | Overview of replenishment, including information on economic order quantities, managing purchase orders, and inventory. | |
Introduction to Supply Chain Compliance | Compliance is designed for suppliers to enhance understanding and execution of key supply chain compliance programs and standards. | |
Inbound Freight Solutions | Resources designed to provide an understanding of inbound freight solutions and problem freight management. | |
Claims and Returns Scorecard (CARS) | Tool that offers enhanced tracking of claims and returns, providing valuable insights for both Walmart and suppliers. | |
On Time in Full (OTIF) | The OTIF program represents Walmart & Suppliers joint supply chain performance management for delivering on time and in full to the distribution network. | |
Flow Methods | Gain insights into key aspects and requirements of Grocery, DSD, and DSDC, flow methods including standards, shortage recovery, and the audit process. | |
Direct Imports | The Direct Import Process Playbooks equip new and existing suppliers with a comprehensive overview of the steps involved in starting with Walmart. | |
Packaging and Labeling | Gain a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects of packaging that are crucial for efficient supply chain management and customer satisfaction. |
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Sustainability and Regeneration | Resources designed to guide suppliers through the principles and practices of sustainability and regeneration. | |
Finding and Using the Style Guides | Learn about Style Guides for Product Type Group or Walmart Private Brand. | |
Walmart Calendar Year | Access the current year and previous year Walmart fiscal calendar. | |
Walmart Acronyms and Terminology | Get familiar with Walmart Acronyms and terminology. |
Training Resources
- Supplier Academy eLearning Modules
- Supplier Help & Resources
- HelpDocs Directory
- Retail Link Access and Password Reset
Additional Programs
Programs | Resources |
Supplier Financing for Domestic and Import Suppliers | |
Walmart Suppliers | |
Walmart Grow with Us | For Support: supplierinclusion@walmart.com |
Getting Started on Walmart Marketplace | |
Walmart Business | |
Suppliers and Sellers Growth Programs |