
Overview
Stord is a large, network-based 3PL platform designed for nationwide coverage and software-driven orchestration. SemiDock is a focused fulfillment and 3PL operator with hands-on support, transparent pricing, and cross-docking centered on Stockton, CA (with expansion plans).
This page explains where each option makes the most sense and gives a practical, side-by-side view for brands comparing costs, flexibility, and service depth.
Quick Verdict
Choose SemiDock if you want transparent pallet/fulfillment pricing, flexible terms, and direct access to operators in California (Stockton) with fast cross-dock options and simple onboarding.
Choose Stord if you need a software-led, distributed network footprint and are optimizing for multi-node coverage at scale with standardized processes across many locations.
Who Each Provider Fits Best
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SemiDock: growing DTC/B2B brands, Amazon/Shopify sellers, importers using the Port of Oakland or SoCal, companies that value quick start, custom handling, short-term pallet storage, cross-dock/transload, and direct communication with decision-makers.
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Stord: brands with multi-node needs, complex nationwide routing, standardized SLAs across multiple facilities, and preference for a unified software layer across a network.
Comparison Snapshot
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Pricing Transparency: SemiDock emphasizes simple, line-item pricing and clear pallet/fulfillment rates; large networks like Stord often package rates by program and volume tier.
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Speed to Launch: SemiDock prioritizes quick onboarding and “start small → scale” ramp-ups; a large network may require longer scoping and standardization.
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Flexibility: SemiDock can tailor handling, kitting, labeling, and cross-dock flows; networks optimize for consistency across nodes.
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Geography: SemiDock focuses on California (Stockton hub) for West-coast access; Stord provides distributed coverage through its network model.
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Support: SemiDock gives direct operator access and responsive owner-level oversight; networks provide standardized support layers via the platform.
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Use Cases: SemiDock excels at pallet storage, FBA prep, cross-dock, ecom fulfillment, and B2B/retail prep in CA; Stord suits multi-node orchestration and nationwide programs.
Feature-by-Feature
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1) Pricing & Terms
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SemiDock: clear pallet storage rates, receiving, pick/pack, carton/pallet in/out, optional FBA prep and projects. Flexible terms with no long lock-ins for most use cases.
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Stord: program-based pricing aligned to volumes, SKUs, and service levels across the network.
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2) Services & Capabilities
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SemiDock: ecom fulfillment (DTC), B2B/retail compliance, cross-docking & transload, short/long-term pallet storage, FBA prep, kitting/light assembly, returns, special projects.
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Stord: nationwide 3PL orchestration, standardized fulfillment, freight coordination, and software-led visibility across distributed nodes.
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3) Integrations & WMS
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SemiDock: supports common ecommerce and EDI connections (Shopify, Amazon, WooCommerce, basic EDI through partner tools); pragmatic approach—connect what you need, skip what you don’t.
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Stord: platform-centric integrations and network visibility designed for multi-site control.
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4) Onboarding & SLAs
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SemiDock: fast intake, documented SOPs per client, direct chat with operators, iterative SLA setup.
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Stord: formal scoping, standardized SLAs across network locations.
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5) Locations & Transit
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SemiDock: Stockton hub offers strong access to NorCal (Bay Area, Sacramento) with reasonable lanes to SoCal and inland markets.
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Stord: distributed locations via network for broader national reach.
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6) Scalability & Seasonality
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SemiDock: “start lean, scale quickly” with added headcount and shifts; good fit for seasonal surges and special projects.
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Stord: elastic capacity via network nodes aligned to standardized processes.
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7) Support & Visibility
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SemiDock: owner-level attention, direct Slack/phone lines, real-time updates from floor leads.
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Stord: platform dashboards and account structures designed for multi-node orchestration.
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8) Compliance & Quality
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SemiDock: practical retail-prep experience (labels, pack-by-store, carton/pallet configs), photo evidence on exceptions, and simple QA loops.
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Stord: network standardization and controls for consistency across sites.
Text-Based Comparison Table
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(Indicative; your program may vary by volume/SKUs/SLAs.)
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Pricing Transparency: SemiDock — High; Stord — Medium (program-based)
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Minimums/Commitments: SemiDock — Flexible; Stord — Program-dependent
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Onboarding Speed: SemiDock — Fast; Stord — Scoped & scheduled
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Custom Projects (kitting, FBA prep): SemiDock — Yes, agile; Stord — Yes, via program
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Cross-Dock/Transload in CA: SemiDock — Core strength; Stord — Available by program
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Geographic Footprint: SemiDock — CA-centric (Stockton); Stord — Distributed network
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Direct Operator Access: SemiDock — Yes; Stord — Layered support
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Best For: SemiDock — Hands-on CA ops, transparency; Stord — Nationwide orchestration
When to Choose SemiDock
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You need a California hub (Stockton) with fast cross-dock, pallet storage, or FBA prep.
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You prefer crystal-clear pricing and rapid onboarding.
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You want direct access to the team handling your products.
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Your brand is testing the West Coast or scaling DTC + B2B with flexible SOPs.
When to Choose Stord
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You require a multi-node footprint and standardized SLAs across many markets.
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Your priority is a software-first control tower with consistent processes across locations.
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You are optimizing nationwide time-in-transit using a distributed network.
FAQs
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Is SemiDock cheaper than Stord?
It depends on volumes, order profiles, and SLAs. SemiDock focuses on clarity—line-item rates for pallet storage, receiving, pick/pack, and projects. Many brands find that transparency reduces overage surprises. -
Does SemiDock offer pallet storage and cross-docking?
Yes. Pallet storage (short/long-term), cross-dock, and transload in California (Stockton) are core services. -
Can SemiDock integrate with my store and marketplace?
Yes. Shopify, Amazon, and common carts/marketplaces are supported, with pragmatic EDI options via partners when needed. -
What’s the onboarding timeline?
SemiDock is optimized for quick starts: define SOPs, connect integrations, receive inventory, and ship. Timelines vary by complexity, but our process is intentionally lean. -
Do I have to sign a long contract?
No. SemiDock offers flexible terms for most use cases. Longer commitments are optional and typically tied to reserved capacity or custom pricing. -
Can SemiDock handle B2B/retail compliance?
Yes—labels, carton/pallet configs, pack-by-store, delivery appointment workflows, and simple documentation for receiving teams.