Unfulfilled vs. Fulfilled vs. Delivered

Shopify's status terminology can be confusing for new merchants. Let's clear up exactly what each status means and what triggers it.

1. Unfulfilled

Meaning: The customer has paid (usually), but you haven't touched the box yet. The product is sitting on your shelf. Action Needed: Pick, pack, and ship the order via Shopify Admin.

2. Fulfilled

Meaning: You have packed the box and handed it to the carrier. Often confused with "Delivered" by beginners. Trigger: You click "Fulfill items" in Shopify. Customer View: "Your order is on the way!"

Crucial Distinction: "Fulfilled" just means it left your hands. It does not mean the customer has it. For high-volume operations, learn about bulk delivery status updates.

3. Partially Fulfilled

Meaning: You shipped some items in the order, but not all (e.g., one item was out of stock or shipped from a different warehouse). Action Needed: Fulfill the remaining items when possible.

4. In Transit

Meaning: The carrier (e.g., USPS) has scanned the label, and it's moving through their network. Trigger: Automatic update from integrated carriers. Missing Link: If you don't use a supported carrier, you will likely never see this status. It will stay "Fulfilled". Read more about why orders get stuck in transit.

5. Out for Delivery

Meaning: It's on the truck to the customer's house today.

6. Delivered

Meaning: The package is at the customer's door. Trigger: Carrier scan OR manual update via Shopify API. Why It's The Holy Grail: This is the status that completes the cycle. It triggers "Shipment Delivered" email notifications and marks the transaction as operationally complete.

The Common Problem

Most manual shipping processes stop at Status #2 (Fulfilled). The order stays there forever. This leaves the loop open and creates hidden costs from manual tracking.

Mark Delivered helps you push your orders from Fulfilled to Delivered, closing the loop and keeping your data accurate. See our complete guide on marking orders delivered.

For stores scaling to high volume, automating this process is essential.