Drop shipping, what is it? This fundamental question is key to understanding a popular method of ecommerce fulfillment. In drop shipping, the retailer doesn’t keep the goods it sells in stock. Instead, when a seller sells a product, it purchases the item from a third party and has it shipped directly to the customer. This means the seller never directly handles the product. This detailed explanation thoroughly answers the question “drop shipping what is?” by exploring its core mechanisms, advantages, and disadvantages. We cover everything from the roles of the retailer, supplier, and customer to the financial implications and operational considerations of running a drop shipping business. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your understanding, this comprehensive definition provides a solid foundation for your drop shipping journey.