Nordstrom Dropshipping: Is It Worth It for Your Ecommerce Store?

Nordstrom Dropshipping is an emerging tactic where online sellers leverage Nordstrom’s product catalog, brand reputation, and customer-friendly policies to fulfill orders without holding inventory. So, how does it work? Is it legal? Profitable? And what tools can automate the process without pulling your hair out over logistics or policy violations?

Whether you’re a curious side hustler or a seasoned ecommerce seller, we’ll help you figure out if Nordstrom is a high-end goldmine or just another shiny distraction in the world of dropshipping. This guide explores how Nordstrom Dropshipping works, its pros and cons, potential earnings, and whether it’s a smart and sustainable model for your e-commerce business in 2025 and beyond.

What is Nordstrom Dropshipping?

“Nordstrom Dropshipping” might sound like a dream come true for ecommerce sellers - imagine offering premium fashion items without managing inventory or logistics. But here’s the catch: when people talk about dropshipping with Nordstrom, they’re often blending two very different ideas.

The Official Model: Nordstrom’s Direct Drop Ship Program

Officially, Nordstrom does have a Direct Drop Ship program, but it's not meant for casual resellers. Instead, this program is designed for brands and suppliers who want to list and sell their products on Nordstrom.com or Nordstrom Rack. Nordstrom acts as a marketplace, while the supplier handles inventory and order fulfillment. The benefit for Nordstrom? They can expand their catalog with minimal risk or warehousing cost. The benefit for suppliers? Instant exposure on a trusted, high-traffic platform.

In this model, Nordstrom is not the supplier; they’re the storefront. You won’t be listing Nordstrom products on your own Shopify store here. Instead, the brand manufactures or owns the inventory, and Nordstrom acts as the sales channel.

The Unofficial Model: Retail Arbitrage via Nordstrom

Now, let’s talk about what most dropshippers are really curious about—sourcing products from Nordstrom to resell elsewhere, often via Shopify, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace. This model is unofficial and a bit gray-hat. It involves purchasing products from Nordstrom (usually at full retail price or during sales) and shipping them directly to your customers, either manually or via automation tools.

While Nordstrom doesn’t explicitly support this model, their free shipping, generous return policies, and extensive store network (over 380 U.S. locations, including Nordstrom Rack and service hubs) make it technically feasible in some cases. However, you’ll need to verify shipping regions, return handling, and critically, whether the platform you sell on allows retail arbitrage from Nordstrom (some marketplaces flag it as a brand violation).

How does Nordstrom Dropshipping work?

Let’s clear the fog: Nordstrom Dropshipping, when done officially through their Direct Drop Ship program, isn’t your typical plug-and-play setup. It’s not for casual sellers or Shopify side hustlers - it’s a high-bar, invite-only program built for established brands that meet Nordstrom’s elite standards.

Invite-Only Access

Nordstrom personally selects the brands it features. If you’re chosen, congratulations - you’ve entered an exclusive club. Nordstrom’s priority is maintaining product quality, operational excellence, and a seamless customer experience. That means only brands with proven fulfillment capabilities and a strong image make the cut.

Supplier Responsibility

Here’s how it works: when a customer buys your product on Nordstrom.com, you (the supplier) handle the order from start to finish. That includes picking, packing, and shipping it directly to the customer - Nordstrom doesn’t touch the inventory. Think of Nordstrom as the storefront, and you as the backstage crew making the magic happen.

EDI Integration for Order Management

To ensure the process goes smoothly, Nordstrom employs EDI (Electronic Data Interchange), which is typically facilitated by systems such as DSCO CommerceHub. This system manages stock modifications, buy orders, transportation alerts, and other related tasks. The choice is not optional. You will have to be ready in terms of technical preparedness to connect to this infrastructure.

Shipping: Covered but Controlled

One perk? Usually, Nordstrom pays for shipping. The suppliers, however, will be expected to utilize their own UPS account, which should be linked to their fulfillment system. The approach ensures consistency in shipping procedures and helps Nordstrom maintain a strong connection.

Stringent Requirements

Joining Nordstrom’s drop-ship ecosystem means adhering to strict rules. Here’s what’s expected:

• Speedy Shipping: Most orders must ship within one business day.
• Real-Time Inventory: You’ll need accurate, up-to-the-minute inventory reporting to avoid overselling.
• Plain Packaging: Orders must arrive in unbranded, plain brown boxes, including Nordstrom-branded return labels and packing slips.
• RFID Labeling: For certain items—especially apparel—Nordstrom may require RFID-enabled hangtags for smarter inventory tracking.

This high-standard, tightly controlled system ensures Nordstrom maintains its luxury experience, even when fulfillment is handled by external partners.

Pros and Cons of Using Nordstrom for Dropshipping

How Much Can You Really Make Using Nordstrom for Dropshipping?

Comparing Nordstrom Dropshipping with Other Platforms

When considering Nordstrom for dropshipping versus platforms like Shopify, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace, several factors come into play:

• Nordstrom for Dropshipping: Nordstrom's strong brand boosts customer trust and conversions. They offer a wide clothing selection, free shipping, and easy returns, which are great for customer satisfaction.
• Shopify: Ideal for beginners wanting control over branding and automation. However, you must drive your own traffic. Plans start at $19 per month, plus transaction fees.
• eBay & Facebook Marketplace: These platforms offer instant access to built-in audiences and free listings, but have selling limits (eBay) and limited automation (Facebook). Fees apply to sales.

Automation and Order Fulfillment Costs

Nordstrom's dropshipping program, particularly through its partnership with Dsco, aims to simplify operations and reduce costs for suppliers:

• Zero Connection Fees: Dsco, Nordstrom's partner for dropship commerce, reportedly charges "zero cost to the supply side connection" for data exchange, with no setup, data, or transaction fees. This significantly lowers the barrier to entry regarding platform integration costs.
• Automated Inventory Management: The Dsco platform offers automated inventory decrementing, which helps minimize overselling and improve order accuracy.
• Shipping Costs Covered: Nordstrom explicitly covers all shipping fees for its dropship vendors, allowing dropshippers to focus on picking and packaging.
• EDI Compliance: While Dsco aims for seamless integration, some direct integrations may require Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) compliance. Solutions for rapid EDI setup with Nordstrom Direct Drop Ship can cost around $99.
• Internal Optimization: Nordstrom itself has invested heavily in automated fulfillment centers to streamline its supply chain and reduce operational costs, which contributes to the overall efficiency of its dropshipping ecosystem.

Simple ROI Scenario or Case Study Snippet

While a specific ROI case study for an external dropshipper using Nordstrom as a supplier is not readily available, Nordstrom's own successful omnichannel strategy demonstrates the potential for significant returns through integrated retail approaches that include dropshipping. 

Once this platform partnered with technology company BevyUp, Nordstrom's implementation of an omnichannel strategy, focusing on personalization and seamless online-offline experiences, has resulted in a 32% increase in web conversion rates, a fivefold increase in average cart value, and a 50% increase in net profit. This highlights how a well-executed strategy, incorporating efficient fulfillment methods such as dropshipping, can lead to substantial financial gains.

How to Start Dropshipping with Nordstrom: Step-by-Step for Beginners

This section will walk you through the retail arbitrage approach step-by-step, helping you tap into Nordstrom’s premium product selection and customer trust, without being an official supplier.

Step 1: Strategic Niche and Product Research

Every successful eCommerce operation begins with choosing the right products. Your goal is to find items on Nordstrom.com (or Nordstrom Rack) that can be sold elsewhere at a markup.

Define a Clear Niche: Avoid spreading yourself too thin. Choose a niche that aligns with Nordstrom’s strengths. Potential niches include:

• Designer apparel with high perceived value.
• Premium skincare and beauty products.
• Seasonal accessories like handbags, scarves, or sunglasses.
• Footwear from brands with consistent resale value.

Scour Clearance Sections: Focus on clearance, sale, and “Last Chance” categories. These offer the highest potential for markup and give you room to remain competitive while earning a profit.

Use Research Tools: You can use tools like AutoDS, Zik Analytics, or even eBay Sold Listings to identify trending products. Then, find comparable or identical products on Nordstrom.

Compare Prices: Make sure your resale price can cover:

• Nordstrom’s cost (plus tax if applicable),
• Shipping (if you don’t hit Nordstrom’s free shipping threshold),
• Platform fees (e.g., eBay, Shopify, etc.),
• Your desired profit margin.

Step 2: Choose a Sales Platform

Where you list your products determines how you manage customers, fees, and your overall profit.

Option 1: Shopify Store 

A Shopify store under your control permits you complete control of the brand, product appearance and price. It is also professional and fits the high-end image that Nordstrom carries. Nevertheless, it involves you having to take care of every traffic and marketing.

Option 2: Online Marketplaces

• eBay: Ideal for a wide range of product categories, with a large customer base. Watch for platform rules about dropshipping from retailers.
• Poshmark: Especially strong for fashion and beauty items. It has an engaged community and simplified shipping/returns.
• Facebook Marketplace: Great for local sales and testing products, though less scalable.
• Mercari, Depop, or Etsy: Also viable depending on your niche.

Step 3: Build and Optimize Your Listings

Once you’ve chosen your platform, start building your online storefront or seller account.

• Create a Professional Presence: Whether you’re on Shopify, eBay, or Poshmark, ensure your store looks legitimate. Use a clean logo, cohesive theme, and proper contact information.
• Product Titles & Descriptions: Avoid copying directly from Nordstrom. Instead, rewrite product descriptions in your own words. Highlight features that matter to your target customers, and use SEO-friendly keywords.
• Use High-Quality Images: Nordstrom offers excellent product images. If possible, use them (check for compliance with platform rules). If not, take your own high-quality photos once the product is in hand.
• Set Strategic Pricing: Factor in all costs, including taxes, payment processing fees, and marketplace commissions. Leave room for discounts or promotions.
• Track Inventory Manually: You don’t hold stock, so you need to check product availability on Nordstrom regularly. Avoid listing items that are low in stock or marked as final sale (since returns may not be allowed).

Step 4: Order Fulfillment and Shipping

This is where you put the “dropshipping” into motion without holding inventory.

• When You Get an Order: Place an order manually on Nordstrom’s website using your customer’s shipping address. Be prompt; delays may result in stockouts or unhappy customers.
• Use Gift Option (If Available): To avoid including the receipt, opt for Nordstrom’s “gift” option when checking out. It typically removes price information from the packing slip.
• Monitor Shipping Updates: Use Nordstrom’s tracking number and input it into your platform (e.g., eBay or Shopify) so your customer receives real-time updates.
• Payment Method Tip: Use a credit card with cashback or rewards to add value to each purchase and potentially offset tight margins.

Step 5: Handle Returns and Customer Service

Nordstrom has a generous return policy, but managing returns as a third-party seller can be tricky.

Communicate Proactively: Keep your customers informed from order confirmation to delivery. If something is delayed or out of stock, notify them quickly and offer a solution.

Return Process: If your customer wants to return an item:

• You initiate a return through your Nordstrom account.
• Send the return label to your customer.
• Wait for Nordstrom to process the return and issue your refund.
• Then refund your customer accordingly.

Clarify Your Return Policy: Be transparent. Mirror Nordstrom’s policy, but note that the process may take additional time due to your intermediary role.

Step 6: Scale and Optimize with Tools

Once you’ve processed a few successful sales, look for ways to scale and improve efficiency.

Automation Tools (Like AutoDS):

• Price Monitoring: Track price changes on Nordstrom and auto-adjust listings.
• Stock Monitoring: Automatically delist or hide products that go out of stock.
• Order Management: While you’ll place orders manually, AutoDS can help automate tracking number updates and customer notifications.
• Profit Tracking: Utilize dashboards to calculate profit margins and pinpoint your most profitable listings.

Ongoing Product Discovery: Regularly explore new sales, trends, and seasonal promotions at Nordstrom. Your best-selling items today may not work next month.

Key Considerations for Beginners

• Thin Margins: Your profits depend on Nordstrom’s discounts. The best opportunities arise during seasonal sales, clearance events, and holiday promotions.
• Stock Risk: You don’t control inventory. If Nordstrom runs out of stock after you receive a customer order, you’ll have to cancel and refund, which can hurt your ratings.
• Branding Limitations: Products will arrive in Nordstrom-branded packaging. You lose out on creating your own branded unboxing experience unless you handle and repackage items yourself.
• Manual Effort: Unlike wholesale dropshipping, this model isn’t hands-free. You must manually place orders and track product availability.
• Platform Rules: Check the policies of platforms like eBay or Amazon. Retail arbitrage isn’t always encouraged and may result in account restrictions if done excessively or without care.
• Customer Expectations: You’re responsible for ensuring fast delivery, good communication, and easy returns. Nordstrom’s reputation won’t automatically transfer to your store.

6 Tools to Automate Nordstrom Dropshipping

TrueCommerce

TrueCommerce is a worldwide e-commerce pioneer in supply chain connection that provides Nordstrom suppliers with compliant EDI. Their cloud-based product can automate the process of EDI document exchange between the parties and support a range of ERP platforms. They point to the expression of Nordstrom Direct Drop Shipping and Nordstrom Rack Drop Shipping.

DataTrans Solutions

DataTrans Solutions explicitly state that they simplify and automate Nordstrom Direct Drop Ship order fulfillment. They offer an all-in-one multichannel WebEDI solution that helps you become EDI compliant quickly with Nordstrom and other partners. They act as your EDI department.

OpenText (Freeway Cloud)

OpenText provides an EDI solution (Freeway Cloud) specifically mentioned for Nordstrom EDI compliance, suitable for small to mid-size businesses. It helps automate processes like one-step packing and drop-shipping capabilities.

Rithum (formerly DSCO) Platform

Rithum is the central platform Nordstrom uses for its drop ship program. While you won't "automate" Nordstrom Dropshipping by using Rithum, you will be required to use Rithum as the communication hub for your EDI transactions with Nordstrom. Your chosen EDI provider (from the list above) will integrate with Rithum on your behalf.

Rithum itself offers solutions for brands to connect with retailers. Your EDI provider will leverage Rithum's capabilities to ensure seamless data exchange.

MindCloud

MindCloud state they build and maintain custom connections between your software and platforms like Nordstrom.com (including Rithum/DSCO), aiming to eliminate manual data entry and automate data flow. This is a more bespoke solution.

Dscopify (for Shopify users)

While not a direct EDI provider, if your brand uses Shopify, Dscopify is a Shopify app that acts as an intermediary to integrate your Shopify store with Rithum's DSCO platform. It helps automate catalog, inventory, order, shipment, and invoice flows between Shopify and Nordstrom (via DSCO). This could be an excellent option if Shopify is your primary e-commerce platform and you become a Nordstrom Direct Drop Ship partner.

Real Challenges You’ll Face with Nordstrom Dropshipping & How to Overcome

1. There’s No Official Dropshipping Program for Resellers

The Challenge: Unless you're a recognized brand or supplier invited into Nordstrom’s Direct Drop Ship program, you won’t get official support or tools. Nordstrom doesn’t offer direct dropshipping partnerships to casual sellers or resellers sourcing products for external marketplaces like Shopify or eBay.

Solution: Understand that you’re working within the retail arbitrage model, which is unofficial and comes with limitations. Operate responsibly:

• Avoid over-reliance on Nordstrom as your only supplier.
• Monitor policy changes frequently.
• Use tools like AutoDS to help automate product tracking, even without direct integrations.

2. Stock Can Change Rapidly

The Challenge: Nordstroms products are constantly fluctuating and particularly onsales. It comes in and out of stock within one minute. When a customer orders something you have and you sell it out before you can order it at Nordstrom, then you are stuck.

Solution:

• Use stock-monitoring tools like DSM Tool or AutoDS to update your listings in real time.
• Limit listings to products with multiple sizes or high inventory levels.
• Add disclaimers or back-in-stock notifications to your storefront.
• Always have a refund contingency plan in place to maintain customer trust.

3. Slim Profit Margins

The Challenge: Retail arbitrage isn’t known for sky-high profits. When you factor in Nordstrom’s retail prices (even sale items), shipping, taxes, platform fees, and possible returns, your margins can shrink fast.

Solution:

• Focus on clearance and Last Chance sections for maximum markdowns.
• Bundle items or add upsells when using Shopify to increase average order value.
• Use a rewards credit card for purchases to squeeze extra value.
• Run pricing calculations in advance to ensure your markup covers all costs, including unexpected ones like restocking fees.

4. Marketplace TOS & Brand Violations

The Challenge: Lots of market places, such as eBay or Amazon, prohibit dropshipping by other stores. In addition to that, not all luxurious brands available on Nordstrom can be resold as such companies might deny access to their accounts or delete the listings.

Solution:

• Carefully review each marketplace’s terms of service regarding sourcing and dropshipping.
• Avoid using brand names in your product titles or descriptions unless explicitly allowed.
• Use generic product descriptors (e.g., “luxury cashmere sweater”) instead of “Brand X Cashmere Sweater.”
• Prioritize platforms like Shopify, where you control branding and listings more freely.

5. Returns Can Be Complicated

The Challenge: While Nordstrom has a famously generous return policy, handling returns as a middleman adds layers of complexity. Customers return items to you, but you still have to manage the process through Nordstrom, often without them knowing you used Nordstrom in the first place.

Solution:

• Mirror Nordstrom’s return policy as closely as possible on your site.
• When a customer requests a return, immediately start the return process with Nordstrom.
• Offer store credit or partial refunds in cases where restocking fees or shipping costs are deducted by Nordstrom.
• Maintain a simple internal returns tracker to avoid missing key deadlines.

6. Packaging and Branding Limitations

The Challenge: Nordstrom ships their line items wrapped in Nordstrom boxes with packing slips. This is likely to expose your product origin to the customer, which will depreciate your alleged brand and cause doubts concerning the prices.

Solution:

• When possible, select the “gift” option at checkout to hide the pricing on packing slips.
• Set customer expectations with messaging like “fulfilled by trusted retail partners.”
• Consider creating a branded insert (thank you card, product guide) that you can email or message post-purchase to reinforce your store identity.
• If you want to customize packaging, ship the product to yourself first, but be aware that this doubles shipping costs and slows down delivery.

7. High Manual Workload

The Challenge: In contrast to the traditional dropshipping approach that relies on wholesale suppliers, the dropshipping modalities offered by Nordstrom imply that the order is placed manually, that the product is added to the list, and the inventory should be monitored all the time.

Solution:

• Use automation tools like AutoDS, Dropified, or DSM Tool to monitor pricing and stock levels.
• Maintain a spreadsheet or dashboard to track all active listings, stock statuses, and order timelines.
• Batch tasks like listing updates or price changes to improve efficiency.
• As you grow, consider hiring a VA (virtual assistant) to help with order processing and customer support.

8. Unscalable Without Processes

The Challenge: Since you are required to check inventory and place orders manually, scaling is not easy without a well-integrated system. It can be simply a nightmare trying to handle so many orders in a week, i.e., 100+.

Solution:

• Start with a small, curated product catalog.
• Utilize Shopify apps or integrations to streamline your workflow.
• Automate what you can (tracking updates, price monitoring, analytics).
• Invest time in building Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) early, so you can eventually outsource time-consuming tasks.

9. Legal Gray Area

The Challenge: While reselling products from Nordstrom isn’t illegal in most regions, it operates in a legal gray zone. Some suppliers and brands frown on resellers buying from retail stores to sell elsewhere, especially without formal agreements.

Solution:

• Stay informed about the First Sale Doctrine, which protects resellers in many countries (especially in the U.S.).
• Avoid selling on platforms that enforce brand gating or require supply chain verification (such as Amazon).
• Consider moving to wholesale or authorized dropshipping relationships as you grow.

Is Nordstrom Dropshipping Legal and Allowed?

Let’s clear the air: dropshipping from Nordstrom, which involves purchasing products from their retail site and reselling them, is not illegal. You're protected under what's known as the First Sale Doctrine in the U.S., which gives individuals the right to resell lawfully purchased goods.

However, legal doesn’t always mean endorsed. And Nordstrom does not officially support or approve of retail arbitrage resellers. Their policies don’t prohibit you from buying items from their website, but they also don’t offer support if you use their products for dropshipping purposes.

So, what does that mean for your store?

The Risks You Should Know

While Nordstrom won’t send legal threats your way just for reselling, there are real risks, especially if you're selling on third-party marketplaces like Amazon or eBay:

• Marketplace Suspensions: Platforms may restrict or suspend your account if they detect you're dropshipping from retailers like Nordstrom. Amazon, in particular, has a strict policy requiring you to be the “seller of record” and discouraging shipments from other retailers.
• Brand Violations: Some luxury or designer brands may report unauthorized resellers. If you’re using product names or images without permission, you risk takedowns or even legal disputes.
• Chargebacks and Customer Disputes: If a customer receives a Nordstrom-branded box and realizes they paid more on your site, they may file a chargeback or leave a negative review, which can harm your reputation and potentially affect your seller account.

How to Stay Compliant (or At Least Low-Risk)

Here are smart strategies to protect your business while operating in this legal gray zone:

• Sell Through Your Own Online Store: Platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce give you more freedom. Since you’re in full control, you're less likely to face suspensions or arbitrary rule changes. You can also control branding, product positioning, and customer communication.
• Be Transparent About Shipping: Retail arbitrage and dropshipping can lead to occasional delays or out-of-stock issues. Set clear expectations on your site for shipping timeframes (e.g., 5 - 7 business days), and communicate proactively if delays occur.
• Avoid Brand Abuse: Don’t misrepresent yourself as a licensed Nordstrom vendor. Avoid copying product descriptions or using copyrighted images unless you're confident they're royalty-free or provided for resale.
• Limit Your Risky Listings: Stick to less brand-sensitive categories like accessories or general apparel. Avoid luxury labels that aggressively police unauthorized sellers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Nordstrom have an official dropshipping program?

Yes... it is not open to any one. The Direct Drop Ship Program offered by Nordstrom is an exclusive method where brands and suppliers that have proven their market have to apply. These partners sell their products online through the site of Nordstrom but deal with customers accordingly. If you're a beginner or looking to resell Nordstrom products elsewhere, you're likely operating outside this official program through retail arbitrage, not direct dropshipping.

2. Can I dropship Nordstrom products on Shopify?

Technically, yes, you can resell products from Nordstrom on your Shopify store using the retail arbitrage model. You purchase products from Nordstrom after a customer has bought from your site, and they are shipped directly to your buyer. However, Nordstrom does not officially support this, and you'll need to manage inventory, orders, and returns manually. Using your own store (as opposed to a marketplace like Amazon) reduces the risk of policy violations or account suspensions.

3. How do I automate Nordstrom Dropshipping?

While Nordstrom doesn’t offer direct API access for automation, you can use third-party tools like:

• DataTrans Solutions, TrueCommerce, and OpenText as EDI Service Providers Specializing.
• Rithum is the communication hub for your EDI transactions with Nordstrom.
• MindCloud and Dscopify as Integration-Platform-as-a-Service (iPaaS) or Custom Integration Developers.

Full automation is limited, but these tools can streamline monitoring, order management, and customer notifications.

4. Can I make a profit dropshipping from Nordstrom?

Yes, but your profit margins will likely be thin, especially compared to traditional dropshipping from wholesalers. Your best chances come from:

• Sourcing heavily discounted or clearance items.
• Listing on platforms with high product visibility (e.g., Shopify, eBay).
• Adding value through curated collections, exceptional service, or niche focus.

If you're strategic and track all costs, including platform fees and returns, it can be a profitable endeavor, especially as a side hustle.

5. Does Nordstrom ship fast enough for dropshipping?

Generally, yes. Nordstrom offers free standard shipping (often 3–6 business days in the U.S.) and is known for reliable delivery. However, you should still set realistic expectations on your site, especially during peak seasons or sales events. 

Final Thoughts

Nordstrom Dropshipping does not qualify as a typical model of supply-based business, but with the proper strategy, such as retail arbitrage, it can be an interesting source of profits for intelligent e-commerce retailers. Although Nordstrom does not willingly endorse the idea, you can utilize its well-recognized brand, quality products, and client-friendly policies to make money and establish a profitable online shop. Provided you are willing to complete the homework, apply automation tools intelligently, and remain compliant, Nordstrom Dropshipping can be a clever solution to experience both luxury retail and e-commerce hustle.