Rippling

Overview

Yes, Rippling provides a comprehensive global IT hardware warehousing and shipping service as an integrated component of its workforce management platform. This service is designed to manage the entire lifecycle of employee devices, including procurement, storage, zero-touch deployment, international shipping, automated retrieval, and secure disposal. This capability distinguishes Rippling from traditional HRIS and payroll platforms, which typically do not handle physical asset logistics. The service enables companies to maintain a centralized inventory of IT hardware, such as laptops and accessories, and deploy them to employees located anywhere in the world, ensuring a consistent and efficient onboarding experience for a distributed workforce.

Key Features

The service operates through a global network of secure warehousing facilities. Rippling maintains warehouses in the United States and over 26 other countries, with key operational hubs in major international cities like London, Sydney, and San Francisco. This extensive network allows companies to store their company-owned devices offsite and have them shipped directly to new hires.

Technical Specifications

The process begins with procurement, where Rippling acts as an authorized reseller for both Mac and PC devices. The core of the deployment process is 'zero-touch deployment,' which leverages integrations with Apple Business Manager (ABM) for Apple devices and Microsoft Entra (formerly Windows Autopilot) for Windows devices. This technology allows IT administrators to pre-configure devices with the necessary software, security settings (like FileVault or BitLocker encryption), and Wi-Fi profiles. The device is then shipped directly to the employee and, upon its first boot-up, automatically enrolls in the company's Mobile Device Management (MDM) and self-configures, eliminating the need for manual IT intervention.

How It Works

The entire hardware management process is deeply integrated with Rippling's HRIS. When a new employee is hired, the device order and shipping can be triggered directly from the hiring workflow. The system automatically pulls the employee's shipping address from their HR record, ensuring accuracy while maintaining privacy. Administrators have real-time visibility into their entire device inventory, including the status, condition, and location of each asset, all linked to the corresponding employee profile.

Use Cases

For offboarding, the process is reversed. When an employee's departure is processed in the HRIS, Rippling automatically triggers a retrieval workflow. The outgoing employee is sent a padded retrieval box with a prepaid shipping label to simplify the return process. Upon return to a Rippling warehouse, the device undergoes a rigorous 10-point inspection, is physically cleaned, and its data is securely wiped in compliance with standards like NIST SP 800-88. Rippling also provides a Certificate of Destruction for devices that are retired, ensuring a compliant and secure end-of-life process.

Limitations and Requirements

While the service is global in scope, there are some regional limitations. The 'Rippling Store,' which allows for the direct purchase of new hardware to restock inventory, is currently available only to customers in the US and Canada. For companies operating outside these regions, they would need to procure hardware through other means and have it sent to Rippling's warehouses for management. Another significant aspect of the service is its handling of international logistics. Rippling manages the complexities of customs and duties for international shipments, a major administrative burden for companies with a global workforce. The service's security and compliance are validated by certifications including SOC 2 Type II, ISO 27001, and CSA STAR Level 2, ensuring the integrity of the hardware management process.

Comparison to Alternatives

Summary