Best Shipping Software for Ecommerce: Top Picks and Features to Consider

Shipping is an essential component of any ecommerce business. It can be a daunting task for businesses to manage shipping on their own, especially as their customer base grows. This is where shipping software for ecommerce comes in. Shipping software can simplify the shipping process, streamline order fulfillment, and help businesses save time and money.

There are many shipping software options available for ecommerce businesses, each with its own pros and cons. Choosing the best shipping software for your business can be a time-consuming process. It is important to consider factors such as shipping rates, carrier integrations, automation capabilities, and ease of use when selecting a shipping software. In this article, we will explore some of the best shipping software options for ecommerce businesses, highlighting their features, benefits, and drawbacks.

Understanding Ecommerce Shipping

Shipping is an essential aspect of any ecommerce business. It involves the process of delivering products to customers after they have placed an order online. The shipping process can be complex, and it involves several steps, including order processing, packaging, labeling, and delivery.

Effective shipping management is critical to the success of any ecommerce business. It ensures that customers receive their orders on time, and it helps to build trust and loyalty. However, managing the shipping process can be challenging, especially for small businesses with limited resources.

This is where shipping software comes in. Shipping software is designed to automate and streamline the shipping process, making it more efficient and cost-effective. It provides businesses with tools to manage orders, print shipping labels, track shipments, and more.

When selecting shipping software, it's essential to consider factors like price, features, and ease of use. Some of the best ecommerce shipping software options include:

ShipBob: This software is an all-in-one solution that offers inventory management, order fulfillment, and shipping services.

ShipStation: This software is designed for small to medium-sized businesses and offers features like order management, label printing, and shipping rate comparison.

ShippingEasy: This software is ideal for businesses that ship a high volume of orders. It offers features like label printing, order tracking, and automated email notifications.

Shippo: This software is designed for businesses that ship internationally. It offers features like customs forms, international address validation, and duty and tax calculations.

In conclusion, shipping is a critical aspect of ecommerce, and effective shipping management is essential for the success of any online business. Shipping software can help businesses automate and streamline the shipping process, making it more efficient and cost-effective. When selecting shipping software, it's essential to consider factors like price, features, and ease of use.

Top Shipping Software for Ecommerce

When it comes to shipping software for ecommerce, there are several options available in the market. However, some software stands out as the best for ecommerce businesses. In this section, we will discuss the top shipping software for ecommerce and their features.

ShipStation

ShipStation is one of the best shipping software for ecommerce. It is a cloud-based software that allows you to import orders from multiple sales channels and automate your shipping process. ShipStation integrates with more than 40 carriers, including USPS, FedEx, and DHL. It also offers features such as label customization, branded packing slips, and shipment tracking. ShipStation is ideal for small to medium-sized ecommerce businesses.

Shippo

Shippo is another popular shipping software for ecommerce. It is a cloud-based software that offers features such as label printing, shipment tracking, and address validation. Shippo integrates with more than 50 carriers, including USPS, FedEx, and DHL. It also offers discounted shipping rates for its users. Shippo is ideal for small to medium-sized ecommerce businesses.

ShipBob

ShipBob is an all-in-one shipping software that offers features such as inventory management, order fulfillment, and shipping. ShipBob integrates with several ecommerce platforms, including Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento. It also offers a network of fulfillment centers across the US, which allows you to store your inventory closer to your customers. ShipBob is ideal for ecommerce businesses of all sizes.

ShippingEasy

ShippingEasy is a cloud-based shipping software that offers features such as label printing, shipment tracking, and order management. ShippingEasy integrates with several ecommerce platforms, including Shopify, WooCommerce, and Amazon. It also offers discounted shipping rates for its users. ShippingEasy is ideal for small to medium-sized ecommerce businesses.

Ordoro

Ordoro is a cloud-based shipping software that offers features such as label printing, shipment tracking, and inventory management. Ordoro integrates with several ecommerce platforms, including Shopify, WooCommerce, and Amazon. It also offers features such as dropshipping and kitting. Ordoro is ideal for ecommerce businesses of all sizes.

Stamps.com

Stamps.com is a shipping software that offers features such as label printing, shipment tracking, and postage purchasing. Stamps.com integrates with several ecommerce platforms, including Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento. It also offers discounted shipping rates for its users. Stamps.com is ideal for small to medium-sized ecommerce businesses.

In conclusion, the choice of shipping software for ecommerce depends on the specific needs of your business. However, the above-mentioned software is some of the best in the market and can help streamline your shipping process.

Features to Look for in Shipping Software

When choosing shipping software for your ecommerce business, it's important to look for certain features that will help streamline your shipping process and improve customer satisfaction. Here are some key features to consider:

Integration Capabilities

One of the most important features to look for in shipping software is integration capabilities. The software should be able to integrate with your ecommerce platform, as well as any other third-party tools you use for inventory management, order fulfillment, and more. This will help ensure that all of your shipping data is synced and up-to-date across all platforms.

Inventory Management

Good shipping software should also include inventory management features, such as the ability to track inventory levels and set reorder points. This will help you avoid stockouts and ensure that you always have enough product on hand to fulfill orders.

Order Fulfillment

The software should also include order fulfillment features, such as the ability to batch print shipping labels and packing slips, and the ability to automatically assign tracking numbers to orders. This will help you speed up the fulfillment process and ensure that orders are shipped out quickly and accurately.

Shipping and Tracking

Another important feature to look for is the ability to compare shipping rates from different carriers and choose the best option for each order. The software should also provide real-time tracking information for each shipment, so you and your customers can track packages and know when they will arrive.

Analytics and Reporting

Good shipping software should provide detailed analytics and reporting features, such as the ability to track shipping costs and delivery times, and the ability to generate reports on shipping volume and carrier performance. This will help you identify areas for improvement and make data-driven decisions about your shipping process.

Support and Customer Service

Finally, it's important to choose software that offers good support and customer service. Look for software that provides phone and email support, as well as online resources like tutorials and FAQs. This will help ensure that you can get help when you need it, and that any issues are resolved quickly and effectively.

In summary, when choosing shipping software for your ecommerce business, look for software that offers integration capabilities, inventory management, order fulfillment, shipping and tracking, analytics and reporting, and good support and customer service. By choosing software that includes these features, you can streamline your shipping process and improve customer satisfaction.

Comparing Pricing and Plans

When it comes to selecting the best shipping software for your ecommerce business, pricing and plans are important considerations. Here, we'll compare the pricing and plans of some of the top shipping software options available.

Free Trial and Free Plan Options

Many shipping software providers offer free trial periods, allowing you to test out the software before committing to a paid plan. For example, ShipStation offers a 30-day free trial, while ShippingEasy offers a 60-day trial.

In addition to free trials, some shipping software providers also offer free plan options. These plans often have limited features and may be suitable for smaller ecommerce businesses. ShippingEasy, for example, offers a free plan that allows for up to 50 shipments per month.

Size and Scale Considerations

When selecting a shipping software provider, it's important to consider the size and scale of your ecommerce business. Some providers may be better suited for smaller businesses, while others may be better suited for larger businesses with higher shipping volumes.

For example, ShipBob is a popular option for larger businesses that require fulfillment services in addition to shipping software. On the other hand, ShippingEasy may be a better option for smaller businesses that do not require fulfillment services.

Understanding Carrier Discounts

Another important consideration when comparing shipping software providers is carrier discounts. Many providers offer discounted shipping rates through partnerships with carriers like USPS, FedEx, and UPS.

It's important to understand how these discounts work and how they can benefit your ecommerce business. For example, ShipStation offers discounted USPS rates through its partnership with Stamps.com, while ShippingEasy offers discounted rates through its partnership with Endicia.

In conclusion, when comparing shipping software providers, be sure to consider pricing and plans, free trial and free plan options, size and scale considerations, and carrier discounts. By taking these factors into account, you can select the best shipping software for your ecommerce business.

Platform Specific Shipping Software

When it comes to ecommerce, there are a variety of platforms available to choose from, each with its own unique features and capabilities. As a result, it's important to select a shipping software that is specific to your platform to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance. Here are some of the best shipping software options for popular ecommerce platforms:

Shipping Software for Shopify

Shopify is a popular ecommerce platform that offers a variety of shipping options to its users. Some of the best shipping software options for Shopify include:

• Shopify Shipping: Shopify's built-in shipping software that allows you to purchase and print shipping labels directly from your Shopify account.
• ShipStation: A popular shipping software that integrates with Shopify and offers a variety of features, including order tracking and customer notifications.
• Shippo: Another popular shipping software that integrates with Shopify and offers a variety of features, including discounted shipping rates and automated tracking updates.

Shipping Software for Bigcommerce

Bigcommerce is another popular ecommerce platform that offers a variety of shipping options to its users. Some of the best shipping software options for Bigcommerce include:

• ShipperHQ: A shipping software that integrates with Bigcommerce and offers a variety of features, including real-time shipping rates and custom shipping rules.
• ShipStation: A popular shipping software that integrates with Bigcommerce and offers a variety of features, including order tracking and customer notifications.
• Shippo: Another popular shipping software that integrates with Bigcommerce and offers a variety of features, including discounted shipping rates and automated tracking updates.

Shipping Software for WooCommerce

WooCommerce is a popular ecommerce platform that is built on WordPress. Some of the best shipping software options for WooCommerce include:

• WooCommerce Shipping: A built-in shipping software that allows you to purchase and print shipping labels directly from your WooCommerce account.
• ShipStation: A popular shipping software that integrates with WooCommerce and offers a variety of features, including order tracking and customer notifications.
• Shippo: Another popular shipping software that integrates with WooCommerce and offers a variety of features, including discounted shipping rates and automated tracking updates.

Shipping Software for Volusion

Volusion is a popular ecommerce platform that offers a variety of shipping options to its users. Some of the best shipping software options for Volusion include:

• ShipperHQ: A shipping software that integrates with Volusion and offers a variety of features, including real-time shipping rates and custom shipping rules.
• ShipStation: A popular shipping software that integrates with Volusion and offers a variety of features, including order tracking and customer notifications.
• Shippo: Another popular shipping software that integrates with Volusion and offers a variety of features, including discounted shipping rates and automated tracking updates.

Shipping Software for Amazon and eBay

Amazon and eBay are popular marketplaces that offer a variety of shipping options to their sellers. Some of the best shipping software options for Amazon and eBay include:

• ShipStation: A popular shipping software that integrates with Amazon and eBay and offers a variety of features, including order tracking and customer notifications.
• Shippo: Another popular shipping software that integrates with Amazon and eBay and offers a variety of features, including discounted shipping rates and automated tracking updates.
• ShippingEasy: A shipping software that integrates with Amazon and eBay and offers a variety of features, including batch label printing and automated tracking updates.

Overall, selecting a shipping software that is specific to your ecommerce platform can help streamline your shipping process and improve your overall customer experience.

Benefits of Multi-Carrier and Multi-Channel Shipping

Multi-carrier and multi-channel shipping are two essential components of an efficient and cost-effective shipping strategy for ecommerce businesses. By leveraging these two shipping methods, businesses can streamline their shipping processes, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction.

Multi-Carrier Shipping Advantages

One of the most significant advantages of multi-carrier shipping is the ability to choose from multiple carriers to find the best shipping rates and delivery times. With a multi-carrier shipping software, businesses can compare shipping rates from different carriers and choose the most cost-effective option for each shipment. This helps to reduce shipping costs and increase profit margins.

Multi-carrier shipping also provides businesses with the flexibility to choose the carrier that best suits their needs. For example, some carriers may specialize in international shipping, while others may offer faster delivery times. By using a multi-carrier shipping software, businesses can easily switch between carriers to find the best option for each shipment.

Multi-Channel Shipping Advantages

Multi-channel shipping allows businesses to sell their products on multiple sales channels, such as their own website, marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, and social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. By selling on multiple channels, businesses can reach a wider audience and increase sales.

However, managing shipping across multiple sales channels can be challenging. This is where multi-channel shipping software comes in. By using a multi-channel shipping software, businesses can manage all their shipping from a single platform, regardless of which sales channel the order came from. This helps to streamline the shipping process and reduce errors.

Another advantage of multi-channel shipping is the ability to offer customers a choice of shipping options. By offering multiple shipping options, businesses can cater to different customer needs and preferences, which can help to improve customer satisfaction and loyalty.

In summary, multi-carrier and multi-channel shipping are essential components of a successful ecommerce shipping strategy. By leveraging these two methods, businesses can reduce costs, improve efficiency, and increase customer satisfaction.

International Shipping and Customs

When it comes to international shipping, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important is customs clearance. Every country has its own set of rules and regulations for importing goods, which means that you need to be aware of these regulations before shipping your products.

To ensure that your products clear customs smoothly, it is important to provide accurate documentation. This includes commercial invoices, packing lists, and bills of lading. You should also be aware of any taxes or duties that may be applicable to your products. These fees can vary depending on the country of destination and the type of product you are shipping.

Another important consideration for international shipping is the shipping carrier. Not all carriers offer international shipping, and those that do may have different rates and delivery times. It is important to research different carriers to find the one that best meets your needs.

One option for international shipping is using a third-party logistics provider (3PL). These companies specialize in handling international shipments and can help you navigate the complexities of customs clearance. They can also help you find the best shipping rates and delivery times.

Finally, it is important to consider the packaging of your products. International shipping can be rough on packages, so it is important to use sturdy materials and proper packaging techniques. You may also want to consider using specialized packaging materials, such as foam or bubble wrap, to protect your products during transit.

Overall, international shipping can be a complex process, but with the right preparation and knowledge, it can be a great way to expand your business and reach new customers around the world.

Choosing the Best Software for Your Ecommerce Business

Selecting the best shipping software for your ecommerce business can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it's important to identify the features that are most important to your business. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best software for your ecommerce business:

Shipping Rates and Carrier Options

One of the most important factors to consider is the shipping rates and carrier options available through the software. Look for software that offers discounted rates with major carriers like USPS, FedEx, and UPS. Additionally, consider whether the software offers a variety of shipping options, such as expedited shipping or international shipping.

Integration with Ecommerce Platforms

Make sure the shipping software you choose integrates with your ecommerce platform. This will ensure that your orders are automatically imported into the software and that tracking information is automatically updated in your ecommerce platform. Some popular ecommerce platforms that many shipping software options integrate with include Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento.

User-Friendliness

Choose a shipping software that is easy to use and has a user-friendly interface. This will save you time and reduce the likelihood of errors. Some software options offer features like batch processing, label customization, and automated tracking updates, which can help streamline your shipping process.

Customer Support

Consider the level of customer support offered by the shipping software company. Look for software that offers phone, email, or chat support, as well as online resources like tutorials and FAQs. Additionally, consider whether the software offers a free trial period or money-back guarantee so you can test it out before committing.

Pricing

Finally, consider the pricing of the shipping software. Some software options charge a monthly fee, while others charge per shipment or offer a pay-as-you-go option. Be sure to compare pricing structures and consider the features included in each plan to determine which option offers the best value for your ecommerce business.

In summary, choosing the best shipping software for your ecommerce business requires careful consideration of shipping rates and carrier options, integration with ecommerce platforms, user-friendliness, customer support, and pricing. By taking these factors into account, you can select software that will help streamline your shipping process and improve the overall efficiency of your ecommerce business.

Conclusion

Choosing the right shipping software for your ecommerce business is a crucial decision that can impact your bottom line. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the best shipping software solution that meets your business needs.

Based on our research, we have identified the top shipping software solutions for ecommerce businesses. These software solutions offer a range of features and benefits that can help streamline your shipping process and improve customer satisfaction.

Some of the best shipping software options for ecommerce businesses include ShipBob, ShipStation, ShippingEasy, Shippo, and Pirate Ship. These software solutions offer a range of features such as multi-carrier support, automated shipping, real-time tracking, and more.

When choosing a shipping software solution, it is important to consider factors such as pricing, scalability, user-friendliness, and customer support. It is also important to consider the specific needs of your business, such as the volume of orders, shipping destinations, and the types of products you sell.

Ultimately, the best shipping software for your ecommerce business will depend on a variety of factors. By carefully evaluating your options and considering your business needs, you can find the right shipping software solution that helps you save time and money while improving your shipping process.