Best Shipping Software for Small Business: Top 5 Options in 2023

Small businesses often face challenges when it comes to managing shipping and logistics. That's why it's crucial to find the right shipping software that can help streamline the process and save time and money. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your business. In this article, we'll explore some of the top shipping software options for small businesses in 2023.

When searching for shipping software, it's essential to consider the features that will benefit your business the most. The best shipping software should integrate directly with your ecommerce platform and other necessary tools, like your inventory management software or point-of-sale (POS) system. It should also have robust order management features, generate helpful reports, and provide high-quality customer support. By choosing the right software, you can simplify your shipping process, reduce errors, and improve customer satisfaction.

Whether you're shipping products domestically or internationally, there are many shipping software options to choose from. In the following sections, we'll take a closer look at some of the best shipping software for small businesses in 2023, based on user ratings and reviews. With this information, you can make an informed decision and find the right shipping software for your business needs.

Understanding Shipping Software

Shipping software is an essential tool that helps small businesses to streamline their shipping process. It enables businesses to compare shipping rates, print shipping labels, track packages, and manage orders from multiple carriers in one place. With the right shipping software, small businesses can save time and money on shipping costs.

One of the key features of shipping software is the ability to compare shipping rates from multiple carriers. This allows businesses to choose the most cost-effective shipping option for each package. Some shipping software also offers discounted rates for certain carriers, which can further reduce shipping costs.

Another important feature of shipping software is the ability to print shipping labels. This eliminates the need for manual data entry and reduces the risk of errors. Shipping labels can be printed directly from the software, saving time and streamlining the shipping process.

In addition to printing shipping labels, shipping software can also generate packing slips. Packing slips provide important information about the contents of a package, such as the item name, quantity, and weight. This information can be used by carriers to ensure that packages are delivered to the correct address and in good condition.

Multi-carrier shipping software is another option for small businesses. This type of software allows businesses to manage orders from multiple carriers in one place. This can be particularly useful for businesses that ship a large volume of packages or use multiple carriers to fulfill orders.

Finally, shipping software provides tracking information for packages. This allows businesses to monitor the status of packages and keep customers informed about the delivery process. Tracking information can be accessed directly from the software, making it easy to manage and track packages.

Overall, shipping software is an essential tool for small businesses that want to streamline their shipping process and save time and money on shipping costs. With features like rate comparison, shipping label printing, and tracking information, shipping software can help businesses to manage their shipping process more efficiently.

Top Shipping Software for Small Businesses

When it comes to shipping software for small businesses, there are many options to choose from. However, not all shipping software is created equal. In this section, we will take a closer look at some of the top shipping software options for small businesses.

ShipStation

ShipStation is a cloud-based shipping software that helps small businesses manage their shipping process. It offers a wide range of features, including order management, shipping label printing, and tracking. ShipStation also integrates with a variety of ecommerce platforms, such as Shopify, Amazon, and eBay.

Shippo

Shippo is a multi-carrier shipping software that helps small businesses save time and money on shipping. It offers discounted shipping rates from top carriers, such as USPS, UPS, and FedEx. Shippo also offers features like order tracking, label printing, and address verification.

ShippingEasy

ShippingEasy is a cloud-based shipping software that helps small businesses streamline their shipping process. It offers features like order management, label printing, and tracking. ShippingEasy also integrates with popular ecommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Amazon.

Ordoro

Ordoro is a shipping software that helps small businesses manage their orders and shipments in one place. It offers features like order management, shipping label printing, and tracking. Ordoro also integrates with popular ecommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Amazon.

ShipRush

ShipRush is a shipping software that helps small businesses manage their shipping process. It offers features like order management, shipping label printing, and tracking. ShipRush also integrates with popular ecommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Amazon.

Easyship

Easyship is a shipping software that helps small businesses manage their shipping process. It offers features like order management, shipping label printing, and tracking. Easyship also offers discounted shipping rates from top carriers like USPS, UPS, and FedEx.

Stamps

Stamps is a shipping software that helps small businesses manage their shipping process. It offers features like order management, shipping label printing, and tracking. Stamps also offers discounted shipping rates from top carriers like USPS, UPS, and FedEx.

Pirate Ship

Pirate Ship is a shipping software that helps small businesses manage their shipping process. It offers features like order management, shipping label printing, and tracking. Pirate Ship also offers discounted shipping rates from top carriers like USPS, UPS, and FedEx.

ShipBob

ShipBob is a shipping software that helps small businesses manage their shipping process. It offers features like order management, shipping label printing, and tracking. ShipBob also offers fulfillment services for small businesses.

ShipWorks

ShipWorks is a shipping software that helps small businesses manage their shipping process. It offers features like order management, shipping label printing, and tracking. ShipWorks also integrates with popular ecommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Amazon.

Stamps.com

Stamps.com is a shipping software that helps small businesses manage their shipping process. It offers features like order management, shipping label printing, and tracking. Stamps.com also offers discounted shipping rates from top carriers like USPS, UPS, and FedEx.

OrderCup

OrderCup is a shipping software that helps small businesses manage their shipping process. It offers features like order management, shipping label printing, and tracking. OrderCup also integrates with popular ecommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Amazon.

ShipHero

ShipHero is a shipping software that helps small businesses manage their shipping process. It offers features like order management, shipping label printing, and tracking. ShipHero also offers fulfillment services for small businesses.

In conclusion, small businesses have many options when it comes to shipping software. Each software has its own unique features and benefits. It is important for small businesses to choose the software that best fits their needs and budget.

Key Features to Consider

When choosing the best shipping software for your small business, there are several key features to consider. These features will help ensure that your shipping process is streamlined, efficient, and cost-effective.

Integration with Ecommerce Platforms

One of the most important features to consider is integration with your ecommerce platform. The shipping software should be able to seamlessly integrate with your platform to automatically import orders, update tracking information, and generate shipping labels. This integration will help save time and reduce errors in the shipping process.

Inventory Management

Another important feature to consider is inventory management. The shipping software should be able to sync with your inventory management system to ensure that you never oversell a product. This will help prevent delays and customer dissatisfaction due to out-of-stock items.

Order Management

The shipping software should also have robust order management features. This includes the ability to split orders, combine orders, and edit orders after they have been placed. This will help ensure that each order is fulfilled accurately and efficiently.

Discounted Shipping Rates

One of the most significant benefits of using shipping software is the ability to access discounted shipping rates. The software should provide discounted rates for major carriers such as USPS, UPS, and FedEx. This will help save you money on shipping costs and improve your bottom line.

Returns Management

Returns management is another important feature to consider. The shipping software should provide an easy way for customers to initiate returns and for you to process returns. This will help ensure that your customers have a positive experience and will improve your overall customer satisfaction.

Automation

The shipping software should also have automation features to help streamline your shipping process. This includes the ability to batch print shipping labels, automatically update tracking information, and send email notifications to customers.

Analytics

Analytics is an important feature to consider for tracking your shipping performance. The software should provide detailed analytics on shipping costs, delivery times, and carrier performance. This will help you identify areas for improvement and optimize your shipping process.

Customer Support

Finally, it's important to consider the level of customer support provided by the shipping software. The software should provide comprehensive support through various channels such as email, phone, and chat. This will help ensure that you have the support you need to resolve any issues that may arise during the shipping process.

Benefits of Using Shipping Software

Shipping software can help small businesses streamline their shipping process and save time and money. Here are some of the benefits of using shipping software:

Ecommerce Integration

Many shipping software solutions integrate with popular ecommerce platforms, such as Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento. This integration allows small businesses to easily import orders and streamline their order fulfillment process.

Order Processing

Shipping software can help small businesses process orders quickly and efficiently. With shipping software, small businesses can easily print shipping labels, packing slips, and invoices, and track orders in real-time.

Real-Time Shipping Rates

Shipping software can help small businesses save money on shipping costs by providing real-time shipping rates from multiple carriers. This allows small businesses to choose the most cost-effective shipping option for each order.

Shipping Discounts

Shipping software can also help small businesses save money on shipping costs by providing access to discounted rates from carriers. Many shipping software solutions offer discounted rates from carriers such as USPS, UPS, and FedEx.

Order Tracking

Shipping software can help small businesses improve their customer service by providing order tracking information to customers. This allows customers to track their orders in real-time and know when to expect delivery.

Returns

Shipping software can also help small businesses manage returns more efficiently. With shipping software, small businesses can easily create return labels and track returns in real-time.

Reporting

Shipping software can provide small businesses with valuable insights into their shipping process. With shipping software, small businesses can track shipping costs, monitor carrier performance, and identify areas for improvement.

Overall, shipping software can help small businesses streamline their shipping process, save time and money, and improve their customer service.

Choosing the Right Shipping Software

When it comes to selecting the right shipping software for your small business, there are several factors to consider. The right software can help streamline your shipping process, save you time and money, and improve customer satisfaction. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when choosing the right shipping software for your small business:

Carrier Integration

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a shipping software is carrier integration. Your software should be able to integrate with major carriers such as USPS, UPS, DHL, FedEx, and Canada Post. This will allow you to compare rates and services from multiple carriers and choose the best option for your business needs. Additionally, if you sell on platforms such as Amazon, eBay, Shopify, Etsy, or WooCommerce, ensure that the software integrates with these sales channels.

User Interface and Usability

The user interface and usability of the software are also important factors to consider. The software should have an intuitive and user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate and use. Look for software that offers features such as barcode scanning, email and phone support, and real-time tracking updates to help you manage your shipments more efficiently.

Scalability

Another important consideration is scalability. Choose a shipping software that can grow with your business and accommodate your changing needs. Consider the number of shipments you process each month and the number of users who will be using the software. Ensure that the software can handle your current volume of shipments and can scale up as your business grows.

Cost

Cost is also an important factor to consider when choosing a shipping software. Look for software that offers a pricing model that fits your budget and offers good value for money. Some software providers charge a monthly fee, while others charge per shipment or offer a flat rate. Consider the features included in the software and choose the one that offers the best value for your money.

Customer Support

Finally, consider the level of customer support offered by the software provider. Look for software that offers email and phone support, as well as online resources such as user guides, tutorials, and FAQs. Ensure that the provider offers prompt and reliable support to help you resolve any issues or concerns that may arise.

In summary, choosing the right shipping software for your small business requires careful consideration of several factors, including carrier integration, user interface and usability, scalability, cost, and customer support. By taking the time to evaluate your options and choose the right software, you can streamline your shipping process and improve your overall business operations.

Advanced Features and Add-Ons

When it comes to shipping software for small businesses, there are a variety of advanced features and add-ons that can make a big difference in your shipping process. These features can help streamline your operations, save you time and money, and improve your customer experience. Here are some of the most useful advanced features and add-ons to consider:

Sales Channel Integrations

One of the most important features to look for in shipping software is the ability to integrate with your sales channels. This allows you to automatically import orders from platforms like Amazon, eBay, Etsy, and more. Some shipping software even integrates with ecommerce marketplaces like Shopify and WooCommerce, giving you a complete solution for managing your online store.

Postage and Fulfillment Center Integration

Another key feature to look for is the ability to integrate with postage providers and fulfillment centers. This allows you to easily compare rates from different carriers and choose the best option for each shipment. Some shipping software also integrates with dropshipping services, making it easy to manage your inventory and orders without having to handle the shipping yourself.

Returns Management

Returns can be a headache for small businesses, but shipping software can help simplify the process. Look for software that offers easy returns management, including the ability to generate return labels and track returned items. Some software even offers automatic refunds and restocking.

Branding and Customization

Many shipping software options offer branding and customization options, allowing you to add your logo and branding to packing slips, shipping labels, and other materials. This can help improve your brand recognition and create a more professional look for your shipments.

Reporting and Analytics

Reporting and analytics are important for any business, and shipping software is no exception. Look for software that offers detailed reporting and analytics, including insights into shipping costs, carrier performance, and more. Some software even offers interactive metrics and live chat support to help you make the most of your shipping data.

Communication and Feedback

Finally, look for shipping software that offers communication and feedback tools. This can include features like customizable packing slips, feedback requests, and live chat support. These tools can help you improve your customer satisfaction and streamline your communication with customers and suppliers.

Overall, advanced features and add-ons can make a big difference in the effectiveness and efficiency of your shipping process. Whether you're looking for sales channel integrations, returns management, or customization options, there are plenty of options available to help you streamline your operations and improve your customer experience.