The 10 Best Ecommerce Shipping Companies to Choose
Let’s start high level here first. Here are our top 10 picks for ecommerce shipping services, each with their particular ideal use case.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
You can't do much as an ecommerce brand if you don't have a great shipping partner. A bad shipping experience is enough to drive those potential customers elsewhere. That's why you, a responsible ecommerce operator, are searching for the best ecommerce shipping companies.
I know this all too well. I spent several years dealing with the shipping side of ecommerce, cycling through companies to land on the ones that delivered both for me and my customers.
If picking the right shipping company was like modern dating, you'd find yourself swiping left on a lot of duds. And, just as in dating, not everybody will want the same shipping service. We've all got our particular needs and wants.
But, you'll want to find a solution that is able to pick up your products, treat them nicely, and deliver them safely and soundly and in a timely fashion. At the end, everyone should be smiling.
Thus, we assembled the best ecommerce shipping companies for brands of various shapes and sizes and needs and wants. While you can't really swipe on this blog post, I'm sure you'll find your match here anyway.
What is an Ecommerce Shipping Company?
An ecommerce shipping company is basically the middleman between your products and your customers' doorstep.
These companies handle the “getting there” part, whether that’s across town, across the country, or even across continents. They’re the ones hustling to make sure your beautifully packaged products arrive safely, quickly, and without costing an arm and a leg.
For ecommerce brands, it’s more than just slapping on a shipping label.
The right shipping company can help you meet those “Where’s my order?” expectations, offer affordable rates that don’t gouge you (or your customers), and provide tools for tracking and returns.
Shipping partners often offer services like warehousing and order fulfillment, so you can scale your business without having to rent out a massive storage unit and beg your friends to help you box up orders on weekends.
In other words, choosing the right shipping company means picking the team that’s going to get your products into customers' hands as painlessly as possible—no smashed boxes, ridiculous delivery fees, or endless customer support headaches.
Whether you’re shipping out a handful of candles from your living room or managing a full-scale logistics operation, the right partner can make the difference between “just OK” and “absolutely seamless” for your customers.
Why Trust Our Ecommerce Shipping Company Reviews
We’ve been testing and reviewing ecommerce software since 2021.
As ecommerce experts ourselves, we know how critical, and how difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting software.
We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software purchasing decisions.
We’ve tested more than 2,000 tools for different ecommerce use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews.
Learn how we stay transparent & our review methodology.
Comparing the Best Ecommerce Shipping Services, Feature by Feature
OK, we’re at the “handy table” portion of the post (there will be one more, don’t worry). First, where there is starting pricing, you’ll find it below. Then, see other feature comparisons by clicking Compare Software below the handy table.
Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Best for sustainable deliveries | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
2 | Best white label branding shipping option | 30-day free trial | From $9.99/month | Website | |
3 | Best for a global omni-fulfillment solution | Free demo | Pricing upon request | Website | |
4 | Best for transport management software | Not available | From $79/user/month | Website | |
5 | Best for automated third-party logistics | Not available | Website | ||
6 | Best for small business ecommerce | Not available | Website | ||
7 | Best for turn-key technology to elevate your logistics | Not available | Website | ||
8 | Multi-carrier solution for sellers ready to scale | 60 days free trial | From $29.95/user/month | Website | |
9 | Get the best rates from multiple carriers | 30 day-free trial | From $10/month | Website | |
10 | Choose from in-house or outsourced order fulfillment | 30-day free trial | From $499/month | Website |
How to Choose Ecommerce Shipping Companies
Finding the right shipping solution is like choosing the perfect partner—supportive, reliable, and with zero drama.
Different brands have different needs, whether you’re fulfilling from your living room or a warehouse the size of an airport hangar. Here’s a step-by-step approach to help you find the right fit:
- Define your shipping goals. Start by asking what matters most for your brand: speed, affordability, sustainability, or maybe even full brand control. Knowing whether you prioritize next-day delivery, international reach, or eco-friendly packaging will help you zero in on the type of solution that aligns with your goals.
- Assess your order volume and frequency. High volume or rapid order turnover often benefits from automation or outsourcing with a 3PL (third-party logistics). Meanwhile, smaller operations may want a shipping app or multi-carrier solution for flexibility without the heavy commitment. Think about how many orders you process weekly and how complex your fulfillment needs are.
- Evaluate your tech stack and integrations. Make sure any potential shipping solution plays well with your existing tools—like your ecommerce platform, inventory management system, or CRM. Shipping apps and multi-carrier solutions often come with plug-and-play integrations, while 3PLs and WMS (warehouse management systems) might need a more robust setup.
- Consider the type of shipping experience you want. Do you want to keep it all branded (think white-label shipping, where even the tracking emails look like they’re from you) or prioritize savings with multi-carrier solutions? Knowing what customer experience you want to create can help steer you toward the right shipping suite or app.
- Look for automation options. From auto-printing labels to handling returns, automation can make life easier, especially as you scale. If you’re aiming to streamline as much as possible, look for solutions with automated workflows, like bulk processing, shipping rules, and real-time tracking updates.
- Think about scaling needs. If you’re a fast-growing brand, you’ll want a solution that grows with you. 3PLs can handle large order spikes, while shipping apps and WMS systems often have features or tiered pricing that make scaling easier. Pick a solution that won’t leave you scrambling during your next big sales surge.
Taking these steps will help you pinpoint which type of shipping solution—whether it’s a 3PL for hands-off fulfillment, a multi-carrier solution for cost flexibility, or a WMS for in-house organization—is the right fit for your business.
Remember, your choice should enhance your customer experience, align with your brand’s vision, and, most importantly, keep your logistics smooth.
The 10 Best Ecommerce Shipping Companies, Reviewed
The reviews—you made it! Let’s look a bit closer at each ecommerce shipping solution here to better understand what they do, why we picked them, their best features, top integrations, and pros and cons. Let’s go!
GoBolt is a sustainable third-party logistics provider offering end-to-end solutions, including fulfillment, last-mile delivery, and returns management. It caters to industries such as ecommerce, retail, and electronics.
It integrates directly with ecommerce platforms, ensuring smooth operations from order to delivery. GoBolt's fulfillment centers across the U.S. and Canada facilitate quick order processing and shipping, improving customer satisfaction and reducing errors. The company also uses electric vehicles for last-mile delivery as a commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
Real-time tracking and effective warehouse management systems further enhance customer experience and logistics efficiency. GoBolt also has a returns management system to simplify the usually complex process of handling returns.
Integrations include Shopify, Squarespace, Wix, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, ShipStation, Skubana, Loop Returns, Order Desk, Orderful, and Extensiv.
ShipStation is a multi-channel, multi-carrier shipping suite that allows you to manage every part of your ecommerce fulfillment. Discounted shipping rates, batching, customer branding, and inventory management are just a few of the features. You may import orders from over 60 different sales channels and apply customisable defaults and delivery choices automatically.
Each channel’s delivery status and tracking information are updated by the programme. ShipStation also has templates for packing slips, emails, and tracking pages that may be customized. This allows you to personalize your shipments and improve the customer experience.
Prefilled overseas customs forms, extensive reporting, and advanced user permissions are among the other features. This tool integrates with platforms such as Amazon, eBay, WooCommerce, DHL Express, and Shopify.
ShipStation costs from $9.99/user/month. A 30-day free trial is available.
ShipBob provides a full-service fulfillment solution that includes a full-stack software package. You can manage, track, and control your ecommerce business using this service. You may use the programme to manage, update, and personalize orders. You may also monitor stock levels in real time from any place and receive reminders when you need to replenish products.
ShipBob includes built-in reports and analytics modules. Ecommerce experts are also on hand to help you forecast, integrate, and orchestrate inventory and orders.
This tool integrates with Shopify, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, and Magento.
ShipBob offers customized pricing on request.
Ascend is a well-known supply chain management solution that runs in the cloud. Load management, branch administration, accounting, financial controls, and payment management are all essential components. You may track supply orders, carriers, delivery dates, and distances using the load management features.
You may also keep track of the financials of load assignments to determine which ones are the most profitable. The GPS capability allows you to trace the location of carriers. You may pay contract and full-time drivers by mile, hour, pallet, or tonne with payroll management.
This tool integrates with applications such as SmartCapacity, Loadsmart, Truckstop, and CargoChief.
Ascend costs from $79/user/month. A free plan with limited features is also available.
SureShipped helps you save money on pick, pack, storage, and shipping services by automating your online fulfillment. Direct-to-consumer, B2B, retail, FBA prep, and value-added services are all covered by the service.
The SureShipped team will store your items, add them to inventory, and prepare them for same-day shipment to consumers after your business is linked to the system. The technology is compatible with all major domestic and international carriers. Multi-channel connectors, an admin dashboard, and reporting functions are all included in the SureShipped software.
It also sends you notifications when inventories run low and keeps you up to date on the status of your orders. This platform integrates with Shopify, Amazon, WooCommerce, Magento, Walmart, and Etsy.
SureShipped offers customized pricing on request.
Pirate Ship is a shipping management tool that aids in the administration and simplification of activities such as shipping label purchase and printing. You may search shipments at shipping firms, generate USPS scan forms, and export transaction data with this cloud-based ecommerce software.
Ground delivery, shipment tracking, import/export, bids, and estimations are just a few of the capabilities available in the software. You may also take care of air and parcel delivery. Admins may import orders from WooCommerce, Cratejoy, Etsy, Shopify, and eBay, among other sites.
You may also upload addresses in CSV, ODS, XLS, and XLSX formats using the shipping spreadsheet module. This tool integrates with ecommerce platforms such as Shopify, WooCommerce, Chargify, Recurly, and Big Cartel.
Pirate Ship is available free of charge for any number of users.
Bolt Fulfillment is an order delivery platform that aids in the management and fulfillment of orders for any business. Advanced software for dealing with all areas of logistics is included in the solution. The firm receives and warehouses your inventory in order to save money and speed up delivery. Orders are received in real time, and they are swiftly chosen, packed, and sent.
Bolt hopes to cut shipping expenses by 40% and deliver products three times faster to clients. Optimized route planning and real-time truck tracking are among the features. As a consequence, you’ll be able to monitor all of your packages all the way to your front door.
This tool integrates with platforms such as Shopify, WooCommerce, and ShipStation.
Bolt Fulfillment offers customized pricing on request.
ShipRush is a multi-carrier shipping platform that allows you to track orders and alert consumers about their progress. This utility is offered in two versions: cloud-based and on-premise. Inventory management, shipping history monitoring, and reporting are among the features available.
Printing shipping labels is also an option. The shipping rate shopping dashboard allows managers to evaluate carrier pricing and delivery alternatives. They may also see shipping cost data, transit timeframes, and negotiated rates. For every order, you may also establish automation rules and print a shipping label.
This tool integrates with third-party apps such as Authorize.net, BigCommerce, Magento, and QuickBooks.
ShipRush costs from $29.95/user/month. A 60-day free trial is available.
Shippo connects any ecommerce platform with the cheapest shipping costs from 85+ carriers and the USPS. You may sync your sales channels after integrating your online store to handle all orders in one spot. The programme keeps track of shipments and notifies customers. Free of charge, a return label may be created automatically.
Shippo provides analytics, reporting, and insights. Intelligent defaults and customisable automations are included to keep you on top of your shipment at all times. There are no minimum volume requirements for this no-code solution.
This tool integrates with platforms such as Square, Shopify, WooCommerce, and Wix.
Shippo costs from $10/user/month. A free 30-day trial is available.
ShipHero provides two distinct shipping options. You may fulfill orders from your own warehouse and oversee the process using ShipHero. You may even hire them to handle the full shipping process. From order to delivery, the programme oversees the whole fulfillment process. Pickers and packers receive orders and handle them right away.
A customized dashboard gives you real-time monitoring to help you make better decisions. This tool integrates with platforms such as Shopify, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, Amazon, eBay, and Walmart.
ShipHero software costs from $499/user/month. A 30-day free trial is available.
Other Shipping Companies
Here are a few more shipping providers that didn’t make the top list.
- Packlink Pro
Free service for comparing shipping rates
- ShipEngine
For a multi-carrier shipping API
- Clickpost
Logistics intelligence platform for ecommerce sellers
- Detrack
Delivery management software offering real-time proof of delivery
- Calcurates
Cost-effective shipping for e-commerce with zero-coding
- DesktoShipper
Ecommerce shipping solution for both small businesses and larger enterprises
- 2Ship
Online, multi-carrier shipping provider
- Magaya Supply Chain
Modern, data-driven freight and logistics software platform
- Shopify Shipping
Ship order to customers right from within the Shopify platform
- Freight Club
All-in-one shipping platform used by ecommerce leaders
- Pacejet
Fully-connected shipping for enterprise-level sellers
- GlobalShip
Integrated, multi-carrier shipping software for Microsoft-base sellers
Related Ecommerce Software Reviews
If you still haven't found what you're looking for here, check out these related ecommerce tools that we've tested and evaluated.
- Ecommerce Platforms
- Inventory Management Software
- Payment Processing Software
- Shopping Cart Solutions
- Order Management Systems
- Warehouse Management Software
Our Selection Criteria for Ecommerce Shipping Companies
Choosing the best ecommerce shipping solution isn’t a shot in the dark; it requires a solid look at what each option has under the hood.
After plenty of testing and research, we’ve built a set of criteria to help you make a decision that keeps your shipping smooth and your customers happy.
Core functionality (25% weighting score)
Shipping solutions have to cover the essentials if they’re going to keep your operations flowing. Here’s what we check for:
- Order management and tracking. Tools for organizing shipments, keeping order statuses updated, and giving customers that “where’s my order?” peace of mind.
- Carrier options and flexibility. A range of carrier choices so you can pick the best one for each shipment, whether that’s the cheapest, fastest, or most reliable.
- Rate calculations and discounts. Built-in calculators and discounts that help you keep costs down without sacrificing delivery quality.
- Return processing. A smooth return workflow that makes it easy on your customers and saves you logistics headaches.
- Label printing and documentation. Easy-to-use tools for generating labels and customs documents—because no one has time to handwrite addresses.
Additional standout features (25% weighting score)
Core functions are the baseline, but standout features take a solution from “good” to “game-changing.” We evaluate:
- Automation capabilities. Smart automation for repetitive tasks like label printing and tracking updates—let the robots handle it.
- Custom branding. Options to slap your brand on everything from tracking pages to packaging, creating a pro experience from box to doorstep.
- Multi-carrier support. The ability to switch up carriers as needed, so you’re not tied to one when another offers a better rate.
- Sustainable shipping options. Eco-friendly practices, like carbon-neutral shipping and recycled packaging, for brands that want to go green.
- Data analytics and reporting. Advanced analytics to keep tabs on shipping costs, delivery times, and customer behavior.
Usability (10% weighting score)
A solution that’s hard to use is a solution no one wants. We look for:
- Intuitive design. A clear, user-friendly layout that’s easy to navigate, so you’re not stuck hunting for basic features.
- Accessibility. Works on all devices, from desktops to smartphones, because flexibility is key.
- Ease of workflow. Batch label printing, automatic order importing, and other workflow perks that make life simpler.
Onboarding (10% weighting score)
The sooner you’re up and running, the better. We check for:
- Detailed tutorials and resources. Clear guides, videos, and how-tos to help you get started without a headache.
- Interactive onboarding. Step-by-step setups so even newbies to ecommerce logistics feel like pros.
- Customer support during setup. Access to real humans who can help with questions or issues as you get going.
Customer support (10% weighting score)
Reliable support can make or break your shipping experience. Here’s what we look for:
- Variety of support channels. Help via live chat, email, phone, or chatbots, so you’ve got options.
- Responsiveness and problem resolution. Quick and proactive solutions to keep any shipping hiccups from becoming full-blown disasters.
- Community resources. Access to forums or communities where you can get tips and advice from other ecommerce pros.
Value for money (10% weighting score)
Getting your money’s worth is critical, especially for businesses looking to scale. We assess:
- Transparent pricing. No hidden fees or unexpected costs—just straightforward, upfront rates.
- Scalable plans. Pricing that grows with your business, so you’re not constantly hunting for a new solution as you expand.
- Free trials or demos. A test drive so you can see exactly what you’re getting before you commit.
Customer reviews (10% weighting score)
Real-world feedback shows how a solution performs in the day-to-day. We look for:
- Positive user feedback. Happy customers who find the solution easy and reliable.
- Issue resolution history. A track record of quickly fixing problems to keep users satisfied.
- Perceived long-term value. User insight on whether the solution helps streamline shipping and boost the customer experience over time.
Using these criteria as a guide, you can find an ecommerce shipping solution that fits your brand like a glove and keeps your operations running without a hitch.
Trends for Ecommerce Shipping Companies in 2025
As we cruise into 2025, the ecommerce shipping landscape is shifting faster than a drone on express delivery. Here’s what to keep an eye on:
- Hyper-personalized deliveries. Customers expect packages to show up when and where they want them, whether that’s at home, at work, or even at a local café. Shipping providers are using AI to tailor deliveries to meet these specific demands.
- Green logistics. Eco-conscious shoppers are demanding carbon-neutral shipping and sustainable packaging. Shipping solutions are responding with electric delivery vehicles, optimized routes to cut emissions, and recyclable materials, turning sustainability into a competitive advantage.
- Same-day and instant delivery. The "I want it now" mindset is here to stay. To meet this demand, retailers are leveraging local couriers and micro-fulfillment centers, making it possible to offer same-day—or even hour-specific—deliveries.
- Advanced tracking and transparency. Vague "out for delivery" updates are out; real-time tracking with interactive maps and proactive notifications are in. Customers want detailed updates every step of the way, and shipping providers are delivering.
- Flexible delivery options. From lockers to curbside pickups, customers crave flexibility. Shipping solutions are offering multiple options to fit diverse lifestyles, making missed deliveries a thing of the past.
- Automation and robotics. Warehouses are getting smarter with robots handling picking and packing, while drones and autonomous vehicles tackle last-mile deliveries, cutting costs and speeding up the process.
- Cross-border ecommerce expansion. Global shopping is booming, and shipping solutions are simplifying international logistics. Providers are managing customs, taxes, and currency conversions to make cross-border purchases as seamless as local ones.
- Subscription-based shipping models. Think of it as the "Netflix for shipping"—customers pay a monthly fee for unlimited deliveries, building loyalty and encouraging frequent purchases.
- Enhanced return processes. Easy returns are no longer just a perk—they’re a must. Companies are streamlining returns with prepaid labels, local drop-off points, and instant refunds to keep customers coming back.
- Integration with smart home devices. Imagine your smart fridge ordering groceries and scheduling delivery when you’re home. Shipping solutions are tapping into IoT to anticipate needs and optimize delivery times, making life just a bit more futuristic.
These trends will keep your ecommerce business on the cutting edge in 2025, ensuring your shipping process stays as modern and customer-friendly as possible.
Features of Ecommerce Shipping Solutions
A great ecommerce shipping solution has to do more than just slap a label on a box. Here are the standout features that make the whole logistics process smoother, cheaper, and a lot less headache-inducing:
- Multi-carrier support. With access to multiple carriers, you can shop around for the best rates, fastest deliveries, and special services without switching between apps like a crazed logistics juggler.
- Real-time tracking. Customers want the play-by-play, so real-time tracking keeps them in the loop every step of the way, cutting down those “Where’s my order?” emails that drive you (and them) nuts.
- Automated label printing. Say goodbye to manual labeling nightmares. Automated label printing handles everything in bulk or order-by-order, saving you from sore wrists and costly typos.
- Rate calculators and discounts. Let the system do the math for you with built-in rate calculators and juicy discounts, so you can keep shipping costs low and offer competitive rates without breaking a sweat.
- Custom branding options. This one’s for all you brand-builders. With custom-branded packing slips, tracking pages, and emails, you stay top-of-mind every step of the delivery journey.
- Return management tools. Simplify returns so that customers actually come back instead of vanishing after a single order. Prepaid labels, tracking, and automated processing make returns painless for everyone involved.
- Inventory and order management integrations. No more frantic spreadsheet cross-referencing—connect your shipping solution to your ecommerce platform, inventory software, and order management systems so everything’s in sync and up to date.
- Batch processing and automation. Automate those repetitive tasks and set up batch processing to keep things moving without manual oversight, freeing you up to focus on more important stuff (like growing your business).
- Customer notifications and alerts. Customers expect to know every little detail, so automatic notifications keep them updated with every milestone. It’s a win-win: they’re happy, and you get fewer emails.
- Customizable shipping rules. Control your shipping setup with custom rules based on location, order value, weight, or other factors. Charge the right rates, offer the right options, and keep your margins healthy.
With these features, your shipping solution will work like a well-oiled machine, delivering seamless logistics, happier customers, and a whole lot less hassle for you.
Benefits of Ecommerce Shipping Companies
Getting the right shipping solution isn’t just about moving boxes—it’s about transforming your whole business flow, leveling up your customer experience, and keeping you sane in the process.
Here’s why the right shipping solution is worth every penny:
- Saves time on every order. When you’re not printing labels by hand or toggling between carriers, you’re free to focus on growing your business instead of drowning in logistics.
- Lowers shipping costs. Smart rate calculators and multi-carrier options help you find the best deals without sacrificing speed, keeping costs down for you and your customers.
- Keeps customers in the loop. Real-time tracking and automated updates mean customers always know where their package is. Fewer “Where’s my order?” messages, happier customers—it’s a win-win.
- Streamlines returns (and keeps customers coming back). Returns are inevitable, but making them easy keeps customers loyal. Automated return tools and prepaid labels turn a dreaded task into a seamless experience.
- Enhances your brand image. With custom branding options, your logo’s on everything from emails to packing slips, creating a pro look that leaves customers with a top-notch impression.
- Improves inventory accuracy. Integrations with your inventory and order management tools ensure all your systems are in sync, helping you avoid stockouts and overselling disasters.
- Scales as you grow. As your orders ramp up, so does the solution’s efficiency. Automated batch processing and scalable features keep you from being overwhelmed as you scale.
- Boosts operational efficiency. With automation and streamlined workflows, you cut down on manual tasks and mistakes, making your whole operation smoother and more cost-effective.
- Increases customer satisfaction. Let’s face it, a well-oiled shipping process makes for happy customers. Fast, reliable deliveries and clear communication build trust and keep people coming back for more.
Investing in the right shipping solution doesn’t just improve logistics—it takes a whole load off your shoulders, keeps your customers thrilled, and helps your business grow without the usual shipping headaches.
Cost & Pricing for Ecommerce Shipping Companies
Selecting the right ecommerce shipping solution is a pivotal decision that can significantly impact your business's efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Shipping solutions offer a variety of plans tailored to different business sizes, order volumes, and specific requirements. Understanding these options will help you choose a plan that aligns with your operational needs and budget.
Plan comparison table for ecommerce shipping solutions
Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features | Best For |
---|---|---|---|
Free | $0 | Basic label printing, standard shipping rates, limited carrier options | Small businesses with minimal shipping needs |
Starter | $9 - $30/month | Multi-carrier support, discounted rates, batch label printing, basic tracking | Startups and small businesses |
Professional | $30 - $100/month | Advanced automation, custom branding, real-time tracking, integrations | Growing businesses with moderate order volumes |
Enterprise | Custom pricing | Tailored solutions, dedicated support, comprehensive analytics, API access | Large enterprises and high-volume shippers |
Choosing the right plan involves assessing your current shipping volume, desired features, and growth projections.
Free plans are suitable for testing the waters, while higher-tier plans offer scalability and advanced functionalities to support business expansion.
Other costs to consider
- Label printing fees: Some platforms charge per label if you're on a pay-as-you-go plan, typically around $0.05 per label.
- Subscription fees: Beyond the base plan, additional features or higher shipping volumes may require upgraded subscriptions, ranging from $9 to $399.99 per month.
- Integration fees: Certain integrations with ecommerce platforms or marketplaces might incur additional costs, depending on the provider.
- Carrier fees: While shipping solutions may offer discounted rates, actual shipping costs depend on the carriers and services selected.
- Additional services: Features like insurance, signature confirmation, or expedited shipping options can add to the overall cost.
Being aware of these potential expenses ensures a comprehensive understanding of the total cost of ownership for your chosen shipping solution, allowing for better financial planning and decision-making.
Ecommerce Shipping Companies FAQs
Hey, glad to see you still here. We’re at the part where the unresolved questions come to be answered, in short form. Let’s see what’s up with all that.
How can I reduce shipping costs without compromising delivery speed?
Reducing shipping costs doesn’t mean you have to slow down your deliveries! Multi-carrier shipping solutions let you compare rates and options across carriers so you can pick the best deal every time.
For example, use economical options for lighter, local orders and prioritize express options only when necessary. Many solutions also offer negotiated, bulk rates, especially if you’re shipping larger volumes.
Bonus tip: Try to use efficient packaging to reduce dimensional weight—smaller, lighter packages mean less cost per mile!
What’s the difference between multi-carrier support and a single-carrier solution?
Multi-carrier support is like having a whole team of options ready to serve you—you can choose the best carrier for each order based on price, speed, or location.
With a single-carrier solution, you’re limited to that one provider, which might mean paying more or dealing with fewer options if that carrier doesn’t have the best rates or services for every situation. Multi-carrier setups offer more flexibility and usually lower rates because you’re not stuck in a one-size-fits-all box.
How do shipping solutions handle international customs and duties?
Most advanced shipping solutions streamline international shipping by automatically calculating duties, taxes, and customs fees based on the destination. Many will also generate the customs forms you need to avoid any surprises at the border.
Some even offer options for “landed cost” estimates, showing customers the total price (including duties and taxes) right at checkout, so there are no unpleasant surprises on delivery. Look for solutions that provide international support if you plan to scale globally—it’s a game-changer.
What should I consider when choosing between in-house fulfillment and using a third-party logistics (3PL) provider?
If you want total control over packing and branding—or if you’re still small and not shipping high volumes—an in-house setup might be for you. But as you scale, 3PLs take a massive load off by handling warehousing, picking, packing, and shipping on your behalf.
Think of it this way: 3PLs can grow with you, offering more resources and flexibility as order volumes rise. If you’re drowning in logistics or need more space, a 3PL might just be the logistical lifesaver you need.
How do shipping solutions integrate with returns management systems?
Many shipping solutions now offer seamless returns integrations or even built-in returns management. This means that when a customer initiates a return, the system can automatically generate a prepaid return label, track the return in real-time, and update inventory once it’s back.
Some solutions also let you set up custom return policies, such as return windows or condition requirements, which help simplify the whole process. A smooth return experience keeps customers happy and coming back.
Are there hidden fees in most ecommerce shipping services I should watch out for?
Unfortunately, yes—hidden fees can sneak up if you’re not careful. Watch for things like extra costs for label printing, premium carrier options, integrations with certain platforms, or add-ons like insurance and signature confirmation.
Even “discounted” shipping rates might come with a surcharge if you’re not meeting minimum volume requirements. Always read the fine print and ask questions up front so you’re not caught off guard.
Additional Ecommerce Outsourcing Service Reviews
Looking to outsource additional ecommerce-related work? Try these similar service provider review lists:
Start Getting Ship Done Right
Yeah, I know, but I'm incapable of seeing a pun and not using it. The sentiment remains intact, though. By finding the right ecommerce shipping company for your particular brand, you can do a lot more and make your customers way happier.
That's honestly what it's all about.
They'll like you better. Your shipping partner won't make your life hard. Plus, you'll get to show the whole company those amazing uppy charts showing your sales numbers going wild. Probably.
It's a great first step, anyway. I hope this post gave you everything you need to find the shipping service that will enable future uppy charts.
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