In eCommerce, the true battleground lies not just in winning sales but in fulfilling the promises of delivery. The moment a purchase is made, the clock starts ticking on delivering a seamless post-purchase experience that matches, or even surpasses, giants like Amazon and Walmart.
These retail behemoths have set a high bar with options ranging from 2-day shipping to convenient in-store pickups, reshaping customer expectations. For mid-market and small businesses, the challenge is steep, but not insurmountable.
Thanks to innovative shipping software solutions, these businesses are now equipped to streamline their shipping processes, offer competitive rates, and provide flexible delivery options. These tools are game-changers, empowering retailers to not only meet but exceed the delivery standards of today’s ecommerce landscape, ensuring every customer’s post-purchase journey is nothing short of exceptional.
So, it’s entirely worth checking out the 11 best shipping software for ecommerce business we’ve piled up here.
Blunders to Avoid While Selecting the Best Shipping Software for Ecommerce
Selecting the right shipping software is crucial for the efficiency and success of your ecommerce business. However, during the selection process, some common blunders can lead to challenges down the line. Here are key mistakes to avoid:
- Ignoring Integration Capabilities: Failing to ensure that the shipping software seamlessly integrates with your current ecommerce platform, marketplaces, and other tools can lead to operational inefficiencies and data discrepancies.
- Overlooking Scalability: Choosing a software that cannot grow with your business means you might soon find yourself needing to switch solutions, which can be costly and time-consuming.
- Neglecting Carrier Diversity: Opting for software with limited carrier options can restrict your ability to find the best shipping rates and services for different regions, directly impacting your shipping costs and customer satisfaction.
- Disregarding International Shipping Needs: If you’re planning to or already are shipping internationally, not considering software that handles global logistics, including customs documentation and international carriers, can limit your market reach and complicate overseas shipments.
- Underestimating the Importance of Customer Experience: Shipping software should enhance your customer’s post-purchase experience. Ignoring features like branded tracking pages, timely notifications, and easy returns can detract from customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- Skipping Detailed Cost Analysis: Not thoroughly evaluating the cost structure of the shipping software, including any hidden fees for additional features or integrations, can result in unexpected expenses that affect your bottom line.
- Overlooking User Friendliness: Choosing software without considering its ease of use can lead to a steep learning curve for your team, decreased productivity, and increased chances of error in shipping processes.
- Not Prioritizing Customer Support: Assuming you won’t need assistance or undervaluing the quality of customer support can leave you stranded during critical operational issues, affecting order fulfillment timelines.
Pricing/rating chart
Shipping Software Name | Ratings | Pricing |
AfterShip | 9.9 | $9/month |
ShipWell | 9.8 | Contact Sales |
ClickPost | 9.6 | Contact Sales |
eShipper | 9.4 | Contact Sales |
Veeqo | 9.3 | $150/month |
ShipStation | 9.1 | $9/month |
EasyShip | 8.9 | $29/month |
EasyPost | 8.6 | Contact Sales |
Sendcloud | 8.5 | $25/Month |
ParcelLab | 8.4 | Contact Sales |
ShippingEasy | 8.2 | $19.99/month |
11 Best Shipping Software for Ecommerce Business in 2024
Software | Founded | Headquarters | Carrier Integrations | Key Features | International Shipping | Specialization |
AfterShip | 2012 | N/A | 1000+ | Branded tracking page, mobile app | Yes | Order tracking |
ShipWell | N/A | N/A | Major carriers + local | 4PL, real-time tracking, bulk-import orders | Yes | Transport management and visibility |
ClickPost | 2012 | Global | 250+ countries | NDR Management, multi-carrier integration | Yes | Comprehensive shipping solution |
eShipper | 2005 | Toronto, Ontario, Canada | Major carriers + local/regional | Automated shipping rules, multi-carrier shipping | Yes | Canadian market and beyond |
Veeqo | 2013 | United Kingdom | 80+ carriers | Automatic carrier selection, label printing | N/A | Inventory and order management |
ShipStation | N/A | Global | 500+ carriers | Seamless integration, branded tracking | Yes | Order fulfillment globally |
EasyShip | N/A | N/A | 250+ carriers | Discounted rates, comprehensive fulfillment services | Yes | Cost-effective global shipping |
EasyPost | 2012 | N/A | 100+ carriers | API suite, Create Label tool, carbon offsetting | Yes | Shipping API development |
Sendcloud | N/A | Europe | 80+ carriers | Automated label creation, customs documentation | Yes | European shipping automation |
ParcelLab | N/A | N/A | N/A | Personalized shopping experience, bespoke tracking page | N/A | Post-purchase customer experience |
ShippingEasy | N/A | N/A | N/A | Order management, customizable shipping labels | Yes | Web-based shipping solution for all sizes |
1) AfterShip
Pricing: Starts at $9/month
AfterShip stands at the forefront of solving ecommerce order tracking dilemmas, acclaimed for its exceptional shipping and tracking functionalities tailored for online businesses. This platform distinguishes itself with a branded tracking page that mirrors each brand’s essence through logos, vibrant graphics, and social media integration, enhancing the customer’s post-purchase experience.
With robust integrations spanning over 1000 carriers and all major selling channels, AfterShip offers an expansive service range, ensuring comprehensive coverage for ecommerce retailers. This flexibility, combined with the convenience of the AfterShip mobile app, provides a seamless tracking solution, empowering businesses to elevate their logistical operations and customer service standards. All of that makes AfterShip the ultimate best shipping software for eCommerce.
Pros:
- Mobile App for tracking orders
- Live delivery updates via email or SMS
- Detailed Analytics Dashboard
- Order tracking page can be integrated to your store’s menu
- Easy tracking page customization of the
- 24/7 customer support
Cons:
- Only enterprise plan allows domain customization
- App’s UI can’t be added to Shopify admin
2) ShipWell
Pricing: Contact ShipWell for pricing
ShipWell stands as a transformative shipping platform dedicated to forging stronger connections between eCommerce entities and their shipping partners. By amalgamating top-tier transport management features, unparalleled carrier visibility, and a cohesive integrated network, ShipWell positions itself as a strategic fourth-party logistics (4PL) partner for brands contemplating logistics outsourcing.
Its platform facilitates bulk-import orders, order consolidation, and offers diverse freight options, ensuring a tailored shipping solution. ShipWell’s automation capabilities extend to integrating seamlessly with existing systems for peak operational efficiency and enhancing shipment transparency through real-time tracking. Financial management is streamlined through integrations with QuickBooks and TriumphPay, alongside digital presentation of customized documentation.
Moreover, ShipWell’s advanced supply chain visibility, underscored by detailed route tracking and comprehensive order monitoring through its mobile application, redefines logistical efficiency for ecommerce businesses.
Pros:
- Effortless Tracking
- Convenient Location Search
- User-Friendly Interface
- Great customer service
- Real-time tracking
- Easy financial management
Cons:
- UI is a bit Confusing
- location updates sometimes provide incorrect information
3) ClickPost
Pricing: Contact ClickPost for pricing
ClickPost stands as a leading force in the shipping software and logistics arena, boasting rapid growth and a global presence in over 250 countries. This comprehensive shipping solution addresses every facet of ecommerce shipping requirements, from seamless multi-carrier integrations and sophisticated warehouse and order management systems to efficient handling of returns.
Its innovative NDR Management System offers a proactive approach to managing delivery exceptions and reducing RTOs (Return to Origin), ensuring a smooth post-purchase experience. ClickPost excels in optimizing shipping operations by automatically selecting the most efficient and cost-effective carriers, streamlining the order manifestation process through advanced shipping APIs, and offering a unified platform for managing orders from various sales channels such as Amazon, Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento.
With exceptional customer support, an automated returns process tailored to specific business needs, and insightful analytics on cash-on-delivery orders and carrier performance, ClickPost empowers businesses to elevate their shipping strategies and customer satisfaction levels.
Pros:
- Multi Carrier Shipping
- Easy NDR Management
- Intuitive User Interface
- Integrated Tracking
- Easy Returns Management
- COD Reconciliation
Cons:
- Delayed Customer Support
- New User Panel takes a bit longer to load
4) eShipper
Pricing: Contact eShipper for pricing
eShipper has established itself as a cornerstone in the Canadian shipping and logistics software sector since its inception in 2005. Based in Toronto, Ontario, this platform has expanded its services beyond Canadian borders, offering international shipping solutions to over 200 countries globally.
eShipper’s integration with an extensive network of carriers, including industry giants like UPS, FedEx, DHL, and Canada Post, as well as local and regional carriers, empowers businesses to meticulously compare rates and select the optimal shipping method tailored to their needs.
The software is enriched with features like automated shipping rules, multi-carrier shipping, and advanced order management, making it a versatile tool for businesses aiming for efficiency. Additionally, eShipper’s suite of services extends to inventory, purchase order, and returns management, positioning it as a holistic logistics solution for companies looking to streamline their operations.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use interface
- Multiple carrier options
- Time-saving automation
- Cost-effective shipping rates
- Awesome Order management capabilities
Cons:
- You might encounter a few technical issues
- Additional fees
5) Veeqo
Pricing: Starts at $150/month
Veeqo emerges as a leading cloud-based inventory and order management solution, catering to the dynamic needs of e-commerce retailers since 2013 from its UK base. This innovative platform seamlessly integrates with a multitude of ecommerce software and marketplaces, such as Amazon, eBay, Etsy, Shopify, Magento, and WooCommerce, facilitating centralized management of sales channels.
Veeqo distinguishes itself with sophisticated shipping functionalities, including automatic carrier selection, label printing, and comprehensive tracking, aimed at optimizing shipping workflows for businesses. Its pricing structure is thoughtfully designed to accommodate varying business scales and volumes, offering plans from the entry-level Hobby Plan to the customizable Enterprise Plan, each tailored to support different order volumes and user requirements.
With a 14-day free trial and flexible, no-contract pricing plans, Veeqo stands out as a user-friendly, scalable option for ecommerce businesses seeking to enhance their operational efficiency and shipping strategies.
Pros:
- Great customer support
- Easy integration with other apps
- Simplicity in User Interface
- Awesome preset reports
- All useful features are available
Cons:
- A bit slow when it comes to editing description
- Syncing to magento sometimes glitches
6) ShipStation
Pricing: Starts at $9/month
ShipStation stands as a beacon for ecommerce businesses worldwide, streamlining the intricate process of order fulfillment across continents including Australia, Europe, the Americas, and parts of Asia.
This platform is a powerhouse, enabling seamless integration with an array of ERPs, CRMs, ecommerce platforms, and marketplaces, thus facilitating effortless order management and creation. ShipStation’s capacity to print labels for over 500 carriers and dispatch them alongside real-time delivery notifications elevates the customer experience.
Moreover, it enhances online stores’ operational efficiency through branded tracking and sophisticated inventory management, making it a cornerstone for companies aiming to simplify their shipping processes and scale their online presence globally.
Pros:
- Easy Integration with multiple sales channels
- Customizable shipping presets
- Advanced reporting and analytics
- Multi-carrier shipping options
- Automation and workflow automation
Cons:
- Can be a bit complex for beginners
- Occasional technical issues
7) EasyShip
Pricing: Starts at $29/month
EasyShip has emerged as a game-changer in the ecommerce shipping arena, offering unbeatable shipping rates through partnerships with giants like UPS, USPS, and FedEx. Esteemed for securing substantially discounted shipping costs, EasyShip democratizes global shipping for businesses, integrating with over 250 carriers.
Its comprehensive fulfillment services, including warehousing, inventory management, and bespoke packaging solutions, streamline the logistics pipeline for businesses of all sizes.
With the capability to ship to over 220 countries and manage duties and taxes, EasyShip simplifies international commerce, allowing businesses to expand their global footprint effortlessly. This platform not only facilitates global reach but also ensures that businesses can offer their customers the most cost-effective and efficient shipping options available.
Pros:
- Global shipping solutions
- Easy Duty and tax calculations
- Transparent shipping rates
- Order fulfillment optimization
- Flexible shipping options
- Highly responsive customer support
Cons:
- Platform usability is a bit complex
- Lack of response to feedbacks
8) EasyPost
Pricing: Contact EasyPost for pricing
EasyPost stands as a revolutionary force in the shipping industry, providing a comprehensive suite of APIs designed to meet the diverse logistical needs of both SMBs and large eCommerce entities. Since its inception in 2012, EasyPost has harnessed the power of RESTful API architecture to offer seamless web services and resources to retailers worldwide.
Its offerings are vast, including access to discounted shipping rates with over 100 carriers for both domestic and international shipments. The platform’s Create Label tool revolutionizes label creation, enabling rate comparisons with ease.
Additionally, its Tracking API delivers invaluable real-time shipment updates, enhancing transparency for both customers and businesses. EasyPost also addresses common shipping challenges with its address validation API and takes a step towards sustainability with its carbon offsetting API, making it a holistic shipping solution for modern ecommerce.
Pros:
- RESTful API architecture to offer seamless web services
- Address Validation API
- Easy Customs Declaration
Cons:
- No Fulfillment Support
- insurance claims may not consistently be awarded in case of lost and damaged cargo
9) Sendcloud
Pricing: Starts at $25/Month
Sendcloud positions itself as a pivotal player in the European shipping landscape, offering automated solutions that significantly reduce shipping times per parcel. With its advantageous carrier rates and efficient shipping operations, Sendcloud is tailored for the modern retailer. Its integration capabilities extend to over 80 carriers and numerous ecommerce platforms, ensuring a streamlined shipping process.
Features like automated label creation, customs documentation, and convenient return management underscore its commitment to simplifying logistics. Moreover, Sendcloud’s dynamic checkout enhancements, which include varied delivery options and carrier combinations, aim to elevate the customer purchasing experience, demonstrating its role as a comprehensive solution for shipping efficiency and satisfaction.
Pros:
- Automated label creation
- convenient return management
- advantageous carrier rates
- Enough pricing choices
Cons:
- The tracking page has bugs, occasionally
- Misses integration with FedEx courier company.
10) ParcelLab
Pricing: Contact ParcelLab for pricing
ParcelLab emerges as a champion of the post-purchase customer journey, enhancing every aspect of ecommerce from delivery expectations to seamless returns. This platform empowers retailers to deeply personalize the shopping experience, offering tools for managing split shipments and integrating chatbots for real-time updates. Its standout feature is a bespoke tracking page that not only provides detailed order updates but also serves as a platform for direct marketing.
By integrating with customer service giants like Zendesk and SAP, parcelLab simplifies post-purchase inquiries, while its innovative return service features, including customizable rules and VIP options, ensure that customers remain engaged and satisfied long after their purchase.
Pros:
- Easy to manage split shipments
- Chatbots for real-time updates
- Bespoke tracking page
- Customizable rules and VIP options
Cons:
- As an overall, not an easy tool to use
11) ShippingEasy
Pricing: Starts at $19.99/month
ShippingEasy emerges as a comprehensive, web-based shipping solution tailored for ecommerce ventures of every scale. This platform is meticulously designed to refine and automate the nuances of shipping, from sharply order management and seamless label printing to strategic carrier selection and precise tracking.
Its prowess extends to a seamless integration with an array of sales channels and marketplaces, including giants like Amazon, eBay, Shopify, and WooCommerce, facilitating a smooth transition of orders into the fulfillment pipeline. A standout feature of ShippingEasy is its versatility in handling both domestic and international shipments with ease.
The platform empowers businesses with tools for tracking, creating essential documents like picklists and packing slips, and securing cost-effective carrier rates. Moreover, ShippingEasy offers customization options to cater to specific customer shipping preferences and insurance needs, positioning itself as a pivotal tool in achieving efficient order fulfillment and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Pros:
- Automates a lot of tasks
- Very easy to use for individuals and teams
- Versatility in handling both domestic and international shipments
Cons:
- There is no plan for a huge enterprise
- Very less on offer with the free version
How to choose the Best Shipping Software for Ecommerce?
Selecting the ideal ecommerce shipping software is a pivotal decision for any digital storefront. The myriad of options available can make the selection process daunting, yet understanding what to look for can greatly simplify the decision. Here are essential considerations to guide you in choosing the right shipping solution for your ecommerce operation:
- Platform Compatibility: Ensure the shipping software seamlessly integrates with your ecommerce platform, whether it’s Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento, or BigCommerce. Compatibility is key for smooth operations between your store and the shipping solution.
- Carrier Flexibility: Opt for software that offers extensive carrier integrations, including major ones like USPS, FedEx, UPS, DHL. This flexibility allows for rate comparisons and choosing the best shipping options for your needs.
- Competitive Shipping Rates: Given the significant impact of shipping costs on your bottom line, it’s crucial to select software that secures you the best rates and discounts, enhancing your profit margins.
- Label Generation: The ability to efficiently produce and customize shipping labels, complete with your brand’s logo and essential shipment details, is a must-have feature for streamlining your shipping process.
- Customer Support Excellence: Prioritize shipping solutions backed by robust customer support, ensuring you have access to assistance via phone, email, or live chat whenever necessary.
- User-Friendly Interface: A straightforward, intuitive software interface saves time and reduces errors, making it easier for your team to manage shipping operations without extensive training.
- Scalability: Your chosen software should grow with your business, offering advanced features and capabilities to accommodate expanding product lines and customer bases.
- Affordable Pricing: Evaluate the cost against your budget and business needs, ensuring the software delivers value without compromising on essential features.
Conclusion
The market is filled with diverse ecommerce shipping solutions, each with distinct advantages, features, and pricing structures. Popular options for 2023 include ShipStation, ShippingEasy, ShipBob, Shippo, and Ordoro.
By carefully assessing each option against your business requirements, budget, and growth plans, you can identify and invest in a shipping software that not only optimizes your operations but also elevates the customer experience, ultimately contributing to your business’s success and efficiency.
FAQs for the Best Shipping Software for Ecommerce
Which shipping software is best for eCommerce?
With exceptional shipping and tracking functionalities, along with robust integrations spanning over 1000 carriers and all major selling channels, Aftership is currently the best shipping software for eCommerce.
What should you look for before choosing any shipping software?
Before you choose shipping software, consider reviewing integration with your eCommerce platform, support for multiple carriers, and real-time tracking capabilities. Also, be sure to check how easy the shipping software is to use and how responsive their customer support is.
How can shipping software help me save costs?
You can automate shipping label generation to reduce manual errors and save a lot of time using shipping software. Also, it can help you save costs by providing access to discounted shipping rates negotiated with carriers.
How does shipping software work?
You can connect shipping software with your eCommerce platform and take advantage of various shipping carriers. When a customer places an order in your eCommerce store, software will automatically retrieve the order details and calculate shipping costs to generate shipping labels. Also, it can help you with tracking information updates. This automation will help you simplify the shipping process and fulfill orders more efficiently.