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How Does Shopify Shipping Work?
Last modified: January 27, 2025
There are numerous challenges in operating an online store. One of those is getting orders to your customers. This part of the logistics can be a headache and one that can cause sleepless nights for those not used to the process. However, there are options for using shipping software that can help you streamline your fulfillment process.
Shipping software can help you choose the best carrier, print labels, and prevent problems with incorrect postage. However, sometimes it does add a layer of complexity to the website. This can slow down the website, and cause SEO challenges and other problems.
That is where Shopify can help as it has its own solution embedded within all Shopify stores, for free. This is Shopify Shipping and it is a great option for those new to the eCommerce game and looking for a simple shipping management tool.
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Shopify Shipping
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Intuitive Shipping
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Zapiet ‑ Pickup + Delivery
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Shipping & Delivery ‑ ShipZip
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Better Shipping
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Advanced Shipping Rules
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Shipping Rates - Shipeasy
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EasyRoutes Local Delivery
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Easyship
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Shippo Shipping App
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ShipStation Shipping App
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Bird Pickup Delivery Date
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Multi Carrier Shipping Label
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Shipping Automation by Shipway
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ShippingEasy
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Ordoro
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NetParcel
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GO Shipping
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DHL & Post Shipping | easyDHL
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Shipping Rates by Parcelify
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What Is Shopify Shipping?
Shopify Shipping is a merchant tool that will calculate the best shipping weights for orders in real-time. It will then purchase and print shipping labels and help you track those orders through to delivery.
Although Shopify Shipping is free to all those on a pricing plan for Shopify, it is only available for orders that originate within the US and Canada.
USPS, UPS, DHL Express and Canada Post all partner with Shopify Shipping. Understanding how Shopify shipping works is crucial for efficient business operations, as it allows you to seamlessly integrate shipping into your overall workflow.
What Are The Benefits Of Shopify Shipping?
There are numerous benefits of using Shopify Shipping. This includes the discounted rates for numerous services. These discounts range and can be as high as 90%, but are often between 20-50% of the normal rates.
And rates through Shopify Shipping are calculated in real-time. These can be done on the order processing page and the customer’s checkout. Therefore, you can give a precise amount for shipping, therefore, you don’t run the risk of underestimating your shipping expenses.
And there are numerous functions that can make it easier to run the delivery process of your eCommerce store. For instance you can process orders and print shipping labels in bulk from inside your Shopify dashboard.
Shopify Shipping is also easy to use. The tool is completely free on your site. All you have to do is pay for the shipping charges.
How To Set Up Shopify Shipping
There’s no separate app for Shopify Shipping, so you don’t need to install anything. However, here are the steps to get Shopify Shipping working on your website.
Step 1 – Add Shipping Address
This should have been completed when you selected your Shopify plan. But ensure that your business’s address is correct. If you ship from a different location, then you can add these warehouses in the ‘Locations’ section within the settings page.
Step 2 - Choose The Carriers And Services
Next you need to determine the shippers that you want to use. Select those that you can use and who offer the best service for your customers.
Step 3 - Add Product Weights
Ensure that you add the real weight of all products. These weights are used to calculate the shipping cost.
Step 4 - Select A Default Package
Now you should select a default package that you use to pack your orders. Unfortunately, this doesn’t help if you have lots of products that don’t fit inside the default package, you might have miscalculated shipping costs and this could cost you more, or you could overcharge your customers.
Enhancing Your Shopify Shipping Strategy
Understanding Shipping Options
Shipping is a vital part of your Shopify store. It’s crucial to know the various carriers and rates. This ensures you can offer the best options to your customers.
Understanding the balance between shipping costs and customer satisfaction is key.
Optimizing Shipping Rates and Zones
Setting up your shipping rates and zones is a step you cannot skip.
Define your shipping profiles and zones to ensure accurate rates. This helps in avoiding overcharging or undercharging your customers.
Streamlining the Shipping Process
Efficiency in shipping is non-negotiable. Streamline your process by understanding labels, packaging, and weights. This will reduce processing time and improve customer experience.
Efficient shipping processes allow you to better arrange products for shipment, ensuring timely and accurate deliveries.
Advanced Shopify Shipping Insights
Setting Up for Success
Proper setup of your shipping parameters is essential. Add all your shipping locations and set up default package sizes.
Ensure your product weights are accurate for precise rate calculation.
Choosing the Right Printer
Choosing the right printer for your shipping labels is more important than you think. It can affect the speed and ease of your shipping process.
Ensure compatibility with Shopify’s supported printers.
When to Consider Third-Party Apps
Shopify Shipping is great for starters, but as you grow, you might need more.
Consider third-party apps if you need more robust features like bulk label printing or advanced automation.
Customizing Your Shipping Information
While most shipping information can be included directly within your Shopify store, there may be instances where linking to an external page is beneficial.
For example, if you’re using a third-party logistics provider or have a complex international shipping arrangement, you might want to link to their tracking system or detailed service explanations.
Shopify allows you to add these external links to your product pages or checkout process, providing customers with access to additional resources when needed.
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Does Shopify Shipping provide shipping insurance?
Shopify Shipping allows merchants to purchase additional insurance for their shipments, providing coverage for lost, damaged, or stolen items during transit.
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Are there any size or weight limitations for using Shopify Shipping?
Shopify Shipping has size and weight restrictions that vary by carrier and service level; merchants should refer to the specific carrier’s guidelines for detailed limitations.
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Can I schedule package pickups through Shopify Shipping?
Yes, Shopify Shipping supports scheduling pickups for certain carriers, enabling merchants to have packages picked up directly from their location.
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