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Introduction
As online shopping grows, so does the demand for efficient shipping solutions. ECommerce platforms are now looking for supply chain solutions that can help them handle high order volumes. Furthermore, with the territorial growth in online shopping consumption, companies are now looking at diverse delivery options and varying regional requirements.
According to Statista, global parcel shipments are expected to reach 256 billion units annually by 2027. This data highlights the scale at which businesses need to manage logistics. Multi carrier shipping software have now become the quintessential tool to meet this demand.
Multi carrier shipping platforms are helping businesses streamline deliveries, cut costs, and improve customer satisfaction. ECommerce companies are using these multi carrier management platforms to work seamlessly with multiple carriers. As a result, these companies are leveraging each carrier’s strengths to provide flexible and efficient services.
This guide will explore the 15 best multi carrier shipping software solutions available in 2024. We will review their features, pricing, and specific advantages. We will also provide guidance on selecting the most suitable multi carrier software to meet your business needs.
What is Multi Carrier Shipping?
In simple terms, multi carrier shipping is a logistics strategy. This strategy enables eCommerce businesses to partner with several carriers to fulfill orders more effectively. With multi carrier shipping, businesses do not have to rely on a single carrier for delivering their shipments. Instead, they can select the best carrier based on criteria like cost, delivery speed, and location.
Understanding multi carrier shipping software
Multi carrier shipping software is a logistics management system. It allows eCommerce businesses to connect and manage multiple carriers on a single platform. An efficient multi carrier shipping software automatically syncs with each shipper’s systems. As a result, these solutions lead to ease of operations. Businesses can use these solutions for easy rate comparison, tracking, label creation, and carrier assignment.
This integration ensures that every shipment reaches the customer efficiently, whether you’re using LTL (Less than truckload) or FTL (Full truckload) transportation. As a result, businesses can minimize the operational strain on their logistics teams.
15 Best Multi Carrier Shipping Software Solutions for eCommerce
Having the right multi carrier shipping software allows companies to optimize carrier selection, manage delivery tracking, and streamline logistics. Let us look at 15 of the best multi carrier shipping platforms.
1. ClickPost
ClickPost is a leading multi carrier shipping platform that enables eCommerce businesses to easily manage domestic and international shipping operations. It is one of the most efficient platforms that offers quick integration times. ClickPost currently supports over 500 carriers globally, including prominent ones like FedEx, UPS, and regional carriers.
The ClickPost platform centralizes every stage of the shipping process, from order creation to return management. The platform comes with pre-built integrations for popular eCommerce platforms such as Shopify, Magento, and WooCommerce. Hence, it ensures seamless operations that reduce manual effort and boost overall efficiency.
2. ShipStation
ShipStation provides versatile shipping management with integrations across major sales channels like Shopify, Etsy, and Walmart. Businesses using ShipStation appreciate its flexibility, which helps eCommerce businesses streamline order processing and shipping from a single platform.
Pros:
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Multi-channel support and QuickBooks integration
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Customizable tracking and label options
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Easy batch processing for high-volume orders
Cons:
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Pricing may be prohibitive for small businesses
3. Shippo
Shippo enables eCommerce brands to access both domestic and international shipping solutions. It is particularly strong in North America. It offers real-time tracking and comprehensive shipment management features that simplify logistics for growing businesses.
Pros:
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Import/export documentation support
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Branded tracking pages for a better customer experience
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Offers discounted rates with USPS and UPS
Cons:
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Primarily focused on North American carriers, limiting global reach
4. Easyship
Easyship is a multi carrier shipping platform designed to support domestic and international deliveries. With a broad carrier network and transparent tax/duty management, Easyship is an ideal choice for eCommerce brands looking to expand globally.
Pros:
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User-friendly integration with major eCommerce platforms
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Transparent duties and taxes for international shipments
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Real-time rate calculations for accurate shipping costs
Cons:
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Limited to certain countries, affecting global reach
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Monthly shipment caps in most payment plans
5. ShippingEasy
ShippingEasy is a cloud-based shipping solution from Auctane. It integrates with major marketplaces like Amazon and eBay. Its easy-to-use interface and automation options make it a go-to choice for small to medium-sized eCommerce businesses.
Pros:
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Excellent customer support and user-friendly interface
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Integrates with multiple marketplaces and shipping providers
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Automated order tracking and notifications
Cons:
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Limited carrier options for international shipping
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Some users report confusion with cost-reporting features
6. ShipBob
ShipBob is a fulfillment provider specializing in 2-day shipping for small and medium businesses. ShipBob offers complete inventory and order management, which makes it suitable for brands seeking streamlined fulfillment in the US.
Pros:
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Strong inventory management and support
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Focused on fast 2-day delivery options
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Great customer support
Cons:
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Occasional shipping delays reported by users
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Some issues with billing and inventory management
7. Veeqo
Veeqo offers shipping and inventory management software for eCommerce brands. This tool is particularly effective in the UK market. Known for its inventory forecasting and multi-channel support, Veeqo helps brands prevent stockouts and optimize logistics.
Pros:
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Advanced inventory management features
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Multi-channel synchronization for seamless stock tracking
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Accurate stock forecasting
Cons:
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Limited global reach with a primary focus on the UK
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Some advanced features are costly
8. ShipHero
ShipHero provides a cloud-based warehouse management solution with real-time inventory and order tracking. Since it easily integrates with platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Amazon, it is suitable for businesses that prioritize efficient warehouse operations.
Pros:
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Integrates with top eCommerce platforms
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Real-time stock notifications and reorder points
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Mobile pick-and-pack functionality
Cons:
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Limited data visualization on the dashboard
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Complex billing for 3PL providers
9. Ordoro
Ordoro is an inventory and shipping management tool for small to large eCommerce businesses. It provides multi carrier support, label customization, and inventory tracking across multiple sales channels.
Pros:
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Free plan with unlimited shipping labels
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Kit-building functionality for simplified order bundling
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Multi-channel and Multi carrier integration
Cons:
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Regional limitations on carrier integrations
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Limited features on the free plan
10. SendCloud
SendCloud is a shipping automation platform focused on quick setup and seamless integration. It provides customizability and efficient tracking. As a result, it allows businesses to create a branded shipping experience for their customers.
Pros:
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User-friendly and customizable interface
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Streamlines tracking and label generation
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Supports integration with major marketplaces
Cons:
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Limited courier service options
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Occasional delays in customer support
11. MetaPack
MetaPack is a European-based platform that focuses on enhancing delivery options across 400+ carriers. It is suitable for eCommerce brands needing strong cross-border support in the UK and EU markets.
Pros:
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Extensive network of pickup/drop-off points
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Customs support for smoother international shipping
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Customizable delivery options for customers
Cons:
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Primarily focused on the UK and EU, limiting global options
12. Narvar
Narvar provides a comprehensive customer-centric shipping experience with branded tracking pages and localized customer support. It is popular among brands looking for premium post-purchase solutions.
Pros:
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Personalized customer tracking and Concierge services
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Offers branded, customized tracking pages
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Convenient pickup locations for customers
Cons:
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High cost, limiting accessibility for smaller brands
13. ShipEngine
ShipEngine offers an API-first approach. It provides businesses with flexible shipping solutions that integrate directly with Shopify, Etsy, and other eCommerce platforms. With discounted USPS and UPS accounts, ShipEngine is highly suitable for companies looking to optimize API-based shipping.
Pros:
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Robust API integrations and support for 167 carriers
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Discounted rates on USPS and UPS
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Versatile order source integrations
Cons:
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No web interface; primarily API-focused
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Limited support for custom API calls
14. Starshipit
Starshipit is an advanced shipping platform designed for businesses ranging from small to enterprise levels. Since it offers detailed analytics, Starshipit allows companies to access features like address validation and seamless carrier integrations.
Pros:
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Time-saving automation and address validation
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Detailed analytics and reporting
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Integrates with eCommerce platforms and marketplaces
Cons:
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High cost and learning curve for new users
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Limited customization options
15. XPS Ship
XPS Ship is a shipping management software that helps businesses find the best shipping rates, print labels, and track orders in one interface. It’s well-suited for cost-conscious brands seeking easy batch processing and multi carrier rate comparison.
Pros:
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Cost-effective rate shopping for major U.S. carriers
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Free customer support and onboarding
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Automation rules for efficient label generation
Cons:
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Primarily U.S.-focused, limiting international options
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Limited features for complex shipping needs
6 Benefits of Using Multi carrier Shipping Software
Parcel shipping is made so much easier with carrier integration softwares. They offers several benefits that simplify logistics and optimize costs for retailers & B2B companies.
Let’s look at how multi carrier shipping software help eCommerce businesses meet shipping demands:
1. Carrier Flexibility
The most significant advantage of using shipping software with multi carrier integration is that a business does not have to rely on a single delivery partner or carrier anymore. Instead, the business gets the freedom to choose carrier services based on specific needs, creating an effective shipping system for both local and international shipments. This flexibility allows companies to select the best shipping options without being locked into one service. It helps them establish a balance between speed and cost.
2. Cost Savings
Since multi carrier shipping solutions allow businesses to compare costs, they naturally let businesses find the most cost-effective solutions for each shipment. Some of these platforms also offer carrier discounts. These simple offerings help businesses save significantly on shipping costs over time. In competitive markets, no company can understate the importance of cost-saving. Moreover, companies can use the same savings in other areas of the business.
3. Improved Delivery Speed
Having access to multiple carriers means businesses can now easily select the fastest delivery option. Research shows that nearly 65% of online businesses plan to integrate same-day shipping within the next couple of years. So, if the company wants to deliver orders urgently, they can choose a carrier with faster last-mile delivery. At the same time, if they need a cost-effective option, they can look for other carriers. This flexibility is a boon as customer expectations for delivery times continue to rise.
4. Streamlined Operations
Shipping software automates many manual tasks, involving everything from label generation to tracking. This mechanisation significantly reduces the risk of errors and saves time, allowing logistics teams to work more efficiently. Most of these solutions have a centralized dashboard, which provides a clear overview of all shipments. It simplifies daily operations and supports better decision-making.
5. Enhanced Customer Experience
Real-time tracking and proactive notifications are some of the critical features that these multi carrier shipping solutions offer. These features improve transparency and help build trust with customers. More than 90% of consumers expect immediate resolution of their shipping-related issues. By keeping customers informed about their orders, businesses can reduce “Where is my order?” (WISMO) queries and improve overall satisfaction. Moreover, the software’s ability to provide reliable delivery updates also enhances the post-purchase experience.
6. International Shipping Support
For companies expanding globally, multi carrier software simplify cross-border logistics. Most of these software solutions can handle the required paperwork and ensure compliance. This support allows businesses to reach international customers without the complexity typically involved in global shipping.
Top 8 Key Points to Consider When Choosing a Multi-carrier Shipping Solution
When selecting a multi carrier shipping solution, it is essential to find software that aligns with your unique business needs and goals.
Here are some key considerations to help you make an informed choice:
1. Identify Your Shipping Needs
Before choosing software, identify your primary shipping requirements. Ask questions like, ‘Are you focused on domestic shipments?’ or' Do you have a strong international customer base?’ Consider aspects like average order volumes, desired delivery times, and preferred shipping services. Knowing your needs will help you find software that supports these specific demands. It will create a smoother shipping workflow and better customer experience.
2. Check Carrier Compatibility
Compatibility with multiple carriers is vital for flexibility. Look for software that integrates with carriers you already work with or plan to collaborate with in the future. This compatibility should cover both national and international carriers to allow seamless expansion. A platform that supports a wide range of carriers can provide cost-effective and region-specific options.
3. Compare Real-Time Rates
Cost efficiency is a crucial factor, and real-time rate comparison helps optimize it. Multi carrier software that provides instant rate comparison enables businesses to select the most affordable shipping options for each order. This feature can be particularly beneficial in managing shipping costs for large order volumes or shipments to multiple regions.
4. Evaluate Automation and Workflow Features
Automation capabilities in Multi carrier shipping solutions can dramatically improve efficiency by streamlining order processing. Look for features like automatic label printing, carrier selection, and shipment tracking. Automation reduces manual work, minimizes errors, and helps your team manage more shipments with less time. Workflow features, such as batch processing and tracking updates, further enhance productivity.
5. Ensure Integration with eCommerce Platforms
Seamless integration with popular eCommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, or Magento is essential for efficient operations. This connection allows orders to sync automatically, reducing the need for manual data entry and improving order accuracy. Platform integration also enables your software to pull order data in real time. It helps keep customer information, inventory, and shipping details updated.
6. International Shipping and Customs Support
If your business operates globally, international shipping features and customs support are essential. Choose software with comprehensive customs management tools to ensure compliance with each country's regulations. Customs automation minimizes potential delays, making it easier for you to reach a global audience.
International capabilities in multi carrier software also allow businesses to provide transparent duties and taxes for customers. This feature is becoming increasingly crucial as cross-border eCommerce grows.
7. Return Management
Effective return management is crucial for customer satisfaction. Look for software that simplifies returns, offering tools like printable return labels and return tracking. An intuitive return process can turn a potentially negative experience into a positive one, encouraging repeat purchases.
8. Scalability
As your business grows, your shipping software should be able to keep up. Ensure that the software can scale to accommodate higher order volumes, additional shipping carriers, or expanded geographic regions. Flexible software solutions can adapt to your changing needs, supporting business growth without significant operational changes. This future-proofing allows you to focus on growth rather than continuously updating your logistics systems.
Conclusion
Selecting the right multi carrier shipping software can redefine the logistics experience for your business. Furthermore, it can enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. As the eCommerce landscape continues to grow, companies need solutions that offer flexibility, speed, and reliability. The right software can help navigate these challenges. It can ensure that your logistics strategy supports both current operations and future expansion.
Among the options available, platforms like ClickPost stand out for their powerful tools and global carrier network. That makes them a reliable choice for brands aiming to elevate their logistics. By investing in a solution that aligns with your goals, you can meet customer expectations and create a more resilient, efficient shipping process.