Home Blog Top 10 Shipping Apps for Small Businesses in 2025

Table of Contents

Top 10 Shipping Apps for Small Businesses in 2025

In a rush and need the TL/DR version?

This article provides an in-depth guide to the best shipping apps for small businesses looking to simplify their logistics operations and enhance customer experience. It discusses the key challenges small businesses face with shipping and how using the right shipping app can help reduce costs, improve efficiency, and streamline processes like tracking, returns management, and rate comparisons. The article then highlights the top ten shipping apps, detailing their features, benefits, and pricing, helping businesses choose the right tool for their needs.

Popular Shipping Apps:

 

  • ShipStation – Multi-carrier shipping and workflow automation.
  • Shippo – Affordable, global shipping with powerful tracking tools.
  • Easyship – International shipping with automated taxes and duties.
  • ShipBob – Fulfillment and shipping solutions for growth.
  • SendCloud – Shipping automation focused on European markets.
  • AfterShip – Shipment tracking and customer engagement.
  • EasyPost – Customizable API for multi-carrier shipping.
  • Route – Package tracking and insurance services.
  • Stamps.com – USPS and UPS shipping with discounted rates.
  • Shiprocket – Affordable Indian eCommerce shipping with multi-carrier support.

The right shipping app can significantly streamline the logistics process for small businesses. These apps automate tasks like label generation and tracking and offer features like multi-carrier support, cost-saving rate comparisons, and integration with inventory and accounting software. Depending on your needs, choosing the right tool can lead to a more efficient and customer-friendly operation.

Note: While this summary captures highlights, it might miss some finer points—reading the full article is encouraged.

X

Introduction

The modern world of eCommerce is evolving rapidly. Small businesses face many challenges today, with shipping being one of the most critical. The efficiency and reliability of your shipping process can significantly influence customer satisfaction and retention. Finding the right shipping app has become a necessity for small businesses.

The rise of shipping apps has revolutionized how businesses handle logistics. These apps simplify complex processes and offer tools like rate comparisons, generating shipping labels, real-time tracking, and returns management. The primary objectives of these tools are to save time, reduce costs, and enhance the customer experience. As small businesses desire to compete in a market dominated by giants like Amazon, the need for efficient shipping solutions has never been greater.

Statistics show that the global shipping software market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of nearly 7%, reaching over $4.4 billion by 2030. This growth underscores the increasing reliance on shipping tools to streamline operations and meet consumer expectations. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one?

This article discusses the best shipping apps for small businesses, guiding you toward the ideal solution for your unique needs.

Key highlights:

  1. Small businesses require cost-effective and efficient shipping solutions to thrive in a competitive eCommerce environment.

  2. Shipping apps simplify logistics by integrating key features like rate comparisons, tracking, and returns management.

  3. The global shipping software market is set to exceed $4.4 billion by 2030, driven by eCommerce growth and logistical innovations.

How shipping apps solve common e-commerce shipping problems?

Shipping apps address many logistical pain points that eCommerce businesses face, particularly small companies with limited resources. By leveraging automation, integration, and data-driven tools, these apps help companies streamline operations, reduce costs, and meet customer expectations.

Common shipping issues solved by apps

  • Manual errors: Shipping apps automate shipping label generation and carrier selection, reducing human errors.

  • High costs: Rate comparison tools identify the most cost-effective shipping options for each order.

  • Tracking challenges: Real-time tracking ensures both businesses and customers are informed of a shipment's progress.

  • Returns management: Simplified processes for generating return labels and tracking returned goods enhance customer trust.

  • International compliance: Automated customs documentation and compliance checks make cross-border shipping more manageable.

How to Choose the Best Shipping App: Key Features to Consider?

Selecting the best shipping app for your small business requires evaluating its features and how well they align with your specific needs. Here are the top features to consider:

1. Multi-carrier support

A good shipping app should integrate with multiple carriers to give you flexibility in choosing the best service for each shipment. Whether you prioritize cost, speed, or reliability, multi-carrier support ensures you are not limited to a single provider.

2. Order tracking integration

Real-time order tracking enhances transparency and builds trust with customers. Look for apps that provide automated tracking updates via email, SMS, or branded tracking pages to keep customers informed and engaged.

3. Real-time rate calculation

Shipping costs can quickly add up, especially for small businesses. Apps with real-time rate calculators help you find the most cost-effective carrier options for each shipment, saving you money without compromising service quality.

4. Returns management

Efficient returns management is vital for customer satisfaction. Choose apps that simplify the process by generating return shipping labels, automating reverse logistics, and providing real-time updates on returns.

5. Integration with accounting and inventory management software

Seamless integration with your existing systems ensures streamlined operations. Apps that sync with inventory management, order processing, and accounting software eliminate data silos and improve overall efficiency.

Top Shipping Apps for Small Businesses in 2025

Selecting the perfect shipping app can transform logistics management. Below, we explore the 10 top shipping apps tailored for small businesses and detail their features, benefits, and pricing.

1. ShipStation

Streamlining multi-carrier shipping with seamless integrations for eCommerce.

ShipStation is a cloud-based shipping solution designed to simplify the shipping process for eCommerce stores of all sizes. It integrates with over 70 selling channels, allowing online sellers to manage orders and shipping workflows from a single platform. ShipStation automates processes like label generation and order tracking while offering competitive rates with major carriers.

Key features:

  • Multi-carrier shipping: Compare rates and bulk print labels for USPS shipping, UPS, FedEx, and DHL.

  • Branded experience: Customize emails, tracking pages, and packing slips.

  • Automation rules: Streamline workflows by automating tasks like carrier selection.

  • Order management: Sync orders across platforms and manage them efficiently.

ShipStation is praised for its user-friendly interface and robust integrations. However, some users find its pricing model challenging for high-volume shippers.

Pricing: Starts at $9.99/month with a 30-day free trial.

ShipStation is ideal for businesses seeking a comprehensive shipping app with automation and branding features.

2. Shippo

Affordable, global shipping with powerful tracking and automation tools.

Shippo offers an end-to-end shipping solution tailored for small businesses. It integrates with 40+ carriers worldwide, allowing users to compare rates and automate label generation. Shippo’s API provides flexibility for companies with unique shipping workflows.

Key features:

  • Carrier integrations: Access discounted rates for USPS, UPS, DHL, and FedEx.

  • Return management: Simplify returns with pre-generated labels.

  • Custom branding: Personalize tracking pages to enhance the customer experience.

 

Shippo is lauded for its affordability and extensive features but may require a learning curve for advanced functionalities.

Pricing: The Starter plan is free, and the Professional plan starts at $19/month.

Shippo is perfect for small businesses seeking cost-effective, global shipping solutions.

3. Easyship

Simplifying international shipping with automated tax, duties, and global carrier options.

Easyship is an all-in-one platform that empowers eCommerce businesses to manage international and local deliveries with ease. It offers pre-negotiated rates, customs automation, and branded tracking pages.

Key features:

  • Global reach: Integrates with 550+ courier services.

  • Customs management: Automatically generates tax and duty documentation.

  • Cost savings: Access discounted shipping rates and carrier comparison in real time.

Easyship’s international shipping capabilities are widely appreciated, though its comprehensive features may require additional training.

Pricing: The Starter plan is free; the Plus plan starts at $29/month.

Easyship is ideal for businesses focusing on global expansion and customer satisfaction.

4. ShipBob

Scalable fulfillment and shipping solutions to grow your eCommerce business.

ShipBob combines fulfillment and shipping services, enabling small businesses to outsource warehousing and logistics. It seamlessly integrates with major eCommerce platforms to automate order processing and inventory management.

Key features:

  • Fulfillment centers: Distribute inventory across multiple locations to reduce shipping times.

  • Real-time tracking: Monitor shipments and inventory from a central dashboard.

  • Sustainability: Offers carbon-neutral shipping options.

ShipBob is praised for its end-to-end solutions, though its pricing model may not suit very small businesses.

Pricing: Custom pricing available upon request

ShipBob is an excellent choice for businesses ready to scale their logistics with comprehensive fulfillment services.

5. SendCloud

Europe’s go-to shipping automation solution with seamless returns management.

SendCloud automates shipping for small and medium-sized businesses, with a strong focus on European markets. It integrates with multiple carriers and eCommerce platforms, simplifying logistics and returns.

Key features:

  • Carrier integrations: Supports 35+ carriers, including DHL, UPS, and PostNL.

  • Returns portal: Provides a branded portal for hassle-free returns.

  • Batch processing: Automates label creation and order tracking.

SendCloud is celebrated for its intuitive interface, though its limited global reach may not suit businesses outside Europe.

Pricing: The Lite plan starts at €29/month with a free trial available.

SendCloud is an excellent option for businesses targeting European customers.

6. AfterShip

Track all your shipments in one place and keep customers informed in real time.

AfterShip is a shipment tracking platform designed to enhance the post-purchase experience. By integrating with over 1,000 carriers, it ensures customers and businesses have real-time visibility into shipping updates. Its automation tools streamline notification processes and reduce customer inquiries.

Key features:

  • Multi-carrier tracking: Real-time tracking for shipments from global carriers.

  • Branded experience: Customize tracking pages with your brand’s logo and messaging.

  • Proactive notifications: Send delivery updates to customers via email or SMS.

  • eturns management: Simplifies the return process with an intuitive portal.

AfterShip is well-received for its user-friendly features, but its advanced plans can be costly for smaller businesses.

Pricing: The Essentials plan starts at $9/month, covering up to 1,200 shipments annually.

AfterShip is perfect for small businesses focused on improving customer satisfaction and post-purchase engagement.

7. EasyPost

A customizable shipping solution with multi-carrier rate comparison and label creation.

EasyPost offers a powerful shipping API that connects businesses with more than 100 carriers. It provides tools for label generation, tracking, and address verification, making it a highly flexible option for companies with unique logistics needs.

Key features:

  • Comprehensive API: Supports integration with carriers like USPS, FedEx, and DHL.

  • Address validation: Reduces errors with built-in address verification.

  • Shipment insurance: Protects shipments with affordable insurance options.

  • Customizable tracking: Create branded tracking pages with real-time updates.

EasyPost is praised for its developer-friendly API but may require technical expertise to maximize its potential.

Pricing: The Developer plan is free for up to 120,000 shipments annually, with custom pricing for enterprise plans.

EasyPost is ideal for businesses needing a highly customizable shipping solution with advanced API capabilities.

8. Route

Enhancing post-purchase experiences with package tracking and insurance.

Route is a free app designed to improve package tracking and customer satisfaction. Its visual tracking features and package protection services ensure peace of mind for both businesses and customers.

Key features:

  • Visual tracking: Provides real-time updates on package locations.

  • Shipping insurance: Offers protection for lost, stolen, or damaged packages.

  • Carbon-neutral shipping: Promotes sustainable shipping practices.

  • Product recommendations: Boosts sales with personalized product suggestions.

Users highly appreciate Route for its intuitive interface and customer-focused features. However, its advanced Pro plan may not suit businesses on a tight budget.

Pricing: The Basic plan is free; the Pro plan starts at $349/month.

Route is an excellent choice for businesses aiming to enhance customer loyalty through superior tracking and insurance services.

9. Stamps.com

Simplifying USPS and UPS shipping for small businesses with discounted rates.

Stamps.com specializes in streamlining USPS and UPS shipping. Its platform offers tools for label printing, tracking, and discounted postage rates, making it a reliable option for businesses shipping primarily within the U.S.

Key features:

  • Discounted rates: Save up to 82% on USPS and UPS shipping costs.

  • Batch processing: Print multiple labels simultaneously for bulk orders.

  • Platform integrations: Seamlessly integrates with platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce.

Stamps.com is appreciated for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness but is limited in carrier options compared to other platforms.

Pricing: The Core plan starts at $19.99/month.

Stamps.com is best suited for U.S.-based small businesses focusing on USPS and UPS shipping.

10. Shiprocket

Affordable shipping solutions for Indian eCommerce businesses with multi-carrier support.

Shiprocket is a versatile shipping app tailored for Indian businesses. It connects with multiple courier partners and provides tools for tracking, returns management, and rate comparison, ensuring cost-effective logistics.

Key features:

  • Wide coverage: Delivers to over 24,000 pin codes in India and 220+ countries globally.

  • AI-powered recommendations: It suggests the best courier options based on shipment needs.

  • Integrated dashboard: Syncs orders from platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and WooCommerce.

Shiprocket is commended for its affordability and comprehensive features but has faced occasional complaints about customer support.

Pricing: The Lite plan is free, and the Basic plan starts at $17/month.

Shiprocket is an ideal choice for Indian businesses looking for affordable and reliable shipping solutions.

Pricing comparison of popular shipping apps

Pricing is a critical factor for small businesses when selecting a shipping app. Balancing affordability with features is essential to optimize logistics without straining the budget. Below is a comparative table to help you evaluate your options.

Shipping Apps Starter Plan Pricing Details
ShipStation $9.99/month 50 shipments/month. Includes automation tools.
Shippo Free; Pro starts at $19/month Offers discounted rates and basic tracking.
Easyship Free; Plus at $29/month Includes 50 shipments and global carrier access.
ShipBob Custom pricing Based on business requirements and fulfillment.
SendCloud €29/month Covers label generation and returns management.
AfterShip $9/month Includes 1,200 shipments annually.
EasyPost Free (Developer Plan) Custom pricing for enterprise solutions.
Route Free; Pro at $349/month Offers advanced tracking and insurance.
Stamps.com $19.99/month Discounts for USPS and UPS shipments.
Shiprocket Free; Basic at $17/month Tailored for Indian eCommerce logistics.

Some apps like ShipBob and EasyPost offer custom pricing, making them more adaptable to varying business scales.

Free plans are ideal for startups but may lack the advanced features required for scaling businesses.

Benefits of shipping apps for small businesses

Efficient shipping is crucial for small businesses striving to build customer trust and reduce operational costs. Shipping apps offer numerous benefits that streamline logistics, enhance customer experiences, and boost profitability. Here are the key advantages:

1. Streamlined shipping process

Shipping apps simplify complex logistics by automating tasks such as label generation, carrier selection, and order tracking. By consolidating operations into a single platform, businesses save time and reduce errors, ensuring smooth shipping workflows.

2. Real-time tracking

Real-time shipment tracking enhances transparency and builds trust with customers. These apps offer features like live updates and proactive notifications, enabling businesses and customers to monitor shipments accurately until delivery.

3. Cost savings

Many shipping apps negotiate discounted rates with major carriers, helping businesses save significantly on shipping costs. By comparing carrier rates and optimizing packaging, companies can reduce expenses while maintaining quality service.

4. Multi-carrier support

Shipping apps provide access to multiple carriers, allowing businesses to choose the best shipping option based on cost, speed, or reliability. This flexibility ensures companies can adapt to varying customer demands and geographical constraints.

5. Customizable notifications

Personalized notifications enhance communication by keeping customers informed about their shipment status. Branded emails, SMS updates, and custom tracking pages improve the overall post-purchase experience.

6. Platform integration

Seamless integration with eCommerce platforms, inventory management systems, and accounting software ensures data synchronization. It eliminates manual data entry, reduces errors, and boosts operational efficiency.

7. Improved inventory management

Shipping apps often integrate with inventory systems to provide real-time visibility into stock levels. It helps businesses align order fulfillment with inventory, avoiding stockouts or overstocking issues.

8. Returns management

Efficient return handling is vital for customer satisfaction. Shipping apps simplify the returns process by generating return labels, tracking reverse logistics, and automating refunds or exchanges, creating a seamless customer experience.

Streamlining your shipping solution with ClickPost

Efficient logistics is the backbone of eCommerce success, and ClickPost offers a robust platform designed to streamline shipping for businesses of all sizes. As a leading shipping solution, it delivers advanced features that simplify logistics management while enhancing customer satisfaction.

Key features of ClickPost:

  • Multi-carrier integration: Connect with 300+ global carriers to find the best rates and optimize deliveries.

  • Real-time tracking: Provide accurate shipment updates to customers, reducing inquiries and enhancing trust.

  • Returns automation: Simplify reverse logistics with automated returns management for a hassle-free experience.

  • Analytics and insights: Gain valuable data on shipping performance to make informed decisions and improve operations.

ClickPost empowers businesses to deliver exceptional logistics experiences while optimizing costs and processes.

Transform your shipping operations with ClickPost and ensure your business stays ahead in the competitive eCommerce landscape. Explore ClickPost Today!

Conclusion: Small business logistics with shipping apps

Shipping apps have become indispensable tools for small businesses. These apps empower enterprises to compete in a fast-paced eCommerce market. By streamlining logistics, reducing costs, and improving customer satisfaction, these apps enable companies to focus on growth and innovation. The right shipping app enhances operational efficiency and also transforms the overall customer experience.

As the eCommerce landscape continues to evolve, investing in a reliable shipping app is essential. These tools provide a comprehensive solution to modern logistics challenges, whether they automate routine tasks, ensure compliance, or offer personalized post-purchase experiences. For small businesses, adopting the right shipping app can be the first step toward scaling new heights of success.

FAQ's

1. Which shipping app is the best for eCommerce businesses?

The best shipping app depends on your specific needs. ShipStation is ideal for multi-channel integration, while Easyship excels in international shipping. Evaluate features such as carrier options, automation tools, and integrations to choose the app that best aligns with your business goals.

2. Are there any free shipping apps available?

Yes, several apps, including Shippo, Easyship, and Shiprocket, offer free plans. These plans typically include basic features suitable for startups or businesses with low shipping volumes. As your business grows, you may consider upgrading to access advanced functionalities.

3. How much do shipping apps cost?

Shipping app costs vary based on features and shipping volumes. Starter plans often range from $9 to $30 per month, while premium plans with advanced features can exceed $300 per month. Some apps, like ShipBob and EasyPost, offer custom pricing based on business requirements.

4. Can shipping apps integrate with my eCommerce platform?

Most shipping apps integrate seamlessly with popular eCommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Amazon. These integrations ensure smooth data synchronization for order processing, inventory management, and customer updates.

5. Can shipping apps help me save on shipping costs?

Yes, shipping apps often negotiate discounted rates with carriers, offer rate comparison tools, and optimize packaging to reduce shipping costs. These savings enable businesses to offer competitive pricing or free shipping to customers.

6. How can I track my shipments using shipping apps?

Shipping apps integrate with carriers to provide real-time tracking. They offer tools to generate tracking numbers, send automated updates, and create branded tracking pages, allowing businesses and customers to monitor shipments effortlessly.

Interested in knowing more about ClickPost?
Get tailor-made solutions for your business today