Who Prints Shipping Labels? A Comprehensive Guide for eCommerce Merchants

Introduction: The Importance of Efficient Shipping Label Printing

In the fast-paced world of eCommerce, efficient shipping processes can make or break a business. One crucial aspect of this process is printing shipping labels. But who prints shipping labels, and what are the best solutions available for eCommerce merchants? In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the importance of a good label printer and analyze the top shipping label solutions for sellers in 2023.

As the eCommerce landscape continues to evolve, businesses of all sizes are looking for ways to streamline their shipping processes. A reliable and efficient shipping label printer can significantly impact shipping speeds, costs, and overall customer satisfaction. Let's dive into why a good label printer is essential and explore the top options available in the market.

The Critical Role of Shipping Label Software

Shipping label software has become an indispensable tool for sellers managing their own shipping operations. With the right platform, businesses can leverage a range of benefits that can transform their shipping process:

• Bulk printing of shipping labels to increase order output and delivery speeds
• Elimination of manual entry errors, leading to improved shipping accuracy
• Automatic updating of orders with tracking details, reducing customer queries
• Integration with multiple sales channels and carriers for streamlined operations

These advantages can significantly enhance a business's shipping efficiency, leading to faster deliveries, reduced costs, and improved customer satisfaction. Now, let's explore the top shipping label printing solutions available for eCommerce merchants.

Top 5 Shipping Label Printers for eCommerce Merchants

We've analyzed the most popular shipping solutions in the market to identify the five best label printers for online stores. Each of these platforms offers unique features and benefits to help businesses optimize their shipping processes.

1. Easyship: A Comprehensive Shipping Solution

Easyship is a versatile shipping platform designed to cater to businesses of all sizes. It offers a wide range of features to manage various aspects of the shipping process effectively.

Pros:

• Integration with 21 sales channels, including major platforms like Amazon, eBay, WooCommerce, and Shopify
• Access to over 250 global shipping solutions, with discounts of up to 70% on major carriers
• Automated shipping rules and real-time tracking updates
• Calculation of taxes and duties for international shipments

Cons:

• Advanced features like real-time rates checkout plugin require higher-tier Shopify plans
• Manual order delivery process can be complex to set up initially

Pricing:

Easyship offers a free plan for up to 100 monthly shipments. For higher volumes, paid plans are available:

• Plus: $29/month for 500 shipments
• Premier: $49/month for 3,000 shipments
• Enterprise: Custom pricing for unlimited shipments

2. ShippingEasy: Streamlined Domestic Shipping

ShippingEasy is a web-based solution that excels in domestic shipping services. It offers multi-channel and carrier integrations, providing access to competitive shipping rates and pre-paid label printing.

Pros:

• Integration with major carriers like USPS, FedEx, UPS, and DHL
• Compatibility with over 100 eCommerce platforms
• Automated shipping rules for efficient order allocation
• Batch printing and customization options for shipping labels

Cons:

• Limited to five carrier integrations, which may restrict shipping options
• Some features, particularly customization tools, could be improved
• Interface may not adapt well to all browser sizes

Pricing:

ShippingEasy offers a free plan for up to 50 monthly shipments. Paid plans include:

• Basic: $29/month for 500 shipments
• Plus: $49/month for 1,500 shipments
• Select: $69/month for 3,000 shipments
• Premium: $99/month for 6,000 shipments

3. Stamps: Simple On-Demand Postage Solution

Stamps provides a straightforward on-demand postage solution that allows users to import orders from various sales channels and print pre-paid shipping labels.

Pros:

• Automatic order import from popular platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy
• Supports data import from various file formats (XML, CSV, SQL, etc.)
• Automatic tracking number updates on sales channels
• Batch printing and reporting functionality

Cons:

• Limited to USPS integration only
• Fewer sales channel integrations compared to other platforms
• Limited customization options

Pricing:

Stamps offers a free four-week trial with a $5 USPS credit. After the trial, users pay a flat $17.99 monthly subscription, regardless of shipment volume.

4. ShipStation: Feature-Rich Shipping Management

ShipStation is a popular choice among eCommerce sellers, offering a comprehensive set of features to enhance shipping performance and streamline order processing.

Pros:

• Integration with over 44 carriers and 40+ sales channels
• User-friendly interface with custom API access
• Automation rules and batch printing capabilities
• Scanning functionality and integration with various management tools

Cons:

• Potential issues with identifying customers across multiple sales channels
• No free plan available (though a 30-day free trial is offered)

Pricing:

ShipStation offers six pricing tiers:

• Starter: $9/month for 50 shipments
• Bronze: $29/month for 500 shipments
• Silver: $49/month for 1,500 shipments
• Gold: $69/month for 3,000 shipments
• Platinum: $99/month for 6,000 shipments
• Enterprise: $159/month for 10,000 shipments

5. ShipRush: Deep Functionality at Competitive Prices

ShipRush offers comprehensive label printing functionality at competitive prices, making it suitable for eCommerce sellers of various sizes and shipping volumes.

Pros:

• Integration with over 80 sales channels, ERP systems, and accounting solutions
• Access to 200+ parcel and freight options for global shipping
• Shipping automation for routine tasks
• Customization options for shipping labels and documents
• Discounts on USPS and FedEx shipping services

Cons:

• Limited customer support availability (weekdays only)
• Occasional delays in importing new orders
• Creating shipping rules for large inventories can be time-consuming

Pricing:

ShipRush offers a 60-day free trial, followed by three pricing tiers:

• Speedy: $29.95/month
• Turbo: $59.95/month
• Warehouse: $99.95/month

Choosing the Right Shipping Label Printer for Your Business

When selecting a shipping label printer for your eCommerce business, consider the following factors:

• Shipping volume: Choose a solution that can handle your current and projected shipping needs
• Integration capabilities: Ensure the platform integrates with your existing sales channels and preferred carriers
• Customization options: Look for solutions that allow you to tailor labels and documents to your brand
• Automation features: Prioritize platforms that offer automation to streamline your shipping process
• Pricing: Compare costs across different solutions, considering both monthly fees and potential shipping discounts
• Scalability: Select a solution that can grow with your business

Conclusion: Optimizing Your Shipping Process with the Right Label Printer

Choosing the right shipping label printer is crucial for eCommerce businesses looking to optimize their shipping processes. By leveraging the features and benefits of platforms like Easyship, ShippingEasy, Stamps, ShipStation, or ShipRush, merchants can significantly improve their shipping efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction.

As a Digital Logistics Platform, FreightAmigo understands the importance of streamlined shipping processes for eCommerce businesses. While we focus on providing comprehensive logistics solutions for larger shipments and international trade, we recognize the value of efficient label printing for businesses managing their own shipping operations.

We encourage eCommerce merchants to carefully evaluate their shipping needs and choose a label printing solution that aligns with their business goals and operational requirements. By doing so, businesses can ensure they're well-equipped to meet the demands of today's fast-paced eCommerce landscape and deliver exceptional service to their customers.