Find the Best Shipping Software for 2022
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Comparison of Shipping Platforms
- ShipStation
- Pirate Ship
- Easy Ship
- Shippo
- Pricing Comparison
- Features Comparison
- Customization Options
- Support Options
- Comparison of Shipping Rates
- UPS and USPS Rates
- Pirate Ship Discounts
- Worldwide Shipping Considerations
- Conclusion
- FAQ
The Best Shipping Software in 2022: ShipStation vs Pirate Ship vs Easy Ship vs Shippo
In today's video, we will be comparing four of the top shipping software platforms: ShipStation, Pirate Ship, Easy Ship, and Shippo. Our goal is to determine which one is the best shipping software for the year 2022. Each of these platforms has its own unique features, pricing plans, and benefits. Join us as we delve into a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision for your shipping needs.
1. Introduction
Shipping software plays a crucial role in the efficiency and effectiveness of ecommerce businesses. With the right shipping software, you can streamline your shipping processes, save money on shipping costs, and improve customer satisfaction. In this article, we will compare the features, pricing, and benefits of ShipStation, Pirate Ship, Easy Ship, and Shippo to help you choose the best shipping software for your business.
2. Comparison of Shipping Platforms
2.1 ShipStation
ShipStation, developed by the same company behind Shopify, is a popular choice among ecommerce businesses. It offers multiple pricing plans and a wide range of features to meet the needs of small to enterprise-level businesses. However, ShipStation does not offer a free plan, making it less accessible for businesses on a tight budget.
2.2 Pirate Ship
Pirate Ship stands out from the crowd as it focuses on USPS and UPS shipping. It offers a free account where you can buy and print USPS and UPS certified shipping labels. However, it is important to note that Pirate Ship primarily caters to domestic shipping and may not be the ideal choice for businesses looking to ship worldwide.
2.3 Easy Ship
Easy Ship stands out with its free plan, making it an attractive option for small businesses with limited shipping needs. However, the free plan comes with limitations in terms of the number of shipments allowed. If your business requires a higher volume of shipments or additional features, you may need to upgrade to a paid plan.
2.4 Shippo
Shippo also offers a free plan, making it a popular choice among small businesses. The free plan includes discounts from USPS, UPS, and DHL Express, as well as email and live chat support. Shippo's flexibility and customer support options make it a strong contender in the shipping software market.
3. Pricing Comparison
When it comes to pricing, it is essential to consider both the cost and the value offered by each platform. ShipStation offers multiple pricing plans, starting from $9 per month for the starter plan and going up to $159 per month for the enterprise plan. Each plan offers different shipment limits and user allowances.
Pirate Ship, on the other hand, does not charge for its service. Instead, you only pay for the actual shipping costs through USPS or UPS. This can result in significant savings, especially for businesses shipping in bulk or looking for the cheapest rates available.
Easy Ship's free plan allows for 100 shipments per month, but additional features require upgrading to a paid plan. Shippo's free plan also offers a limited number of shipments per month, with paid plans available for those requiring more capacity.
4. Features Comparison
4.1 Customization Options
ShipStation offers branded labels and packing slips, allowing you to customize your shipping materials. These customization options are available from the Silver plan onwards. Pirate Ship focuses primarily on label printing, so customization options may be limited.
Both Easy Ship and Shippo offer customization options, but the extent may vary depending on the plan chosen. Easy Ship's customization options are not available in the free plan, whereas Shippo offers label and packing slip customization even in its free plan.
4.2 Support Options
ShipStation offers email and community forum support for its starter plan, with live chat support available from the bronze plan onwards. Pirate Ship does not explicitly mention support options, while Easy Ship and Shippo offer email and live chat support across their plans.
5. Comparison of Shipping Rates
5.1 UPS and USPS Rates
Shipping rates for USPS and UPS are subject to their respective pricing structures. ShipStation, Pirate Ship, and Shippo all leverage the rates provided by these carriers. Pirate Ship, in particular, benefits from its volume-based discounts, thanks to its collaboration with thousands of small businesses.
5.2 Pirate Ship Discounts
Pirate Ship claims to offer the cheapest shipping rates available, primarily due to the discounts it receives from USPS. By pooling the shipping volume of numerous small businesses, Pirate Ship is able to negotiate more favorable rates. However, it is important to consider whether USPS aligns with your specific shipping requirements before committing to this platform.
5.3 Worldwide Shipping Considerations
While highly cost-effective for domestic shipping, USPS may not offer the same level of service for worldwide shipments. If your business relies heavily on international shipping, it may be worth exploring alternative options that cater specifically to global shipping needs.
6. Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the best shipping software depends on your business's unique needs and preferences. ShipStation, while expensive, offers a robust platform with advanced features and extensive support options. Pirate Ship excels in domestic shipping but may not be suitable for businesses with international shipping needs. Easy Ship provides a viable solution for businesses on a budget, while Shippo offers a flexible and feature-rich platform with accessible customer support.
Consider your business's shipping volume, budget, customization requirements, carrier preferences, and global shipping needs when making your decision. Compare the pricing, features, and benefits of each platform to find the best shipping software for your business.
Highlights:
- ShipStation, Pirate Ship, Easy Ship, and Shippo are popular shipping software platforms.
- ShipStation offers advanced features and multiple pricing plans.
- Pirate Ship focuses on USPS and UPS shipping and offers cost-effective options.
- Easy Ship provides a free plan, making it suitable for small businesses.
- Shippo offers a free plan with discount options and reliable customer support.
- Consider factors like pricing, customization options, support, and carrier discounts when choosing the best shipping software.
FAQ:
Q: Which shipping software platform is the most cost-effective?
A: Pirate Ship stands out as a cost-effective option due to its collaboration with USPS and volume-based discounts.
Q: Can I customize packaging materials with these shipping software platforms?
A: ShipStation offers comprehensive customization options, while Easy Ship and Shippo also provide customization features to varying degrees.
Q: Do these platforms offer support for international shipping?
A: While Pirate Ship is primarily focused on domestic shipping, ShipStation, Easy Ship, and Shippo offer options for international shipping. However, it is important to consider providers specifically catering to global shipping needs for better service.
Q: Can I access customer support with the free plans of these platforms?
A: ShipStation's free plan does not provide live chat support, while Easy Ship and Shippo offer email and live chat support even in their free plans.
Q: Which shipping software platform is recommended for small businesses on a limited budget?
A: Easy Ship and Shippo offer free plans, making them suitable for small businesses with budget constraints.
