Shippo Shipping & Tracking: Your Complete Guide to Labels, Carriers, and Delivery

Managing e-commerce logistics can be complex, but the right platform simplifies the process. From creating shipping labels to tracking packages and handling returns, streamlined shipping solutions enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction. This guide covers everything you need to know about optimizing your shipping workflows using Shippo, one of the leading shipping platforms.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Transforming E-commerce Shipping

In the fast-paced world of online retail, reliable and efficient shipping is vital. Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, managing multiple carriers, generating labels, and maintaining clear tracking can be overwhelming. Shippo, founded in 2013, aims to democratize shipping by providing scalable, easy-to-use tools that connect merchants with a vast network of carriers worldwide. With hundreds of thousands of users processing over 100 million shipments annually, Shippo offers significant savings on shipping labels and simplifies operations across the board.

Getting Started with Shippo: Setting Up Your Shipping Hub

a. Easy Account Creation and E-commerce Integration

Starting with Shippo is straightforward. Create an account by providing basic business details. The platform supports seamless integration with popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, Etsy, Amazon, eBay, Magento, and more. This connection allows automatic import of orders, making it simple to generate labels directly from your store.

b. Managing Addresses and Payment Methods

Set up your sender and return addresses for accurate label printing and hassle-free returns. You can add multiple addresses, especially useful if you have several fulfillment centers. Payment options include credit cards, debit cards, or ACH bank transfers—note that prepaid cards and gift cards are not accepted.

Creating Shipments: Labels, Packages, and Formats

a. Generating Labels Made Simple

With Shippo, creating a shipping label is intuitive. Input recipient details, package dimensions, and weight. For high-volume shipping, bulk label creation allows you to process multiple shipments simultaneously, saving time.

b. Package Optimization and Dimensions

Accurate package dimensions prevent surprises like carrier surcharges. Save templates for common parcel sizes to streamline future shipments. Remember, proper entry of weight and size ensures correct pricing and smooth delivery.

c. Label Printing and Printer Compatibility

Shippo supports various printers, including standard inkjet and thermal label printers. Labels can be printed on standard 8.5×11 sheets (two labels per page) or on 4×6-inch thermal rolls for faster, more efficient printing. Compatibility with formats like ZPL enhances flexibility.

Carrier Network & Discounted Shipping Rates

a. Extensive Carrier Options

Shippo integrates with major carriers such as USPS, FedEx, UPS, DHL Express, Canada Post, and regional providers in countries like Australia, France, Germany, Italy, and the UK. This vast network enables international and domestic shipping from a single platform.

b. Exclusive Shipping Discounts

Enjoy up to 90% discounts on shipping rates through pre-negotiated carrier accounts. For example, users often save up to 77% on UPS rates, 68% on UPS Standard from Canada, and significant savings with FedEx Ground Economy. These discounts make Shippo an economical choice for high-volume shippers.

c. Simplified International Shipping

Shippo automates customs documentation, including commercial invoices, HS codes, and Incoterms, facilitating smooth cross-border shipments. It also supports paperless trade options where available, speeding up customs clearance.

Tracking & Post-Purchase Customer Experience

a. Reliable Shipment Tracking

Shippo provides real-time tracking updates across most carriers, with a consistent interface that consolidates tracking numbers and statuses. Use webhooks for instant notifications when a package’s status changes, ensuring transparency for your customers.

b. Branded Tracking Pages & Notifications

Pro and Premier plans allow customization of tracking pages with your branding, logos, and personalized messages. Automated email updates keep customers informed about their shipment status, enhancing satisfaction and reducing support inquiries.

Managing Returns & Refunds

a. Creating Return Labels

Generate Shippo return labels easily, either during initial label creation or afterward. Return labels are pay-on-use, meaning charges apply only when the label is scanned and used. This flexibility simplifies handling customer returns.

b. Refunds for Unused Labels

If labels go unused, request a refund within 90 days. Refunds are typically processed within 14 business days and credited to your account, helping control costs. Carrier-specific policies may vary, but Shippo streamlines the refund process.

Advanced Features for Business Growth

a. Shipping Analytics & Automation

Access detailed analytics on your shipping volume, costs, and trends. Set up automation rules to assign packages, choose carriers, or select service levels automatically based on order conditions, reducing manual effort.

b. Scheduling Pickups & Creating Manifests

Arrange carrier pickups directly for USPS and DHL Express. For FedEx and UPS, pickups are scheduled through their respective websites. Create manifests (or SCAN forms) for bulk shipments, saving time at carrier drop-offs and ensuring efficient processing.

c. Managing Orders & Shipments

The centralized Orders Page allows easy management, splitting orders into multiple packages, duplicating shipments, and tracking fulfillment status—all crucial for maintaining an organized operation.

Troubleshooting & Support

a. Common Issues & Resolutions

Address validation errors, missing tracking info, or label printing problems are common but solvable. Ensure complete and accurate address details, check printer settings, and verify carrier restrictions. For blocked accounts or payment issues, consult support resources.

b. Accessing Support Resources

Shippo offers a comprehensive help center, detailed guides, and direct support channels. The Shippo Status Page provides real-time updates on system performance and incidents affecting shipping functions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Shippo supply packaging materials?

No, Shippo is a label creation and shipping management platform. Sourcing your own packaging supplies is recommended.

Can I ship internationally with Shippo?

Yes, Shippo simplifies international shipping by automating customs forms and supporting various carriers like DHL Express and Canada Post.

How does Shippo tracking work?

Tracking information is available for most carriers supported by Shippo. You can view real-time status updates, and for integrated carriers, tracking numbers from services like USPS are provided directly through the platform.

Are there shipping discounts for high-volume merchants?

Absolutely. Discounts up to 90% off retail rates are available through pre-negotiated carrier accounts, especially for users processing thousands of shipments monthly.

How do I handle returns?

Generate return labels easily, manage refunds, and track return shipments all within the platform.

For additional questions, consult Shippo’s support resources or specific carrier policies.

Final Thoughts: Empower Your Shipping Strategy

Streamlining your shipping process with a platform like Shippo can significantly reduce costs, improve delivery speed, and enhance customer satisfaction. Whether you’re handling domestic or international shipments, generating labels, tracking parcels, or managing returns, Shippo offers a comprehensive solution tailored for growing e-commerce businesses.

By leveraging features like Shippo create label, Shippo tracking, shippo labels, and shippo international shipping, you can optimize your logistics workflow and focus on what matters most—growing your business.