Shipping software is an essential tool for businesses looking to streamline their eCommerce operations, improve efficiency, and enhance customer satisfaction. ShipStation is one of the most popular solutions on the market, but it isn’t the only one. In fact, there are several free or budget-friendly shipping software alternatives that offer comparable features to help businesses save time and money.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best free shipping software like ShipStation, their features, and why they’re worth considering for your business.
Why Use Shipping Software?
Shipping software helps businesses streamline the order fulfillment process by automating tasks like:
- Generating shipping labels
- Comparing carrier rates
- Tracking shipments
- Managing returns
By integrating with eCommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, or Amazon, these tools simplify logistics and improve operational efficiency. If you’re seeking a solution similar to ShipStation but don’t want to spend a fortune, free shipping software can be a great starting point.
Top Free Shipping Software Like ShipStation
Here’s a list of some great free shipping software alternatives to ShipStation:
1. Pirate Ship
Pirate Ship is a popular free shipping solution that provides excellent tools for small to medium-sized businesses.
Key Features:
- Access to discounted USPS and UPS rates
- Free shipping label creation
- Batch label printing
- Shipment tracking
Pirate Ship has no monthly fees, making it an ideal choice for businesses looking for a cost-effective solution with core shipping features.
2. ShippingEasy (Free Tier)
ShippingEasy offers a free plan for businesses shipping under 50 orders per month. It’s a robust solution with a range of features.
Key Features:
- Multi-carrier shipping rate comparison
- Integration with popular eCommerce platforms
- Automated tracking updates for customers
- Email marketing tools for customer retention
ShippingEasy is a solid option for startups or small businesses with low shipping volume.
3. Shippo
Shippo is a versatile shipping software that offers a free tier with pay-as-you-go pricing for shipping labels.
Key Features:
- Real-time rate comparison from multiple carriers
- Automated shipping label creation
- API access for custom integrations
- Basic reporting tools
Shippo’s pay-as-you-go model is great for businesses that don’t have consistent shipping volumes but need reliable tools.
4. EasyPost
EasyPost is a shipping API that’s free for businesses sending up to 50,000 shipments per year.
Key Features:
- Support for multiple carriers (USPS, FedEx, DHL, etc.)
- Real-time tracking
- Shipping insurance options
- Address validation
EasyPost is ideal for businesses with developers who can integrate its API into their existing systems.
5. SendCloud
SendCloud is a shipping platform with a free plan designed for smaller businesses.
Key Features:
- Integrates with over 50 eCommerce platforms
- Supports multiple carriers
- Customizable tracking emails
- Basic automation rules
SendCloud is a European-centric platform, making it a great option for businesses shipping within Europe.
How to Choose the Right Shipping Software?
When comparing shipping software, consider the following factors:
- Shipping Volume: Choose software that aligns with your order volume to avoid unnecessary costs.
- Carrier Support: Ensure the platform integrates with the carriers you use.
- eCommerce Integration: Look for tools that seamlessly integrate with your eCommerce store.
- Ease of Use: Opt for user-friendly software with straightforward features.
- Cost: While free options are great, ensure you won’t face hidden fees for scaling up.
Conclusion
Free shipping software like ShipStation can help you manage your orders more efficiently without breaking the bank. Whether you’re just starting out or managing a growing business, platforms like Pirate Ship, ShippingEasy, Shippo, EasyPost, and SendCloud offer powerful features to streamline your shipping processes.
Explore these alternatives and find the one that best suits your business needs. By leveraging the right shipping software, you can save time, cut costs, and focus on what matters most—growing your business.