15 Best BigCommerce Shipping Apps In 2024
Last updated: October 07 2024
Tired of struggling with shipping complexities for your BigCommerce store? Unleash the power of streamlined shipping, reduce costs, and delight customers with the top 15 BigCommerce shipping apps in this blog. Keep reading to discover the must-have shipping apps that will transform your BigCommerce store!
Shipping Apps for Bigcommerce: Quick Comparision
App | Get App | Pricing (monthly) | Key Features |
---|---|---|---|
ShipStation | bigcommerce.com | ▪ From $9.99 | ▪ Multi-carrier shipping ▪ Order fulfillment ▪ Label printing |
ShipperHQ | bigcommerce.com | ▪ From $75 | ▪ Real-time rates ▪ Shipping rules ▪ Delivery date estimates |
ShippingEasy | bigcommerce.com | ▪ From $19.99 ▪ Free plan |
▪ Batch label printing ▪ Automated tracking ▪ Returns management |
ShipWorks | bigcommerce.com | ▪ From $149 | ▪ Order management ▪ Automation ▪ Batch processing |
Shippo | bigcommerce.com | ▪ From $19 ▪ Free plan |
▪ Discounted rates ▪ Multi-carrier ▪ Label creation |
ShipBlink | bigcommerce.com | ▪ From $17 ▪ Free plan |
▪ Returns management ▪ Automated labels ▪ Customer portal |
EasyShip | bigcommerce.com | ▪ From $29 ▪ Free plan |
▪ Cross-border shipping ▪ Customs clearance ▪ Pre-negotiated rates |
ShipBob | bigcommerce.com | ▪ Custom pricing | ▪ Order fulfillment ▪ Inventory management ▪ Warehousing |
DesktopShipper | bigcommerce.com | ▪ From $19.95 | ▪ USPS shipping ▪ Label printing ▪ Tracking |
PluginHive | bigcommerce.com | ▪ Custom pricing | ▪ Various eCom plugins ▪ Including shipping options |
Starshipit | bigcommerce.com | ▪ From $50 | ▪ Multi-carrier shipping ▪ Label printing ▪ Tracking |
Spocket | bigcommerce.com | ▪ From $39.99 ▪ Free plan |
▪ Product sourcing ▪ Branded invoicing ▪ Fast shipping |
AfterShip | bigcommerce.com | ▪ From $11 ▪ Free plan |
▪ Shipment tracking ▪ Notifications ▪ Returns management |
Arka | bigcommerce.com | ▪ Custom pricing | ▪ Custom packaging ▪ Branding ▪ Eco-friendly options |
Addrexx | bigcommerce.com | ▪ Custom pricing | ▪ Address verification ▪ Validation |
Why you need a BigCommerce shipping app
Here’s why you might need a BigCommerce shipping app, based on my own experiences and observations:
- Streamline Shipping: Manually managing labels, rates, and tracking is a nightmare when orders start piling up. A shipping app automates these tasks, saving you time and headaches.
- Save Money on Shipping: Apps like ShipStation and ShippingEasy often negotiate bulk discounts with carriers, which you wouldn't get on your own. This translates to real savings, especially as your business grows.
- Offer More Shipping Options: Customers love choices! Shipping apps let you offer various delivery methods, from standard to express and even local pickup.
- Accurate Shipping Rates: Have you ever been surprised by a huge shipping bill? Apps like ShipperHQ calculate real-time rates based on weight, dimensions, and destination, preventing nasty surprises.
- Effortless Returns: Dealing with returns is a pain, but some apps like ShipBlink make it easier by automating label creation and managing the process for you.
- Go Global: If you're selling internationally, apps like EasyShip handle customs forms and regulations, making cross-border shipping less daunting.
- Scale Up with Ease: As your business grows, a shipping app can scale with you, handling increased order volumes without missing a beat.
I learned these benefits firsthand. When I first started my BigCommerce store, I tried to handle shipping myself. It was a disaster – missed orders, incorrect rates, and unhappy customers. After switching to ShipStation, everything changed. I saved time money, and gained peace of mind knowing my shipping was in good hands.
15 Best Shipping Apps for BigCommerce
1. ShipStation
ShipStation is a multi-carrier shipping software that streamlines order fulfillment and label printing for e-commerce businesses.
Features:
- Centralized dashboard for order management and shipment tracking.
- Automated label creation with over 50 carriers worldwide.
- Discounted shipping rates for USPS and DHL Express.
- Order automation rules to streamline fulfillment.
- Integrates with popular marketplaces like Amazon and eBay.
Prices:
- Starter: $9.99/month
- Bronze: $29.99/month
- Silver: $59.99/month
- Gold: $99.99/month
- Platinum: $149.99/month
- Enterprise: $229..99/month
Pros & Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Multi-carrier support Automated label creation Order tracking Batch processing Customizable branding | Expensive for high-volume shippers |
Reviews:
I’ve personally used ShipStation for my BigCommerce store and found it to be a game-changer in streamlining my shipping process. It’s incredibly user-friendly and integrates seamlessly with BigCommerce, making it easy to manage orders and print shipping labels. Other users rave about its automation features and time-saving capabilities.
Best for?
- High-volume shippers: Businesses processing a large number of orders daily.
- Multi-channel sellers: Merchants selling on multiple platforms (e.g., Amazon, eBay, Etsy).
- Growing businesses: Companies seeking a scalable and efficient shipping solution.
- Automation enthusiasts: Users who value automated workflows and integrations.
2. ShipperHQ
ShipperHQ provides real-time shipping rate calculation and offers customizable shipping options at checkout.
Features:
- Real-time shipping rate calculation based on product dimensions, weight, and destination.
- Customizable shipping options for different products or customer groups.
- Address validation to ensure accurate deliveries.
- Shipping rules for promotions and discounts.
- Integrates with major carriers like UPS, FedEx, and USPS.
Prices:
ShipperHQ for BigCommerce
- Essentials: $75/month
- Starter: $200/month
- Standard: $350/month
- Advanced: $600/month
Pros & Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Real-time rate calculation Customizable shipping rules Address validation Multi-origin shipping | Complex setup for advanced features |
Reviews:
While I haven’t personally used ShipperHQ, many online reviews highlight its accuracy in calculating real-time shipping rates and its flexibility in offering various shipping options at checkout. Some users have noted that the initial setup can be a bit complex, but the customer support team is readily available to assist.
Best for?
- Complex shipping needs: Businesses offering various shipping options, rates, or custom rules.
- Customer-centric brands: Retailers prioritizing accurate shipping costs and transparent delivery estimates.
- International shippers: Companies dealing with complex international shipping regulations and rates.
- Enterprise-level businesses: Large organizations requiring advanced shipping customization and control.
3. ShippingEasy
ShippingEasy is a cloud-based shipping solution that simplifies the process of creating labels, tracking shipments, and managing returns.
Features:
- User-friendly interface for batch label printing and order management.
- Discounted shipping rates through USPS Commercial Plus Pricing.
- Automated shipping rules and tracking notifications.
- Integrates with major e-commerce platforms and marketplaces.
- Offers customer marketing tools for post-purchase engagement.
Prices:
- Starter: Free
- Growth: $19.99/month
- Basic: $29.99/month
- Plus: $49.99/month
- Select: $69.99/month
- Premium: $99.99/month
- Enterprise: $159.99/month
Pros & Cons:
Pros | Cons |
User-friendly interface Discounted shipping rates Automated label creationInventory management | Limited carrier options |
Reviews:
ShippingEasy has received positive feedback for its affordability and ease of use, making it a popular choice for small and medium-sized businesses. Users appreciate its intuitive interface and features like batch label printing and automated tracking updates. However, some users have reported limitations in customizing shipping rules and integrations with certain carriers.
Best for?
- Small to medium-sized businesses: E-commerce stores with moderate shipping volumes.
- Budget-conscious sellers: Those seeking an affordable and user-friendly shipping solution.
- US-based businesses: Primarily focused on domestic shipping within the United States.
- Non-technical users: Merchants who prefer a simple interface and easy setup process.
4. ShipWorks
ShipWorks is a desktop shipping software designed for high-volume shippers, offering automation and batch processing capabilities.
Features:
- Powerful desktop software for high-volume shippers.
- Batch processing for multiple orders at once.
- Automated order fulfillment and label creation.
- Integrates with major carriers and e-commerce platforms.
- Advanced reporting and analytics for data-driven decisions.
Prices:
- Ecommerce Professional: $149/month
- Warehouse Essential: $349/month
- Warehouse Professional: $599/month
- Warehouse Elite: $799/month
Pros & Cons:
Pros | Cons |
High-volume shipping automation Batch processing Customizable workflows Multiple user support | Steeper learning curve Primarily desktop-based |
Reviews:
ShipWorks is known for its powerful automation and batch processing capabilities, making it a top choice for high-volume shippers. However, some users have found the interface to be less intuitive than other platforms and the learning curve a bit steep.
Best for?
- High-volume shippers: Businesses handling a large number of orders and needing batch processing capabilities.
- Warehouse operators: Those needing advanced inventory and warehouse management features.
- Power users: Tech-savvy users who prefer a desktop-based solution with customization options.
- Multi-carrier shippers: Businesses using multiple carriers and requiring streamlined label printing and tracking.
5. Shippo
Shippo is a multi-carrier shipping API and web app that provides discounted shipping rates and simplifies label creation.
Features:
- Multi-carrier shipping API and web app for flexible shipping options.
- Discounted shipping rates with various carriers.
- International shipping with customs documentation.
- Label creation and tracking for all shipments.
- Integrates with major e-commerce platforms.
Prices:
- Starter: Free
- Professional: Starts at $19/month
- Premier: Contact
Pros & Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Multi-carrier support Discounted shipping rates API integrationInternational shipping | Limited features compared to other apps |
Reviews:
Shippo has been praised for its discounted shipping rates and user-friendly API, making it a cost-effective option for businesses that ship frequently. However, some users have experienced issues with integrating Shippo with their BigCommerce stores and have reported occasional technical glitches.
Best for?
- E-commerce businesses of all sizes: Offers flexible pay-as-you-go pricing suitable for various needs.
- International shippers: Provides access to discounted international shipping rates and customs documentation.
- Developers and tech-savvy users: Customizable shipping API allows for seamless integration with existing systems.
- Businesses seeking cost savings: Offers competitive shipping rates and transparent pricing structures.
6. ShipBlink
ShipBlink is a returns management solution that helps businesses automate and streamline their return processes.
Features:
- Streamlined returns management process with automated label generation.
- Customizable return policies and workflows.
- Customer portal for easy return initiation.
- Integration with major carriers for return shipping.
- Analytics and reporting to track return trends and costs.
Prices:
- ShipBlink Lite: Free
- ShipBlink 200: $17/month
- ShipBlink 450: $29/month
- ShipBlink 750: $45/month
- ShipBlink Pro 1750: $69/month
- ShipBlink Pro: $99/month
Pros & Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Automated returns management Customizable return policies Branded return labels | Limited to returns management |
Reviews:
ShipBlink’s strength lies in its focus on returns management, offering features like automated return labels and streamlined refund processes. However, some users have reported issues with the platform’s reporting capabilities and lack of customization options.
Best for?
- High return rate businesses: E-commerce stores dealing with a large volume of returns.
- Customer-centric brands: Those prioritizing a smooth and efficient return process for customer satisfaction.
- Automation seekers: Businesses looking to automate return label generation and refunds.
- Data-driven merchants: Those wanting insights into return trends and reasons for better inventory management.
7. EasyShip
EasyShip is a cross-border shipping platform that simplifies international shipping with pre-negotiated rates and customs clearance services.
Features:
- Simplified cross-border shipping with pre-negotiated rates.
- Door-to-door delivery with customs clearance and duties calculation.
- Real-time tracking and delivery updates.
- Handles returns and exchanges for international orders.
- Wide network of global couriers and fulfillment centers.
Prices:
- Free
- Plus: $29/month
- Premier: $69/month
- Scale: $99-199/month
- Enterprice: Custom pricing
Pros & Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Simplified international shipping Pre-negotiated rates Customs clearance Tax and duty calculation | Pricing can be complex |
Reviews:
EasyShip is praised for simplifying international shipping with pre-negotiated rates and customs clearance services. However, some users have experienced delays in shipping times and found the customer support to be less responsive than expected.
Best for?
- International sellers: Businesses shipping products across borders.
- Cross-border e-commerce: Stores targeting global markets and dealing with international shipping complexities.
- Simplified customs: Merchants seeking assistance with customs documentation and compliance.
- Competitive shipping rates: Businesses looking to access pre-negotiated rates for international shipments.
8. ShipBob
ShipBob is a third-party logistics (3PL) provider that handles order fulfillment, warehousing, and shipping for e-commerce businesses.
Features:
- Third-party logistics (3PL) provider for end-to-end fulfillment.
- Distributed inventory across multiple fulfillment centers for faster delivery.
- Order management, pick and pack, and shipping services.
- Inventory tracking and real-time visibility.
- Integration with major e-commerce platforms.
Prices:
- Custom pricing based on your needs
Pros & Cons:
Pros | Cons |
End-to-end fulfillment Warehousing and inventory management 2-day shipping Custom packaging | Higher costs than self-fulfillment |
Reviews:
As a 3PL provider, ShipBob receives mixed reviews, with some users praising its efficient order fulfillment and warehousing services while others have experienced issues with inventory management and customer service.
Best for?
- High-growth businesses: E-commerce stores experiencing rapid growth and needing outsourced fulfillment.
- Multi-channel sellers: Merchants selling across multiple platforms and seeking a centralized fulfillment solution.
- Inventory-heavy businesses: Companies with large product catalogs and complex inventory needs.
- Fast-shipping focused brands: Those prioritizing quick and reliable delivery to customers.
9. DesktopShipper
DesktopShipper is a desktop shipping software that primarily focuses on USPS shipping services.
Features:
- Affordable desktop software for USPS shipping.
- Prints labels and provides tracking for domestic and international shipments.
- Integrates with BigCommerce for order management.
Prices:
- $19.95 (Single User), $39.95 (Multi-User)
Pros & Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Affordable Easy to use USPS-focused | Limited carrier options Less robust features |
Reviews:
DesktopShipper is a niche tool primarily focused on USPS shipping. Users who primarily ship domestically within the US have found it to be a cost-effective and efficient solution. However, its limited carrier options and lack of advanced features make it less suitable for businesses with complex shipping needs.
Best for?
- USPS-focused shippers: Businesses primarily using USPS for domestic shipments within the United States.
- Small to medium-sized businesses: Affordable option for those with moderate shipping volumes.
- Non-technical users: Simple interface and setup process ideal for those who prefer a straightforward solution.
- Cost-conscious sellers: Seeking a cost-effective option for USPS shipping.
10. PluginHive
PluginHive offers various e-commerce plugins and extensions, including solutions for shipping and order management.
Features:
- Shipping and order management
- Multi-channel selling
- Inventory management
- Customer loyalty programs
Prices:
- Prices vary depending on the specific plugin
Pros & Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Various e-commerce solutions Shipping and order management Customizable | May require technical expertise |
Reviews:
PluginHive offers a variety of e-commerce solutions, including shipping plugins, but their shipping-specific tools haven’t gained as much traction as other dedicated shipping apps integrated with Bigcommerce. Some users have reported issues with integration and customer support responsiveness.
Best for?
- E-commerce businesses seeking specific solutions: Offers various plugins for shipping, order management, and other functionalities.
- Tech-savvy users: Those comfortable with installing and configuring plugins.
- Businesses with specific needs: Caters to businesses looking for specific features not offered by other apps.
- Customizable stores: Merchants who want to tailor their e-commerce platforms to their unique requirements.
11. Starshipit
Starshipit is a multi-carrier shipping platform that integrates with various e-commerce platforms and marketplaces.
Features:
- Multi-carrier shipping platform with discounted rates.
- Automated label creation and tracking.
- Integrates with various e-commerce platforms and marketplaces.
- Provides a branded tracking page for customers.
Prices:
- Starter: $50/month
- Starter Plus: $140/month
- Professional: $160/month
- Enterprise: $240/month
- Enterprise Plus: $500/month
Pros & Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Multi-carrier shipping Order tracking Label printing Integrations with various platforms | Learning curve for setup |
Reviews:
Starshipit is known for its multi-carrier integration and streamlined shipping processes. However, some users have mentioned that the platform’s pricing can be expensive for small businesses with low shipping volumes.
Best for?
- Multi-carrier shippers: Businesses using multiple carriers and needing streamlined label creation and tracking.
- International shippers: Offers integrations with global carriers and customs compliance features.
- High-volume shippers: Designed to handle large order volumes and complex shipping workflows.
- Growing businesses: Scalable solution for businesses with expanding shipping needs.
12. Spocket
Spocket is a dropshipping platform that connects merchants with suppliers offering high-quality products and fast shipping times.
Features:
- Dropshipping platform with a curated selection of high-quality products.
- Fast shipping times from US and EU suppliers.
- Branded invoicing for a professional customer experience.
- Integrates with BigCommerce for seamless product import and order fulfillment.
Prices:
- Free: $0
- Starter: $39.99/month
- Pro: $59.99/month
- Empire: $99.99/month
- Unicorn: $299.99/month
Pros & Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Curated dropshipping suppliers Fast shipping times Branded invoicing | Limited to dropshipping |
Reviews:
While primarily a dropshipping platform, Spocket also offers shipping integrations with various carriers. Users appreciate the platform’s user-friendly interface and fast shipping times, but some have noted limitations in product variety and higher prices compared to sourcing directly from AliExpress.
Best for?
- Dropshippers: Businesses using the dropshipping model to fulfill orders.
- High-quality product seekers: Focuses on curated suppliers offering unique and trending products.
- Shopify users: Seamless integration with the Shopify platform.
- Brand builders: Allows for branded invoicing and customized packaging for a unique customer experience.
13. AfterShip
AfterShip is a post-purchase experience platform that helps businesses track shipments, manage returns, and engage customers with automated notifications.
Features:
- Post-purchase experience platform for shipment tracking, returns management, and customer engagement.
- Automated tracking notifications and delivery updates.
- Self-service return portal for customers.
- Analytics and reporting to track shipping performance and customer satisfaction.
Prices:
- Free
- Essential: $11/month
- Pro: $119/month
- Premium: $239/month
- Enterprise: Custom pricing
Pros & Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Shipment tracking Branded tracking page Customer notifications | Limited to post-purchase experience |
Reviews:
AfterShip is highly favored for its comprehensive post-purchase tracking and notification features, helping businesses improve customer satisfaction and reduce support inquiries. However, some users have found the platform’s pricing to be on the higher side for smaller businesses.
Best for?
- Customer-centric brands: Prioritize post-purchase experience and customer engagement.
- Proactive communication: Businesses wanting to automate shipment tracking and delivery notifications.
- Customer retention focused: Those looking to reduce customer inquiries and improve brand loyalty.
- Data-driven merchants: Interested in analyzing shipping performance and customer feedback for optimization.
14. Arka
Arka provides custom packaging and branding solutions for e-commerce businesses.
Features:
- Custom packaging and branding solutions for a unique unboxing experience.
- Wide range of packaging materials and printing options.
- Design tools for creating custom boxes and inserts.
- Order fulfillment and shipping services.
Prices:
- Custom pricing based on your packaging needs
Pros & Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Custom packaging Branded boxes and inserts Eco-friendly options | May not be cost-effective for small orders |
Reviews:
Arka’s custom packaging solutions are popular among businesses looking to enhance their brand image and unboxing experience. However, some users have reported longer lead times for custom packaging orders and limitations in customization options.
Best for?
- Brand-conscious businesses: Seeking custom packaging solutions to enhance their brand image.
- Premium product sellers: Wanting to create a memorable unboxing experience for customers.
- Sustainable brands: Offers eco-friendly packaging options for environmentally conscious businesses.
- Businesses with unique packaging needs: Provides customizable solutions to fit specific product requirements.
15. Addrexx
Addrexx is an address verification and validation service that helps ensure accurate shipping addresses.
Features:
- Address verification and validation service to ensure accurate deliveries.
- Prevents failed deliveries due to incorrect addresses.
- Integrates with BigCommerce checkout for real-time address validation.
Prices:
- Customer pricing
Pros & Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Address verification and validation Reduces failed deliveries | Additional cost for service |
Reviews:
Addrexx’s address verification and validation service is generally well-received, helping businesses reduce shipping errors and ensure accurate delivery. However, some users have found the pricing to be a bit high for smaller businesses with low shipping volumes.
Best for?
- High-volume shippers: Businesses with large order volumes need to ensure accurate address data.
- International shippers: Helps validate international addresses for accurate delivery and reduced shipping costs.
- Businesses prioritizing accuracy: Reduces address errors and ensures seamless delivery, improving customer satisfaction.
- Data-driven operations: Automates address validation for efficient order processing and reduced manual effort.
Some tips for choosing the best BigCommerce shipping app
When choosing a shipping app, it’s crucial to think about the problems you’re trying to solve in terms of shipping and fulfillment. Based on my experience & experts’ advice, here are the key points to pay attention to:
- Features and Functionalities: Prioritize the specific features that align with your shipping needs. If you require real-time rate calculations, look for apps specializing in that. If you need a comprehensive solution encompassing shipping, tracking, and returns, explore more robust platforms.
- Pricing: Carefully assess the pricing structure, including monthly fees, transaction fees, and any additional costs. Compare different options to find a plan that fits your budget and projected shipping volume.
- Ease of Use: Choose an app with an intuitive interface and easy-to-navigate dashboard. This will save you time and streamline your shipping processes, ensuring efficient order fulfillment.
- Customer Support: Reliable customer support is crucial for troubleshooting any issues that may arise. Look for apps that offer responsive customer service through various channels like live chat, email, or phone.
- Integrations: Ensure that the app seamlessly integrates with your BigCommerce store and other tools you use, such as inventory management software or accounting systems.
Conclusion
These top 15 BigCommerce shipping apps can help you streamline your fulfillment process, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction, catering to businesses of all sizes and needs. Which BigCommerce shipping options have you found most beneficial for your business, and what features make it stand out? Share your comments below with others!