Shippo vs ShipWorks

In the world of e-commerce, shipping is a critical element that cannot be ignored or underestimated. Online sellers are constantly on the lookout for smart, reliable, and cost effective tools to manage their shipping needs. Two popular shipping platforms that claim to offer solutions for this purpose are Shippo and ShipWorks. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive analysis and comparison of these two platforms, to help you decide which one is best suited for your business needs.

Introduction to Shippo and ShipWorks

Shippo is a cloud-based shipping software that provides an easy-to-use, web-based platform for E-commerce businesses to manage their shipping needs. Shippo provides access to multiple shipping carriers, as well as real-time shipping rates, tracking, and label printing functionality. Founded in 2013, Shippo is now used by over 50,000 businesses worldwide.

ShipWorks is a desktop-based shipping platform that offers an efficient way for online sellers to manage their shipping needs. Similar to Shippo, ShipWorks helps businesses access multiple shipping carriers and printing shipping labels. ShipWorks was first launched in 2002 and has since been used by over 10,000 businesses.

One of the key benefits of using Shippo and ShipWorks is that they both offer integration with popular E-commerce platforms such as Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento. This means that businesses can easily import their orders and streamline their shipping process without having to manually enter data.

Another advantage of using these shipping platforms is that they offer discounted shipping rates from various carriers. This can help businesses save money on shipping costs and improve their bottom line.

Features and functionalities of Shippo

As a cloud-based platform, Shippo offers a range of features and functionalities that make shipping management an easy task for small and large businesses alike. One key feature of Shippo is its ability to integrate with various e-commerce shopping carts and marketplaces, including Shopify, WooCommerce, eBay, Amazon, Magento, and more. This allows businesses to automatically import orders for shipping, saving time and reducing manual data entry errors.

Shippo also offers a range of label printing options, including direct printing from existing printers or the option to purchase customized Shippo labels from a preferred supplier. Customers also have access to real-time tracking and shipping status updates and can generate return labels for customers as well.

In addition to its integration capabilities and label printing options, Shippo also offers a variety of shipping carrier options, including USPS, FedEx, UPS, DHL, and more. This allows businesses to choose the carrier that best fits their needs and budget, and easily compare rates and delivery times.

Another key feature of Shippo is its ability to automate international shipping and customs forms. Shippo automatically generates the necessary forms and documents for international shipments, reducing the risk of errors and delays in the shipping process.

Features and functionalities of ShipWorks

ShipWorks, being a desktop-based shipping platform, offers similar features and functionalities as Shippo, but with a slightly different approach. Like Shippo, it also offers integrations with various e-commerce platforms and marketplaces, optimized multi-carrier shipping, and the ability to print labels. It also offers a range of tools for order management, such as the ability to edit orders before shipping and customizing shipping alerts for clients.

Additionally, ShipWorks offers more advanced reporting functionality, allowing businesses to track their shipment performance, shipping costs, and customer behavior. Through the use of customizable dashboards and various report formats, businesses can gain a deeper understanding of their shipping patterns and identify areas for improvement.

Another key feature of ShipWorks is its ability to automate shipping processes. With its rules-based automation, businesses can set up specific shipping rules based on order criteria, such as weight, destination, or carrier preference. This automation can save businesses time and reduce the risk of human error in the shipping process.

Furthermore, ShipWorks offers a range of customer communication tools, such as branded tracking pages and email notifications. These tools allow businesses to keep their customers informed about their shipments and provide a professional and consistent brand experience throughout the shipping process.

Pros and cons of Shippo

One of the biggest advantages of using Shippo is its ease of use and simplicity of design. The user interface is intuitive and straightforward, making it easy for businesses to integrate new staff into their shipping operations. Shippo’s integration with multiple e-commerce platforms and marketplaces also makes it a convenient solution for businesses that sell across several sales channels.

One of the downsides of Shippo, however, is that it can be more costly for businesses with higher shipping volumes. While Shippo offers a pay-as-you-go pricing structure, its fees may add up for high volume shippers. Additionally, Shippo may not be as well-suited for businesses that require advanced reporting or customized shipping workflows.

Another advantage of using Shippo is its ability to provide real-time tracking information to both businesses and customers. This feature allows businesses to keep track of their shipments and ensure that they are delivered on time. Customers can also track their packages and receive updates on their delivery status, which can improve their overall shopping experience. However, it is important to note that Shippo’s tracking capabilities may be limited for certain carriers and shipping methods.

Pros and cons of ShipWorks

ShipWorks offers a wide range of features that make it an ideal solution for businesses that require more advanced reporting and customization of their shipping workflows. Its desktop-based design also offers greater flexibility for businesses without consistent access to the internet. ShipWorks’ pricing structure is also well-suited for businesses with high shipping volumes, making it a more affordable option over Shippo.

However, one downside of ShipWorks is that its desktop-based design may require a higher level of technical expertise to set up and maintain, compared to Shippo’s cloud-based design. Additionally, ShipWorks offers fewer integrations than Shippo, making it less convenient for businesses that sell across multiple sales channels.

Another advantage of ShipWorks is its ability to automate shipping processes, which can save businesses time and reduce errors. With features like batch processing and automatic label printing, businesses can streamline their shipping workflows and focus on other aspects of their operations.

On the other hand, one potential drawback of ShipWorks is its lack of mobile compatibility. Businesses that require the ability to manage their shipping processes on-the-go may find this limitation to be a significant inconvenience.

Pricing comparison between Shippo and ShipWorks

Shippo offers a pay-as-you-go pricing model; there are no upfront costs or commitments required. Shipping rates start at $0.05 per label and can vary depending on the shipping carrier used and the shipping destination. Businesses can choose to pay for their shipments through their Shippo account or use their own account with the carrier.

ShipWorks offers a tiered pricing structure based on the number of orders shipped per month. Prices start at $25 per month for up to 600 shipments, with additional charges for each additional shipment. ShipWorks also offers a free trial period for new users.

It is important to note that Shippo offers discounted shipping rates for high volume shippers. Businesses that ship a large number of packages per month can negotiate lower rates with Shippo. Additionally, Shippo offers a variety of shipping options, including international shipping, which can be beneficial for businesses that have a global customer base.

On the other hand, ShipWorks offers a range of features beyond just shipping, such as order management and customer communication tools. This can be useful for businesses that want an all-in-one solution for their e-commerce needs. ShipWorks also integrates with a variety of e-commerce platforms, including Amazon, eBay, and Shopify.

Customer support comparison between Shippo and ShipWorks

Both Shippo and ShipWorks offer customer support through multiple channels, including email, phone, and live chat support. ShipWorks also offers a 24/7 online customer portal for immediate support needs, including access to frequently asked questions and support articles. Additionally, ShipWorks offers higher-level technical support options, such as personalized account managers and remote desktop support if needed.

On the other hand, Shippo provides a comprehensive knowledge base that includes step-by-step guides, video tutorials, and a community forum where users can ask questions and share their experiences. Shippo’s customer support team is also known for their quick response time and personalized assistance, making it a great option for small businesses and startups that need extra guidance in navigating the shipping process.

Ease of use comparison between Shippo and ShipWorks

Shippo is known for its user-friendly and intuitive design, allowing businesses of all sizes to easily manage their shipping needs. The platform is web-based, so no installation or download is required, and integrations with popular shopping carts and marketplaces make order importation seamless.

ShipWorks requires a desktop installation, which may require more technical expertise to set up and maintain. Despite this, ShipWorks offers greater customization options for businesses that require more advanced shipping workflows.

Integrations available with Shippo

Shippo has established itself as a shipping platform that caters to businesses that sell across multiple sales channels. As a result, Shippo offers integrations with over 60 e-commerce platforms and marketplaces. Popular integrations include Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Magento, Amazon, and eBay.

Integrations available with ShipWorks

While ShipWorks offers fewer integrations than Shippo, they still offer integrations with the most popular e-commerce platforms and marketplaces, including Shopify, BigCommerce, Volusion, Amazon, and eBay. Additionally, ShipWorks can integrate with many custom-built e-commerce platforms since it has open APIs.

Which platform is best suited for small businesses?

Both Shippo and ShipWorks offer comprehensive shipping solutions suitable for small businesses. However, Shippo may be the better option for businesses with less technical expertise and lower shipping volume since it offers a simple and easy-to-use platform with a pay-as-you-go pricing model. On the other hand, small businesses that require a desktop-based software and more advanced reporting tools may benefit more from ShipWorks.

Which platform is best suited for large businesses?

Large businesses that ship high volumes may benefit more from ShipWorks. The platform’s tiered pricing structure is more affordable for high volume shippers than Shippo’s pay-as-you-go pricing model. Additionally, ShipWorks’ advanced reporting, customizable workflows, and dedicated customer support options make it an ideal choice for larger businesses with complex shipping needs.

Final verdict: Shippo vs ShipWorks

When it comes to choosing between Shippo and ShipWorks, it ultimately depends on your business’s specific shipping needs and priorities. Both platforms offer a range of features and integrations that make shipping management an easy and efficient process.

In general, Shippo may be the better choice for smaller businesses that require an easy-to-use platform with fewer technical requirements. On the other hand, ShipWorks is a better option for larger businesses that require more advanced features and customizations, particularly in their reporting and workflows. It is important to evaluate your business’s specific needs, shipping volumes, integrations, and pricing options before deciding which platform is the best suited for your business.