That’s probably why you’re here, right? The right app can make the difference between smooth operations and a logistical nightmare. Efficient order fulfillment is at the heart of any successful eCommerce business, and for Shopify store owners, it’s critical to choose the right tools to keep everything running smoothly.
In this article, I’ll walk you through 11 of the best Shopify fulfillment apps out there. Whether you’re a small store owner looking to streamline processes, a Shopify agency trying to find the best solutions for your clients, or a D2C brand dealing with high-volume orders, this list has something for you. We’ll dig into the features, pricing, and best use cases for each app, so you can decide which one fits your needs the best.
But we won’t stop there. We’ll also cover what you need to consider when choosing a fulfillment app, including how well it integrates with Shopify, the level of automation it offers, and whether it’s scalable as your business grows.
So, let’s dive in and find the perfect Shopify fulfillment app for your business!
Nearly 70% of Shopify’s top-performing stores use mobile-friendly themes, such as Dawn and Impact. (source)
Why Order Fulfillment is Crucial for Shopify Stores
Efficient order fulfillment isn’t just a nice-to-have for Shopify store owners; it’s a must-have. When customers hit that “buy” button, they’re expecting their items to arrive quickly and in perfect condition. If your fulfillment process is clunky or slow, it can hurt your reputation, lead to negative reviews, and ultimately cost you sales.
Common Challenges Faced by Shopify Store Owners:
- Manual Processes: Many smaller stores start with manual order fulfillment. But as your store grows, manually processing orders can become overwhelming. It’s not just time-consuming; it’s prone to errors.
- Shipping Delays: Customers expect fast shipping, but coordinating with different carriers and dealing with unexpected delays can be a nightmare without the right tools.
- Inventory Management: Keeping track of stock levels across multiple channels can be tricky. Overselling or running out of stock can lead to unhappy customers.
- High Shipping Costs: Without a streamlined process, shipping costs can quickly eat into your margins.
How the Right Fulfillment App Can Help:
- Automation: Fulfillment apps can automate the entire process, from order receipt to delivery, reducing the chance of human error and saving you tons of time.
- Speed: Many apps offer integrations with multiple carriers, ensuring that orders are shipped out quickly and efficiently.
- Scalability: As your business grows, these apps can scale with you, handling more orders and integrating with other tools to streamline operations.
- Cost Efficiency: Some apps help you find the best shipping rates, ensuring you don’t overspend on getting your products to your customers.
In short, the right fulfillment app can help you maintain a smooth operation, keep customers happy, and ultimately grow your business.
Read More:8 Best Shopify Packaging Apps
The 10 Best Shopify Fulfillment Apps
1. ShipStation
Overview:
ShipStation is a leading order fulfillment app designed to streamline shipping for eCommerce businesses. It integrates with multiple carriers and sales channels, making it ideal for stores that operate across platforms.
Key Features:
- Multi-Carrier Support: Supports over 50 carriers worldwide, including USPS, FedEx, UPS, and DHL.
- Automation Rules: Set up rules to automatically apply shipping preferences, choose carriers, and print labels.
- Branded Tracking Pages: Customize tracking pages with your logo and branding for a consistent customer experience.
- Batch Label Creation: Print multiple labels at once to save time.
- Inventory Management: Syncs inventory across platforms to avoid overselling.
Pros:
- Highly customizable with strong automation features.
- Supports a wide range of carriers.
- Scalable for growing businesses.
- Excellent customer support.
Cons:
- Can be expensive, especially for small businesses.
- The initial setup can be complex and time-consuming.
- Some users report a steep learning curve.
Pricing:
Starts at $9/month for essential features; plans with more advanced features start at $49/month.
Ratings:
4.6 out of 5 stars on Shopify App Store.
User Review:
“ShipStation has transformed how we handle shipping. The automation rules are a game-changer, and the multi-carrier support is invaluable for our international orders.”
2. Shippo
Overview:
Shippo offers a simple, user-friendly shipping solution that integrates seamlessly with Shopify. It’s especially popular among smaller businesses due to its affordability and ease of use.
Key Features:
- Discounted Shipping Rates: Get access to discounted rates with major carriers like USPS, UPS, and DHL.
- Pay-As-You-Go Pricing: Only pay for what you use, with no monthly fees on the basic plan.
- Multi-Carrier Support: Choose from multiple carriers to find the best rates and shipping times.
- Label Creation: Create and print shipping labels directly from the app.
- Custom Tracking Pages: Keep your customers in the loop with customizable tracking pages.
Pros:
- Very affordable, especially for small businesses.
- Easy to set up and use.
- Provides real-time shipping rates.
- Flexible pay-as-you-go pricing model.
Cons:
- Limited advanced features compared to higher-end apps.
- Some users report occasional syncing issues.
- Basic reporting features.
Pricing:
Pay-as-you-go starts at $0.05 per label, or $10/month for additional features.
Ratings:
4.5 out of 5 stars on Shopify App Store.
User Review:
“Shippo is a great app for small businesses like mine. The discounted shipping rates help us save money, and the integration with Shopify is seamless.”
3. AfterShip
Overview:
AfterShip focuses on enhancing the post-purchase experience with robust tracking and returns management. It’s ideal for businesses that want to keep customers informed throughout the delivery process.
Key Features:
- Branded Tracking: Customize tracking pages with your brand’s logo, colors, and messaging.
- Returns Management: Simplify the returns process with a self-service returns portal for customers.
- Automated Notifications: Send out notifications at every stage of the shipping process to keep customers informed.
- Multi-Carrier Support: Connect with over 700 carriers worldwide for global shipping.
Pros:
- Enhances customer experience with branded tracking and notifications.
- Easy to use with a clean interface.
- Supports a vast number of carriers.
- Integrates well with Shopify and other platforms.
Cons:
- The free plan is limited in features.
- Focused more on tracking than full order fulfillment.
- Some advanced features require higher-priced plans.
Pricing:
Free plan available with basic features; paid plans start at $9/month.
Ratings:
4.8 out of 5 stars on Shopify App Store.
User Review:
“AfterShip has been great for keeping our customers updated. The branded tracking page is a nice touch, and the automated notifications reduce the number of ‘Where’s my order?’ emails we receive.”
Read More:Top 7 Best Shopify Apps for Inventory Sync
4. Easyship
Overview:
Easyship offers a comprehensive solution for global shipping, making it ideal for businesses that sell internationally. It provides real-time shipping rates, customs information, and discounted carrier rates.
Key Features:
- Global Shipping Solutions: Access to over 250 shipping solutions worldwide, with real-time rates and delivery times.
- Discounted Rates: Get discounted shipping rates with major carriers like DHL, FedEx, and UPS.
- Tax and Duty Visibility: Calculate taxes and duties upfront to avoid surprises for international customers.
- Branded Tracking: Customize tracking pages and notifications to match your brand.
- Multi-Channel Integration: Integrates with multiple sales channels, including Shopify, Amazon, and eBay.
Pros:
- Excellent for international shipping with a focus on transparency.
- Offers discounted rates and multiple carrier options.
- Real-time visibility into shipping costs and delivery times.
- Strong integration with Shopify and other platforms.
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming for beginners due to the number of options.
- The learning curve can be steep, especially for small businesses.
- Some features are only available in higher-priced plans.
Pricing:
Free plan available with limited features; paid plans start at $29/month.
Ratings:
4.6 out of 5 stars on Shopify App Store.
User Review:
“Easyship has made international shipping so much easier. The real-time rates and customs information are incredibly useful, and the discounted rates help us save money.”
5. Deliverr
Overview:
Deliverr is a fulfillment service that focuses on fast, reliable shipping, including 2-day delivery. It’s particularly beneficial for businesses looking to offer an Amazon Prime-like experience.
Key Features:
- 2-Day Delivery: Offer fast, reliable 2-day delivery to your customers.
- Distributed Inventory: Place your inventory in multiple fulfillment centers to speed up delivery times.
- Multi-Channel Fulfillment: Fulfill orders from Shopify, Amazon, Walmart, and more.
- Transparent Pricing: Simple, all-inclusive pricing based on product size and weight.
- Analytics and Reporting: Access detailed reports on inventory and order performance.
Pros:
- Fast shipping options comparable to Amazon Prime.
- Scalable and flexible for growing businesses.
- Simple, transparent pricing model.
- Strong multi-channel support.
Cons:
- More suited for larger businesses with high order volumes.
- Focuses on speed over customization and branding.
- Pricing can be high for smaller businesses.
Pricing:
Pay-as-you-go model, pricing depends on product size, weight, and shipping destination.
Ratings:
4.7 out of 5 stars on Shopify App Store.
User Review:
“Deliverr has been a game-changer for us. Our customers love the 2-day delivery option, and the pricing is straightforward and transparent.”
6. Fulfillrite
Overview:
Fulfillrite offers a reliable, scalable order fulfillment service with a strong focus on customer support. It’s ideal for businesses needing kitting, assembly, and inventory management.
Key Features:
- Order Management: Streamline order processing with automation and real-time tracking.
- Kitting and Assembly: Customize orders with kitting and assembly services.
- Inventory Tracking: Keep track of inventory levels across multiple channels.
- Returns Management: Handle returns efficiently with Fulfillrite’s integrated system.
- Dedicated Account Manager: Get personalized support from a dedicated account manager.
Pros:
- Exceptional customer support with a dedicated account manager.
- Reliable and scalable for growing businesses.
- Strong kitting and assembly services.
- Easy integration with Shopify and other platforms.
Cons:
- Pricing isn’t transparent, requiring custom quotes.
- May be expensive for small businesses.
- Some users report delays in onboarding and setup.
Pricing:
Custom pricing based on business needs; contact Fulfillrite for a quote.
Ratings:
4.8 out of 5 stars on Shopify App Store.
User Review:
“Fulfillrite has been an excellent partner for our business. Their customer support is top-notch, and the kitting services are exactly what we needed.”
7. Printful
Overview:
Printful is a print-on-demand service that allows Shopify store owners to sell custom products without holding inventory. It handles everything from printing to shipping, making it ideal for artists, designers, and entrepreneurs.
Key Features:
- Print-on-Demand: Create and sell custom products like t-shirts, mugs, and posters without holding inventory.
- Automatic Order Fulfillment: Orders are automatically fulfilled and shipped to customers as soon as they’re placed.
- Global Fulfillment Centers: Multiple fulfillment centers worldwide to ensure fast shipping.
- Mockup Generator: Create product mockups easily with Printful’s mockup generator.
- Branding Options: Customize packaging with your logo for a branded customer experience.
Pros:
- No upfront inventory costs, reducing financial risk.
- Easy to use, especially for beginners.
- Wide range of products to choose from.
- Fast and reliable fulfillment with global shipping options.
Cons:
- Higher base product costs compared to traditional inventory.
- Dependent on Printful’s inventory and fulfillment capabilities.
- Limited control over production and shipping times.
Pricing:
Free to use; you only pay for the products and shipping when you make a sale.
Ratings:
4.5 out of 5 stars on Shopify App Store.
User Review:
“Printful has been fantastic for our custom apparel business. The mockup generator is easy to use, and we love that we don’t have to worry about inventory or fulfillment.”
8. ShipHero
Overview:
ShipHero is an all-in-one solution that offers both warehouse management software and fulfillment services. It’s particularly well-suited for large-scale operations that need a robust, scalable system.
Key Features:
- Warehouse Management: Manage inventory, orders, and returns all from one platform.
- Order Processing: Automate order processing to speed up fulfillment times.
- Multi-Channel Support: Integrates with Shopify, Amazon, eBay, and more.
- 3PL Services: Outsource your fulfillment to ShipHero’s network of fulfillment centers.
- Reporting and Analytics: Access detailed reports on inventory, orders, and shipping performance.
Pros:
- Comprehensive solution for large businesses.
- Strong integration with multiple sales channels.
- Scalable, with both software and fulfillment services.
- Robust reporting and analytics tools.
Cons:
- High pricing, especially for smaller businesses.
- Complex setup process that may require dedicated IT resources.
- Some users report issues with the user interface.
Pricing:
Warehouse management starts at $1,995/month; fulfillment pricing is custom.
Ratings:
4.3 out of 5 stars on Shopify App Store.
User Review:
“ShipHero has been a great investment for our growing business. The warehouse management software is powerful, and their fulfillment services are reliable.”
9. ShipBob
Overview:
ShipBob offers fast, reliable fulfillment with a focus on 2-day shipping. It’s an excellent choice for D2C brands looking to compete with Amazon’s delivery speeds.
Key Features:
- 2-Day Shipping: Offer 2-day shipping to your customers, similar to Amazon Prime.
- Distributed Inventory: Store inventory in multiple fulfillment centers to reduce shipping times.
- Real-Time Inventory Tracking: Keep track of inventory levels and orders in real-time.
- Multi-Channel Fulfillment: Integrates with Shopify, Amazon, eBay, and more.
- Custom Packaging: Ship products in custom-branded packaging to enhance the unboxing experience.
Pros:
- Fast and reliable fulfillment services.
- Excellent for D2C brands looking to compete with Amazon.
- Strong integration with multiple sales channels.
- Custom packaging options for a branded experience.
Cons:
- Higher pricing compared to some other fulfillment options.
- Setup can be challenging and may require assistance.
- May not be cost-effective for smaller businesses.
Pricing:
Custom pricing based on business size and needs; contact ShipBob for a quote.
Ratings:
4.5 out of 5 stars on Shopify App Store.
User Review:
“ShipBob has been great for our D2C brand. The 2-day shipping has really helped us compete with larger companies, and the custom packaging is a nice touch.”
10. OrderCup
Overview:
OrderCup is an affordable, user-friendly shipping app designed to simplify the order fulfillment process for small to medium-sized businesses.
Key Features:
- Multi-Carrier Support: Integrates with major carriers like USPS, UPS, and FedEx.
- Automated Workflows: Set up automation rules to streamline shipping processes.
- Returns Management: Handle returns efficiently with a built-in returns management system.
- Batch Processing: Process multiple orders at once to save time.
- Customizable Branding: Customize shipping labels, packing slips, and emails with your brand.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing for small businesses.
- User-friendly interface with easy setup.
- Strong customer support.
- Supports multiple carriers.
Cons:
- Interface can feel outdated compared to other apps.
- Limited advanced features in lower-priced plans.
- May not be suitable for large-scale operations.
Pricing:
Starts at $25/month for small businesses; higher tiers available for larger businesses.
Ratings:
4.4 out of 5 stars on Shopify App Store.
User Review:
“OrderCup has been a reliable solution for our small business. It’s affordable, easy to use, and the customer support is always helpful.”
Criteria for Choosing the Right Fulfillment App
Not all fulfillment apps are created equal. What works for a small boutique shop may not cut it for a fast-growing D2C brand. Before diving into our top picks, it’s essential to know what to look for when selecting a fulfillment app for your Shopify store.
Ease of Integration:
- Your fulfillment app should seamlessly integrate with Shopify. The best apps will automatically sync orders, customer information, and inventory data, minimizing the need for manual input. If it plays nicely with other tools you use (like your accounting software or CRM), that’s a bonus.
Automation Features:
- Automation is key to efficient order fulfillment. Look for apps that can automatically process orders, print shipping labels, update tracking information, and notify customers—all without manual intervention. The less you have to touch the process, the better.
Scalability:
- As your business grows, your fulfillment needs will change. The app you choose should be able to scale with you, whether you’re processing 10 orders a day or 10,000. Some apps are better suited for small stores, while others can handle enterprise-level operations.
Pricing:
- Price matters, especially if you’re running a lean operation. Make sure you understand the app’s pricing structure. Is it based on the number of orders processed, or does it charge a flat monthly fee? Are there additional fees for features you need? Choose an app that fits your budget but also offers the features you require.
Support and Updates:
- Tech issues happen, and when they do, you’ll want to know that help is just a phone call or chat away. Look for apps with a reputation for excellent customer support. Regular updates are also a good sign that the app is continuously improving and staying up-to-date with Shopify’s changes.
Recommendations Based on Business Type
With so many great options, the best choice depends on your specific business needs. Here are some recommendations based on different business types:
For Small to Medium-Sized Stores:
- Shippo and OrderCup are budget-friendly options that offer robust features without breaking the bank.
- AfterShip is also a strong contender if you’re focused on enhancing the customer post-purchase experience.
For Large Enterprises:
- ShipHero and ShipBob offer powerful tools that can handle high order volumes, manage inventory, and ensure fast shipping, making them ideal for large operations.
- Deliverr is excellent if speed is your top priority, especially for businesses looking to offer Amazon Prime-like delivery speeds.
For D2C Brands:
- Printful is perfect for brands focusing on custom, print-on-demand products with no upfront inventory costs.
- ShipBob and Deliverr are also top picks for D2C brands that need fast and reliable shipping options to compete in the market.
How to Get Started with These Apps
Ready to take the plunge? Here’s how to get started with your chosen fulfillment app:
Sign Up: Start by creating an account with the app of your choice. Most apps offer free trials, so you can test them out before committing.
Connect to Shopify: Most apps will guide you through the process of connecting your Shopify store. This usually involves installing an app from the Shopify App Store and linking your account.
Set Up Shipping Options: Configure your shipping settings, including carriers, shipping rates, and any automation rules you want to apply.
Sync Inventory: Make sure your inventory levels are up-to-date and synced across all platforms. Many apps can automatically sync inventory across your Shopify store and other sales channels.
Test the Process: Before going live, run a few test orders to ensure everything is working correctly—from order processing to shipping and tracking.
Go Live: Once you’re satisfied that everything is set up correctly, you can start using the app to fulfill real customer orders.
FAQs
What is the easiest Shopify fulfillment app to set up?
Shippo is often praised for its ease of use and simple setup process, making it a great choice for beginners or small businesses.
Can these fulfillment apps handle returns?
Yes, many of the apps listed, such as AfterShip and OrderCup, offer built-in returns management systems to streamline the return process.
How do I choose the best fulfillment app for my business?
Consider your business size, order volume, shipping needs (domestic vs. international), and budget. For small businesses, Shippo and OrderCup are cost-effective. Larger businesses might benefit more from comprehensive solutions like ShipHero or ShipBob.
Do I need technical skills to use these apps?
While some apps, like ShipStation and ShipHero, have a steeper learning curve, most offer user-friendly interfaces. Apps like Shippo and Oberlo are designed to be accessible even for those without technical skills.
Are there any fulfillment apps specifically for dropshipping?
Yes, Oberlo is specifically designed for Shopify dropshipping, making it easy to import products from AliExpress and automate order fulfillment.
What if I want to switch fulfillment apps?
Switching fulfillment apps usually involves exporting your current data (orders, inventory) and importing it into the new app. Most apps provide guides or customer support to help with the transition.
Can I use more than one fulfillment app?
Yes, some businesses use multiple apps to manage different aspects of fulfillment, such as one app for domestic shipping and another for international orders. However, it’s important to ensure they don’t overlap in a way that complicates your operations.
How do I know if I’m getting the best shipping rates?
Many of the apps, like Shippo and Easyship, provide real-time shipping rates from multiple carriers, allowing you to compare and choose the best option.
Conclusion
Choosing the right fulfillment app for your Shopify store can make a world of difference in your day-to-day operations and overall customer satisfaction. Whether you’re a small store looking for a simple solution or a large enterprise needing robust, scalable tools, there’s an app on this list that will fit your needs. The key is to identify your priorities—be it automation, speed, cost-effectiveness, or scalability—and choose accordingly.
Now that you’re armed with all this information, it’s time to test a few of these apps out and see which one works best for your business. Happy fulfilling!
