Running an eCommerce store in the UK means juggling a lot of moving parts. One of the most complex and time-consuming parts is the shipping process. Choosing the right shipping software helps you ship orders faster, reduce mistakes, and keep your customers happy.
In this guide, we’ll break down what the best shipping software for eCommerce in the UK looks like. Whether you’re selling on Shopify, WooCommerce, Amazon, or Etsy — or any other popular eCommerce platforms — the right shipping solution can make operations smoother and less stressful. Let’s explore what to look for, which platforms are best, and how to get started.
What is the best shipping software for eCommerce sellers in the UK?
The best shipping software for eCommerce sellers in the UK includes Easyship for global shipping and automation, Parcel2Go for affordable UK-focused delivery, and ShipStation for sellers managing multiple sales channels.
Here are the top 10 best shipping software platforms in the UK:
1. Easyship
Easyship is a global shipping platform designed to simplify cross-border eCommerce logistics. It offers access to 550+ shipping courier services, including DPD, DHL Express, and FedEx.
Key Features:
- Smart rate comparison across multiple couriers based on speed, cost, and reliability.
- Real-time tax and duty calculation for 220+ countries, helping with customs clearance transparency.
- Branded tracking pages and automated notifications enhance customer experience.
- Integration-ready with platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, and Amazon.
- Shipping rules automation for faster fulfillment.
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Cost: Free plan available with basic features. Paid plans start free, with approximately ÂŁ23/month for more advanced analytics and automation.
2. Parcel2Go
Parcel2Go is a UK-centric shipping aggregator focused on affordability and simplicity for domestic and international eCommerce.
Key Features:
- Access to top UK couriers like Hermes, Yodel, Parcelforce, and UPS.
- SmartSend tool automates multi-platform order imports (from eBay, Amazon, Shopify, etc.).
- Drop-off and pick-up point integration for flexibility.
- Strong emphasis on affordable parcel delivery for SMEs.
Cost: No monthly subscription required — users pay per shipment. Offers discounted rates that are often cheaper than going directly to couriers.
3. MetaPack
MetaPack is an enterprise-grade delivery management platform trusted by large retailers and brands operating at scale.
Key Features:
- Connects to 350+ global carriers.
- Deep analytics and performance reporting to optimize delivery operations.
- Powerful returns management suite.
- Enables real-time tracking and delivery performance SLAs.
Cost: Custom pricing based on shipment volume and feature usage. Best suited for enterprises with high shipping volume.
4. ShipStation
Overview: ShipStation is a popular shipping and fulfillment solution for UK and international merchants, with strong automation capabilities.
Key Features:
- Connects to over 40 selling channels and multiple carriers.
- Batch printing and order management save time.
- Advanced shipping rules and automation tools streamline repetitive tasks.
- Offers branded shipping labels, tracking pages, and email notifications.
Cost: Starts at ÂŁ7/month for basic plans. Scales up with features and order volume.
5. ShippingEasy
ShippingEasy is tailored primarily for US-based shippers but offers great carrier discounts and useful automation features that benefit UK sellers shipping internationally.
Key Features:
- Access to USPS and UPS discounts, useful for UK sellers exporting to the US.
- Built-in email marketing and customer segmentation.
- Automation rules for shipping workflows.
- Inventory and order management for small to midsize operations.
Cost: Free for up to 25 shipments/month. Paid plans start at around ÂŁ22/month.
Why Shipping Software is Important for UK eCommerce
Shipping software helps eCommerce businesses handle everything after a customer places an order. This includes printing shipping labels, choosing shipping methods, tracking shipments, and managing returns — all in one user-friendly interface.
Without a complete shipping solution, you might be doing everything manually — printing one label at a time, entering tracking info into each sales channel, and replying to every "where is my order?" message. That takes up hours you could be using to grow your online store.
According to Royal Mail, 62% of online shoppers in the UK expect fast and reliable delivery times. If your store can’t meet those customer expectations, they may leave for a competitor.
For example, a small business selling skincare on Shopify with 400 orders a month can save time — over 10 hours per week — using automated shipping rules to print labels, send tracking emails, and choose the cheapest or fastest shipping method, all with just a few clicks.
Shipping platforms like Easyship offer exclusive shipping discounts — up to 91% off retail carrier rates with major carriers like UPS, DHL, or Royal Mail. That helps reduce shipping costs and improve operational efficiency.
With fewer repetitive shipping tasks, you free up your team and create a smoother experience for your customers — a big step toward improving customer satisfaction.
Key Features to Look For in the Best Shipping Software
Choosing the right software isn’t just about ticking boxes. These are the features that matter most for eCommerce sellers:
Multi-carrier support
Look for multi-carrier shipping software that connects with couriers like Royal Mail, DPD, DHL, and UPS. This lets you compare rates in real time and pick the best option for each shipment. Tools like Easyship support 250+ carriers in their global network.
Automation tools
Use automated shipping rules to streamline how you manage orders. Automate label printing, order syncing, order tracking, and email updates. Easyship can batch process up to 250,000 labels per day, helping small businesses handle high order volume more easily.
International shipping support
Selling abroad? You’ll need features like duty calculations, customs form automation, and global carrier integrations. Easyship and ShipEngine automate international paperwork so you can reach more customers worldwide with fewer headaches.
Benefits of Using Shipping Software for Your Online Store
Running an online store without the right shipping platform is like packing orders blindfolded. Here's how shipping tools help:
- Faster fulfillment: Batch print labels, sync orders, and schedule pickups in minutes. A seller using Wix who ships 100 orders daily can cut processing time from 4 hours to just 1.
- Lower shipping costs: Access discounted shipping rates with major carriers. One UK beauty brand saved £2,500 in a quarter by switching to Easyship’s best shipping rates and smart rate shop tools.
- Better customer experience: Send branded tracking emails and offer delivery choices at checkout. A pet accessory shop that added real-time tracking saw a 27% drop in support requests — and a boost in repeat buyers.
How to Choose the Right Shipping Software for Your Business
To find the right software:
- Know your order volume: For under 500 orders/month, a basic tool like ShippingEasy is enough. If you're growing fast, try Easyship.
- Check platform compatibility: Ensure it integrates with your eCommerce platform (e.g. Shopify, Amazon, WooCommerce). Integration helps you manage orders in a single platform.
- International capabilities: Choose tools with automated tax, duty, and customs forms if you ship globally.
- Compare plans: Start with a free plan, but paid tiers often unlock more features and save money in the long run.
Managing International Shipping from the UK Made Easy
Cross-border shipping is simpler with smart tools:
- Tax and duty automation: Use checkout features that calculate all fees so buyers know total costs.
- Automated customs forms: Skip manual entry with tools that auto-fill required fields per destination.
- Global tracking: Let customers track international shipments with real-time visibility, reducing uncertainty.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best shipping software for eCommerce in UK doesn’t have to be hard. The right shipping platform can help you reduce costs, boost revenue, and delight your customers — whether you're just starting or scaling fast.
Start with a free trial, explore features, and grow your online store with tools built for real results.
Ready to simplify and save on shipping?
Easyship is here to help.
Easyship was built to simplify shipping for eCommerce sellers of every size. If you’re looking for ways to save on shipping costs, compare rates, automate fulfillment, or grow internationally—our free shipping tools and smart dashboard can save you hours daily.
Join our community of eCommerce sellers and get started with Easyship for free today.
FAQ: Best Shipping Software for eCommerce in UK
What is shipping software?
Shipping software helps eCommerce sellers manage the delivery side of their business. It automates tasks like printing labels, choosing carriers, tracking orders, and handling returns.
Why should I use shipping software for my UK eCommerce store?
It helps you save time, reduce shipping costs, and meet customer expectations with faster delivery and real-time tracking. It also connects easily with platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Amazon.
What’s the best free shipping software for small businesses?
Easyship offers free plans with basic features, making it a great starting point for UK sellers under 50 orders per month.
Can I use one shipping platform for multiple couriers?
Yes. Multi-carrier shipping software like Easyship, ShipStation, and 2Ship let you compare rates and ship with multiple carriers (e.g., Royal Mail, DPD, UPS) from one dashboard.
How does shipping software help with international orders?
It automates customs forms, duty calculations, and international tracking. Platforms like Easyship and MetaPack are great for managing cross-border shipping from the UK.