Your e-commerce glossary

All the terms you need to know to succeed in modern e-commerce, explained simply and clearly.

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What is Carrier?

A carrier is a logistics company responsible for transporting goods from the seller to the buyer in e-commerce.

Explanation

In e-commerce, a carrier refers to a shipping service provider that handles the physical transportation of products from warehouses or fulfillment centers to customers. Examples include FedEx, UPS, DHL, and USPS. Carriers manage delivery logistics, ensuring packages are shipped, tracked, and delivered efficiently to the end customer.

Importance

  • Efficient Deliver: Ensures timely transportation of products to customers.
  • Customer Trust: Reliable carriers enhance customer satisfaction and brand reputation.
  • Global Reach: Facilitates international shipping for businesses targeting global markets.
  • Cost Management: Competitive carrier rates impact profit margins and customer pricing.

How It Works

  • Carrier Selection: Businesses choose carriers based on their delivery requirements, such as speed, cost, or service area.
  • Label Generation: Shipping labels are generated with carrier-specific details for package identification and tracking.
  • Pick-Up or Drop-Off: Carriers collect packages from the seller or designated fulfillment centers.
  • Tracking: Customers and businesses can monitor package progress through tracking numbers provided by the carrier.
  • Delivery: The carrier delivers the package to the customer’s specified address.

Benefits

  • Scalable Logistics: Supports businesses in handling large order volumes.
  • Enhanced Customer Experience: Provides accurate delivery times and tracking updates.
  • Multiple Options: Businesses can offer customers a variety of shipping speeds and rates.
  • Seamless Integration: Many carriers integrate with e-commerce platforms like Shopify for streamlined operations.

Top Shopify Apps for Carrier Apps:

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Shipping Rates — MaveShip

- Supports multiple carriers for streamlined shipping operations.

- Allows bulk label generation and real-time tracking.

- Provides discounted shipping rates to save costs.

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PH MultiCarrier Shipping Label

- Integrates with major carriers like FedEx, UPS, and USPS.

- Offers automated label printing and rate calculations.

- Features advanced tracking for seamless customer updates.

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Easyship ‑ All in One Shipping

- Simplifies international shipping with pre-negotiated rates.

- Provides a shipping rules engine for better control.

- Supports duties and taxes calculation for global orders.