Quick Overview
- 1#1: ShipStation - Cloud-based multi-carrier shipping software that automates label creation, tracking, and order fulfillment for e-commerce shipping and receiving.
- 2#2: Fishbowl Inventory - Comprehensive inventory management system with advanced tools for warehouse shipping, receiving, picking, and packing.
- 3#3: ShipHero - Warehouse management software designed to streamline e-commerce shipping, receiving, inventory tracking, and order fulfillment.
- 4#4: Cin7 - Omnichannel inventory platform that integrates shipping, receiving, and order management across sales channels.
- 5#5: DEAR Inventory - Cloud ERP for SMBs featuring automated purchasing, shipping, receiving, and inventory control.
- 6#6: Zoho Inventory - Inventory management tool that handles shipping labels, barcode scanning for receiving, and multi-channel order syncing.
- 7#7: Ordoro - Multi-channel platform for inventory synchronization, automated shipping, and efficient receiving workflows.
- 8#8: ShippingEasy - E-commerce shipping software that simplifies rate shopping, label printing, and shipment tracking for inbound and outbound logistics.
- 9#9: Shippo - API-driven shipping platform enabling discounted rates, label generation, and real-time tracking for shipping and returns.
- 10#10: Extensiv - Cloud WMS for 3PLs and warehouses with robust features for receiving, putaway, shipping, and inventory visibility.
We ranked these tools based on feature depth, user experience, integration potential, and overall value, ensuring they deliver robust solutions for e-commerce, 3PLs, and SMBs alike.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines leading shipping receiving software tools, including ShipStation, Fishbowl Inventory, ShipHero, Cin7, and DEAR Inventory, highlighting their key features and functionalities. It provides readers with clear insights to evaluate and select the right solution based on their business needs, such as order processing, inventory management, and logistics efficiency.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ShipStation Cloud-based multi-carrier shipping software that automates label creation, tracking, and order fulfillment for e-commerce shipping and receiving. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Fishbowl Inventory Comprehensive inventory management system with advanced tools for warehouse shipping, receiving, picking, and packing. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | ShipHero Warehouse management software designed to streamline e-commerce shipping, receiving, inventory tracking, and order fulfillment. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | Cin7 Omnichannel inventory platform that integrates shipping, receiving, and order management across sales channels. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | DEAR Inventory Cloud ERP for SMBs featuring automated purchasing, shipping, receiving, and inventory control. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | Zoho Inventory Inventory management tool that handles shipping labels, barcode scanning for receiving, and multi-channel order syncing. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 7 | Ordoro Multi-channel platform for inventory synchronization, automated shipping, and efficient receiving workflows. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | ShippingEasy E-commerce shipping software that simplifies rate shopping, label printing, and shipment tracking for inbound and outbound logistics. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Shippo API-driven shipping platform enabling discounted rates, label generation, and real-time tracking for shipping and returns. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 10 | Extensiv Cloud WMS for 3PLs and warehouses with robust features for receiving, putaway, shipping, and inventory visibility. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.4/10 |
Cloud-based multi-carrier shipping software that automates label creation, tracking, and order fulfillment for e-commerce shipping and receiving.
Comprehensive inventory management system with advanced tools for warehouse shipping, receiving, picking, and packing.
Warehouse management software designed to streamline e-commerce shipping, receiving, inventory tracking, and order fulfillment.
Omnichannel inventory platform that integrates shipping, receiving, and order management across sales channels.
Cloud ERP for SMBs featuring automated purchasing, shipping, receiving, and inventory control.
Inventory management tool that handles shipping labels, barcode scanning for receiving, and multi-channel order syncing.
Multi-channel platform for inventory synchronization, automated shipping, and efficient receiving workflows.
E-commerce shipping software that simplifies rate shopping, label printing, and shipment tracking for inbound and outbound logistics.
API-driven shipping platform enabling discounted rates, label generation, and real-time tracking for shipping and returns.
Cloud WMS for 3PLs and warehouses with robust features for receiving, putaway, shipping, and inventory visibility.
ShipStation
specializedCloud-based multi-carrier shipping software that automates label creation, tracking, and order fulfillment for e-commerce shipping and receiving.
Automation Rules engine for no-code customization of order import, shipping, and receiving workflows
ShipStation is a leading shipping and fulfillment platform that automates order management, label printing, and tracking for e-commerce businesses across multiple sales channels. It excels in outbound shipping with support for over 100 carriers and integrates seamlessly with platforms like Shopify, Amazon, and WooCommerce. For receiving, it offers purchase order creation, inventory receiving tools, and stock level syncing to handle inbound operations efficiently.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with 165+ e-commerce platforms and 100+ carriers
- Powerful automation rules for batch processing and custom workflows
- Robust inventory management including PO receiving and real-time syncing
Cons
- Pricing scales steeply with shipment volume
- Advanced warehouse features lag behind dedicated WMS tools
- Occasional integration sync delays reported by users
Best For
Mid-to-large e-commerce businesses managing high-volume shipping and receiving across multiple channels.
Pricing
Starts at $9.99/mo (Starter, up to 50 shipments), up to $229.99/mo (Platinum, 12,500 shipments) or custom Enterprise; discounts for annual billing.
Fishbowl Inventory
enterpriseComprehensive inventory management system with advanced tools for warehouse shipping, receiving, picking, and packing.
Unrivaled QuickBooks-native integration for automatic order-to-inventory syncing during shipping/receiving
Fishbowl Inventory is a robust warehouse management system designed for precise control over inventory, shipping, and receiving processes. It supports barcode scanning, real-time tracking across multiple locations, and automated workflows for picking, packing, and shipping orders. With deep integration to QuickBooks and major carriers like UPS and FedEx, it streamlines operations for distributors and manufacturers handling high-volume shipments.
Pros
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for real-time inventory and financial syncing
- Advanced barcode/RFID support for efficient receiving and shipping workflows
- Multi-location inventory management with cycle counting and lot tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users due to extensive customization options
- Higher upfront costs compared to simpler cloud-only alternatives
- On-premise deployment requires IT resources for setup and maintenance
Best For
QuickBooks-using SMBs and mid-sized warehouses needing advanced shipping/receiving automation.
Pricing
Quote-based; on-premise licenses start at ~$4,395 one-time + annual maintenance (~20%); cloud subscriptions from $500/month.
ShipHero
specializedWarehouse management software designed to streamline e-commerce shipping, receiving, inventory tracking, and order fulfillment.
Wave planning and fulfillment optimization that dynamically groups orders to minimize warehouse travel time and errors
ShipHero is a robust cloud-based warehouse management system (WMS) designed for e-commerce and 3PL businesses, specializing in streamlined shipping and receiving workflows. It provides real-time inventory tracking, automated picking and packing, multi-carrier shipping integrations, and advanced receiving processes to handle high-volume operations efficiently. With support for multiple sales channels like Shopify, Amazon, and Walmart, it scales seamlessly for growing warehouses.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with e-commerce platforms and 100+ carriers for seamless shipping
- Advanced automation like wave picking and dynamic slotting to optimize receiving and fulfillment
- Real-time inventory visibility and detailed analytics for better decision-making
Cons
- High cost makes it less accessible for small businesses
- Steep learning curve and lengthy onboarding process
- Customization often requires developer support
Best For
Mid-sized e-commerce brands and 3PL providers with high-volume shipping and receiving needs seeking scalable warehouse automation.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting around $2,000/month for Voyager plan, scaling with order volume and features; enterprise tiers available.
Cin7
enterpriseOmnichannel inventory platform that integrates shipping, receiving, and order management across sales channels.
700+ native integrations for end-to-end automation from receiving stock to multi-carrier shipping fulfillment
Cin7 is a comprehensive cloud-based inventory and order management platform designed for multi-channel retailers, with strong capabilities in shipping and receiving through automated purchase order processing and stock intake. It integrates with over 700 apps, including major carriers like UPS, FedEx, and Australia Post, enabling seamless label generation, tracking, and fulfillment. The software supports multi-location inventory tracking, making it ideal for businesses scaling their warehouse operations beyond basic shipping needs.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with shipping carriers and e-commerce platforms for automated workflows
- Real-time multi-warehouse inventory visibility during receiving and shipping
- Robust purchase order management with supplier portals and stock adjustments
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its comprehensive feature set
- Higher pricing may not suit small-scale shipping operations
- Customization requires technical setup for advanced shipping rules
Best For
Mid-sized multi-channel retailers needing integrated inventory control alongside shipping and receiving across multiple locations.
Pricing
Starts at $349/month for Core plan (billed annually), scaling to $649/month for Omni; custom Enterprise pricing available.
DEAR Inventory
specializedCloud ERP for SMBs featuring automated purchasing, shipping, receiving, and inventory control.
Landed cost tracking that automatically allocates shipping, duties, and fees during receiving for precise inventory valuation.
DEAR Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management solution that streamlines shipping and receiving for small to medium businesses through automated purchase order processing, stock receiving, and order fulfillment workflows. It offers real-time inventory tracking across multiple locations, pick/pack/ship modules, and seamless integrations with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and accounting tools like Xero. Ideal for handling complex supply chains, it supports serialized and batch inventory for precise receiving and shipping accuracy.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with e-commerce, accounting, and carriers like ShipStation
- Real-time multi-location inventory visibility for accurate receiving and shipping
- Advanced pick/pack/ship workflows with batch and serial tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature-rich interface
- Pricing scales quickly with order volume, less ideal for very small operations
- Some advanced shipping automations require third-party add-ons
Best For
SMBs with multi-channel sales needing robust inventory control for receiving from suppliers and shipping to diverse customers.
Pricing
Subscription tiers starting at $99 USD/month for 100 orders/month, scaling to $599+/month for higher volumes and advanced features.
Zoho Inventory
specializedInventory management tool that handles shipping labels, barcode scanning for receiving, and multi-channel order syncing.
Seamless multi-channel order fulfillment that automatically syncs inventory across marketplaces like Amazon, Shopify, and eBay.
Zoho Inventory is a cloud-based inventory management platform that excels in handling shipping and receiving processes, including purchase order fulfillment, stock receiving via barcode scanning, and outbound shipping with label generation. It supports multi-warehouse operations, real-time inventory tracking, and seamless integrations with carriers like UPS, FedEx, and USPS. Ideal for businesses needing end-to-end order management tied to inventory control.
Pros
- Strong integrations with e-commerce platforms and carriers for streamlined shipping
- Multi-warehouse support and barcode scanning for efficient receiving
- Affordable pricing with a free tier for small operations
Cons
- Interface can feel cluttered with a steeper learning curve for beginners
- Limited advanced automation compared to dedicated shipping tools
- Reporting and analytics lack depth for complex shipping needs
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses with multi-channel sales needing integrated inventory and shipping management.
Pricing
Free for up to 20 online store orders/month; paid plans from $29/month (50 orders) to $199/month (Enterprise).
Ordoro
specializedMulti-channel platform for inventory synchronization, automated shipping, and efficient receiving workflows.
Advanced bundling and kitting engine for handling complex product assemblies during shipping and receiving
Ordoro is an inventory management and fulfillment platform tailored for e-commerce businesses, excelling in shipping and receiving workflows. It automates purchase orders, inventory receiving, and multi-carrier shipping labels while syncing stock across channels like Shopify, Amazon, and eBay. With multi-warehouse support, it helps scale operations by minimizing stockouts and streamlining order processing.
Pros
- Extensive carrier integrations (UPS, FedEx, USPS) for automated shipping
- Robust purchase order and receiving tools with barcode scanning
- Multi-warehouse inventory syncing prevents overselling
Cons
- Dated interface requires adjustment period
- Pricing scales quickly with order volume
- Limited advanced analytics compared to top competitors
Best For
Mid-sized e-commerce sellers managing multiple warehouses and sales channels who need reliable shipping and receiving automation.
Pricing
Starts at $59/month (Starter, up to 500 orders), up to $1,000+/month for Enterprise; billed annually with volume-based tiers.
ShippingEasy
specializedE-commerce shipping software that simplifies rate shopping, label printing, and shipment tracking for inbound and outbound logistics.
Real-time rate shopping across 50+ carriers to automatically select the cheapest and fastest shipping options.
ShippingEasy is a cloud-based multi-carrier shipping platform designed primarily for e-commerce businesses to automate outbound shipping processes. It integrates seamlessly with platforms like Shopify, Amazon, eBay, and over 50 sales channels, enabling order import, rate comparison across major carriers (USPS, UPS, FedEx), batch label printing, and shipment tracking. While it offers basic inventory syncing and returns management, its receiving capabilities are limited compared to full warehouse management systems.
Pros
- Seamless integrations with 50+ e-commerce platforms and carriers
- Automated rate shopping to find the lowest shipping costs
- Batch processing and workflow automation for high-volume shippers
Cons
- Limited inbound receiving and advanced inventory management tools
- Pricing tiers scale steeply with shipment volume
- Occasional glitches in order syncing during peak seasons
Best For
Small to medium e-commerce businesses focused on efficient outbound shipping and order fulfillment from multiple sales channels.
Pricing
Starts at $29/month (Starter, up to 500 shipments), $49/month (Gold, 1,500 shipments), $119/month (Platinum, 5,000 shipments); 30-day free trial.
Shippo
specializedAPI-driven shipping platform enabling discounted rates, label generation, and real-time tracking for shipping and returns.
Universal Shipping API that connects to any carrier without needing separate integrations
Shippo is a versatile shipping API and platform that simplifies label creation, rate shopping, and tracking across 85+ carriers including USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL. It integrates seamlessly with e-commerce platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce, offering discounted rates and address validation for efficient outbound shipping. While primarily focused on shipping, it supports basic receiving through returns management and tracking updates.
Pros
- Multi-carrier support with real-time discounted rates
- Easy API integration for developers and e-commerce platforms
- Pay-as-you-go pricing with no volume commitments
Cons
- Limited advanced receiving and inventory management tools
- Interface can feel developer-oriented for non-technical users
- Customer support slower on lower tiers
Best For
Small to mid-sized e-commerce businesses focused on cost-effective outbound shipping and returns handling.
Pricing
Free to start with pay-per-label (from $0.05/label with volume discounts); Pro plan at $10/mo + labels; Enterprise custom pricing.
Extensiv
enterpriseCloud WMS for 3PLs and warehouses with robust features for receiving, putaway, shipping, and inventory visibility.
Multi-client billing and isolated inventory management, allowing 3PLs to handle segregated shipping/receiving for numerous customers seamlessly
Extensiv is a cloud-based warehouse management system (WMS) tailored for third-party logistics (3PL) providers, offering robust tools for shipping and receiving operations. It provides real-time inventory visibility, automated workflows for inbound receiving with ASN support, and outbound shipping integrations with major carriers like UPS, FedEx, and DHL. The platform excels in multi-client environments, enabling accurate order fulfillment, label generation, and tracking across distributed warehouses.
Pros
- Strong multi-tenant support for 3PLs managing multiple clients' shipments
- Seamless integrations with 100+ carriers and e-commerce platforms for efficient shipping/receiving
- Real-time dashboards and mobile RF scanning for accurate inventory handling
Cons
- Complex initial setup and customization requiring IT involvement
- Pricing is quote-based and can be costly for small operations
- Overkill for businesses needing only basic shipping/receiving without full WMS
Best For
Mid-sized 3PL providers or warehouses handling high-volume, multi-client shipping and receiving with complex inventory needs.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $500–$1,000 per month per warehouse depending on size, users, and features.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools each bring distinct advantages, with ShipStation leading as the top choice due to its robust automation for multi-carrier shipping and seamless order fulfillment. Fishbowl Inventory stands out for its comprehensive warehouse management features, perfect for those needing advanced inventory control, while ShipHero excels in streamlining e-commerce workflows with tight integration across shipping and receiving. Together, these options cater to diverse operational needs, ensuring efficient logistics for businesses of all sizes.
Ready to enhance your shipping and receiving efficiency? Try ShipStation today to unlock automated label creation, tracking, and fulfillment that simplifies your workflow and sets your operations up for success.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison