Choosing the right shipping method for an international Shopify store depends on factors like delivery speed, cost, tracking, carrier integrations, and customer experience. Below are the best options:
1. Shopify Shipping (Built-in Solution)
Best for: Small to mid-sized stores wanting discounted rates & easy integration.
Features:
- Pre-negotiated discounted shipping rates (UPS, DHL, USPS, Canada Post, etc.).
- Label printing directly from Shopify.
- International shipping support with customs forms.
- Real-time shipping rates at checkout.
Pros of Shopify Shipping:
- Simple setup – built into Shopify.
- No additional app needed.
- Discounted international shipping rates.
Cons of Shopify Shipping:
- Limited carrier options outside Shopify-supported regions.
- Not available in all countries.
Setup: Go to Shopify Admin > Settings > Shipping and Delivery.
2. DHL Express (Best for Fast International Shipping)
Best for: Fast, premium international shipping with full tracking.
Features:
- Express worldwide delivery (1-5 days).
- Full tracking & SMS/email updates.
- Integrated with Shopify Shipping (in select countries).
Pros of DHL Express:
- Reliable and fast international shipping.
- Built-in customs clearance support.
- Shopify integration available.
Cons of DHL Express:
- Higher shipping costs.
- May require business verification for an account.
Setup: Use Shopify Shipping or install DHL Express Commerce App.
3. FedEx (Best for Businesses with High-Volume International Sales)
Best for: Large businesses needing reliability & bulk discounts.
Features:
- Overnight & standard international delivery options.
- Custom shipping rates & contract discounts.
- FedEx One Rate (flat pricing).
- Advanced customs clearance.
Pros of FedEx:
- Reliable service with extensive global reach.
- Better bulk rates for high-volume stores.
- Shopify integration via FedEx Ship Manager.
Cons of FedEx:
- Expensive for small businesses.
- Requires a FedEx account to access rates.
Setup: Install FedEx Rates, Labels & Tracking App.
4. UPS (Best for Heavy & Large International Shipments)
Best for: High-value, heavy, or oversized shipments.
Features:
- Real-time tracking & express delivery.
- Custom brokerage support.
- Shopify integration via Shopify Shipping (USA only) or UPS app.
Pros of UPS:
- Best for large, heavy shipments.
- Discounted Shopify rates (if using Shopify Shipping).
- Extensive global coverage.
Cons of UPS:
- Higher pricing for low-volume shippers.
- Shopify integration limited to the USA.
Setup: Use Shopify Shipping (if available) or a third-party UPS app.
5. Easyship (Best for Multi-Carrier Shipping with Global Discounts)
Best for: Stores needing flexibility with multiple carriers & lower rates.
Features:
- Access to 250+ shipping carriers (DHL, FedEx, USPS, etc.).
- Pre-negotiated international shipping discounts.
- Automated customs declarations.
- Real-time rates at checkout.
Pros of Easyship:
Offers dynamic shipping rates from multiple carriers.
Automatic tax & duty calculations.
Integration with Shopify for label printing.
Cons of Easyship:
- Monthly fees for premium features.
- Some users report occasional delays in carrier rate updates.
Setup: Install the Easyship App from Shopify App Store.
6. ShipStation (Best for Automating International Fulfillment)
Best for: Businesses needing automated workflows & global carrier options.
Features:
Pros of ShipStation:
- Saves time with automation.
- Multi-carrier integration.
- Provides branded tracking pages.
Cons of ShipStation:
- Monthly subscription fee.
- Learning curve for new users.
Setup: Install ShipStation App from Shopify.
7. Passport Shipping (Best for Hassle-Free Global Expansion)
Best for: Brands expanding internationally without worrying about duties/customs.
Features:
- Fully managed international shipping.
- Prepaid customs & duties calculation.
- Easy returns handling.
Pros of Passport Shipping:
- Simplifies international shipping with a managed solution.
- No surprise fees for customers (duty prepaid options).
- Integrates with Shopify easily.
Cons of Passport Shipping:
- More expensive than self-managed carriers.
- Limited carrier selection.
Setup: Install Passport App from Shopify.
8. Sendcloud (Best for European-Based Shopify Stores)
Best for: Shopify stores in Europe needing local & international shipping.
Features:
- Access to DHL, DPD, UPS, Royal Mail, etc..
- Automatic label printing.
- Multi-carrier checkout options.
Pros of Sendcloud:
- Works well for EU-based businesses.
- Automates label printing & tracking.
- Competitive carrier rates.
Cons of Sendcloud:
- Limited availability outside Europe.
- Some features require paid plans.
🔗 Setup: Install Sendcloud App from Shopify.
9. Local Third-Party Couriers (Best for Specific Regions)
Best for: Regional shipping solutions based on your main markets.
Recommended Regional Couriers:
-
Australia → Australia Post, Sendle.
-
UK → Royal Mail, Evri (Hermes), DPD.
-
Canada → Canada Post, Canpar Express.
-
Asia → SF Express, Yamato Transport.
-
Middle East → Aramex, Fetchr.
Pros of Local Third-Party Couriers:
- More affordable than international couriers.
- Faster delivery within the region.
Cons of Local Third-Party Couriers:
- Less international reach.
Setup: Use Shopify Apps or API integrations with the courier.
10. Fulfillment Services (Best for Outsourcing Shipping)
Best for: Brands that want to outsource storage, packing, and shipping.
Best 3PL (Third-Party Logistics) Options:
Pros of Fulfillment Services:
- No need to handle storage & packing.
- Faster shipping times with fulfillment centers worldwide.
- Easy integration with Shopify.
Cons of Fulfillment Services:
- Additional storage & handling fees.
Setup: Sign up for a 3PL service & integrate with Shopify.
