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Prior to COVID-19, brands built their fulfillment operations with the assumption that the status quo would last forever. Simply setting up a warehouse, working with a carrier and employing a well trained staff was enough to maintain timely delivery of products without much need to change.
If you’re reading this article, you probably know that assumption was wrong. Supply chain volatility, for better or worse, is now the norm. Traditional warehouses and their rigid processes no longer have what it takes to help brands thrive, driving warehouse operators to rethink how successful fulfillment can be possible under these new conditions.
While there is no single cure to every brand’s shipping struggles, many companies have adopted the overarching strategy of supply chain flexibility.
Supply chain flexibility refers to a fulfillment team's ability to rapidly respond and adapt to a changing supply chain environment. One of the biggest lessons learned throughout Covid-19 is that traditional warehouses were not equipped to handle the influx of orders or shipping bottlenecks that quickly became part of everyday life. Responding to new levels of customer demand, raw-material requirements or limited staff bandwidth can seem impossible when the same warehouse processes have carried on for years without adjustment.
With the goal of supply chain flexibility and agility in mind, brands of all sizes have been busy rethinking how they can best serve their customers without the benefit of predictability or stability on their side. To overcome this hurdle, and to ensure warehouses are prepped for any future surprises, new warehouse technologies are being utilized to anticipate erratic market conditions.
Every brand’s fulfillment requirements are a little different, and supply chain solutions that work for one company can look vastly different than the solutions of another.
Rather than finding a single tool or strategy that cures warehouse issues across the board, companies have tended to embrace a mix of tools that make day-to-day shipping a little less of a headache. Automated pick and pack systems, wearable technology and superior warehouse management software have risen to a new level of prominence as supply chain flexibility becomes more of a priority.
One way warehouses have minimized the physical demand on their staff is by investing in automated pick and pack systems, such as conveyor belts or collaborative robotics.
Conveyor systems, an affordable automation option, can really speed up the shipping process. Instead of walking to the item and then back to the packing station, your products can be automatically sent to the station of your choice. While this is a common practice in fulfillment centers, the large footprint and infrastructure requirements make conveyor systems less than ideal when aiming for a flexible supply chain.
Collaborative robots, on the other hand, provide a picking solution that can be altered at a much lower cost. Rather than spread out across the warehouse floor, these wheeled machines can be customized and instructed where to go and what to pick. If changes need to be made to the warehouse, collaborative robots are easy to reprogram and change.
The manual picking process is where a lot of mistakes can happen. These automation tools take the possibility of human error out of the equation, meaning no mis-ships and a happier pool of customers. With the superior reliability that comes with these adjustments, you’ll be able to guarantee order accuracy while saving money on correcting expensive returns.
Wearable technology in the warehouse has been around for a while, but never to the advanced level that we see today. Mobile label printing, smartphones and data capturing devices have removed the need for warehouse staff to be in a single location in order to stay connected and efficient. Now, workers can flow throughout the warehouse, completing multiple fulfillment tasks while on the move.
In a supply chain environment that demands flexibility, incorporating wearable technology can enhance the way your staff ships packages without changing much about the warehouse itself.
According to foodlogistics.com, integrating wearable technology doesn’t usually mean you’ll have to make changes to your warehouse’s layout. These tools can be highly customizable and can be programmed to fit most working environments.
However, some aspects of how you do fulfillment, such as data capture and software integrations, might need to be adjusted. Before deciding to move forward with these tools, it's important to get a clear understanding of how it can fit into your existing processes and whether it’s compatible with the tools you already have.
Modern warehouse management software can do a lot more than just help keep you organized. Quality inventory management, data capture and seamless multi-tool integrations are now required for a better shipping experience, and the right WMS can help your brand get there.
A sophisticated WMS goes a long way when it comes to supply chain flexibility. For example, when a product’s demand spikes, a WMS can provide recommendations on optimal storage strategies and updated replenishment timelines so that you’re never caught off guard. Understanding how your customers behave and interact with your online store can also reveal new and efficient delivery options.
By integrating your online store, your carriers and any other online tools to a WMS, you’ll be able to drastically improve your ability to leverage data and open up money saving opportunities.
The supply chain might be a bit unpredictable at the moment, but by taking the steps to ensure your fulfillment center is adaptable, your brand can stay competitive despite abrupt changes.
With new developments in automation, wearable technology and warehouse management software, supply chain flexibility is attainable without making expensive changes to your warehouse.
If you're looking for an agile fulfillment partner to help modernize your brand’s delivery process, contact the Fulfillment Experts at ShipHero today.
Click HERE to Schedule a Meeting Today
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If you're looking for the best 3PL companies in Canada, you've come to the right place. This article will introduce you to some of the top players in the industry and provide valuable insights into the world of third-party logistics in Canada.
Before going into the specifics, it’s important to understand what third-party logistics or 3PL is.
In simple terms, 3PL refers to the outsourcing of supply chain management functions to a specialized company. These companies handle various aspects of logistics like transportation, warehousing, and distribution on behalf of their clients.
By entrusting their logistics operations to a 3PL provider, businesses can focus on their core competencies while benefiting from the expertise and resources of the 3PL company. It's a win-win situation that has gained popularity across industries.
In the transportation arena, 3PL providers play a crucial role ensuring the smooth movement of goods from one location to another. They have extensive networks of carriers and can negotiate favorable rates that save their clients money. Additionally, 3PL companies have the expertise to optimize routes, track shipments in real-time, and handle any unexpected issues that may arise during transit.
Warehousing is another area where 3PL providers excel. Most have strategically located warehouses equipped with state-of-the-art technology and systems to efficiently store and manage inventory. This helps businesses reduce their warehousing costs and benefit from extra scalability and flexibility. With advanced inventory management systems, businesses have real-time visibility into their stock levels, ensuring timely replenishment and minimizing stockouts.
And beyond transportation and warehousing, 3PL provider services can include order fulfillment, packaging, labeling, and even customer support. By leveraging these additional services, businesses can enhance their overall supply chain operations and improve customer satisfaction.
A key advantage of partnering with a 3PL provider is access to their expertise and industry knowledge. 3PL companies are always up to date on the latest trends, regulations, and best practices in logistics. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations to optimize supply chain processes across many industries.
Another benefit of working with a 3PL provider is scalability. With a 3PL partner, businesses can easily scale up or down their logistics operations without significant investments in infrastructure or resources. They can adapt quickly to market demands and seize new opportunities.
In conclusion, third-party logistics, or 3PL is the outsourcing of supply chain management functions to specialized companies. These companies handle transportation, warehousing, and distribution on behalf of their clients, letting businesses focus on their core competencies. 3PL providers offer expertise, cost savings, scalability, and value-added services, making them an attractive option for businesses across industries.
To have a better understanding of how 3PL companies operate and the diversity of services they offer, consider reading our comprehensive overview of 3PL companies, which provides insights into selecting the right partner for your logistics needs.
In Canada, the 3PL market is vibrant and competitive. With its vast geographical area and robust trade relationships, the country presents numerous opportunities for logistics companies.
Canadian 3PL providers offer a wide range of services, catering to industries like retail, e-commerce, manufacturing, and healthcare. From managing inventory and order fulfillment to overseeing transportation networks, these companies play a vital role in the supply chains of businesses across the country.
The 3PL market in Canada is constantly evolving to meet the changing demands of businesses. As companies seek to optimize their supply chains and provide seamless customer experiences, the role of 3PL providers becomes increasingly important.
A Key factor driving this growth is the rapid expansion of e-commerce. As more and more Canadians turn to online shopping, businesses need efficient and reliable logistics solutions to fulfill customer orders quickly and accurately.
Canadian 3PL companies offer a comprehensive range of services to meet the specific needs of their clients. Common services include:
These services can be tailored to suit small startups, large corporations, and everything in between. By leveraging the expertise of 3PL providers, companies can streamline their operations and gain a competitive edge in the market.
To explore the specific services provided by third-party logistics providers and how they can transform your supply chain, explore our detailed discussion on 3PL services, offering a closer look at how these services streamline operations for businesses of all sizes.
Partnering with a 3PL company in Canada offers several benefits for businesses:
Overall, partnering with a 3PL company in Canada is transformative for businesses, offering a pathway to reduce operational costs, enhance efficiency, achieve scalability, maintain a focus on core business areas, and leverage expert insights.
These combined benefits create a formidable foundation for businesses to thrive and expand in the highly competitive Canadian marketplace.
Small and medium-sized enterprises seeking to capitalize on these benefits should explore our detailed guide on 3PL for small businesses. This resource is tailored to help smaller companies understand how to effectively utilize 3PL partnerships to enhance their logistics operations and support growth.
Several 3PL companies in Canada stand out for their industry expertise, reliability, and customer satisfaction::
Each of these 3PL companies in Canada brings its unique strengths to the table, from extensive national networks and fast delivery capabilities to specialized services and global reach. Choosing the right 3PL partner depends on a business’s specific logistics needs, growth goals, and the strategic value the 3PL can provide in facilitating efficient and effective supply chain operations.
If you're considering partnering with a 3PL company in Canada, here are a few steps to get started:
In conclusion, the best 3PL companies in Canada offer a range of services to optimize supply chains and fulfill the unique logistics needs of businesses. By partnering with a reputable 3PL provider, businesses can unlock new efficiencies, lower costs, and gain a competitive advantage in the Canadian market.
The cost of 3PL services in Canada varies based on factors such as the scope of services required, volume of shipments, and industry-specific needs. It's best to request quotes from multiple providers to get an accurate estimate.
Absolutely. 3PL providers offer scalable solutions, making them suitable for businesses of all sizes. Small businesses can leverage the expertise and resources of 3PL companies to optimize their logistics operations and compete more effectively in the market.
Choosing the right 3PL partner requires careful consideration. Look for companies with experience in your industry, a strong track record, and the ability to meet your specific requirements. Conducting thorough evaluations and interviews will help you gauge compatibility and make an informed decision.
Yes, many 3PL providers in Canada can handle international logistics. They can handle customs clearance, freight forwarding, and global transportation, ensuring a smooth flow of goods across borders.
Absolutely. Many 3PL companies in Canada specialize in niche industries, such as healthcare and pharmaceuticals. They have the necessary certifications, infrastructure, and experience to ensure compliance with industry regulations and safely handle critical goods.
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Many businesses turn to third-party logistics (3PL) companies for their shipping, warehousing, and fulfillment needs, but it can be overwhelming to choose the right 3PL provider for your business with so many available options. Any of these five 3PL companies would be a great place to start:
If you know what a 3PL is and why you might need it, then you have five places to start your search. If you don’t know much about 3PLs, keep reading.
Third-party logistics refers to the outsourcing of logistics activities to a specialized company. These companies handle tasks such as transportation, warehousing, inventory management, and order fulfillment on behalf of their clients. By partnering with a 3PL provider, businesses can streamline their supply chain processes and focus on their core competencies.3PL companies offer a wide range of transportation services. They generally have a network of carriers and can negotiate favorable rates for shipping goods. By road, air, rail, or sea, these companies have the expertise to ensure that products reach their destination efficiently and on time. They also handle all the necessary documentation and customs clearance, taking the burden off the businesses.Warehousing is another crucial aspect of logistics that 3PL companies excel in. They have strategically located warehouses equipped with the latest technology and infrastructure to store goods safely and efficiently. These warehouses are often equipped with advanced inventory management systems that allow businesses to track their inventory in real-time. This ensures that businesses always have visibility into their stock levels and can fulfill customer orders promptly.Inventory management is a complex task that requires careful planning and execution. 3PL companies have dedicated teams that specialize in managing inventory. They use sophisticated software systems to track stock levels, monitor expiration dates, and optimize storage space. By outsourcing this function to a 3PL provider, businesses can minimize the risk of stockouts and reduce carrying costs.Order fulfillment is the final step in the logistics process, and 3PL companies play a crucial role in ensuring orders get delivered accurately and on time. 3PL companies often have efficient order processing systems in place to handle everything from picking and packing to labeling and shipping. With their expertise, businesses can provide their customers with a seamless and reliable order fulfillment experience.Overall, partnering with a 3PL provider offers numerous benefits for businesses. It lets the business tap into the expertise and resources of a specialized logistics company, optimize their supply chain, and improve customer satisfaction. By outsourcing logistics activities, businesses can focus on their core competencies and gain a competitive edge in the market.If you're new to the concept of third-party logistics and curious about the breadth of services they offer, our comprehensive overview on 3PL services breaks down everything from warehousing to order fulfillment, equipping you with the knowledge to make informed decisions.
3PL companies come in all shapes and sizes, offering a wide range of services to cater to different business needs. While some 3PL providers specialize in specific industries or regions, others offer comprehensive solutions that can be tailored to any business. The top 5 best 3PL companies on our list have proven track records, extensive networks, and a reputation for delivering exceptional results.
eCommerce businesses, retailers, manufacturers, and distributors are among the industries that commonly use 3PL providers. Startups and small businesses often choose 3PL companies to handle their logistics needs so they themselves can focus on growth and core competencies. Larger corporations also benefit from outsourcing logistics tasks; they can streamline their operations and gain access to specialized expertise. Startups and small businesses often face unique challenges in logistics and supply chain management. Dive deeper into how a 3PL can be a game-changer for small businesses by visiting our detailed guide on 3PL services for small businesses, offering insights to streamline your operations and focus on growth.
The top 5 best 3PL companies mentioned above excel in certain core competencies that set them apart from their competitors. These core competencies include:
When choosing a 3PL provider, it is crucial to consider their fulfillment center locations and warehousing capabilities. The top 5 best 3PLs above have strategically located warehouses across the country, allowing for faster and more cost-effective shipping. These companies have invested in state-of-the-art warehousing facilities that prioritize efficiency, security, and scalability.
eCommerce businesses rely heavily on effective supply chain management to ensure timely order fulfillment. The top 5 best 3PL companies integrate seamlessly with popular eCommerce platforms such as Shopify, WooCommerce, and Amazon. They also support multiple sales channels, including marketplaces like eBay and social media platforms. By leveraging the capabilities of these 3PL providers, eCommerce businesses can enhance their customer experience and boost sales.
When selecting a 3PL provider, consider their track record of customer satisfaction. The top 5 best 3PL companies have a proven history of delivering a high level of service and exceeding customer expectations. They have earned positive reviews and testimonials from their clients, showcasing their commitment to excellence.
If you decide to partner with a 3PL provider, the onboarding process is generally straightforward. It typically involves:
By following these steps, you can start leveraging the benefits of 3PL services and optimizing your supply chain management.
While selecting a 3PL provider, avoid these common mistakes that can lead to poor service or unsatisfactory results:
By being aware of these common mistakes, you can make an informed decision and select a reliable and suitable 3PL provider.
The cost of 3PL services can vary depending on the volume of shipments, storage requirements, and the complexity of logistics operations. 3PL providers typically use a pricing structure that includes fixed costs like warehousing fees, and variable costs based on the services used. Carefully review the pricing details provided by potential 3PL providers so you know it aligns with your budget.
In conclusion, partnering with a reputable 3PL company can significantly optimize your supply chain and enhance your overall business operations. The top 5 best 3PL companies stand out due to their extensive networks, advanced technology, superior customer service, and customizable solutions. When choosing a 3PL provider, consider factors such as industry expertise, technology capabilities, and customer satisfaction. By avoiding common mistakes and understanding the pricing structure, you can make an informed decision and select the right 3PL provider for your business.
3PL stands for Third-Party Logistics. It refers to the outsourcing of logistics and distribution by companies to third-party firms that specialize in warehousing, transportation, and fulfillment services. These third-party providers manage all or a significant portion of a company's logistics functions, allowing businesses to focus on other areas without the need for extensive logistics infrastructure or expertise.
While it is not mandatory, utilizing a 3PL company can provide numerous benefits, particularly for businesses that require efficient supply chain management.
Consider factors such as reputation, industry expertise, technology capabilities, and customer satisfaction when selecting a 3PL provider. Additionally, ensure their services align with your specific business needs.
A 3PL Warehouse Management System (WMS) is a software solution that helps companies manage and optimize their warehouse operations. It provides a centralized platform for handling tasks such as inventory management, order fulfillment, shipping, and receiving.
It’s an essential tool for third-party logistics providers that lets them efficiently manage their clients' warehouse operations.
A key challenge third-party logistics providers face is managing the vast amount of inventory stored in their warehouses. The 3PL Warehouse Management System addresses this challenge by providing a comprehensive set of tools and functionalities to effectively manage and control warehouse operations.
At its core, the 3PL WMS is a software application that integrates with the existing warehouse infrastructure and automates various processes like inventory management, order fulfillment, and shipping. It provides real-time visibility into inventory levels. And it helps logistics providers optimize storage space and ensure accurate stock levels.
Moreover, the 3PL WMS enables efficient order processing by automating tasks like order picking, packing, and labeling. It provides warehouse staff with detailed instructions on how to fulfill each order, and this minimizes errors while improving overall productivity.
Another key feature of the 3PL WMS is its ability to track and trace goods throughout the warehouse. By using barcode scanning or RFID technology, the system can accurately track the movement of inventory from the moment it arrives at the warehouse to the moment it leaves for delivery.
Furthermore, the 3PL WMS offers advanced reporting and analytics capabilities. They can generate reports on key performance indicators like order accuracy, on-time delivery, and inventory turnover. This helps businesses identify areas for improvement.
In addition to these core functionalities, the 3PL WMS can be customized to meet the specific needs of different industries and clients. For example, it can support temperature-controlled storage for perishable goods or provide specialized picking algorithms for eCommerce fulfillment.
In conclusion, the 3PL Warehouse Management System is a powerful tool that enables third-party logistics providers to efficiently manage their clients' warehouse operations. By automating key processes and providing real-time visibility into inventory, the system helps improve productivity, accuracy, and customer satisfaction. It’s an indispensable asset for logistics providers in today's complex and competitive business environment.
To further understand the scope and benefits of third-party logistics, explore our detailed guide on 3PL services, which highlights how these services streamline operations and enhance efficiency.
Implementing a 3PL Warehouse Management System can bring numerous benefits to a company.
Firstly, it provides real-time visibility into stock levels and locations to reduce the risk of stockouts and minimize excess inventory.
Secondly, a 3PL WMS improves order fulfillment efficiency by automating processes like order picking and packing. This leads to faster order processing times and improved customer satisfaction.
Additionally, a 3PL Warehouse Management System lets companies optimize their warehouse space utilization. By providing insights into optimal storage locations and recommending efficient picking routes, it maximizes the storage capacity and minimizes unnecessary movement.
Lastly, a 3PL WMS enhances supply chain visibility by providing real-time tracking and reporting tools. This lets companies monitor the flow of goods, identify bottlenecks, and make data-driven decisions to improve overall efficiency.
Ecommerce businesses require specialized inventory management solutions to meet the dynamic demands of online retail. Learn more about ecommerce inventory management software that complements 3PL WMS for seamless integration and enhanced efficiency.
A good 3PL Warehouse Management System offers a range of features to support warehouse operations. These features include:
Choosing the right inventory management software is crucial for optimizing warehouse operations. Discover the best inventory management software options that can seamlessly integrate with 3PL WMS to provide comprehensive inventory control.
When considering a 3PL Warehouse Management System, it's important to assess the specific requirements of your business. Some key considerations include:
A key advantage of a 3PL Warehouse Management System is real-time visibility into warehouse operations.
Companies can access up-to-date information on inventory levels, order statuses, and overall performance at any time so businesses can quickly identify and address bottlenecks.
Following these steps will help you carefully plan and integrate a 3PL Warehouse Management System:
When choosing a 3PL Warehouse Management System, it's important to consider the following factors:
The cost of a 3PL Warehouse Management System can vary depending on factors like the size of your business, the features you want, and the vendor you choose. Some vendors offer pricing models based on the number of users or the volume of goods processed. Request quotes from different vendors and consider the long-term ROI when evaluating the cost of a 3PL WMS.
A 3PL WMS helps companies manage and optimize warehouse operations, including inventory management, order fulfillment, and reporting.
A 3PL Warehouse Management System can improve inventory accuracy, order fulfillment efficiency, warehouse space utilization, and supply chain visibility.
Key features include inventory tracking and management, order management, picking and packing optimization, real-time reporting tools, and system integration capabilities.
The cost varies depending on factors like the size of the business, desired features, and the vendor chosen. It's important to request quotes and consider long-term ROI.
The ShipHero Model Context Protocol (MCP) connects supported AI clients directly to your live ShipHero data, so warehouse teams can ask questions and get specific answers from their own account. It is built for day-to-day operational checks, including inventory levels, open orders, shipment status, holds, returns, purchase orders, and exceptions. For ShipHero customers, it is available at no additional charge and runs on existing API credits.
Every order, shipment, inventory movement, hold, return, and purchase order creates data inside ShipHero. Your warehouse information is right there, but getting to it can be a slow, complex process.
Before the ShipHero MCP, answering a specific operational question often meant logging in, finding the right report, applying the right filters, exporting data, or asking the one person on the team who knew where to look.
Even when the answer was simple, like a quick inventory check, it could turn into a 20 to 45 minute task. A customer question could sit half a day while someone pulled the right numbers. That delay adds friction to the floor. It slows decisions. It keeps teams waiting on data they already own.
The ShipHero MCP gives supported AI clients secure, read-only access to live ShipHero data.
That means operators can ask questions in plain English and get answers from their actual account, not from a generic help article or static knowledge base. A chatbot can tell you where to find a number. The ShipHero MCP can return the number itself.
It works with MCP-enabled AI clients, including Claude, ChatGPT, Cursor, and Codex. Connect it once, authenticate access, and your team can start asking operational questions from the AI tool they already use.
The workflow is simple:
The MCP does not replace ShipHero. It makes the data inside ShipHero easier to reach when your team needs a fast answer.
The ShipHero MCP is designed for everyday operational questions, such as:
If the data lives in your ShipHero account, the MCP gives your team a faster way to ask for it.
Speed matters, but safety matters too.
The ShipHero MCP is read-only by design. It can retrieve information from your account, but it cannot create orders, modify records, delete data, or change warehouse settings.
That gives teams a practical way to use AI for operational visibility without risking accidental account changes. Operators can ask. Managers can check. 3PL teams can answer client questions faster.
The data becomes easier to use, while the records stay protected.
For founders, the MCP can turn a quick inventory check into a simple question.
For operations leads, it can surface shipment status, holds, exceptions, and low-stock SKUs without digging through reports.
For 3PL operators, it can help answer client questions faster, using live account data instead of manual follow-up.
The result is a faster way to reach the information already inside ShipHero.
The ShipHero MCP is available to all ShipHero customers at no additional charge. It runs on existing API credits, so specific questions help keep usage efficient.
To get started, visit developer.shiphero.com or contact your ShipHero account representative.
ShipHero MCP is a read-only connection between supported AI clients and your live ShipHero data. It lets users ask operational questions in plain English and receive answers from their actual ShipHero account.
A chatbot usually answers from fixed, generic information. ShipHero MCP connects to live account data, so it can return specific answers about your orders, shipments, inventory, holds, returns, and other ShipHero records.
ShipHero MCP works with AI clients that support the Model Context Protocol, including Claude, ChatGPT, Cursor, and Codex.
No. ShipHero MCP is read-only. It can query data, but it cannot create, update, or delete records in your ShipHero account.
No. The MCP is built for operators and can be connected from a supported AI client in minutes. Developers may use more advanced tools for deeper analysis, but most day-to-day users can work directly with the MCP.
Yes. ShipHero MCP is available to ShipHero customers at no additional charge and runs on existing API credits.
Transitioning to a new Warehouse Management System (WMS) is a high-stakes decision that often triggers concerns regarding downtime, data integrity, and workforce adaptation. As warehouses prepare for 2026 growth, understanding these common hurdles—and the technical solutions that resolve them—is essential for a successful migration. This guide addresses the five primary barriers to adoption and how a high-velocity infrastructure ensures a seamless transition.
Warehouse operators frequently hesitate to upgrade due to perceived risks that can halt operations. These challenges typically include:
To clear these hurdles, a structured implementation strategy is used to prioritize data density and entity clarity.
In the competitive eCommerce landscape, staying stagnant with manual workarounds is often more costly than the transition itself. Moving to a high-velocity WMS converts your warehouse from a cost center into a growth engine by providing Labor Efficiency and ROI through automated routing and reduced authentication friction.
Because the platform is built for the floor worker, features like Workforce Hero allow seasonal temps and new staff to be authenticated and productive in under an hour.
No. High-velocity infrastructure increases visibility by providing Total Real-Time Control. Managers can monitor exactly what is in the Hospital queue and track replenishment in real-time from a single dashboard.
Before going live, a ground-up audit is performed using cycle counting tools. The system's architecture ensures that every movement on the floor is synchronized with sales channels instantly, maintaining 99.9% accuracy.
Picture a packer at Peak Season. A box is in front of them, a product in each hand, and somewhere on a cluttered desk there's a mouse they need to find to confirm the order. They look down. They hunt. They click. Then they do it again. Thousands of times a day.
That moment of friction is small. But it is never just one moment. Multiply it across your entire pack line, across an entire shift, and you are looking at a measurable and largely invisible drag on your total throughput.
Tap-to-Pack is a purpose-built hardware controller designed by ShipHero to eliminate digital friction at the packing station. It connects via USB-C, requires no drivers or additional software, and syncs automatically with the ShipHero WMS packing app. This new system is now available at the ShipHero Store.
Instead of navigating a screen with a keyboard and mouse, packers execute every high-frequency command — such as selecting box sizes, printing labels, finalizing orders, flagging exceptions — with a single physical tap on one of eight programmable buttons.
Key specifications:
Most warehouses are running 2026 operations on 1990s peripheral standards. The keyboard and mouse were designed for spreadsheets and emails, not high-volume fulfillment. When used at a packing station, they create three compounding problems:
The problem is not your people. It is the tools you are asking them to use.
Tap-to-Pack introduces a "Rodent-Free" packing standard: a workflow where the packer's hands stay on the product, their eyes stay on the work, and the software fades into the background.
The device guides the packer through two feedback systems:
ShipHero customers running Tap-to-Pack are already seeing a 90% reduction in on-screen interactions and a significant increase in the number of orders packed per hour, without adding headcount or changing their warehouse layout.
One of the hardest challenges in fulfillment is absorbing volume quickly, especially during Peak Season, when temporary staff need to reach target productivity fast.
Because Tap-to-Pack's interface is physical and intuitive, there is almost nothing to teach. Pick up the product, follow the light, tap the button. New packers can reach target productivity in minutes rather than hours.
The system is also modular:
Whether you are a growing DTC brand or a high-volume 3PL, Tap-to-Pack is designed so your hardware never becomes a ceiling on what your team can do.
Tap-to-Pack is a programmable, industrial-grade hardware controller that connects to the ShipHero WMS and allows warehouse packers to execute packing station commands, such as printing labels, selecting boxes, and completing orders. All with a single physical button press, eliminating the need for a keyboard and mouse.
The device connects via USB-C and syncs automatically with the ShipHero WMS packing app. It is a true plug-and-play solution: no drivers, no background software, and no manual configuration required.
Yes. Buttons are configurable for a range of packing actions, including Print Label, Complete Order, Select Box Size, and the Hospital function, which flags a problematic order and keeps the line moving without stopping to resolve it on screen.
The system is fully modular. Connect up to two additional 8-button hubs to the Main Hub for a total of 24 programmable buttons, supporting even the most complex multi-step packing workflows.
Tap-to-Pack devices require ShipHero Packing App v1.0 or higher. The current release is v1.1.0.
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