Shipping internationally can be a game-changer for ecommerce brands, opening doors to new markets and expanding customer bases beyond borders. However, handling international shipping is no small feat, especially for fast-growing direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands. With varying customs, shipping costs, and delivery times, it can feel like a maze. But fear not—Shopify apps are here to streamline the process and help you deliver a top-notch customer experience across the globe.

This article will guide you through the 10 best Shopify apps for international shipping in 2023. Whether you're a founder or a customer experience leader, these tools are designed to boost your operational efficiency while ensuring that your customers have a delightful shopping journey. So, let's jump right in and explore these fantastic options!

1. ShipStation: The All-Rounder

ShipStation is often the go-to choice for ecommerce businesses tackling international shipping. It offers a comprehensive suite of features that make shipping a breeze, no matter where your customers are. Here's why it stands out:

• Centralized Platform: ShipStation integrates with multiple carriers and marketplaces, giving you a centralized platform to manage all your orders.
• Automated Shipping: Set up automation rules to streamline shipping tasks, from selecting carriers to printing labels. This saves time and reduces the risk of errors.
• Customizable Branding: You can customize packing slips and emails to ensure a branded experience for your customers, reinforcing brand loyalty.

For a fast-growing DTC brand, managing time and resources is crucial. ShipStation's ability to automate and simplify shipping tasks allows you to focus on scaling your business and improving customer experience. Plus, with their reporting features, you gain insights into your shipping performance, helping you make informed decisions. It's like having an extra set of hands without the overhead costs!

2. Easyship: Simplifying Complexity

Easyship is another excellent option for international shipping. It simplifies the process by offering access to more than 250 shipping solutions worldwide. What does this mean for your brand? Let’s break it down:

• Transparent Pricing: Easyship provides accurate, upfront shipping costs, including taxes and duties, so there are no surprises for you or your customers.
• Global Fulfillment: With warehouses strategically located around the globe, Easyship helps you store and fulfill products closer to your customers, reducing shipping times.
• Automated Documentation: Automatically generate necessary shipping documents, ensuring compliance with international regulations.

The transparency and flexibility that Easyship offers can enhance trust with international customers, as they know exactly what they are paying for. This clarity can lead to increased conversion rates and fewer abandoned carts. And as a bonus, their dashboard is easy to navigate, making it suitable for ecommerce newcomers and veterans alike. The learning curve is minimal, so you can get started quickly and efficiently.

3. AfterShip: Tracking Made Easy

Customer experience doesn't end at checkout; it extends to delivery and beyond. AfterShip focuses on enhancing the post-purchase experience by providing reliable tracking information. Here’s how it can improve your customer relationships:

• Real-Time Tracking: AfterShip provides real-time updates, so your customers always know where their package is, reducing anxiety and support inquiries.
• Branded Tracking Pages: Create customized tracking pages that reflect your brand's look and feel, offering a cohesive experience from purchase to delivery.
• Automated Notifications: Send proactive email or SMS notifications to keep customers informed at every step of the delivery process.

By offering a seamless tracking experience, AfterShip helps build trust and encourages repeat purchases. Customers appreciate knowing exactly when their order will arrive, and this transparency can significantly boost your brand's reputation. Moreover, fewer "Where's my order?" inquiries mean your customer service team can focus on more complex issues, enhancing overall efficiency.

4. Shippo: The Budget-Friendly Option

For brands mindful of their shipping budget, Shippo offers a cost-effective solution without compromising on features. Here's what makes Shippo a great choice:

• Discounted Shipping Rates: Access discounted rates from a variety of carriers, helping you save on shipping costs.
• Flexible API: Shippo’s API allows for easy integration with your existing systems, making customization simple.
• Label Printing: Print shipping labels directly from the platform, streamlining your fulfillment operations.

For DTC brands operating on tight margins, every dollar saved on shipping can significantly impact profitability. Shippo’s pricing structure—paying only for what you use—means you can scale your shipping solutions as your business grows, without incurring unnecessary costs. Plus, their customer support team is known for being responsive, which is invaluable when dealing with international shipping complexities.

5. DHL Express Commerce: Speed and Reliability

If speed and reliability are at the forefront of your shipping strategy, DHL Express Commerce might be your best bet. Known globally, DHL offers a robust solution for international shipping needs:

• Global Reach: DHL’s extensive network ensures fast delivery to over 220 countries and territories.
• Express Shipping: Customers can opt for express shipping, which guarantees quicker delivery times.
• Integrated Customs Support: Benefit from DHL’s expertise in handling customs processes, reducing delays and ensuring compliance.

Offering express shipping can be a unique selling point for your brand, especially if your competitors are slower on delivery. Customers willing to pay a premium for faster shipping will appreciate the option, potentially increasing your average order value. Additionally, DHL's reputation for reliability means fewer lost or delayed packages, translating into happier customers and fewer complaints.

6. Sendcloud: Automation and Integration

Sendcloud provides a seamless solution to automate your shipping processes while integrating with various ecommerce platforms. This app shines in its ability to adapt to your workflow:

• Multi-Carrier Solution: Choose from a wide range of carriers, allowing you to select the best option based on destination and cost.
• Returns Management: Simplify the returns process with a self-service portal, enhancing customer satisfaction.
• Analytics and Reporting: Gain insights into your shipping performance, helping you optimize operations and reduce costs.

Automation is key for scaling operations, and Sendcloud’s ability to handle multiple carriers through one interface can save you a ton of time. By streamlining returns, you not only improve the customer experience but also encourage future purchases, as customers feel more secure knowing that returns are hassle-free. Plus, with detailed analytics, you can identify patterns and make data-driven decisions to enhance your shipping strategy.

7. Zonos: Handling Customs Like a Pro

Customs can be a major headache for international shipping, but Zonos aims to simplify this aspect. Here’s why Zonos is an asset for your business:

• Landed Cost Calculator: Provide your customers with accurate landed costs, including duties and taxes, at checkout.
• Customs Compliance: Ensure shipments meet international regulations, reducing the chance of delays.
• Localized Checkout: Offer customers a checkout experience in their local currency and language.

With Zonos, you can eliminate the surprise costs that often deter international sales. By being transparent about the total cost of an order, customers are more likely to complete their purchase, knowing there won't be unexpected fees upon delivery. This clarity can significantly reduce cart abandonment rates. Additionally, offering a localized checkout experience makes your brand more accessible to a global audience, removing barriers that might otherwise prevent a sale.

8. FlavorCloud: International Shipping Made Easy

FlavorCloud focuses on simplifying the complexities of international shipping, making it a strong contender for DTC brands looking to expand globally. Here's how it can help your business:

• One-Click International Shipping: Easily ship to over 200 countries with a single integration.
• Duties and Taxes Prepaid: Offer your customers the option to prepay duties and taxes, providing a better buying experience.
• Customs Clearance Support: Benefit from FlavorCloud’s expertise in navigating customs regulations.

FlavorCloud’s one-click shipping feature is a game-changer for brands unfamiliar with international logistics. By managing duties and taxes upfront, you offer a transparent shopping experience that builds trust and encourages global sales. And, by simplifying customs clearance, you reduce the likelihood of delivery delays, ensuring your customers receive their products on time. This reliability can lead to positive reviews and word-of-mouth referrals, further expanding your reach.

9. Borderless360: Comprehensive Logistics Solution

Borderless360 provides a full suite of logistics solutions, making it ideal for brands looking to optimize their international shipping processes. Here’s what makes it stand out:

• End-to-End Logistics: Manage everything from warehousing to last-mile delivery, ensuring a smooth process.
• Real-Time Inventory Management: Keep track of your stock levels across multiple locations, reducing the risk of over- or under-selling.
• Multi-Currency Support: Offer pricing in multiple currencies, enhancing the shopping experience for international customers.

For brands aiming for a holistic logistics approach, Borderless360 offers a comprehensive platform that covers all bases. By managing warehousing and delivery in one place, you can streamline operations and reduce overheads. The real-time inventory management feature is particularly useful for maintaining stock accuracy, minimizing the chances of disappointing customers with out-of-stock items. This app can be especially beneficial for brands experiencing rapid growth, as it scales with your business needs.

10. Postmen: Simplifying Label Generation

Postmen is all about simplifying the label generation process, making it easier to manage international shipments. Here’s how Postmen can enhance your shipping operations:

• API Integration: Seamlessly integrate with your existing systems, streamlining the label creation process.
• Carrier Support: Connect with over 60 carriers worldwide, giving you flexibility in shipping options.
• Free Shipping Labels: Generate shipping labels without any additional costs, reducing your overall expenses.

With Postmen, you gain the flexibility to choose from a wide range of carriers, ensuring you can always find the best shipping option for each order. The ability to generate labels for free can significantly cut down on costs, which is particularly important for startups and small businesses. By automating label generation, you reduce the risk of human error, ensuring packages are labeled correctly and reach their destination without a hitch. This reliability can enhance your brand’s reputation as a dependable and efficient business.

Final Thoughts

International shipping might seem daunting, but with the right tools, it becomes an opportunity for growth rather than a hurdle. From ShipStation's all-encompassing platform to Postmen's label generation simplicity, each of these Shopify apps offers something unique to help streamline your logistics and enhance customer experience. With these tools in your arsenal, you can confidently expand your reach and deliver exceptional service to customers worldwide.

On the note of enhancing your ecommerce operations, Fullcourt is a fantastic resource for fast-growing Shopify brands. This lightweight, affordable helpdesk combines essential customer experience tools in one intuitive platform. Features such as a shared team inbox, self-service live chat portal, knowledge base, and AI customer support assistant can help you manage customer inquiries with ease. By integrating Fullcourt, you can focus on what you do best—delivering quality products and exceptional customer service.