In the vibrant and fast-paced world of Australian ecommerce, choosing the right shipping company can be the game-changer that propels your business to success. With a variety of options at your fingertips, it’s crucial to choose a partner that not only meets your operational needs but also delights your customers, especially when you need shipping software built for ecommerce businesses rather than just a courier service. Many teams comparing providers closely weigh shipping rates and options, especially when local delivery performance matters. While both Easy Ship and Zappy offer solid shipping solutions, Zappy's focus on local and regional growth is hard to pass over as a top choice.
Exploring the Key Differences
Target Market: Ecommerce Businesses
Easy Ship primarily targets global shipping and is a fantastic option for ecommerce businesses that need international shipping, multi-carrier shipping, and multi-carrier support across a wider channel mix. It gives sellers the ability to buy and print shipping labels, connect sales channels and carrier accounts, compare shipping rates and carrier rates, and manage shipping operations, shipments, delivery workflows, and broader shipping needs from one platform. However, if your business thrives in Australia or New Zealand, Zappy is your ideal ally, especially for small businesses focused on those markets. With its strong local focus, Zappy is specifically designed to deliver your products swiftly and efficiently to your customers in these regions, while larger Amazon or eBay sellers may prioritise broader global coverage.
Courier Network and Own Carrier Accounts
Easy Ship boasts an extensive network of over 550 couriers, including renowned names such as FedEx and DHL. As a multi-carrier platform, it lets merchants connect multiple carrier accounts and access broader shipping options for wider delivery coverage. Zappy excels in providing exceptional service through major regional carriers and local shipping networks. Platforms like Easy Ship simplify booking, help teams manage shipments more efficiently, and make it easier to compare carrier rates across carriers. In contrast, local networks can improve first-time delivery success through parcel lockers and other Out-of-Home methods. This means shorter shipping times and more personalised service, giving Zappy users a great experience and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Pricing Structure and Shipping Rates
Let's talk about pricing. Unlike Easy Ship, which operates on a tiered subscription model with recurring fees and additional shipping costs, Zappy offers its users 100% free software. Its price is easier to evaluate because there are no subscription fees to access the platform, no hidden fees buried in the workflow, and merchants still get discounted rates through their chosen carriers.
Easy Ship’s Premier plan costs $69 per month, while Zappy keeps the software free and charges only when you buy postage. For comparison, other subscription-based services, such as ShipStation, start at $14.99/month for 50 shipments; ShippingEasy starts at $19.99/month for 200 shipments; and AfterShip starts at $19/month for small businesses. As your volume grows, these prices can become a real issue for your budget, particularly if you're a small business experiencing growth. With Zappy, you can save up front and avoid charges that eat into your money later.
Key Strengths
While Easy Ship is undoubtedly proficient at navigating cross-border logistics and tackling customs complexities, Zappy makes it easier for you with its accessible tools and fantastic human support. But international shipping also depends on accurate commercial invoices and HS codes to avoid delays, and Easy Ship's HS codes sometimes mismatch on international shipments. With seamless integrations with platforms such as Shopify, Amazon, and WooCommerce, Zappy simplifies the shipping process and supports order management across channels.
Some platforms also include inventory management or basic inventory features, while others focus mainly on shipping operations. Plus, their local support team is available in your time zone, ready to tackle any issues as they arise, ensuring your business runs smoothly without any hiccups. For businesses that need API access or a shipping API to connect custom workflows or own carrier accounts, that ability can matter just as much as support.
Why Choose Zappy?
Finding the right shipping partner really boils down to your business model, customer base, and shipping operations. If you are a small business comparing Easy Ship alternatives, with operations based in Australia or New Zealand, and you’re looking for an efficient, hassle-free shipping solution, look no further than Zappy! Here’s why Zappy is the clear champion:
- Local Expertise: With a deep understanding of regional logistics, Zappy delivers unparalleled service tailored to Australian and New Zealand markets. Micro-fulfilment centres can reduce shipping distances, and eco-friendly packaging can support sustainability goals where relevant. Alternatives to traditional postal services can also improve local order speed, with same-day delivery available in some cases.
- Instant Discounts: Forget lengthy negotiations! Zappy offers immediate discounts on regional shipping, a huge win for cost-conscious businesses. Third-party shipping aggregators often provide cheaper rates than postal services, helping merchants save money, and peer-to-peer shipping platforms can be a lower-cost, simpler option in some cases.
- No Subscription Hassles: Zappy’s free software means new and small enterprises can keep overheads low while enjoying top-notch shipping solutions. Product consolidation and cubic weight optimisation can significantly reduce per-unit shipping costs.
- Outstanding Support: Thanks to a dedicated local support team that is always ready to assist, you can swiftly resolve any shipping challenges and keep your customers happy.
Find Your Easy Ship Alternative in Zappy
While Easy Ship offers valuable solutions for businesses with an international vision, it’s clear that Zappy is the ultimate choice for thriving ecommerce operations in Australia. With its local expertise, simple pricing structure, and unwavering support, Zappy provides a flexible and scalable solution tailored for regional success. For businesses with more complex returns workflows, returns management, and branded returns, Zappy offers streamlined services and human support to keep your customers happy and shipments on track.
If you're looking to streamline your shipping processes and navigate the Australian market seamlessly, Zappy is the partner you want on your side as you grow.
Getting started is easy. Simply contact us or sign up with Zappy, and let us take the hassle out of your shipping process today.