Migration Guides
Switching from ShipStation to ShipWave: Complete Guide
Step-by-step migration plan to eliminate subscription fees while improving carrier rates.
Why Switch from ShipStation?
Businesses switch from ShipStation to ShipWave for three main reasons: 1. Eliminate subscription fees ($14.99-$349.99/month with ShipStation vs $0/month with ShipWave). 2. Better carrier discounts (ShipWave offers up to 54% off USPS vs ShipStation's 40%). 3. Simpler pricing without shipment tiers or overage fees. Annual savings typically range from $120 to $1,900+ depending on your ShipStation plan.
What You'll Need to Migrate
Before starting your migration: ShipStation account credentials for data export. E-commerce platform logins (Shopify, Amazon, etc.). List of connected stores and marketplaces. Your return address and business information. About 30 minutes for initial setup. A few test orders to verify ShipWave is working. No technical skills required—the migration is straightforward.
Step 1: Create Your ShipWave Account
Start by creating a free ShipWave account: Visit shipwave.app and click "Start Shipping Free." Enter your email and create a password. Add your return address and contact information. No credit card required to get started. Your account is immediately active and ready to ship. This takes about 2 minutes.
Step 2: Connect Your Sales Channels
Connect the same stores you have in ShipStation: Shopify: Install the ShipWave app from the Shopify App Store. WooCommerce: Add the ShipWave plugin. Amazon: Connect via Seller Central authorization. eBay/Etsy: Link accounts through ShipWave dashboard. Orders will sync automatically once connected. You can run both ShipStation and ShipWave simultaneously during migration.
Step 3: Export Data from ShipStation
Export useful data from ShipStation: Addresses: Go to Addresses > Export to CSV. Download your address book for import into ShipWave. Product Weights/Dimensions: If you have products with saved weights, note these for ShipWave. Carrier Accounts: If using your own UPS/FedEx accounts, you can connect these to ShipWave too (or use ShipWave's negotiated rates). Most sellers find that connecting stores handles the majority of data—manual export is optional.
Step 4: Configure Shipping Settings
Set up your preferences in ShipWave: Package presets: Create presets for your common box sizes. Shipping rules: Set default carrier preferences if desired. Notifications: Configure customer tracking email templates. Printer: Ensure your label printer is connected (4×6 thermal recommended). ShipWave works with the same hardware you use for ShipStation—no new equipment needed.
Step 5: Run Both Platforms Simultaneously
Don't cancel ShipStation immediately. Instead: Week 1: Process some orders in ShipWave alongside ShipStation. Compare rates between platforms for the same shipments (ShipWave is typically cheaper). Verify order sync works correctly for all your stores. Week 2: Move more volume to ShipWave as confidence grows. This overlap period ensures zero disruption to your shipping operations.
Step 6: Compare Rates and Verify Savings
Confirm ShipWave's savings by comparing identical shipments: Print a quote in ShipStation and ShipWave for the same package. Note the difference—expect 10-30%+ savings on USPS. Track total savings over your test period. Most businesses see enough savings in week one to confirm the switch. Common result: $2-5 savings per USPS label, $1-3 savings per UPS label.
Step 7: Fully Transition to ShipWave
Once you're confident in ShipWave: Process all new orders through ShipWave. Stop using ShipStation for new labels. Keep ShipStation access temporarily for tracking old shipments. This transition can happen gradually or all at once—your choice.
Step 8: Cancel ShipStation Subscription
Cancel ShipStation to stop the monthly charges: Log into ShipStation > Account Settings > Subscription. Click "Cancel Subscription" or contact support. Be prepared: ShipStation often offers discounts to retain you. Decide in advance if any discount would change your mind (usually not—ShipWave's free model is hard to beat). Note: ShipStation doesn't make cancellation easy. You may need to call or chat with support.
Handling Historical Data
After switching: Old tracking numbers: Still accessible via carrier websites (USPS.com, UPS.com). ShipStation access: Most plans allow read-only access for 30 days after cancellation. Customer inquiries: Search tracking numbers directly on carrier sites. Export reports: Download any historical reports you need before canceling. ShipWave going forward: All new shipment history is stored in ShipWave.
Common Migration Questions
Will my customers notice the switch? No—labels and tracking work identically. Do I need to reconnect my carrier accounts? Optional. You can use ShipWave's pre-negotiated rates or connect your own accounts. What about automation rules? ShipWave has simpler automation. Most rules translate easily, though complex rules may need adjustment. Can I go back to ShipStation? Yes, but you probably won't want to once you see the savings.
FAQs
How long does it take to switch from ShipStation to ShipWave?
Initial setup takes about 30 minutes. Most businesses run both platforms for 1-2 weeks during transition, then fully switch. The entire process typically takes 2-3 weeks with zero shipping disruption.
Will I lose my shipping history when I leave ShipStation?
Your ShipStation history stays in ShipStation (read-only access usually available for 30 days after cancellation). New shipment history builds in ShipWave. Old tracking numbers remain accessible via carrier websites.
Do I need to tell my customers I'm switching?
No. Customers receive tracking emails and labels function identically. The switch is invisible to customers—only your shipping costs change (lower).
What if ShipWave doesn't have a feature I need?
Test during the parallel period. If something critical is missing, continue using ShipStation. However, most businesses find ShipWave covers all essential shipping features without the extras that inflate ShipStation's price.
How much will I save switching from ShipStation?
Direct savings: $120-$1,900/year in subscription fees. Rate savings: Additional $1-5 per label through better discounts. For a business shipping 500 packages/month, annual savings often exceed $2,000.
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