ShipStation Connect is a downloaded application that passes print jobs from your ShipStation account to your printer hardware. Think of it as the bridge between the ShipStation database and your printer workstations.
You are not required to use ShipStation Connect to print your documents from ShipStation, but it does make your printing process more efficient and versatile.
With ShipStation Connect, you can:
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Use fewer clicks to print labels and other documents.
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Print documents (labels, packing slips, etc.) from any computer on any network to the printer workstations that have ShipStation Connect installed.
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Print documents remotely using ShipStation Mobile.
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Share printers and scales with any and all users on your ShipStation account.
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Disable printers you do not wish to appear for users on your account.
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Manage printer workstation and device names separately from your OS device preferences, so devices have custom names within ShipStation.
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Pull shipment weights from USB scales with a single mouse click or barcode scan.
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Pull shipment weights and package dimensions from Cubiscan dimensioners.
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Assign a default printer for each document type so ShipStation automatically prints the document to the assigned printer and skips the printer selection screen.
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Track the print status of packing slips and labels per shipment using Smart Document Tracking.
To use ShipStation Connect, first install it on your printer workstation(s) and then register it using your ShipStation username and password. ShipStation Connect runs in the background and listens for any print commands from your ShipStation account. It then automatically routes the print job to the selected printer.
Once registered, you can manage your device settings in your ShipStation account Printer settings. In the ShipStation Connect Settings you can rename your workstations and devices, as well as share or disable specific devices for the users on your ShipStation account.
Looking for compatible labels or hardware? Visit the ShipStation Supplies Store for equipment that works seamlessly with your account.
ShipStation is compatible with thermal label printers that will print 4" x 6", 100mm x 150mm, and A6 (105mm x 148mm) labels, as well as standard desktop printers.
Unsupported Printers With ShipStation Connect
Certain printers and configurations are not currently supported when printing via ShipStation Connect.
ShipStation Support cannot troubleshoot issues that occur when using these printers with ShipStation Connect:
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Wireless and network printers. Printers should be connected to the printer workstation(s) via USB, though some wireless or network printers may work.
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Rollo label printers.
These limitations are specific to printing with ShipStation Connect. You may still use the Download PDF or Browser Print method to print documents to these printers from your ShipStation account. The label layout, printer preferences, and document options still apply regardless of your print method.
Common thermal label printers we've found to work well with ShipStation include DYMO, Zebra, and Brother label printers.
Each offers different advantages, and while any supported USB model that prints 4"x6" (approx. 101mm x 152mm) labels will work with ShipStation, it's important to find the best option for your business needs.
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Printer |
Description |
|---|---|
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DYMO LabelWriter |
The DYMO LabelWriter 4XL and 5XL (available at the ShipStation Supplies Store) printers are economical printers with a simple setup process. DYMOs self-calibrate, but do require DYMO-approved label rolls, otherwise they will not print properly. |
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ProLabel |
The ProLabel Express printer (available at the ShipStation Supplies Store) is a compact thermal printer that prints up to 50 4"x6" labels per minute and is supported on Windows and macOS. Available only in the US. |
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Zebra |
Zebra is arguably the leader in label printing, and they provide many models to suit different business needs. For merchants based in the US, the Zebra ZD220 (available at the ShipStation Supplies store) is a great option for most small-to-medium volume shippers. Zebra ZD420, Zebra GC420d, and the ZSB Series are also great for small-to-medium volume printing needs, while the Zebra ZT410 is a great fit for higher volume shippers. While Zebra printers have a more involved setup process and carry a slightly higher price tag than some other thermal label printer options, they more than make up for it with a high level of customization and powerful, precise printing. Zebra printers also support both fanfold and rolled labels. |
Thermal printers are worth the investment, especially as your volume increases since thermal printers do not require ink.
Check out our blog post for a more in-depth comparison of three of these brands!
ShipStation can print labels from 4X6 (100mm x 150mm), A6-sized sheets, up to an 8 1/2" x 11" sheet. If you print using a standard desktop printer, you can print the labels using plain paper. However, you also have options for self-adhesive labels and integrated labels.
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4" x 6" labels: If you are using a thermal label printer, be sure to check what type of labels are supported. The ShipStation Supplies Store has a variety of labels to meet your shipping needs.
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Self-Adhesive Labels: If you are using half sheet self-adhesive shipping labels be sure to set your label document options to the 8.5" x 11" option.
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Integrated Labels: if you are printing your packing slips with your shipping label and using integrated labels be sure to set your label document options to the 8.5" x 11" + Packing Slip option.
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Tabbed Labels (not supported): Labels must be a single continuous sheet to work properly with ShipStation. Because part of the postage label will print on the detachable portion, paper labels that include detachable tabs will not print correctly.