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ShipStation Product Glossary

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ShipStation Content Team

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A list of terms used throughout the product help guides and their definitions as they relate to ShipStation.

ShipStation Terms

A summary of commonly used ShipStation and other shipping-related terms.

A geographical deciding factor Jet.com uses to determine which seller is selected to ship to a customer.

Action Menu

A menu bar containing buttons that trigger either specific actions on selected products or some other function within the Products tab.

ad hoc batch

A batch created in ShipStation when you create labels for multiple orders without first adding them to a normal batch. With ad hoc batches, ShipStation creates a batch in the background to process the shipments in a single action, and that allows you to print the labels all at once. Ad hoc batches are numbered and can be found in Shipments > Batches for further review.

aggregate

An aggregate is a whole formed or calculated by combining several separate units, items, or elements into one total.

Allocation

The process of reserving inventory units for your orders in the Awaiting Shipment status, so you are always certain you have enough Available stock.

This process is a core component of our native Inventory Management solution because it clarifies the difference between the stock you have on hand ('Stock'), the stock you need to ship your open orders ('Allocated'), and the remaining stock you have available to sell ('Available').

Allocation Strategy

Your Allocation Strategy determines how ShipStation reserves (i.e. allocates) inventory for your Awaiting Shipment orders.

By default, ShipStation allocates inventory for your oldest orders first. But, if you've got reasons to prioritise some orders over others, then it's best to set up a custom allocation strategy with 'tasks' that match those priorities.

Ancillary Service Endorsement (ASE)

Ancillary Service Endorsements serve to request an addressee’s new address and to provide the carrier, courier, postal service, or other shipping provider with instructions on how to handle undeliverable-as-addressed pieces of mail.

Use of an ancillary service endorsement on a mailpiece obligates the mailer to pay any applicable charges for forwarding, return, and separate address notification charges.

API

API stands for Application Program Interface. It's a set of protocols for applications (like ShipStation) to communicate and share information with other applications or platforms.

API connections are also custom-built by developers, but they work in the opposite way that selling channel integrations work. Instead of ShipStation initiating communication to the selling channel (i.e. requesting orders), the API instead has “keys” to ShipStation and pushes those orders into a ShipStation manual store, without ShipStation having to do anything except allow it.

ASIN

ASIN stands for Amazon Standard Identification Number. It's a unique block of 10 letters and/or numbers that identify your Amazon items. Find the ASIN on the item's product information page at Amazon.com. For books, the ASIN is the same as the ISBN number, but for all other products, a new ASIN is created when the item is uploaded to Amazon's catalog.

ASINs can be used to search for items in Amazon's catalog. If you know the ASIN or ISBN of the item you are looking for, simply type it into the search box (which can be found near the top of most pages), hit the Go button and, if the item is listed in Amazon's catalog, it will appear in your search results. For example, the ASIN for Hasbro's Monopoly game is B00005N5PF. Source

Automated Package Verification (APV)

The United States Postal Service (USPS) built the Automated Package Verification (APV) system to manage postage discrepancies (under-paid and over-paid postage labels) in an automated fashion. The APV system considers postage paid on every domestic package, based on weight, dimensions, package type, mailing service, and the origin and destination ZIP codes.

Barcode listening

A mode wherein the scanner actively 'listens' or looks to accept barcode scans.

Search listens can be set for ShipStation orders in particular statuses. Found orders can be processed to Just display, Ship the order(s), Add order(s) to a new batch, or Add order(s) to an existing batch. Hotkey: Ctrl + Shift + s . Hotkey for Mac, use Cmd + Shift + s instead.

Barcode Scan Search pop-up menu.

Barcode Listening is a ShipStation Legacy only feature.

Branded Returns Portal (BRP)

The Branded Returns Portal is a webpage with your custom store branding where your customers can create their own return labels, without the need to contact you. Think of it as self-service returns.

CN22 Form (CN22)

A customs declaration form required for international shipping, especially for packages coming from or destined for outside of the EU. These forms contain information about the goods you are shipping, including which goods are packaged inside your parcel, their value, names of the shipper and receiver, and any parties involved in the shipping. Customs authorities use these forms to determine taxation, import duties, security, public health, and environmental protection.

These documents are scanned, and if descriptions inaccurately relate the contents, you may be fined for up to 100% of the merchandise value.

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Check with your national tax authority for an overview of all EU countries. Also, take note of any regions where exceptions may apply. Some regions within the EU are not part of the EU customs zone, but shipments to these regions are still subject to customs control. Thus, you must always include a CN22 or CN23 customs declaration with them.

Utiliser Étiquette verte CN22 avec Envois postaux (petits envois) de valeur inférieure ou égale à 380 euros.

NOTE: You can substitute a CN23 for a CN22, but not the other way around.

Attention : les formulaires postaux CN22 et CN23 ne peuvent être utilisés pour des envois dont la valeur dépasse 1 000 €. À partir, de ce montant, une déclaration en douane sera établie et déposée par La Poste 1. Pour ce type d’envois, il est préférable de se renseigner préalablement auprès des services compétents du pays de destination.

CN23 Form (CN23)

A customs declaration form required for international shipping, especially for packages coming from or destined for outside of the EU. These forms contain information about the goods you are shipping, including which goods are packaged inside your parcel, their value, names of the shipper and receiver, and any parties involved in the shipping. Customs authorities use these forms to determine taxation, import duties, security, public health, and environmental protection.

These documents are scanned, and if descriptions inaccurately relate the contents, you may be fined for up to 100% of the merchandise value.

Check with your national tax authority for an overview of all EU countries. Also, take note of any regions where exceptions may apply. Some regions within the EU are not part of the EU customs zone, but shipments to these regions are still subject to customs control. Thus, you must always include a CN22 or CN23 customs declaration with them.

Utiliser Déclaration en douane CN23 (feuillet individuel ou feuillet intégré dans la liasse postale CP72) avec Envois postaux de valeur supérieure à 380 euros et inférieure ou égale à 1 000 euros. Attention : les formulaires postaux CN22 et CN23 ne peuvent être utilisés pour des envois dont la valeur dépasse 1 000 €. À partir, de ce montant, une déclaration en douane sera établie et déposée par La Poste 1. Pour ce type d’envois, il est préférable de se renseigner préalablement auprès des services compétents du pays de destination.

NOTE: You can substitute a CN23 for a CN22, but not the other way around.

Attention : les formulaires postaux CN22 et CN23 ne peuvent être utilisés pour des envois dont la valeur dépasse 1 000 €. À partir, de ce montant, une déclaration en douane sera établie et déposée par La Poste 1. Pour ce type d’envois, il est préférable de se renseigner préalablement auprès des services compétents du pays de destination.

Commercial Invoice

A commercial invoice details the agreement between the shipper and receiver. This includes who’s responsible for the shipment and the duties and taxes (and whether or not they’ve already been paid).

Configure Shipment Widget (CSW)

The widget in ShipStation where all shipping options are set. The widget appears in the Orders grid Shipping Sidebar, as well as the Order and Shipment Details screens.

CSV

CSV stands for 'comma-separated values'. This type of spreadsheet file is often used by ShipStation(and several of our integration partners) to import and export your ShipStation data for orders, products, and reports.

CUPS

CUPS stands for Common Unix Printing System. It is the Mac OS method for managing print jobs and printing preferences.

custom store

A custom store is a store connected to ShipStation that a developer custom-built according to ShipStation's Custom Store Development Guide.

custom view

A custom view is a set of enabled filters and page layout selections in your Orders and Shipments tabs that you can save for future use.

Delivered at Place (DAP)

The shipper is responsible for the transportation costs, but not responsible for paying the taxes associated with this shipment. Customs agents will be using the contact information provided on the invoice and customs declarations to settle the charges.

The opposite of DDP. See similar DDU. See also INCOTERM.

Delivered Duty Paid (DDP)

The shipper is responsible for the shipment and for paying duties, taxes and/or fees assessed associated with the shipment. DDP and DDU/DAP are incoterms.

The opposite of DDU and DAP. See INCOTERM.

Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU)

The shipper is responsible for the transportation costs, but not responsible for paying duties, taxes and/or fees assessed associated with this shipment. Customs agents will be using the contact information provided on the invoice and customs declarations to settle the charges.

The opposite of DDP. See similar DAP. See also INCOTERM.

delivery notification

An email sent to your customer once ShipStation receives a notification from the carrier that the package was delivered. Most carriers and services (but not all) support sending this notification to ShipStation.

delivery time

The delivery time displayed in the rate calculator or Shipping sidebar is supplied by the carrier when they return a rate to ShipStation for the selected service. Some carriers display delivery time as a number of days, but some report a specific date.

Check with your carrier if you have any questions about why a service has a certain delivery time.

De Minimis Value

De Minimis Values are used in the context of international shipping. They are a valuation ceiling for imports where no tax or duties are charged and the clearance procedures are minimal for shipments that have a value less than the De Minimis threshold. De Minimis Values vary from country to country.

For example, imports into the US are subject to duty and taxes when the value is over the De Minimis Value of $800 USD.

dimensional weight (DIM)

Dimensional weight, also known as volumetric weight, is a pricing technique for commercial transport (including courier and postal services) of larger packages with a lighter weight. DIM weight uses an estimated weight calculated from the length, width, and height of a package divided by a specific divisor determined by the carrier.

If DIM weight applies to your package, the carrier will compare the DIM weight and actual weight and charge the higher of the two for the label.

Direct Integration

This is either a store or carrier integration built directly into ShipStation. These integrations have a branded tile in either the Store Setup or Carriers & Fulfilments Settings screens.

Economic Operator Registration And Identification Number (EORI)

An ID code used to track and register customs information in the EU. Currently, all businesses that import or export goods from countries outside the EU need an EORI number.

Electronic Advance Data (EAD)

A customs requirement that information about the sender, receiver, and parcel contents all be gathered digitally and sent ahead to Customs in the destination country. China and the US have passed legislation introducing this requirement to bolster border protection, and more countries are likely to follow suit in the coming years.

Electronic data interchange (EDI)

A method to transmit information in a standardized digital format. UPS uses EDI to transmit customs documents electronically. "EDI" will be printed on UPS labels to indicate the data has been submitted electronically.

Certain platforms also use EDI to transmit sales orders, purchase orders, and other types of information. For selling channel platforms that use EDI, you must use one of our solutions providers to import their orders into ShipStation.

Electronic Trade Document (ETD)

A method to transmit customs documents electronically, used primarily by FedEx. The letters "ETD" will be printed on FedEx labels to indicate your data has been submitted electronically. For FedEx International Ground, the letters "ETD" will appear in a black box under the shipping service icon.

Excise Duty

A tax imposed on goods for their production, licensing, and sale. Such fees are charged on alcohol or tobacco imported into the UK from outside the EU. The charges are applied by Border Force on behalf of HMRC. At the end of the Brexit transition period, excise duties are expected to apply for goods coming into the UK from the EU.

Extended Price

The price paid for the item itself (unit cost, retail price), plus any additional costs associated with acquiring it. Such costs may include shipping, customs duties, levies, delivery costs, shipping insurance, legal fees, etc. Add all these ancillary acquisition costs to the price of the item itself to get its Extended Price, as it appears on a receipt or invoice.

An extended price can show the price of the quantity purchased (so should you purchase only one of something, the ‘price’ and ‘extended price’ can be the same). It can show a discounted price due to a wholesale deal, a sale percentage from the regular price, or it can be some other price an individual seller sets.

Field replacements

A way to dynamically insert store, order, and product information into a confirmation email or on a packing slip. Field replacements reference a specific piece of data that will be unique for each email or slip (like order numbers, customer names and addresses, store logos, and ordered items).

Filter bar

A menu bar containing all filter selections for a specific screen. Filters allow you to view only the items matching your filter criteria and can be applied to orders, shipments, products, and customers.

fulfilment SKU

The SKU used by your fulfilment partner for a specific item. If the fulfilment SKU is different than your product SKU, enter the fulfilment SKU into the product's Fulfilment SKU field in the Product Detail's Shipping tab. ShipStation will then send the fulfilment SKU when you send the order to be fulfilled.

graphical user interface (GUI)

Usually pronounced "GOO-ee." A graphic form of user interface (rather than purely textual) to navigate around and interact with a computer, computer application, or other electronic devices. These graphical icons, visual indicators, and metaphors for real-life objects typically let you interact by using a mouse rather than with keyboard commands.

Recently, the graphical part is frequently implied, and most now refer to this as just the "UI".

Harmonization Tariff System Code (HTS, HTSUS Code)

Also known as the Harmonized Tariff Schedule Code, this is a 10-digit import classification system for internationally traded products. An HTSUS code takes the same form as an HS Code for the first six digits and then has four differing last digits. This internationally recognized commodity description is set by the US International Trade Commission (ITC).

You can add harmonization codes to your customs declarations either manually in the order details, or by adding them to their product details. While not always required, it is recommended for international shipments. All U.S. importers should know and use the correct HTSUS codes because this classification is the basis for how commodity duties are assessed.

See also Harmonized System Codes.

Harmonized System Codes (HS Codes, HS Numbers)

An internationally standardized system of names and numbers used to classify globally traded products. The codes are required on customs declaration forms CN22 and CN23 for goods sent to other countries. Each commodity group is identified by a six-digit code used to identify the duty and tax rates for specific types of products.. The system was developed by the World Customs Organisation and is used by over 200 countries as a basis for their customs tariffs.

See also Harmonization Tariff System code.

hotkeys

Also known as quick keys or keyboard shortcuts, hotkeys are key combinations that allow you to accomplish specific tasks quickly without using your mouse to click a UI (user interface) element.

Integrated labels

Labels that print with the label and packing slip on the same sheet.

International Commercial Terms (INCOTERM)

Incoterms or International Commercial Terms are a series of pre-defined commercial terms that relate to international commercial law. Published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), these terms are widely used in international commercial transactions or procurement processes, and their use is encouraged by trade councils, courts, and international lawyers. The terms exist as an international standard to protect buyers and sellers and to regulate the payment terms for the receiver of the goods.

See DDP, DDU, and DAP for examples of INCOTERMs.

International Transaction Number (ITN)

The number assigned to a shipment confirming that the Automated Export System (AES) accepted the Electronic Export Information (EEI) and has it on file. Every AES shipment must have a unique ITN.

For the purposes of AES filing, a shipment is all goods (regardless of the number of packages) tendered to the USPS on the same day from one US Principal Party in Interest (USPPI) to one addressee. The USPS defines the USPPI as “the person or legal entity in the United States that receives the primary benefit, monetary or otherwise, from the export transaction.” (Source: USPS)

mail stream

The mail-processing function, or total live mail from point of acceptance to point of delivery.

Manual store

A store you can create in ShipStation to hold manual orders (orders you create directly in ShipStation or by CSV import, rather than importing them from a connected store). You can create as many manual stores as you need.

mapping

The method used in ShipStation to assign data from a source to its corresponding field in ShipStation. As in "field mapping" for order imports and "service mapping" for import rules.

marketplace

A marketplace is a platform that allows third-party vendors to sell their goods or services. Typically, they list products of many categories and from multiple sellers. Some examples of marketplaces that ShipStation partners with include Amazon, eBay, Walmart, and Etsy.

Marketplaces differ from ecommerce stores in that they take a percentage of the sale for the service. See 'selling channel' below.

modal

A dialog box or pop-up window that displays on top of the current page. The main page is visible beneath the displayed modal but is not active. You must interact with the modal (enter information, make a selection, save changes, etc.) before returning to the main page.

Multi-package

In ShipStation, this is a single shipment that contains multiple packages. A label prints for each package and each label has a unique tracking number that links to a master tracking number. Only the master tracking number appears in ShipStation.

Natural Language Processing (NLP)

A form of artificial intelligence that analyzes the human language to help machines understand and communicate with human speech.

In ShipStation, this new feature allows you to enter a customer's shipping information in a text format for ShipStation to extract the appropriate shipping information and put it in desired fields.

On Hand Stock

On Hand refers to the number of items you have available and allocated to fulfill orders.

order age

The order's age is determined by the length of time that has passed between the order paid date and the date the label was created.

order grid

The grid or layout of rows and columns that contain orders and relevant information respective to each order found on the Orders page.

order-level information

Information specific to the order (as opposed to product-level information), like shipping address, order total, tax paid, etc.

order record

The data item that contains all of the information for an order found in the order grid.

order source

This is where your orders in ShipStation come from. Orders can originate from one of four sources:

  • A connected store (either direct integration or custom stores)

  • A CSV or tab-delimited file

  • Manual orders (orders created directly in ShipStation)

  • The ShipStation API

order tag

A color-coded tag with a custom label you can add to orders to help you or your staff identify something about that order. Tags can also be used as automation criteria to trigger certain actions.

Other Regulated Material (ORM-D)

A type of label that identifies certain potentially hazardous materials that have special requirements regarding shipping and handling. These materials have limited risk during transportation because of their quantity and packaging. Typically, they are for US domestic transport only. EX: hairspray, nail polish, medicines, detergents, fuels, drain openers, lighters, and more.

ShipStation does not currently have a built-in method to add ORM-D to any postage provider's labels.

Package Level Detail (PLD)

The shipping and package data about the shipments processed since your last End of Day process. This is the data that UPS WorldShip sends to UPS.

parent products

A non-sellable product that acts as the primary product for reporting purposes, and contains the variant products that belong to it.

Parent products should have a unique SKU.

Parent Products are non-buyable, "umbrella" products that exist to group variants for reporting and to push product-level settings to their variants. Since it's not possible to buy a parent product, they can't be associated with inventory units.

Parent products will appear in your Products list, with their Variant products nested below. Parent products will not appear in the Inventory section.

pay-on-use

Also known as pay-on-scan. These are labels you are not charged for until the carrier actually scans them into the mail stream. UPS and FedEx are pay-on-use labels, which means you do not need to void them to get a refund if they are not used (though you may want to void them if you are near your subscription shipment limit).

pick list

A useful document that tells you the number of items that will be needed to fulfill one or more orders.

ShipStation lets you create pick lists from several locations throughout the app. Typically, you have the option to create a pick list wherever you have the option to print.

point of sale (POS)

Software that enables the online store to accept transactions.

ShipStation does not interact with your POS.

postage provider

The provider you purchase your postage from. This provider may or may not be the same as the carrier that picks up or delivers the package (though in most cases, it is).

printer workstation

The printer workstation is the computer your printers are physically attached to via USB. ShipStation Connect must be installed and running on the printer workstation (but not on non-printer workstations) in order to print documents via ShipStation Connect.

product alias

An alias tells ShipStation that different SKUs are actually the same product. This feature helps with reporting and other product settings purposes. Aliases can be assigned to either Standalone or Variant products (but not Parent products).

product-level information

Information specific to the product (as opposed to order-level information). This includes SKU, Item Name, Warehouse Location, quantity, unit price.

product record

The data item that contains all of the information for a product found in the Products grid. By default, a product record is created in ShipStation when an order imports with an item that doesn’t already have a product record and that selling channel’s settings are configured accordingly.

products grid

The rows and columns that display product data. It’s a visual representation of the records in our database. The Products Grid is customizable in the same way as the Orders and Shipments Grids.

product views

The left-hand sidebar section in the Products tab. Allows you to view product records, preset groups, reporting categories, and inventory in separate grids.

rate calculator

The Rate Calculator allows you to enter shipment details (like postal codes, service, and weight) to view and compare the rates available with your connect postal accounts.

reconfigure

A way to update or renew a store connection in ShipStation without connecting a new store. This is useful if your store authentication or keys have changed. It is also sometimes used as a troubleshooting step when you have store connection or order import issues.

Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA)

An authorization number or character sequence (typically) that must be displayed on or included with a returned product's packaging. This serves as part of the process of returning a product to receive a refund, replacement, or repair.

Also called a return authorization (RA) or a return goods authorization (RGA).

selling channel

A selling channel is a platform through which you sell your products.

In ShipStation, this term refers to either a shopping cart (like Shopify) or marketplace (like Amazon) that you connect to ShipStation, either through direct integration, custom store, or via ShipStation's API. Often, the term "store" and "selling channel" are used interchangeably in our help articles.

service mapping

The process of telling ShipStation to automatically assign a specific shipping service to an order when it imports with a specific requested service from the selling channel. This automates the service and package selection process and allows you to ship your orders with fewer steps.

Ship From Location

The address from where your packages ship. This information is required by postage providers before they will return a rate or create a label. The Ship From address in your settings can also have a unique return address, which is the address that will print on the label.

You can enter as many Ship From locations as you need in ShipStation.

shipment notification

An email sent to your customer once you create the label for their shipment in ShipStation. This option is disabled by default. You can also configure the notification to be sent at a later time, such as an hour after the label is created or when the shipment hits the mail stream.

shipment record

The data item that contains all of the information for a shipment. Shipment records are displayed in the Shipment grid and in the corresponding order's details.

Shipment records are created when you create a label.

Shipment Record Widget

The widget in ShipStation that contains the shipment's label details, the Shipment # and status, label tracking number, and a shipment action menu.

The widget appears in the Orders grid shipping sidebar, as well as the Order and Shipment Details screens, once a shipment record is created for an order.

Short Message Service (SMS)

Text messages sent via a traditional cellular network and limited to 160 characters, including spaces. Most carrier services chain messages together when SMSs exceed this limit. Now often includes Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS), the media-enhanced version of an SMS message (built on the same technology as SMS ) that allows users to send images, videos, or audio.

SKU

SKU stands for Stock Keeping Unit. A merchant’s unique alphanumeric identification code for each product that can be purchased. SKUs differ from universal product codes (UPCs) in that they are not universal. This means that every retailer has their own unique set of SKUs to track their merchandise.

Product records in ShipStation are identified using the SKU by default (though if you don’t use SKUs, this can be modified so Product records are identified by the product name instead).

standalone product

The default product type in ShipStation. A standalone product type has no relationship to other products.

surviving customer

The active customer record that remains after several similar or redundant customer records have been combined or merged into one.

Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)

Taxpayer Identification Numbers quickly identify your business and track its related tax activities. Examples include the Employer Identification Number (EIN) in the US, Value Added Tax (VAT), Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS), and Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI).

See our Tax Identifier Article for details.

Third-Party Logistics (3PL, TPL)

A firm that provides outsourced supply chain management and logistics services to its customers. Services generally include managing inventory, picking, packing, shipping, and returns management, among other functions. The terms 3PL and fulfilment are often used interchangeably.

throttling

Throttling is the process of limiting the number of requests you (or your authorized developer) can submit to a given operation in a given amount of time.

UPC

Stands for Universal Product Code. UPC is a “barcode symbology” uniquely assigned to “trade items” to help track items at the point of sale in an automated way.

ShipStation’s Product Details support adding a UPC, and you can use a barcode scan in the advanced search to find orders with these products. However, other ShipStation partners, like SkuVault, use UPC scanning as part of their inventory management strategy while this type of ability is not currently available in ShipStation.

* UPC codes are required when using the JET integration.

Value-Added Tax (VAT)

Value-Added Tax - also known as a goods and services tax (GST) - is a consumption tax based on the value of goods and implemented as a destination-based tax. VAT usually comes into play when shipping internationally to countries that charge customs fees and taxes to recipients on imported goods. VAT may be recovered for commercial shipments only by a VAT registered recipient; VAT ranges from 5% to 25% depending upon country. VAT is generally charged only in the European Union, China, Mexico, and Thailand.

Shipments to certain countries are often subject to customs fees/taxes, like VAT. ShipStation does provide the option to have the fees charged to the shipper, instead of the recipient, if the carrier supports that option.

variant products

A sellable product that belongs to the Parent product. This product type inherits any product defaults set in the Parent product details.

Variant products are products under a Parent "umbrella" and can be configured with inventory, just like Standalone products. Inventory will be deducted from the individual variant products when you ship them.

Variant products will be nested under their Parent product in the Products grid. They will also display individually in the Inventory section of your Products tab.

Warehouse Management System (WMS)

Software that supports day-to-day operations in a warehouse. Controls movement of goods and processes including receiving, tracking, picking, packing, and shipping.

What You See is What You Get (WYSIWYG)

Pronounced "wiz-ee-wig." An application, editor, or program that allows a person to see on the display screen the exact end result (or something very similar to it) of what will appear when an interface or document is being created.

widget

An application or a component of a graphical user interface (GUI) that enables a user to read, edit, or otherwise interact with a computer, perform a function, or access a service.

Each widget facilitates a specific type of user-computer interaction and appears as a visible part of the application's GUI.

Widgets that support user interaction include drop-down menus, icons, labels, buttons, and on-off checkboxes. Others like windows, panels, and tabs act as containers that group the widgets added to them.

A menu bar containing buttons that trigger either specific actions on selected products or some other function within the Products tab.

A batch created in ShipStation when you create labels for multiple orders without first adding them to a normal batch. With ad hoc batches, ShipStation creates a batch in the background to process the shipments in a single action, and that allows you to print the labels all at once. Ad hoc batches are numbered and can be found in Shipments > Batches for further review.

An aggregate is a whole formed or calculated by combining several separate units, items, or elements into one total.

The process of reserving inventory units for your orders in the Awaiting Shipment status, so you are always certain you have enough Available stock.

This process is a core component of our native Inventory Management solution because it clarifies the difference between the stock you have on hand ('Stock'), the stock you need to ship your open orders ('Allocated'), and the remaining stock you have available to sell ('Available').

Your Allocation Strategy determines how ShipStation reserves (i.e. allocates) inventory for your Awaiting Shipment orders.

By default, ShipStation allocates inventory for your oldest orders first. But, if you've got reasons to prioritise some orders over others, then it's best to set up a custom allocation strategy with 'tasks' that match those priorities.

Ancillary Service Endorsements serve to request an addressee’s new address and to provide the carrier, courier, postal service, or other shipping provider with instructions on how to handle undeliverable-as-addressed pieces of mail.

Use of an ancillary service endorsement on a mailpiece obligates the mailer to pay any applicable charges for forwarding, return, and separate address notification charges.

API stands for Application Program Interface. It's a set of protocols for applications (like ShipStation) to communicate and share information with other applications or platforms.

API connections are also custom-built by developers, but they work in the opposite way that selling channel integrations work. Instead of ShipStation initiating communication to the selling channel (i.e. requesting orders), the API instead has “keys” to ShipStation and pushes those orders into a ShipStation manual store, without ShipStation having to do anything except allow it.

The United States Postal Service (USPS) built the Automated Package Verification (APV) system to manage postage discrepancies (under-paid and over-paid postage labels) in an automated fashion. The APV system considers postage paid on every domestic package, based on weight, dimensions, package type, mailing service, and the origin and destination ZIP codes.

The United States Postal Service (USPS) built the Automated Package Verification (APV) system to manage postage discrepancies (under-paid and over-paid postage labels) in an automated fashion. The APV system considers postage paid on every domestic package, based on weight, dimensions, package type, mailing service, and the origin and destination ZIP codes.

ASIN stands for Amazon Standard Identification Number. It's a unique block of 10 letters and/or numbers that identify your Amazon items. Find the ASIN on the item's product information page at Amazon.com. For books, the ASIN is the same as the ISBN number, but for all other products, a new ASIN is created when the item is uploaded to Amazon's catalog.

ASINs can be used to search for items in Amazon's catalog. If you know the ASIN or ISBN of the item you are looking for, simply type it into the search box (which can be found near the top of most pages), hit the Go button and, if the item is listed in Amazon's catalog, it will appear in your search results. For example, the ASIN for Hasbro's Monopoly game is B00005N5PF. Source

A mode wherein the scanner actively 'listens' or looks to accept barcode scans.

Search listens can be set for ShipStation orders in particular statuses. Found orders can be processed to Just display, Ship the order(s), Add order(s) to a new batch, or Add order(s) to an existing batch. Hotkey: Ctrl + Shift + s . Hotkey for Mac, use Cmd + Shift + s instead.

Barcode Scan Search pop-up menu.

Barcode Listening is a ShipStation Legacy only feature.

The Branded Returns Portal is a webpage with your custom store branding where your customers can create their own return labels, without the need to contact you. Think of it as self-service returns.

A customs declaration form required for international shipping, especially for packages coming from or destined for outside of the EU. These forms contain information about the goods you are shipping, including which goods are packaged inside your parcel, their value, names of the shipper and receiver, and any parties involved in the shipping. Customs authorities use these forms to determine taxation, import duties, security, public health, and environmental protection.

These documents are scanned, and if descriptions inaccurately relate the contents, you may be fined for up to 100% of the merchandise value.

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Check with your national tax authority for an overview of all EU countries. Also, take note of any regions where exceptions may apply. Some regions within the EU are not part of the EU customs zone, but shipments to these regions are still subject to customs control. Thus, you must always include a CN22 or CN23 customs declaration with them.

Utiliser Étiquette verte CN22 avec Envois postaux (petits envois) de valeur inférieure ou égale à 380 euros.

NOTE: You can substitute a CN23 for a CN22, but not the other way around.

Attention : les formulaires postaux CN22 et CN23 ne peuvent être utilisés pour des envois dont la valeur dépasse 1 000 €. À partir, de ce montant, une déclaration en douane sera établie et déposée par La Poste 1. Pour ce type d’envois, il est préférable de se renseigner préalablement auprès des services compétents du pays de destination.

A customs declaration form required for international shipping, especially for packages coming from or destined for outside of the EU. These forms contain information about the goods you are shipping, including which goods are packaged inside your parcel, their value, names of the shipper and receiver, and any parties involved in the shipping. Customs authorities use these forms to determine taxation, import duties, security, public health, and environmental protection.

These documents are scanned, and if descriptions inaccurately relate the contents, you may be fined for up to 100% of the merchandise value.

Check with your national tax authority for an overview of all EU countries. Also, take note of any regions where exceptions may apply. Some regions within the EU are not part of the EU customs zone, but shipments to these regions are still subject to customs control. Thus, you must always include a CN22 or CN23 customs declaration with them.

Utiliser Déclaration en douane CN23 (feuillet individuel ou feuillet intégré dans la liasse postale CP72) avec Envois postaux de valeur supérieure à 380 euros et inférieure ou égale à 1 000 euros. Attention : les formulaires postaux CN22 et CN23 ne peuvent être utilisés pour des envois dont la valeur dépasse 1 000 €. À partir, de ce montant, une déclaration en douane sera établie et déposée par La Poste 1. Pour ce type d’envois, il est préférable de se renseigner préalablement auprès des services compétents du pays de destination.

NOTE: You can substitute a CN23 for a CN22, but not the other way around.

Attention : les formulaires postaux CN22 et CN23 ne peuvent être utilisés pour des envois dont la valeur dépasse 1 000 €. À partir, de ce montant, une déclaration en douane sera établie et déposée par La Poste 1. Pour ce type d’envois, il est préférable de se renseigner préalablement auprès des services compétents du pays de destination.

The widget in ShipStation where all shipping options are set. The widget appears in the Orders grid Shipping Sidebar, as well as the Order and Shipment Details screens.

The widget in ShipStation where all shipping options are set. The widget appears in the Orders grid Shipping Sidebar, as well as the Order and Shipment Details screens.

A commercial invoice details the agreement between the shipper and receiver. This includes who’s responsible for the shipment and the duties and taxes (and whether or not they’ve already been paid).

CSV stands for 'comma-separated values'. This type of spreadsheet file is often used by ShipStation(and several of our integration partners) to import and export your ShipStation data for orders, products, and reports.

CUPS stands for Common Unix Printing System. It is the Mac OS method for managing print jobs and printing preferences.

A custom view is a set of enabled filters and page layout selections in your Orders and Shipments tabs that you can save for future use.

A custom store is a store connected to ShipStation that a developer custom-built according to ShipStation's Custom Store Development Guide.

The shipper is responsible for the shipment and for paying duties, taxes and/or fees assessed associated with the shipment. DDP and DDU/DAP are incoterms.

The opposite of DDU and DAP. See INCOTERM.

The shipper is responsible for the transportation costs, but not responsible for paying duties, taxes and/or fees assessed associated with this shipment. Customs agents will be using the contact information provided on the invoice and customs declarations to settle the charges.

The opposite of DDP. See similar DAP. See also INCOTERM.

The shipper is responsible for the transportation costs, but not responsible for paying the taxes associated with this shipment. Customs agents will be using the contact information provided on the invoice and customs declarations to settle the charges.

The opposite of DDP. See similar DDU. See also INCOTERM.

An email sent to your customer once ShipStation receives a notification from the carrier that the package was delivered. Most carriers and services (but not all) support sending this notification to ShipStation.

The delivery time displayed in the rate calculator or Shipping sidebar is supplied by the carrier when they return a rate to ShipStation for the selected service. Some carriers display delivery time as a number of days, but some report a specific date.

Check with your carrier if you have any questions about why a service has a certain delivery time.

De Minimis Values are used in the context of international shipping. They are a valuation ceiling for imports where no tax or duties are charged and the clearance procedures are minimal for shipments that have a value less than the De Minimis threshold. De Minimis Values vary from country to country.

For example, imports into the US are subject to duty and taxes when the value is over the De Minimis Value of $800 USD.

Dimensional weight, also known as volumetric weight, is a pricing technique for commercial transport (including courier and postal services) of larger packages with a lighter weight. DIM weight uses an estimated weight calculated from the length, width, and height of a package divided by a specific divisor determined by the carrier.

If DIM weight applies to your package, the carrier will compare the DIM weight and actual weight and charge the higher of the two for the label.

This is either a store or carrier integration built directly into ShipStation. These integrations have a branded tile in either the Store Setup or Carriers & Fulfilments Settings screens.

A customs requirement that information about the sender, receiver, and parcel contents all be gathered digitally and sent ahead to Customs in the destination country. China and the US have passed legislation introducing this requirement to bolster border protection, and more countries are likely to follow suit in the coming years.

An ID code used to track and register customs information in the EU. Currently, all businesses that import or export goods from countries outside the EU need an EORI number.

A method to transmit information in a standardized digital format. UPS uses EDI to transmit customs documents electronically. "EDI" will be printed on UPS labels to indicate the data has been submitted electronically.

Certain platforms also use EDI to transmit sales orders, purchase orders, and other types of information. For selling channel platforms that use EDI, you must use one of our solutions providers to import their orders into ShipStation.

A method to transmit customs documents electronically, used primarily by FedEx. The letters "ETD" will be printed on FedEx labels to indicate your data has been submitted electronically. For FedEx International Ground, the letters "ETD" will appear in a black box under the shipping service icon.

A tax imposed on goods for their production, licensing, and sale. Such fees are charged on alcohol or tobacco imported into the UK from outside the EU. The charges are applied by Border Force on behalf of HMRC. At the end of the Brexit transition period, excise duties are expected to apply for goods coming into the UK from the EU.

The price paid for the item itself (unit cost, retail price), plus any additional costs associated with acquiring it. Such costs may include shipping, customs duties, levies, delivery costs, shipping insurance, legal fees, etc. Add all these ancillary acquisition costs to the price of the item itself to get its Extended Price, as it appears on a receipt or invoice.

An extended price can show the price of the quantity purchased (so should you purchase only one of something, the ‘price’ and ‘extended price’ can be the same). It can show a discounted price due to a wholesale deal, a sale percentage from the regular price, or it can be some other price an individual seller sets.

A way to dynamically insert store, order, and product information into a confirmation email or on a packing slip. Field replacements reference a specific piece of data that will be unique for each email or slip (like order numbers, customer names and addresses, store logos, and ordered items).

A menu bar containing all filter selections for a specific screen. Filters allow you to view only the items matching your filter criteria and can be applied to orders, shipments, products, and customers.

The SKU used by your fulfilment partner for a specific item. If the fulfilment SKU is different than your product SKU, enter the fulfilment SKU into the product's Fulfilment SKU field in the Product Detail's Shipping tab. ShipStation will then send the fulfilment SKU when you send the order to be fulfilled.

Usually pronounced "GOO-ee." A graphic form of user interface (rather than purely textual) to navigate around and interact with a computer, computer application, or other electronic devices. These graphical icons, visual indicators, and metaphors for real-life objects typically let you interact by using a mouse rather than with keyboard commands.

Recently, the graphical part is frequently implied, and most now refer to this as just the "UI".

Also known as the Harmonized Tariff Schedule Code, this is a 10-digit import classification system for internationally traded products. An HTSUS code takes the same form as an HS Code for the first six digits and then has four differing last digits. This internationally recognized commodity description is set by the US International Trade Commission (ITC).

You can add harmonization codes to your customs declarations either manually in the order details, or by adding them to their product details. While not always required, it is recommended for international shipments. All U.S. importers should know and use the correct HTSUS codes because this classification is the basis for how commodity duties are assessed.

See also Harmonized System Codes.

An internationally standardized system of names and numbers used to classify globally traded products. The codes are required on customs declaration forms CN22 and CN23 for goods sent to other countries. Each commodity group is identified by a six-digit code used to identify the duty and tax rates for specific types of products.. The system was developed by the World Customs Organisation and is used by over 200 countries as a basis for their customs tariffs.

See also Harmonization Tariff System code.

Also known as quick keys or keyboard shortcuts, hotkeys are key combinations that allow you to accomplish specific tasks quickly without using your mouse to click a UI (user interface) element.

Labels that print with the label and packing slip on the same sheet.

The number assigned to a shipment confirming that the Automated Export System (AES) accepted the Electronic Export Information (EEI) and has it on file. Every AES shipment must have a unique ITN.

For the purposes of AES filing, a shipment is all goods (regardless of the number of packages) tendered to the USPS on the same day from one US Principal Party in Interest (USPPI) to one addressee. The USPS defines the USPPI as “the person or legal entity in the United States that receives the primary benefit, monetary or otherwise, from the export transaction.” (Source: USPS)

Incoterms or International Commercial Terms are a series of pre-defined commercial terms that relate to international commercial law. Published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), these terms are widely used in international commercial transactions or procurement processes, and their use is encouraged by trade councils, courts, and international lawyers. The terms exist as an international standard to protect buyers and sellers and to regulate the payment terms for the receiver of the goods.

See DDP, DDU, and DAP for examples of INCOTERMs.

The mail-processing function, or total live mail from point of acceptance to point of delivery.

A store you can create in ShipStation to hold manual orders (orders you create directly in ShipStation or by CSV import, rather than importing them from a connected store). You can create as many manual stores as you need.

The method used in ShipStation to assign data from a source to its corresponding field in ShipStation. As in "field mapping" for order imports and "service mapping" for import rules.

A marketplace is a platform that allows third-party vendors to sell their goods or services. Typically, they list products of many categories and from multiple sellers. Some examples of marketplaces that ShipStation partners with include Amazon, eBay, Walmart, and Etsy.

Marketplaces differ from ecommerce stores in that they take a percentage of the sale for the service. See 'selling channel' below.

A dialog box or pop-up window that displays on top of the current page. The main page is visible beneath the displayed modal but is not active. You must interact with the modal (enter information, make a selection, save changes, etc.) before returning to the main page.

In ShipStation, this is a single shipment that contains multiple packages. A label prints for each package and each label has a unique tracking number that links to a master tracking number. Only the master tracking number appears in ShipStation.

A form of artificial intelligence that analyzes the human language to help machines understand and communicate with human speech.

In ShipStation, this new feature allows you to enter a customer's shipping information in a text format for ShipStation to extract the appropriate shipping information and put it in desired fields.

On Hand refers to the number of items you have available and allocated to fulfill orders.

The order's age is determined by the length of time that has passed between the order paid date and the date the label was created.

Information specific to the order (as opposed to product-level information), like shipping address, order total, tax paid, etc.

The grid or layout of rows and columns that contain orders and relevant information respective to each order found on the Orders page.

The data item that contains all of the information for an order found in the order grid.

This is where your orders in ShipStation come from. Orders can originate from one of four sources:

  • A connected store (either direct integration or custom stores)

  • A CSV or tab-delimited file

  • Manual orders (orders created directly in ShipStation)

  • The ShipStation API

A color-coded tag with a custom label you can add to orders to help you or your staff identify something about that order. Tags can also be used as automation criteria to trigger certain actions.

A type of label that identifies certain potentially hazardous materials that have special requirements regarding shipping and handling. These materials have limited risk during transportation because of their quantity and packaging. Typically, they are for US domestic transport only. EX: hairspray, nail polish, medicines, detergents, fuels, drain openers, lighters, and more.

ShipStation does not currently have a built-in method to add ORM-D to any postage provider's labels.

The shipping and package data about the shipments processed since your last End of Day process. This is the data that UPS WorldShip sends to UPS.

A non-sellable product that acts as the primary product for reporting purposes, and contains the variant products that belong to it.

Parent products should have a unique SKU.

Parent Products are non-buyable, "umbrella" products that exist to group variants for reporting and to push product-level settings to their variants. Since it's not possible to buy a parent product, they can't be associated with inventory units.

Parent products will appear in your Products list, with their Variant products nested below. Parent products will not appear in the Inventory section.

Also known as pay-on-scan. These are labels you are not charged for until the carrier actually scans them into the mail stream. UPS and FedEx are pay-on-use labels, which means you do not need to void them to get a refund if they are not used (though you may want to void them if you are near your subscription shipment limit).

A useful document that tells you the number of items that will be needed to fulfill one or more orders.

ShipStation lets you create pick lists from several locations throughout the app. Typically, you have the option to create a pick list wherever you have the option to print.

Software that enables the online store to accept transactions.

ShipStation does not interact with your POS.

The provider you purchase your postage from. This provider may or may not be the same as the carrier that picks up or delivers the package (though in most cases, it is).

The printer workstation is the computer your printers are physically attached to via USB. ShipStation Connect must be installed and running on the printer workstation (but not on non-printer workstations) in order to print documents via ShipStation Connect.

An alias tells ShipStation that different SKUs are actually the same product. This feature helps with reporting and other product settings purposes. Aliases can be assigned to either Standalone or Variant products (but not Parent products).

The rows and columns that display product data. It’s a visual representation of the records in our database. The Products Grid is customizable in the same way as the Orders and Shipments Grids.

Information specific to the product (as opposed to order-level information). This includes SKU, Item Name, Warehouse Location, quantity, unit price.

The data item that contains all of the information for a product found in the Products grid. By default, a product record is created in ShipStation when an order imports with an item that doesn’t already have a product record and that selling channel’s settings are configured accordingly.

The left-hand sidebar section in the Products tab. Allows you to view product records, preset groups, reporting categories, and inventory in separate grids.

The Rate Calculator allows you to enter shipment details (like postal codes, service, and weight) to view and compare the rates available with your connect postal accounts.

A way to update or renew a store connection in ShipStation without connecting a new store. This is useful if your store authentication or keys have changed. It is also sometimes used as a troubleshooting step when you have store connection or order import issues.

An authorization number or character sequence (typically) that must be displayed on or included with a returned product's packaging. This serves as part of the process of returning a product to receive a refund, replacement, or repair.

Also called a return authorization (RA) or a return goods authorization (RGA).

A selling channel is a platform through which you sell your products.

In ShipStation, this term refers to either a shopping cart (like Shopify) or marketplace (like Amazon) that you connect to ShipStation, either through direct integration, custom store, or via ShipStation's API. Often, the term "store" and "selling channel" are used interchangeably in our help articles.

The process of telling ShipStation to automatically assign a specific shipping service to an order when it imports with a specific requested service from the selling channel. This automates the service and package selection process and allows you to ship your orders with fewer steps.

SKU stands for Stock Keeping Unit. A merchant’s unique alphanumeric identification code for each product that can be purchased. SKUs differ from universal product codes (UPCs) in that they are not universal. This means that every retailer has their own unique set of SKUs to track their merchandise.

Product records in ShipStation are identified using the SKU by default (though if you don’t use SKUs, this can be modified so Product records are identified by the product name instead).

The address from where your packages ship. This information is required by postage providers before they will return a rate or create a label. The Ship From address in your settings can also have a unique return address, which is the address that will print on the label.

You can enter as many Ship From locations as you need in ShipStation.

An email sent to your customer once you create the label for their shipment in ShipStation. This option is disabled by default. You can also configure the notification to be sent at a later time, such as an hour after the label is created or when the shipment hits the mail stream.

The data item that contains all of the information for a shipment. Shipment records are displayed in the Shipment grid and in the corresponding order's details.

Shipment records are created when you create a label.

The widget in ShipStation that contains the shipment's label details, the Shipment # and status, label tracking number, and a shipment action menu.

The widget appears in the Orders grid shipping sidebar, as well as the Order and Shipment Details screens, once a shipment record is created for an order.

Text messages sent via a traditional cellular network and limited to 160 characters, including spaces. Most carrier services chain messages together when SMSs exceed this limit. Now often includes Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS), the media-enhanced version of an SMS message (built on the same technology as SMS ) that allows users to send images, videos, or audio.

The default product type in ShipStation. A standalone product type has no relationship to other products.

The active customer record that remains after several similar or redundant customer records have been combined or merged into one.

Taxpayer Identification Numbers quickly identify your business and track its related tax activities. Examples include the Employer Identification Number (EIN) in the US, Value Added Tax (VAT), Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS), and Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI).

See our Tax Identifier Article for details.

A firm that provides outsourced supply chain management and logistics services to its customers. Services generally include managing inventory, picking, packing, shipping, and returns management, among other functions. The terms 3PL and fulfilment are often used interchangeably.

Throttling is the process of limiting the number of requests you (or your authorized developer) can submit to a given operation in a given amount of time.

Stands for Universal Product Code. UPC is a “barcode symbology” uniquely assigned to “trade items” to help track items at the point of sale in an automated way.

ShipStation’s Product Details support adding a UPC, and you can use a barcode scan in the advanced search to find orders with these products. However, other ShipStation partners, like SkuVault, use UPC scanning as part of their inventory management strategy while this type of ability is not currently available in ShipStation.

* UPC codes are required when using the JET integration.

A sellable product that belongs to the Parent product. This product type inherits any product defaults set in the Parent product details.

Variant products are products under a Parent "umbrella" and can be configured with inventory, just like Standalone products. Inventory will be deducted from the individual variant products when you ship them.

Variant products will be nested under their Parent product in the Products grid. They will also display individually in the Inventory section of your Products tab.

Value-Added Tax - also known as a goods and services tax (GST) - is a consumption tax based on the value of goods and implemented as a destination-based tax. VAT usually comes into play when shipping internationally to countries that charge customs fees and taxes to recipients on imported goods. VAT may be recovered for commercial shipments only by a VAT registered recipient; VAT ranges from 5% to 25% depending upon country. VAT is generally charged only in the European Union, China, Mexico, and Thailand.

Shipments to certain countries are often subject to customs fees/taxes, like VAT. ShipStation does provide the option to have the fees charged to the shipper, instead of the recipient, if the carrier supports that option.

Software that supports day-to-day operations in a warehouse. Controls movement of goods and processes including receiving, tracking, picking, packing, and shipping.

An application or a component of a graphical user interface (GUI) that enables a user to read, edit, or otherwise interact with a computer, perform a function, or access a service.

Each widget facilitates a specific type of user-computer interaction and appears as a visible part of the application's GUI.

Widgets that support user interaction include drop-down menus, icons, labels, buttons, and on-off checkboxes. Others like windows, panels, and tabs act as containers that group the widgets added to them.

Pronounced "wiz-ee-wig." An application, editor, or program that allows a person to see on the display screen the exact end result (or something very similar to it) of what will appear when an interface or document is being created.

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