Does ShipStation Rate Shopper Work With FedEx One Rate?

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In short, no. ShipStation’s Rate Shopper tool does not work with FedEx One Rate. While Rate Shopper aims to help shippers select the most affordable carrier and service, it can’t incorporate FedEx One Rate in its options. Here’s why:

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What is FedEx One Rate?

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FedEx One Rate offers flat-rate shipping, allowing shippers to pay a consistent rate for packages weighing up to 50 lbs that fit into specific FedEx-branded boxes. This simplifies budgeting by setting a fixed cost for specific package sizes, regardless of distance within the U.S. The biggest benefit is that FedEx One Rate can be very cost-effective for shippers with heavy items that fit these preset dimensions, as the weight limit is generous.

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Why ShipStation Rate Shopper Doesn’t Support FedEx One Rate

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ShipStation’s Rate Shopper tool compares carrier rates in real time but can’t accommodate FedEx One Rate. Here’s the primary issue: FedEx One Rate requires that shipments be packed into FedEx-provided packaging, and ShipStation can’t automatically determine which, if any, of the preset FedEx boxes a shipment will fit into. Without that ability, Rate Shopper can’t assess whether a given order qualifies for FedEx One Rate.

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FedEx One Rate is structured around specific boxes such as FedEx Pak, FedEx Box, and FedEx Envelope. If your order doesn’t fit neatly into one of these, it won’t qualify for the One Rate price. ShipStation currently can’t evaluate and select these specific packages for Rate Shopper comparison, so FedEx One Rate options are omitted.

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Additionally, FedEx One Rate can be used with custom packaging in some cases where FedEx grants permission, but Rate Shopper also doesn’t account for these exceptions, making it hard to leverage this discounted option through ShipStation alone.

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How String Addresses These Limitations

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String, a plugin for ShipStation, has a unique capability to calculate which package dimensions are needed for each shipment. When linked with FedEx, it identifies which shipments fit FedEx One Rate boxes based on order details and packaging requirements. Here’s how it works:

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Package Fit Assessment: String checks each shipment to determine if it will fit into one of the preset FedEx boxes required for FedEx One Rate pricing.

FedEx One Rate & Custom Packaging Comparison: After determining fit, String then compares FedEx One Rate with custom packaging options (if available), including their respective rates. This side-by-side comparison is automated, allowing shippers to leverage the best price, whether through FedEx One Rate or an alternate carrier or package.

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Cost-Effective Selection: Once String has collected these rates, it automatically applies the most cost-effective option. This capability optimizes savings by comparing FedEx One Rate with other options that ShipStation’s Rate Shopper can’t, particularly valuable for high-volume shippers needing reliable, cost-efficient rates.

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Configuring String for Optimal Results

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If FedEx allows you to use One Rate pricing with custom packaging, String can be configured to compare those rates alongside other FedEx services. With this configuration, shippers who receive special FedEx One Rate exemptions will have the option added into their rate pool for true cost savings. This flexibility and adaptability give String an edge for businesses seeking a more tailored shipping solution.

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Conclusion

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While ShipStation’s Rate Shopper is a helpful tool for comparing basic rates across carriers, it doesn’t accommodate FedEx One Rate due to its packaging-specific requirements. In contrast, String’s capacity to assess FedEx One Rate and custom packaging provides shippers with a thorough comparison that includes both flat-rate and standard options, ensuring the most cost-effective solution for every shipment.

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