Batch Shipping: How to Process Multiple Orders Efficiently

Processing orders one at a time doesn't scale. Batch shipping lets you handle high volumes efficiently, saving time and reducing errors. This guide covers strategies for streamlined order fulfillment.

What is Batch Shipping?

Definition

Batch Shipping Processing multiple shipments together rather than individually. This includes:

• Label printing in bulk
• Manifesting multiple packages
• Coordinated pickups
• Grouped carrier scans

Benefits

Time Savings

• Reduce per-order processing time
• Fewer trips to carrier
• Less system switching
• Streamlined workflow

Cost Savings

• Reduced labor costs
• Better carrier rates (volume)
• Less packaging waste
• Fewer errors

Accuracy

• Systematic verification
• Reduced manual entry
• Consistent processes
• Better tracking

Setting Up Batch Shipping

Software Requirements

Essential Features

• Multi-order selection
• Bulk rate shopping
• Batch label printing
• Order filtering
• Export/import capabilities

Recommended Platforms

• atoship
• ShipStation
• ShippingEasy
• Ordoro
• Shippo

Hardware Setup

Label Printers

• Thermal printers (faster, cheaper per label)
• Laser printers (good for lower volumes)
• 4×6 format for shipping labels
• Dedicated printer recommended

Recommended Thermal Printers

• DYMO 4XL
• Rollo
• Zebra LP2844
• Brother QL-1100

Scanning Equipment

• Barcode scanners for verification
• USB or wireless options
• 2D scanners for modern codes

Batch Shipping Workflow

Step 1: Order Import

Sources

• E-commerce platform sync
• CSV upload
• Manual entry
• API integration

Verification

• Confirm order details
• Verify addresses
• Check product availability
• Flag exceptions

Step 2: Order Filtering

Filter Criteria

• Ship date
• Carrier preference
• Product type
• Destination (domestic/international)
• Priority level

Grouping Strategy

• Same carrier batches
• Similar package sizes
• Same service level
• Geographic grouping

Step 3: Rate Shopping

Batch Rate Shopping

• Compare across carriers
• Apply business rules
• Select optimal rates
• Override as needed

Automation Rules

• Weight thresholds
• Destination preferences
• Service level requirements
• Cost limits

Step 4: Label Generation

Batch Print Process

Select filtered orders

Confirm carrier selections

Generate labels in bulk

Print in sequence

Verify print quality

Label Organization

• Print order matters
• Match to pick list
• Sequential numbering
• Clear identifiers

Step 5: Pick and Pack

Pick List Generation

• Product locations
• Quantity required
• Order grouping
• Efficient routing

Pick Methods

• Single order (simple)
• Batch picking (efficient)
• Zone picking (large warehouses)
• Wave picking (time-based)

Pack Station Setup

• Labels organized
• Box sizes ready
• Packing materials
• Verification system

Step 6: Verification

Quality Checks

• Scan to verify
• Weight confirmation
• Address verification
• Package inspection

Error Prevention

• Mismatch alerts
• Double-check system
• Photo documentation
• Checklist completion

Step 7: Manifest and Pickup

End of Day Process

• Generate manifests
• Carrier notification
• Schedule pickups
• Prepare for handoff

Best Practices

Optimal Batch Sizes

Considerations

• Team size
• Time available
• Error rate tolerance
• Pickup schedule

Recommendations

• Small teams: 20-50 orders per batch
• Medium operations: 50-200 orders
• Large operations: 200+ with automation

Timing Your Batches

Morning Batch

• Overnight orders
• Same-day shipping
• Priority items

Afternoon Batch

• Morning orders
• Standard items
• Next-day pickup

Cut-Off Management

• Carrier pickup times
• Processing time buffer
• Customer communication

Error Handling

Common Issues

• Address errors
• Weight discrepancies
• Carrier rejection
• Print failures

Resolution Process

Separate problem orders

Process good orders first

Address issues individually

Update procedures

Team Organization

Role Specialization

• Order processing
• Pick team
• Pack team
• Verification
• Ship station

Cross-Training

• Backup capability
• Flexibility
• Coverage for absences

Automation Opportunities

Rules-Based Processing

Automatic Carrier Selection

• Weight-based rules
• Destination preferences
• Service requirements
• Cost thresholds

Automatic Service Selection

• Zone-based decisions
• Product type rules
• Customer tier preferences
• Shipping speed requirements

Integration Benefits

Connect Systems

• E-commerce platforms
• Inventory management
• Accounting software
• Customer communication

Automation Examples

• Order import triggers
• Status updates
• Tracking notifications
• Inventory adjustments

Measuring Efficiency

Key Metrics

Throughput

• Orders per hour
• Labels per batch
• Packages shipped daily

Quality

• Error rate
• Damage claims
• Customer complaints
• Returns due to shipping

Cost

• Labor cost per order
• Shipping cost per order
• Supply cost per order

Continuous Improvement

Regular Review

• Weekly metrics review
• Process bottleneck identification
• Team feedback
• Technology evaluation

Efficient batch shipping transforms fulfillment from a bottleneck to a competitive advantage. Start with basic batching and add automation as volume grows.