Missing Order Numbers on FedEx Labels? Here's How to Fix It
Why Isn't My Shopify Order Number Showing on FedEx Labels?
Ever stare at a FedEx shipping label and think, "Where's the order number?" You're not alone! Jsetzer81 kicked off a thread in the Shopify community about this exact problem, and it's a surprisingly common headache for store owners. Let's dive into why this happens and, more importantly, how to fix it.
The Mystery of the Missing Order Number
So, what's going on? The core issue is that by default, Shopify might not automatically include the order number in the format that FedEx expects or prints on their labels. This can lead to confusion, especially when dealing with multiple shipments or returns. It's like trying to find a specific book in a library without the call number!
How to Add the Order Number to Your FedEx Labels
Here's a breakdown of how you can tackle this, drawing from the insights of our helpful community members:
1. Check Your Shopify Shipping Settings
First things first, let’s make sure your basic Shopify shipping settings are configured correctly. While this might not directly solve the FedEx label issue, it's always good to double-check.
2. Customize Your Packing Slips
While not directly on the FedEx label, including a detailed packing slip inside the package can be a great workaround. You can customize your packing slip template to prominently display the order number. To do this:
- Go to your Shopify admin.
- Click on "Settings" then "Shipping and delivery".
- Scroll down to "Packing slips" and click "Edit".
- Here, you can add the order number using Shopify's templating language (Liquid). You might need to add a line of code like
{{ order_name }}to display the order number.
This ensures the recipient can easily identify the order even if the FedEx label is missing the number.
3. Consider a Shipping App
This is where things get interesting. Several Shopify apps specialize in advanced shipping label customization. These apps often allow you to map Shopify order information directly onto the FedEx label fields.
Here's why an app might be the best solution:
- Flexibility: Apps offer more control over label formatting than Shopify's built-in tools.
- Automation: They can automatically pull order data and populate the correct fields.
- Carrier Integration: Many apps have direct integrations with FedEx, ensuring compatibility.
Some popular shipping apps in the Shopify app store that you could explore include:
- ShipStation
- Easyship
- ShippingEasy
These apps usually involve a monthly fee, but the time saved and reduced errors can often justify the cost. Be sure to read reviews and compare features to find the best fit for your business needs.
4. Contact FedEx Support
It might sound obvious, but reaching out to FedEx support could provide valuable insights. They might have specific requirements for label formatting or be able to offer guidance on how to include the order number in a way that their system recognizes. It's worth a shot!
Wrapping Up: Getting Those Order Numbers on Your Labels
So, there you have it. Getting that order number onto your FedEx shipping labels might take a little tweaking, but it’s definitely achievable. Whether you choose to customize your packing slips, explore a shipping app, or contact FedEx directly, the goal is to streamline your shipping process and reduce any potential confusion. It's all about making life easier for you and your customers! And remember, the Shopify community is always there to lend a hand if you get stuck. Happy shipping!