Setting up parcel shipping in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central can be a daunting task involving multiple steps, including creating carrier accounts, integrating third-party platforms, and navigating licensing requirements. This complexity can leave many businesses feeling overwhelmed before they’ve even printed their first shipping label. Fortunately, simplifying this process is possible, thanks to Order Ship Express. This lightweight app connects Business Central to EasyPost, allowing small and mid-sized businesses to start generating shipping labels in just a few minutes. Designed to eliminate the usual hurdles and streamline the shipping process, this app simplifies parcel shipping and helps businesses save valuable time and resources.
Step 1: Sign Up for an EasyPost Account
To begin using Order Ship Express, the first step is to sign up for an EasyPost account. EasyPost provides a straightforward registration process, requiring only basic information such as name, email, and company details. For efficiency, using a general shipping email like shipping@yourcompany.com is recommended. Once signed up, the next step involves connecting carrier accounts to EasyPost. Users can link up to three carriers, including USPS, UPS via the Digital Access Program, FedEx, and DHL. It’s advisable to opt for EasyPost’s built-in USPS or UPS options, as these choices are user-friendly and often come with discounted rates.
After completing the carrier connections, users need to access their EasyPost profile and locate the API Keys tab. Here, both Production and Test API keys are available for copying. These keys are essential for the setup process with Order Ship Express and will be used to establish a seamless connection between Business Central and EasyPost. By following these initial steps, businesses can prepare the necessary infrastructure for efficient and simplified parcel shipping.
Step 2: Install Order Ship Express
Once the EasyPost account is set up, the next step involves installing the Order Ship Express app within Business Central. By accessing AppSource, users can quickly find and install the app in less than a minute. Upon installation, the Order Ship Express Setup Wizard guides users through the configuration process. The first task is to input the previously obtained EasyPost API keys, starting with the Production key. This step is crucial as the connection won’t be completed without it.
After entering the API keys, Order Ship Express automatically connects to EasyPost and imports supported carriers without any need for additional configuration or complex mapping. This simplicity is one of the app’s primary strengths, as it reduces the typical setup time associated with shipping integrations. With minimal steps, businesses can ensure that their shipping process is operational and ready for use.
Step 3: Test It—Create a Shipping Label
To confirm that everything is working correctly, it’s time to create a test shipping label. Users should start by generating a new Sales Order in Business Central, ensuring it includes a valid shipping address. From the Sales Order page, the ‘Create Shipping Labels’ action allows users to proceed with the label creation process. This action displays available shipping carriers and services, such as USPS Priority Mail or UPS Ground.
Choosing a carrier and checking the shipping cost with the Get Rate option is simple. After selecting the desired service, clicking Get Label generates the shipping label, which is downloaded as a PDF, ready to be printed or dispatched to the warehouse. This process demonstrates how Order Ship Express can facilitate quick label generation, making parcel shipping more efficient and less time-consuming.
Bonus Tips and Support
While the setup process is designed to be intuitive, users may still encounter occasional issues. For example, an error message like 400 Bad Request may indicate that a ZIP or postal code is invalid or improperly formatted. Addressing such issues promptly ensures uninterrupted shipping operations. Additionally, users requiring a UPS DAP account can request one directly through EasyPost, although it may take a few days for approval.
For developers seeking custom freight pricing, the OnBeforeGetFreightPrice() event enables the application of business-specific pricing logic, such as markups or customer-based rules. Such customization can further enhance the shipping process, tailoring it to meet unique business requirements. Should any challenges arise during setup or operation, various support options are available. Businesses can connect with technical teams via online forums, browse knowledge bases for quick answers, or reach out for direct assistance.
Final Thoughts
Setting up parcel shipping in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central can often feel like a monumental task. Businesses must navigate through a myriad of steps, including creating carrier accounts, integrating third-party platforms, and understanding complex licensing requirements. This level of complexity can make many businesses feel overwhelmed even before they have printed their first shipping label. Fortunately, there is a way to simplify this process: Order Ship Express. This lightweight app provides a seamless connection between Business Central and EasyPost, making it possible for small and mid-sized businesses to start generating shipping labels in mere minutes.
Order Ship Express is specifically designed to eliminate typical obstacles and streamline the entire shipping process. By using this app, businesses can significantly save time and resources, allowing them to focus more on other important aspects of their operations. It offers an efficient and user-friendly solution that reduces the usual hassles associated with parcel shipping and improves overall productivity.