Runbook: Add a New Shipping Carrier
Account: VITAG (Vitagen Labs)
Navigation: Configuration → Shipping → Carriers
When to Use This Runbook
Use when connecting a new carrier account (UPS, FedEx, USPS) so UltraCart can generate real-time shipping rates at checkout and print shipping labels. Also covers adding a USPS label provider (http://Stamps.com or Endicia).
Who handles this: Owner or anyone with Configuration — Shipping access.
Reference: 10-shipping-enhanced.md for the full carrier reference and all 17 supported carriers.
Before You Start
You need active accounts with the carriers you want to add:
| Field | Where to Find It |
|---|
| Issue | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| No rates returned | Item weight or dimensions missing | Add weight to all items (Configuration → Items or the item record) |
| Rates are much higher than expected | Using retail rates instead of negotiated rates | Confirm carrier account credentials are correctly connected |
| Specific service not showing | Carrier service not added as a shipping method | Add the method in Shipping Methods |
| Rates only show for some zip codes | Geographic restriction on the method | Check the Restrictions tab |
Step 4: Print a Test Label
After rates are confirmed working:
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Go to Operations → Orders → find a real or test order
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Click Print Label (or the label button)
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Select the new carrier
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Confirm label generates with correct:
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Ship-from address (VITAG's warehouse address)
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Ship-to address (customer's address)
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Package weight and dimensions
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Service class (Ground, Priority, etc.)
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Do not actually mail the test label unless it's a real order
Step 5: Add USPS Flat Rate Packages (USPS Only)
If using USPS, add the flat-rate package options to your shipping packages:
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Go to Configuration → Shipping → Packages
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Click Add USPS Flat Rate
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Select the flat-rate box types your operations team actually has on hand:
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Small Flat Rate Box
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Medium Flat Rate Box (top-loading and side-loading)
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Large Flat Rate Box
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Flat Rate Padded Envelope
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Save
These packages appear in the shipping selection for USPS Flat Rate orders. The flat rate price is fixed regardless of weight, which is advantageous for heavy supplements.