Magento 2 is a powerful e-commerce platform that enables you to sell products online. However, managing orders and shipping them can be challenging. That’s where custom carrier integration comes into play. In this article, we will explain how you can manage orders with custom carrier integration in Magento 2.

What is Custom Carrier Integration?

Magento 2 comes with built-in shipping carriers such as UPS, USPS, FedEx, and DHL. However, there may be instances where you need to use a custom carrier. Custom carrier integration allows you to add and use your preferred shipping carrier in Magento 2. You can customize shipping rates, labels, and tracking information using the carrier’s API.

How to Manage Orders with Custom Carrier Integration

In this section, we will describe the steps required to manage orders with custom carrier integration in Magento 2.

Step 1: Choose a Custom Carrier

Before you can manage orders with custom carrier integration, you need to choose a custom carrier. Generally, custom carriers provide APIs that allow integration with different e-commerce platforms, including Magento 2. You can choose a custom carrier based on your specific needs, such as shipping rates, delivery times, and geographic coverage. Once you have selected a custom carrier, you will need to obtain the API information required for integration.

Step 2: Install the Custom Carrier Integration Module

Magento 2 has a wide range of modules available for different functionalities. To integrate a custom carrier, you will need to install a custom carrier integration module. Some custom carriers provide their own Magento 2 modules, while others use third-party modules. Make sure to choose a module that is compatible with your version of Magento 2 and the selected custom carrier. You can install the module using the Composer or the Magento Marketplace.

Step 3: Configure the Custom Carrier

After you have installed the custom carrier integration module, you can configure the custom carrier information. This includes the API key, API endpoint, and other carrier-specific details. You can access the custom carrier configuration from the Magento 2 admin panel. Navigate to Stores > Configuration > Sales > Shipping Methods > [Custom Carrier].

Step 4: Test the Custom Carrier Integration

Once you have configured the custom carrier, you should test the integration to ensure that it is working as expected. You can do this by creating a test order and selecting the custom carrier as the shipping method. The integration should generate a tracking number and a shipping label for the order. You can also check the carrier’s website or API to verify the accuracy of the tracking information.

Step 5: Manage Orders with Custom Carrier Integration

After you have successfully integrated a custom carrier in Magento 2, you can start managing orders with the carrier. When you receive an order, you can select the custom carrier as the shipping method and enter the details of the shipment, such as weight, dimensions, and shipping address. The custom carrier integration module will calculate the shipping rate and generate a shipping label and tracking number. You can print the label and attach it to the shipment and then update the order with the tracking information.

Conclusion

Custom carrier integration is a valuable feature of Magento 2 that allows you to use your preferred shipping carrier. Custom carrier integration can be a complex process, but by following the steps outlined in this article, you can integrate a custom carrier and start managing orders with it. With custom carrier integration, you can offer customers better shipping options, improve order fulfillment, and increase customer satisfaction.