ShipStation outlines shipping preparation checklist for peak season

ShipStation has released a checklist to help merchants prepare for the upcoming holiday peak season. According to the 2026 Merchant Insights Report, 25% of merchants report that peak season accounts for more than 40% of their annual revenue, while nearly half of merchants begin preparations at least two months in advance.

The report emphasizes that existing shipping and fulfillment problems become significantly more expensive during high-volume periods. Key recommendations include verifying that all carrier accounts are properly connected to shipping platforms to ensure live rates are accurate. Merchants are also advised to audit negotiated rates with carriers such as UPS, FedEx, and USPS to prevent small discrepancies from accumulating into large costs. Additionally, the guide suggests auditing shipping automation rules to ensure they remain current and do not conflict with existing operations.