ShipStation accepts checking account payments, but only through specific methods
ShipStation does not take checking account information directly the way some services do. Instead, you can link a checking account to ShipStation by connecting it through a payment processor or by setting up automatic transfers from your bank. The most common route is to add your checking account as an ACH bank transfer method, which pulls money from your account on your billing date each month.
You will need your routing number and account number from a blank check or your bank's website. ShipStation uses third-party payment processors to handle these transfers securely, so your account details are not stored directly on ShipStation's servers.
Key Takeaways
- ShipStation accepts ACH bank transfers from checking accounts, which is the direct checking account payment method available through the platform.
- You will need your bank's routing number and your account number to set up the payment method in your ShipStation account settings.
- ACH transfers typically process within one to three business days after your billing date, so plan ahead if you have a low balance.
- If ACH transfer fails due to insufficient funds, ShipStation will retry the charge and may suspend your account until payment clears.
- Credit cards and debit cards are also accepted if you prefer not to link your checking account directly.
Where to add your checking account in ShipStation
Log into your ShipStation account and go to Settings (usually a gear icon in the top right). Select Billing or Payment Method from the menu. You will see an option to add a new payment method; select Bank Account or ACH Transfer.
Enter your bank's routing number, your checking account number, and the account holder's name. ShipStation will ask you to confirm the account type (checking or savings). Some banks print both numbers on the bottom left of a check — the first nine digits are the routing number, and the digits after that are your account number. If you cannot find a check, log into your bank's website and look for account details or routing information in the settings menu.
How long ACH transfers take and when they charge
ShipStation bills on a monthly cycle based on your subscription start date, not on a calendar month. When your billing date arrives, ShipStation submits the ACH transfer request to your bank. The transfer typically takes one to three business days to complete, meaning the money leaves your account three days after the charge is initiated, not the same day.
If your billing date falls on a weekend or holiday, the transfer may process on the next business day. Plan to have funds available in your account by your billing date to avoid a failed charge. If the transfer fails, ShipStation will usually retry it within a few days, but a second failure may result in account suspension until payment is received.
What happens if an ACH transfer fails
A failed ACH transfer usually means insufficient funds in your checking account. When this happens, ShipStation will send you an email notification and may attempt to retry the charge automatically. The retry typically happens within two to five business days.
If the second attempt also fails, ShipStation may suspend your account, which means you cannot create new shipments or access certain features until the payment is resolved. You can manually retry the payment through your account settings by going to Billing and selecting the failed charge. Once the payment clears, your account will be reactivated.
Switching from another payment method to checking account
If you currently pay with a credit card or debit card and want to switch to ACH bank transfer, go to Settings > Billing and add your checking account as a new payment method. You can then set it as your primary payment method. ShipStation will use the new method on your next billing date.
You do not have to remove your old payment method immediately, but you can delete it once you confirm the ACH transfer worked. Some users keep a backup card on file in case an ACH transfer fails, which can prevent account suspension.
Security and privacy when linking a checking account
ShipStation uses encryption to protect your banking information during transmission. Your routing number and account number are processed through third-party payment processors (usually Stripe or similar services) that are PCI-compliant, meaning they meet security standards for handling financial data.
ShipStation does not store your full account number on its servers. Instead, it stores a token or reference number that the payment processor uses to pull funds on your billing date. You can view your payment method in your account settings, but you will only see the last four digits of your account number for security.
Alternatives if you do not want to link a checking account
ShipStation also accepts credit cards, debit cards, and PayPal. If you prefer not to give ShipStation direct access to your checking account, a debit card or credit card is a reasonable alternative. Some users use a debit card tied to a separate account with a low balance to limit exposure if there is a security issue.
PayPal is another option if you have a PayPal account. This method adds a layer between your bank and ShipStation, though PayPal will still need to access your bank account or card to pull funds. The advantage is that you can manage the connection through PayPal's settings rather than ShipStation's.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a joint checking account with ShipStation?
Yes. Use the routing number and account number from the joint account. The account holder name can be either person on the account, though ShipStation may ask for the primary account holder's name for verification purposes.
What if my bank does not support ACH transfers?
Most U.S. banks support ACH transfers, but some smaller or regional banks may not. Contact your bank to confirm they offer outgoing ACH transfers. If they do not, use a credit card, debit card, or PayPal instead.
Will ShipStation charge me a fee for using ACH bank transfer?
No. ShipStation does not charge extra for ACH transfers. You pay only your subscription fee. Your bank may charge a fee if you have a basic checking account with limited transactions, but most banks do not charge for ACH transfers.
How do I know if my ACH transfer went through?
Check your ShipStation account under Settings > Billing to see the payment status. You will also see the charge appear in your bank account within one to three business days. ShipStation sends a confirmation email when the payment is received.
Can I change my billing date if I do not have funds on the current date?
ShipStation does not allow you to change your billing date, but you can manually pay the invoice early through your account settings if you want to move the charge to a different day. Contact ShipStation support if you need to discuss payment timing for your specific situation.