Kitting vs. Split Shipping

When you order multiple custom print products that need to be shipped to different locations, Smartpress can use kitting or split shipping to distribute your order. The best option depends on the number of shipments and the complexity of your distribution list.
After you’ve used Smartpress’ online printing services to create and order your customized products, you may wonder how those products will get to where they need to go. Once your products are produced, our team determines whether kitting or split shipping is the best way to send them on their way.
Kitting vs. Split Shipping
Kitting and split shipping are two ways Smartpress can distribute an order to multiple locations:
- Kitting: Groups and packages products together according to a distribution list. Kitting is generally used when there are 10 or more shipments and/or when distribution lists are complex.
- Split shipping: Sends products from a single order in separate shipments. Split shipping is generally used when there are fewer than 10 shipments.
If you have 10 or more shipments or a complex distribution list, kitting is typically the better option. For fewer than 10 shipments, Smartpress generally uses split shipping.
Distribution Lists
A key advantage of shipping with an online printer like Smartpress is our use of distribution lists. If your products need to ship to multiple locations, you can provide us with a distribution list so the right products end up in the right locations with the right recipients.
Your distribution list should indicate:
- The product being shipped
- The quantity of each product
- The destination and recipient for each shipment
Benefits for You
- Because we ship out of our location, you don’t need to receive all the products at your home or business before distributing them yourself.
- You don’t need to own various shipping supplies such as boxes, tape and bubble wrap because we have them at our location.

The Shipping Process
When using kitting or split shipping, the general process is:
- Design and order your online printing products.
- Send us a distribution list with all destinations and the quantity of each product going to each location.
- Once the products are produced, our kitting team packages them according to your distribution list.
- Everything ships out of our location.
- You receive a notification that your packages are on their way, along with tracking numbers.
Kitting vs. Split Shipping FAQ
What is kitting?
Kitting is the process of grouping and packaging multiple products together according to a distribution list before shipping them to their designated locations. Smartpress generally uses kitting for 10 or more shipments or complex distribution lists.
What is split shipping?
Split shipping means sending products from a single order in separate shipments to different destinations. Smartpress generally uses split shipping when there are fewer than 10 shipments.
When should I use kitting instead of split shipping?
Kitting is generally used when an order has 10 or more shipments or a complex distribution list. For fewer than 10 shipments, Smartpress generally uses split shipping.
Can I ship one order to multiple locations?
Yes. You can provide Smartpress with a distribution list showing which products and quantities should be sent to each destination.
Can I include my home address on a distribution list?
Yes. You can add your personal address to the distribution list if you want some of your products shipped to your home.
Can Smartpress ship products directly to recipients?
Yes. When you provide a distribution list, Smartpress can ship the appropriate products directly to the designated locations and recipients instead of sending the entire order to you first.
How can I save on shipping costs?
Submitting your order as early as possible can give you more time to use standard shipping instead of paying for upgraded shipping services.
For additional information on turnaround time and hours of operation, visit shipping.
If you have questions about kitting, split shipping or anything else, please contact customer service, and we’ll be happy to help you.