Upgrading from UPS WorldShip 2016 to 2017: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you ready to upgrade your UPS WorldShip from 2016 to 2017? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process, from backing up your data to testing the new version. Let’s get started.

Why You Should Upgrade to WorldShip 2017

Before we dive into the technical details of the upgrade process, let’s take a moment to talk about why you should upgrade to WorldShip 2017.

Firstly, WorldShip 2017 comes with several new features and improvements that can streamline your shipping processes and save you time. For example, the new version includes enhancements to address verification, better tracking and visibility, and improved label printing options.

Secondly, upgrading to WorldShip 2017 ensures that your software is up-to-date and secure. As UPS makes updates, older versions of WorldShip may become vulnerable to security breaches or compatibility issues, which can cause disruptions to your shipping operations.

Thirdly, WorldShip 2017 offers improved integration with other UPS tools and services, such as UPS My Choice and UPS CampusShip. This means that you can easily manage all of your shipping needs from one platform, without having to switch between different systems.

Fourthly, WorldShip 2017 provides better reporting and analytics capabilities, allowing you to track your shipping performance and identify areas for improvement. With access to detailed data and insights, you can make informed decisions about your shipping strategy and optimize your operations for maximum efficiency.

System Requirements for Upgrading to WorldShip 2017

Before you begin the upgrade process, it’s essential to ensure that your computer meets the minimum system requirements. According to UPS, your computer should have:

• Microsoft Windows 7, 8, or 10
• Minimum of 4GB of RAM
• At least 2.0 GHz processor or higher

If your computer doesn’t meet these requirements, it’s best to upgrade or replace your hardware before proceeding with the installation.

It’s also important to note that WorldShip 2017 requires an active internet connection to function properly. If your internet connection is slow or unreliable, it may affect the performance of the software and cause delays in your shipping process.

Additionally, if you have any third-party shipping software or plugins installed on your computer, it’s recommended to uninstall them before installing WorldShip 2017. These programs may conflict with WorldShip and cause errors during the installation process.

Backing Up Data Before Updating WorldShip

Backing up your data before upgrading to WorldShip 2017 is a crucial step that can save you a lot of headache in case anything goes wrong during the installation process. Make sure that you have a recent backup of all your WorldShip data, including the shipping history, address book, and shipment information.

You can create a backup of your WorldShip data by going to the “Tools” menu and selecting “Export”. Choose the option to export “All WorldShip Data”, and select a location to save the backup file. It’s best to use an external hard drive or upload the backup to a cloud storage service like Dropbox or Google Drive.

It’s important to note that backing up your data is not only necessary before updating WorldShip, but it’s also a good practice to do regularly. This ensures that you always have a copy of your important information in case of any unforeseen circumstances, such as a computer crash or a virus attack.

Additionally, if you have any customized settings or preferences in WorldShip, it’s a good idea to take note of them before updating. This will make it easier to set up your preferences again after the update is complete.

Installing WorldShip 2017 on Your Computer

Now that you’ve backed up your data let’s proceed with installing WorldShip 2017. You can download the latest version of the software from the UPS website.

After you download the installation file, double-click it to begin the installation process. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation, and make sure that you select “Upgrade” when prompted to choose between “Upgrade” and “Clean Install”.

It is important to note that during the installation process, you may be prompted to enter your UPS account information. This is necessary in order to fully activate the software and ensure that you have access to all of its features. If you do not have a UPS account, you can easily create one on the UPS website.

Once the installation is complete, you can launch WorldShip 2017 and begin using it to manage your shipping needs. The software offers a variety of features, including the ability to create shipping labels, track packages, and manage your shipping history. If you have any questions or issues with the installation process, you can contact UPS customer support for assistance.

Setting Up Your New WorldShip Account

Once the installation is complete, you need to set up your new WorldShip account. Launch WorldShip 2017 and follow the prompts to create a new account. You’ll need to provide your UPS Account number, billing address, and contact information. If you already have an account, you can import your settings from the previous version.

It is important to note that if you are setting up a new account, you will also need to select your preferred payment method. WorldShip offers several options, including credit card, electronic funds transfer, and UPS billing. Make sure to choose the option that works best for your business needs.

Additionally, during the account setup process, you will have the opportunity to customize your shipping preferences. This includes selecting your preferred delivery options, such as next-day or ground shipping, as well as setting up any special handling instructions or delivery notifications. Taking the time to customize these settings can help streamline your shipping process and ensure that your packages are delivered according to your specific requirements.

Transferring Existing Information to WorldShip 2017

After you set up your new account, it’s time to transfer your existing data from WorldShip 2016 to 2017. You can do this by going to the “Tools” menu and selecting “Import”. Choose the option to import “All WorldShip Data”, and select the backup file you created earlier. Follow the prompts to complete the transfer.

It’s important to note that if you have made any changes or updates to your data in WorldShip 2016 after creating the backup file, those changes will not be included in the transfer to WorldShip 2017. To ensure that all of your data is up to date, it’s recommended that you make a final backup of your WorldShip 2016 data just before completing the transfer to WorldShip 2017.

Understanding the New Features of WorldShip 2017

Now that you’ve installed and set up WorldShip 2017, it’s time to understand the new features and options available in the latest version. Take some time to explore the interface and familiarize yourself with the new tools, such as the enhanced shipment processing and tracking options.

One of the most notable new features in WorldShip 2017 is the ability to create and save customized shipment profiles. This can save you time and effort by allowing you to quickly select pre-set options for frequently shipped items or destinations. Additionally, the new version includes improved address validation and correction tools, which can help reduce errors and ensure timely delivery.

Another useful addition to WorldShip 2017 is the ability to track and manage returns more easily. The new version includes streamlined processes for creating return labels and tracking the status of returned items. This can be especially helpful for businesses that frequently deal with returns or exchanges.

Configuring Your Shipping Preferences in WorldShip 2017

WorldShip 2017 comes with several options for customizing your shipping preferences. You can configure your preferences for package type, shipping options, billing options, and label printing. Take some time to review your preferences and make any necessary changes to ensure that you’re using the software to its full potential.

One of the most useful features of WorldShip 2017 is the ability to save your shipping preferences as templates. This can save you a lot of time if you frequently ship packages with similar characteristics. You can create templates for different package types, shipping options, and billing options, and then simply select the appropriate template when you’re ready to ship.

Another important aspect of configuring your shipping preferences in WorldShip 2017 is ensuring that you’re using the most cost-effective shipping options. The software provides real-time shipping rates from major carriers, so you can compare prices and choose the most affordable option for your needs. You can also set up rules to automatically select the cheapest shipping option based on package weight, destination, and other factors.

Troubleshooting Common Upgrade Issues with WorldShip

If you encounter any problems during the upgrade process, don’t panic. UPS provides extensive support resources, including a guide to common issues and their solutions. You can also reach out to UPS customer service for assistance.

One common issue that users may encounter during the upgrade process is a failure to connect to the internet. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a weak Wi-Fi signal or a firewall blocking the connection. To resolve this issue, users should check their internet connection and ensure that their firewall settings allow WorldShip to access the internet.

Another issue that may arise during the upgrade process is a failure to install the necessary software updates. This can be caused by a lack of available disk space or an outdated operating system. To resolve this issue, users should free up disk space by deleting unnecessary files and ensure that their operating system is up-to-date before attempting to install the WorldShip upgrade.

Final Steps: Testing and Using WorldShip 2017 for Shipping

Once you’ve transferred your data and configured your shipping preferences, it’s time to test the software and make sure that everything is working correctly. Create a test shipment and run it through the entire process, from creation to delivery. Make sure that all the information is correct and that the label prints correctly.

After testing the software, it’s important to train your staff on how to use WorldShip 2017 for shipping. This will ensure that everyone is familiar with the software and can use it efficiently. You can provide training sessions or create a user manual to guide your staff through the process.

Additionally, it’s important to keep the software up-to-date by installing any available updates or patches. This will ensure that the software is running smoothly and that any bugs or issues are fixed. You can check for updates regularly or set up automatic updates to keep the software current.

Benefits of Upgrading to UPS WorldShip 2017

Finally, let’s talk about the benefits of upgrading to WorldShip 2017. As we mentioned earlier, the new version comes with several new features and improvements that can save you time and streamline your shipping processes. Additionally, upgrading to the latest version ensures that your software is up-to-date and secure, which is essential in today’s ever-evolving technological landscape.

Overall, upgrading from WorldShip 2016 to 2017 is a straightforward process that can improve your shipping operations and ensure that you’re using the latest technology. Follow the steps outlined in this guide, and you’ll be up and running in no time. Happy shipping!