Metrc (Alaska) published Bulletin AK_IB_0086 to announce a workflow update that lets licensed facilities choose faster shipping speeds when ordering Metrc tags. This article explains what changed, how to select a shipping speed and preview pricing in Metrc, and what the update means for day-to-day cannabis operations and compliance planning.
Metrc Alaska bulletin summary (AK_IB_0086)
Bulletin number: AK_IB_0086
Distribution date: 07/14/2026
Effective date: 07/20/2026
Subject: Expedited Shipping Available for Tag Orders
Contact: Metrc Support via Support.Metrc.com
Reason for change: Metrc added an expedited shipping speed option for tag orders so facilities can choose faster delivery when needed.
What changed: shipping speed selection for Metrc tag orders
Starting on the effective date, Alaska Metrc users placing a new tag order will see an in-workflow option to choose a shipping speed directly in the New Tag Order window. Previously, shipping options were more limited and did not present the same level of speed selection during the order flow.
This update is specifically about tag orders (plant/package tags) and is intended to help facilities reduce downtime risk when tag inventory runs low.
Available shipping speeds for tag orders
Metrc indicates facilities can choose between Ground and Expedited shipping options when ordering tags.
When Expedited is selected, Metrc references expedited service levels such as 2nd Day and Next Day.
• Next Day – Estimated 1 business day in transit
• 2nd Day – Expedited service level available during tag ordering (carrier transit time depends on destination and cutoffs)
How to use the new shipping speed option in Metrc
Within the New Tag Order action window, Metrc now provides an option to choose a shipping speed before you finalize the order.
Step 1: Start a new tag order as you normally would.
Step 2: Select the option to choose a shipping speed (this appears mid-window in the tag order workflow).
Step 3: Pick the desired shipping option (for example, Ground or an Expedited speed such as Next Day).
Step 4: Click Calculate Total to view updated pricing that reflects the selected shipping speed.
Step 5: Complete the remainder of the tag order process as usual to submit the order.
Practical implications for Alaska cannabis operations
Tag availability directly affects your ability to stay compliant in Metrc because you generally cannot create compliant inventory records without the required tags and identifiers. This change gives Alaska operators an additional control to manage operational risk when tag inventory is running low.
Reduced risk of workflow interruption: Expedited shipping can help prevent stalled receiving, planting, harvesting, packaging, and transfer workflows caused by running out of tags.
Better inventory planning: Facilities can maintain normal reorder cycles (Ground) but still have a faster option for unexpected demand spikes, new product launches, or onboarding new rooms/lines.
Cost visibility before checkout: Using Calculate Total after selecting a speed makes it easier to justify shipping costs internally and document why an expedited purchase was necessary.
Compliance continuity: While shipping speed is not a compliance requirement by itself, the ability to keep tags on hand supports timely, accurate Metrc data entry and reduces the likelihood of backlogs that can lead to mistakes.
Labeling and Retail ID support: DistruLabels and DistruERP
While this bulletin focuses on tag order shipping, many day-to-day Metrc issues show up at the packaging and retail labeling stage, especially when aligning internal SKU workflows with Metrc identifiers.
DistruLabels: DistruLabels is a 100% free tool for creating compliant packaging and retail labels. It can help teams produce consistent labels that support Metrc Retail ID compliance by keeping key product identifiers and required label elements organized and repeatable across runs.
DistruERP: For larger operators needing end-to-end supply chain management, DistruERP is Distru’s comprehensive Cannabis ERP platform designed to support manufacturing, distribution, inventory, and compliance workflows at scale.
Metrc support and training resources
If you need help placing a tag order, selecting a shipping speed, or troubleshooting checkout and billing, Metrc directs users to its support and training channels.
Metrc Support
You can submit and track a case in the Metrc Support portal or call 877-566-6506.
• Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. ET – 10 p.m. ET
• Saturday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. ET
• Sunday – Voicemail or portal only
Portal access note: First-time portal users typically need a username, the respective state, the facility license number, and a valid email to set a password.
Metrc Learn and Metrc Expert
Metrc Learn: Metrc’s on-demand training platform provides interactive education on system functionality and workflow efficiency. Access it directly or via the Support drop-down in Metrc.
Metrc Expert: In Metrc, use the widget icon in the lower right corner to open the Metrc Expert knowledge base for step-by-step guidance and answers.
Metrc.com state resources
For Alaska-specific training links and updates, visit Metrc.com and navigate to your state partner page.
