This article explains Metrc (Colorado) bulletin CO IB 6.18.26 (distributed and effective 06/18/2026), which updates Metrc tag ordering by adding expedited shipping speed options. You’ll learn what changed in the tag order workflow, how pricing is calculated, and what this means for day-to-day tag inventory planning and compliance operations.
What the Colorado Metrc bulletin changed
Bulletin number: CO IB 6.18.26
Distribution date: 06/18/2026
Effective date: 06/18/2026
Subject: Expedited Shipping Available for Tag Orders
Contact point: Metrc Support
Reason for change: Metrc added faster shipping speeds for tag orders to give facilities more flexibility when replenishing tag inventory.
New shipping speeds available for Metrc tag orders
Metrc updated the shipping types available when placing a tag order so licensees can choose between standard and faster delivery options. In addition to Ground shipping, the system now supports expedited shipping speeds.
Available shipping speeds: Ground, Expedited (2nd Day), and Expedited (Next Day).
Where to select shipping speed in the Metrc tag order workflow
When you create a new tag order in Metrc, you will now see an option to choose a shipping speed within the New Tag Order window. After selecting the shipping speed option, Metrc displays the available shipping choices (Ground, 2nd Day, Next Day) so you can select the one that fits your operational timeline.
How Metrc calculates total cost with expedited shipping
After you select the preferred shipping speed, use the Calculate Total function to view updated pricing that reflects the selected expedited shipping option. Once the total is calculated and confirmed, complete the tag order using the normal ordering steps in Metrc.
Practical implications for Colorado cannabis operations
This change is operationally significant because tag availability is a foundational dependency for compliant inventory tracking. If your facility runs low on plant or package tags, routine work can stall, including receiving, production, transfers, and packaging workflows that require new package creation.
Expedited shipping can reduce downtime risk when you discover tag inventory is lower than expected, face sudden demand spikes (for example, harvest or packaging surges), or need replacement tags quickly after reconciliation events. It can also help when timelines are compressed by business needs (such as planned outbound transfers) but should still be used in a controlled way to avoid unnecessary cost.
Because expedited shipping changes the total order price, finance teams and operations managers should align on when expedited shipping is acceptable, how it is approved, and how costs are attributed (for example, to a specific department, site, or rush event).
How to incorporate this change into tag inventory management
Expedited shipping works best as a safety valve, not a primary planning method. Colorado operators should still maintain a predictable tag replenishment cadence so Metrc tags are always on hand for daily compliance activities.
• Consider updating internal SOPs so staff know where to select shipping speed in Metrc and when to use expedited options.
• Consider adding a defined reorder threshold (based on average tag consumption) to reduce last-minute ordering and reliance on rush shipping.
• Consider coordinating receiving processes so expedited tag deliveries are opened, verified, and secured promptly to prevent delays and maintain tag security controls.
Labeling support: DistruLabels and DistruERP
Tag ordering is only one part of staying compliant in Metrc-driven workflows. Packaging and retail labeling errors can still create compliance exposure even when inventory is properly tagged and tracked.
DistruLabels: DistruLabels is a 100% free tool for creating compliant packaging and retail labels, designed to help operators produce consistent labels that support Metrc Retail ID compliance and reduce rework at the point of sale.
DistruERP: For larger operators that need end-to-end control beyond labels, DistruERP is Distru’s comprehensive Cannabis ERP platform built for complete supply chain management across purchasing, production, inventory, fulfillment, and compliance-driven operations.
Metrc support and training resources
If you need help finding the shipping speed option, understanding pricing impacts, or troubleshooting a tag order, Metrc provides multiple support channels.
Metrc Support: Submit and track a case via the support portal or call 877-566-6506. Portal access typically requires a username (created when logging in), the state, the facility license number, and a valid email to set a password. Visit https://support.metrc.com.
Support hours:
• Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. ET–10 p.m. ET
• Saturday, 10 a.m.–8 p.m. ET
• Sunday, voicemail or portal only
Metrc Learn: Metrc’s on-demand training platform with interactive education on system functionality. Access it directly or from the Support drop-down within Metrc.
Metrc Expert: In-app knowledge base accessible from the widget icon in the lower right corner of Metrc, offering step-by-step guides and searchable help content.
Metrc state partner resources: Visit https://www.metrc.com and navigate to your state partner page for training links and state-specific information.
