Metrc (Kentucky) Bulletin KY_IB_0016 announces new expedited shipping options for Metrc tag orders, giving facilities a choice between ground and faster delivery speeds starting July 20, 2026. This article explains what changed in Metrc, how to place a tag order with expedited shipping, and what the update means for day-to-day compliance operations and inventory planning.
Bulletin overview: KY_IB_0016 (Kentucky)
Bulletin number: KY_IB_0016
Distribution date: 07/06/2026
Effective date: 07/20/2026
Subject: Expedited Shipping Available for Tag Orders
Contact point: Metrc Support
Reason for change: Metrc is adding an expedited shipping speed option for tag orders so licensees can choose faster delivery when needed.
What changed in Metrc tag ordering
When placing a new tag order in Metrc, facilities will now have an additional step to choose a shipping speed within the New Tag Order workflow. Metrc is expanding shipping types beyond standard ground to include expedited options (such as 2nd Day and Next Day, depending on what is available at checkout).
Shipping speeds now available
Metrc tag orders can be placed using Ground shipping or an Expedited shipping option (for example, 2nd Day or Next Day). The available expedited choices and pricing are determined during the ordering process.
How to select expedited shipping on a tag order
During the New Tag Order process, users will see a new option to Choose a Shipping Speed within the tag order action window. After selecting the preferred speed, click Calculate Total to display updated pricing for the chosen shipping method. Then proceed with the normal tag ordering steps to submit the order.
This change does not alter how tags are assigned, used, or applied in Metrc; it only adds shipping-speed selection and updated totals based on the delivery method.
Operational impact for Kentucky cannabis operators
While shipping speed is not a “tracking” function inside Metrc, it has direct compliance implications because running out of tags can stop lawful receiving, packaging, transfers, or other workflows that require tagging. Expedited shipping is designed to reduce downtime risk when tag inventory is low or when operations expand faster than expected.
What this means for day-to-day compliance workflows
Fewer interruptions when tag inventory runs low: Expedited shipping can help prevent pauses in compliant operations if you discover you are short on tags.
Better response to operational changes: If you add new product lines, bring on new rooms, or increase throughput, expedited shipping provides a faster way to restock tags while you recalibrate reorder points.
Budgeting and purchasing controls: Because expedited shipping will increase the total order cost, many operators should align purchasing permissions and approval workflows so urgent orders can be placed quickly without creating accounting surprises.
Proactive planning still matters: Expedited shipping is a safety valve, not a best practice. Kentucky facilities should continue setting internal minimum tag thresholds and ordering ahead to avoid emergency orders where possible.
Packaging, labeling, and Metrc Retail ID readiness
Tag availability is only one part of staying audit-ready. Accurate, compliant packaging and retail labels help reduce downstream compliance risk (especially at the point of sale and in product handling where retail identifiers and packaging details are scrutinized).
DistruLabels: DistruLabels is a 100% free tool for creating compliant packaging and retail labels, and it helps teams stay organized for Metrc Retail ID requirements by producing consistent, compliant label outputs for day-to-day operations.
DistruERP: For larger, multi-department operations that need end-to-end controls, DistruERP is Distru’s comprehensive Cannabis ERP platform designed for complete supply chain management across inventory, manufacturing, distribution, and compliance workflows.
Where to get help from Metrc
For assistance with the updated tag-order shipping options, Metrc directs users to the Support portal.
Metrc Support portal: Support.Metrc.com
Metrc Support phone: 877-566-6506
Support hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. ET – 10 p.m. ET
Support hours: Saturday, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. ET
Support hours: Sunday – Voicemail or portal only
First-time portal access note: Metrc notes that first-time portal users need a username (established when logging in), the respective state, the facility license number, and a valid email to set a password.
Additional Metrc resources
Metrc Learn: Metrc’s on-demand training platform with interactive education on system functionality to improve workflow efficiency. It can be accessed directly or via the Support drop-down in Metrc (registration required if you have not used it before).
Metrc Expert: An in-app knowledge base accessed via the widget icon in the lower right corner of Metrc, providing step-by-step guides and answers.
State partner page: Metrc also references each state’s partner page for training links, FAQs, and other state-specific materials.
