Metrc (All States) Bulletin MS_IB_0044, effective 05/26/2026, updates Metrc tag ordering by adding expedited shipping speed options for facilities that need tags faster. This article explains what changed in Metrc, how to select and price expedited shipping during a tag order, and what the update means for day-to-day cannabis compliance operations.
Bulletin summary: expedited shipping for Metrc tag orders
Bulletin Number: MS_IB_0044
Distribution Date: 05/26/2026
Effective Date: 05/26/2026
Subject: Expedited Shipping Available for Tag Orders
Contact Point: Metrc Support
Reason: Expedited shipping speed available for tag orders.
Metrc expanded the shipping types available when ordering Metrc tags. Facilities can now choose between standard ground shipping and expedited shipping speeds (2nd Day or Next Day) when placing a tag order.
What changed in Metrc: choosing a shipping speed
When a user starts a new tag order, Metrc now displays an in-workflow option to choose a shipping speed within the tag order window (instead of being limited to a single default shipping method). The available speeds include ground and expedited options (2nd Day and Next Day).
How pricing works for expedited tag shipping
After selecting the preferred shipping speed, the user clicks the Calculate Total button to refresh the order total and view the updated pricing that corresponds to the expedited shipping choice. From there, the user completes the tag order using the same steps they already follow for standard tag ordering.
Operational implications for cannabis operators
Fewer workflow delays when tags are running low
Expedited shipping gives compliance and operations teams a way to reduce downtime risk when tag inventory is unexpectedly low, new production ramps up, or onboarding new rooms/lines requires tags sooner than planned. While this does not change any regulatory tracking rules, it can materially affect your ability to stay current in Metrc by ensuring physical tags arrive in time to support required tagging events.
Budgeting and internal controls
Because expedited shipping increases costs, many operators will want a simple internal approval rule (for example, only compliance managers can select Next Day) to prevent unnecessary spend. The key practical change is that shipping speed is now a selectable choice during ordering, so your facility should align on when expedited service is appropriate.
Planning for inventory tagging and transfers
Tag availability impacts multiple daily compliance activities, including creating and tagging plants or packages, re-tagging in certain workflows, and preparing inventory for transfer. Faster shipping can help avoid last-minute interruptions, especially during peak production cycles or when preparing for major wholesale transfer days.
How this fits into Metrc compliance and recordkeeping
This bulletin does not change how tags are applied, how packages are created, or what needs to be reported in Metrc. It only adds shipping speed options when ordering physical tags. Operators should still maintain good tag inventory practices (tracking on-hand tag counts and reorder points) to minimize urgent orders and ensure continuous compliance.
Related compliance tooling: labels and Retail ID readiness
DistruLabels (free) for compliant cannabis labels
DistruLabels is a 100% free tool for creating compliant packaging and retail labels and can help teams stay aligned with Metrc Retail ID compliance by generating consistent, compliant label outputs for retail-facing items and workflows where Retail ID expectations apply. This can reduce labeling errors that lead to relabeling work, delivery delays, or product holds.
DistruERP for end-to-end cannabis operations
For larger operators that need complete supply chain management, DistruERP is Distru’s comprehensive Cannabis ERP platform designed to connect inventory, manufacturing, sales, fulfillment, and compliance workflows in one system—supporting scale without losing operational control.
Metrc support resources referenced in the bulletin
Metrc Support
You can submit and track a case through the Metrc Support portal at https://support.metrc.com or call 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
Portal access note: First-time portal access typically requires a username (established when logging in), the respective state selection, facility license number, and a valid email to set a password.
Metrc Learn and Metrc Expert
Metrc Learn is Metrc’s on-demand training platform for interactive education on system functionality and workflow efficiency. It can be accessed directly or from the Support drop-down inside Metrc (registration may be required).
Metrc Expert is the in-app knowledge base accessible from the widget icon in the lower right corner of Metrc, providing step-by-step guides and searchable help content.
Metrc state partner resources
Metrc also maintains state partner pages on https://www.metrc.com with training links, FAQs, and other state-specific resources.
Source: Metrc Bulletin MS_IB_0044 (Expedited Shipping Available for Tag Orders), effective 05/26/2026.
