Metrc (West Virginia) bulletin WV IB 0048 announces a change to Metrc tag ordering: West Virginia facilities can now choose expedited shipping speeds (in addition to ground) when ordering Metrc tags. This article explains what changed, how to use the new “Choose a Shipping Speed” option in Metrc, and what it means for day-to-day compliance operations.
Bulletin details (WV IB 0048)
Bulletin number: WV IB 0048
Distribution date: 07/13/2026
Effective date: 07/27/2026
Subject: Expedited Shipping Available for Tag Orders
Contact: Metrc Support
Reason: Expedited shipping speed available for tag orders
What changed: expedited shipping options for Metrc tag orders
Starting 07/27/2026, Metrc is expanding the shipping types available when a facility places a tag order. Instead of only using standard ground shipping, licensees can choose a faster shipping speed, including expedited options such as 2nd Day and Next Day, directly within the tag order workflow.
This matters because tag availability is a compliance dependency: without physical Metrc tags on hand, facilities can’t reliably keep up with required inventory tagging and related operational timelines.
How to select a shipping speed in the Metrc tag order workflow
When you place a new tag order in Metrc, you will see an option in the New Tag Order action window to Choose a Shipping Speed.
After selecting that option, Metrc will display available shipping speeds. The bulletin specifically notes:
• Next Day – Estimated 1 business day in transit
Once you select your preferred shipping speed, use the Calculate Total button to view updated pricing (including expedited shipping costs). After confirming the total, complete the tag order using the normal submission steps.
Practical implications for West Virginia cannabis operations
Expedited shipping is primarily an operations and risk-management improvement. It gives West Virginia licensees a way to reduce the chance that tag shortages create downstream compliance issues or production delays.
Continuity planning for tagging: Faster shipping can help when facilities experience unexpected increases in tagging needs (for example, higher-than-forecast harvest volume, additional packaging runs, or onboarding new product lines).
Reduced disruption risk: If a facility runs low on tags, expedited options can help avoid slowed receiving, packaging, transfers, or other workflows that depend on timely tagging.
Cost control and approvals: Because expedited shipping changes total order pricing, operators should align internally on who is authorized to choose faster shipping speeds and approve the higher total when necessary.
How this connects to packaging, labeling, and Metrc Retail ID compliance
While this bulletin is focused on tag shipping, it fits into a broader compliance reality: inventory movement and retail readiness depend on both correct Metrc tracking and compliant labeling.
DistruLabels: DistruLabels is a 100% free tool for creating compliant packaging and retail labels, helping teams produce labels that support Metrc Retail ID workflows and reduce labeling errors that can cause rework at the point of sale or during audits.
DistruERP: For larger, multi-department operations, DistruERP is Distru’s comprehensive Cannabis ERP platform designed for end-to-end supply chain management, helping align procurement, production, inventory, fulfillment, and compliance reporting with Metrc-connected processes.
Metrc support and training resources
If you have questions about the new tag order shipping speeds or need help navigating the workflow, Metrc provides multiple support channels.
Metrc Support: Submit and track a case through the Support portal 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
Support portal note: First-time portal access typically requires a username (established when logging in), the respective state, a facility license number, and a valid email to set a password.
Metrc Learn: Metrc’s on-demand training platform is available at Metrc Learn and may also be accessible from within Metrc via the Support menu.
Metrc Expert: Inside Metrc, use the widget icon (lower right) to open Metrc Expert for step-by-step guides and knowledge base content.
State partner resources: Metrc also maintains partner information at Metrc state partner pages, which can include training links and state-specific guidance.
