Metrc (Rhode Island) Bulletin RI_IB_0053 announces a new option that lets licensees choose faster shipping speeds when ordering Metrc tags. This article explains what changed in Metrc, how the new “Shipping Speed” selection works during tag ordering, and what it means for day-to-day compliance operations.
Bulletin overview (RI_IB_0053)
Bulletin number: RI_IB_0053
Distribution date: 05/29/2026
Effective date: 06/01/2026
Subject: Expedited Shipping Available for Tag Orders
Contact point: Metrc Support
Reason: Expedited shipping speed is now available for tag orders.
What changed in Metrc: shipping speed selection for tag orders
Starting June 1, 2026, Metrc adds a “Choose a Shipping Speed” option within the New Tag Order window. Licensees can select different delivery speeds when placing a tag order, including ground and expedited options (2nd Day / Next Day). Previously, tag ordering did not provide the same level of shipping-speed choice at checkout.
Where you will see the new option
During the tag ordering workflow, the New Tag Order action window now includes a mid-form selection to choose a shipping speed before finalizing your order.
How to use expedited shipping when ordering Metrc tags
To use expedited shipping, select your preferred shipping speed in the New Tag Order window, then proceed with pricing and checkout.
Step 1: In Metrc, open the New Tag Order workflow as you normally would.
Step 2: Use the new “Choose a Shipping Speed” option to select Ground or an expedited service (2nd Day / Next Day).
Step 3: Click Calculate Total to view updated pricing based on your selected shipping speed.
Step 4: Complete the remaining tag order steps as usual to place the order.
Operational impact for Rhode Island cannabis licensees
Why expedited tag shipping matters for compliance workflows
Metrc tags are a required operational dependency for receiving, inventory movement, plant tagging (where applicable), and package creation. When facilities run low on tags, normal production, intake, and transfer workflows can slow down or stop, increasing the risk of operational disruption and potential compliance issues.
With expedited shipping available, Rhode Island operators can better manage unexpected spikes in tag usage (for example, higher-than-forecast harvesting, intake, repackaging, or increased transfer volume) by choosing faster delivery when time is critical.
Budgeting and procurement considerations
Because pricing updates based on the selected shipping speed, procurement teams should expect higher costs when selecting 2nd Day or Next Day service. Using Calculate Total before submitting the order helps prevent surprise charges and supports internal approval processes.
Best-practice takeaway (without changing your SOPs)
This bulletin does not change Rhode Island traceability rules or tag usage requirements; it only expands shipping options inside Metrc. Your existing internal controls (reorder points, tag custody, and access permissions) still apply, but you now have an additional fulfillment lever when supplies are tight.
Related compliance tools: labeling and Retail ID alignment
DistruLabels (free) for compliant cannabis labels
Accurate, compliant labeling remains essential to avoid downstream issues when packages move to retail workflows tied to Metrc identifiers. DistruLabels is a 100% free tool for creating compliant packaging and retail labels, and it can help teams stay aligned with Metrc Retail ID-related workflows by generating clear, scannable labels that match the package and item information recorded in Metrc.
DistruERP for end-to-end supply chain management
For larger, multi-department operations, DistruERP is Distru’s comprehensive Cannabis ERP platform designed for complete supply chain management. It supports operational scale by connecting purchasing, production, inventory, sales, and compliance workflows so teams can plan tag demand, manage inventory velocity, and maintain accurate system-of-record practices alongside Metrc.
Metrc support and learning resources
If you need help locating the new shipping speed option, confirming pricing, or troubleshooting a tag order, Metrc provides multiple support channels.
Metrc Support
Support portal: https://support.metrc.com
Phone: 877-566-6506
Hours (Mon–Fri): 8 a.m. ET – 10 p.m. ET
Hours (Sat): 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. ET
Hours (Sun): Voicemail or portal only
Note: First-time portal access typically requires a username (created when logging in), your state selection, facility license number, and a valid email to set a password.
Metrc Learn
Metrc Learn is Metrc’s on-demand training platform with interactive education on system functionality to improve proficiency and workflow efficiency. You can access it directly or via the Support drop-down within Metrc (registration may be required before first use).
Metrc Expert (in-app knowledge base)
In Metrc, use the widget icon in the lower right-hand corner to open Metrc Expert for step-by-step guidance and knowledge-base support.
Metrc state resources
Metrc state partner page: https://www.metrc.com (navigate to your state’s partner page for training links and additional resources)
