For many entrepreneurs, shipping can be a hard thing. The good news is that there are a number of low-cost apps for smartphones and tablets that help make the process a little easier.

All well-known shipping companies, such as UPS and FedEx, have their own apps that can help users create, manage, and track cargo shipments. But small businesses can also find inexpensive apps that offer features for shipping companies to use.

Here’s a look at four mobile apps that can meet small business logistics needs:

Delivery Status Touch

It is available for iOS only. Developed by Junecloud, it has a colorful interface with easy-to-read maps that allow you to quickly see where your shipment is. This app covers a wide range of shipping companies, including large shippers like UPS, FedEx, USPS, DHL and TNT. It can also track shipments from Amazon and Apple, as well as international shipping companies.

Package Buddy

It is available for Android devices only. Among the many shipping apps available on the Google Play app store, Package Buddy is perhaps the most useful, and it supports over 60 shipping companies around the world. It gives the ability to share shipping information with others directly from the app, and also provides a barcode scanning feature.

Parcel Tracker

It is available for Windows phones only. The application includes a barcode scanning feature and supports more than 65 shipping companies. You can bookmark important shipments on the main screen and you can go to them without having to spend time searching for them.

JumpTrack

It is available for Android and iOS devices. It’s a proof of delivery application. It can capture and store signatures and delivery photos. It can also track the status of shipments and delivery drivers throughout the day. All this information can be shared with clients via email.