Forge provides a sub-account management tool that enables platforms and marketplaces to create and manage customer accounts with flexibility and control. Each sub-account represents a business or customer that signs up to access a platform's services. The Sub Account page allows account oversight, including carrier settings, branding, and account details.
Sub Account Features
Marketplaces and software platforms use Forge to provide end-to-end shipping functionality and manage customer accounts through the Sub Account tool.
- Onboarding: Create sub-accounts using the Sub Account "Create" end-user flow.
- Account Management: Manage sub-account details, including business name, address, phone number, and email.
- Carrier Management: Manage sub-account carriers associated with each user.
- Parcel & API Analytics: Access parcel data such as shipping spend, label volume, and API performance.
- Branding: Manage sub-account branded tracking page for a customized experience.
- API Keys: Securely manage API Keys for end users.
Sub Account Types
Forge supports multiple sub-account structures, allowing platforms to determine how postage, fees, and carrier charges are handled. The chosen implementation determines the sub-account type, each with distinct onboarding APIs and capabilities. Platforms can choose to have either sub-accounts pay for their own shipping activity or manage all shipping costs centrally.
Decentralized: Sub Accounts Pay
The Decentralized model requires customers to pay for their own shipping labels and carrier services directly through EasyPost. This reduces financial risk and operational overhead. The designated sub-account type for this model is the ReferralCustomer Sub Account.
Centralized: Platform Pays
The Centralized model routes all shipping activity through platform-owned carrier accounts and billing. This model enables pricing adjustments for postage and fees but requires the platform to assume responsibility for negative balance liabilities. The designated sub-account type for this model is the Child Sub Account.