---
title: Shipping Zones and Methods
description: "![](https://www.loadlinkconnect.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/coocommerce-loadlink-plugin-woo.webp) ![Loadlink Logo](https://www.loadlinkconnect.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/logo-loadlink.svg) **Loadlink WooCommerce Shipping Plugin** ## Overview WooCommerce uses shipping zones to determine which shipping methods are available based on the customer delivery address. The Loadlink WooCommerce Shipping Plugin integrates directly with this system. This page explains how…"
url: "https://www.loadlinkconnect.com.au/help/shipping-zones-and-methods/"
updated: "2026-02-04"
category: Loadlink WooCommerce Plugin
---

# Shipping Zones and Methods

![](https://www.loadlinkconnect.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/coocommerce-loadlink-plugin-woo.webp) ![Loadlink Logo](https://www.loadlinkconnect.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/logo-loadlink.svg)

**Loadlink WooCommerce Shipping Plugin**

## Overview

WooCommerce uses shipping zones to determine which shipping methods are available based on the customer delivery address. The Loadlink WooCommerce Shipping Plugin integrates directly with this system.

This page explains how Loadlink works within WooCommerce shipping zones and how to correctly configure zones and methods.

## How WooCommerce Shipping Zones Work

WooCommerce evaluates shipping zones in the following order:

1. Customer delivery address is entered
2. WooCommerce matches the address to a shipping zone
3. Shipping methods assigned to that zone are evaluated
4. Available methods and rates are displayed at Checkout

If Loadlink is not assigned to the matched zone, no Loadlink rates will appear.

## Adding Loadlink to a Shipping Zone

Loadlink must be added to each shipping zone where it should be available.

To add Loadlink to a zone:

1. Go to **WooCommerce > Settings > Shipping**.
2. Select an existing shipping zone or create a new one.
3. Click **Add shipping method**.
4. Choose **Loadlink**.
5. Save changes.
6. Open the Loadlink method to configure settings.

Repeat this process for each applicable zone.

## Recommended Zone Configuration

For most Australian stores, the recommended setup is:

- One zone covering Australia
- Loadlink added as the primary shipping method
- Other methods enabled only if required

This ensures consistent behaviour and avoids conflicting rate logic.

## Using Loadlink with Other Shipping Methods

Loadlink can coexist with other WooCommerce shipping methods, such as:

- Local pickup
- Flat rate
- Free shipping
- International shipping methods

WooCommerce will display all eligible methods for the matched zone unless conditional rules restrict them.

## Zone Priority and Conflicts

WooCommerce evaluates zones from top to bottom. If multiple zones match an address:

- The first matching zone is used
- Loadlink must be assigned to that zone

Common issues include:

- Overlapping zones
- Broad zones placed above specific zones
- Loadlink assigned to an unused zone

Review zone order carefully.

## Editing Loadlink Method Settings Per Zone

Each Loadlink method instance can have its own settings, including:

- Enabled service levels
- Display names
- Handling fees
- Behaviour overrides

Changes made in one zone do not affect other zones.

## Testing Zone Configuration

To test zone behaviour:

1. Clear any cached cart data.
2. Add a product to the cart.
3. Enter a delivery address matching the zone.
4. Confirm Loadlink rates appear.

Test multiple addresses if multiple zones are configured.

## Common Configuration Mistakes

- Loadlink not added to the active zone
- Incorrect zone order
- Testing with an address outside the zone
- Relying on a default zone without Loadlink assigned