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Shiv

Build fully self-contained zipapps with all dependencies included.

Status
Generally available
Last checked
Checked · Oct 12, 2026
License
Open source
Pricing
Free tier · from $0
Visit Shiv Compare with alternatives

What it is

Shiv is a command line utility that allows developers to create portable Python applications by packaging them into self-contained zip files, including all necessary dependencies. This makes it easy to distribute and run Python apps in environments where installation of external packages might be restricted or undesirable.

Shiv stands out by providing a straightforward way to package Python applications with all their dependencies, making it ideal for environments where dependency management is challenging or restricted.

When it fits — and when it doesn’t

A good fit for

  • Developers who need to distribute Python apps with minimal setup requirements.

  • Teams working in environments with strict dependency management policies.

  • Individuals looking for a simple way to share Python scripts without complex installations.

Look elsewhere if

  • Projects requiring real-time updates or dynamic dependencies that change frequently.

  • Scenarios where the size of the distributed application is critical and must be minimized.

Known weaknesses

Each one links to the public issue, changelog or docs page it came from, where we have one.

  1. 01

    Limited to Python applications only

    Shiv is specifically designed for packaging Python applications and does not support other programming languages.

  2. 02

    Potential issues with complex dependency trees

    Complex dependencies can sometimes lead to missing or conflicting packages within the self-contained zip files.

  3. 03

    Manual intervention required for certain package configurations

    Some Python packages require manual configuration or additional steps to be included properly in the zip file.

What it does well

  • Creates self-contained zipapps with all dependencies included.

  • Easy to distribute and run Python applications in isolated environments.

  • Supports PEP 441 for creating standalone executable files.

Pricing

Free tier
YesOpen source — free to use
Paid from
$0
Model
Flat rate
Enterprise plan
No

Pricing not independently confirmed — check the vendor’s page.

Performance benchmarks

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Set up Shiv

Setup steps, common gotchas and what to check after 30 days.

Open the setup guide →
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