Ever wondered why some packages arrive on time while others seem to vanish? The secret often lies in the shipping labels that play a key role in both personal and business shipping needs.
According to Credence Research, the global shipping labels market is projected to grow from USD 2125 million in 2024 to USD 2683 million by 2032, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.96%. As the visible identifier on your package, a well-crafted and precise package label ensures smooth delivery to your intended destination.
In this blog post, we’ll provide insights into how to get a shipping label, offer examples, and share tips on how to write a shipping label efficiently, along with best practices for printing them.
What is a Shipping Label?
A shipping label, often referred to as a package label, provides essential details about your package, such as sender and recipient details, weight, size, and carrier information. It may also specify additional information, including:
- Special instructions
- Customer service contact
- QR code and barcodes
- Payment status (if applicable)
Shipping labels play an important role in the delivery process, as they provide details to help both people and automated systems direct packages to the correct locations. Shipping labels clarify routes and mark stops to prevent delays and misdeliveries.
Why Are Shipping Labels Important?
A well-organized shipping label format is important to ensure that carriers have the correct information to efficiently transport packages from their origin point – such as a warehouse or fulfillment center – to the final destination at the customer's doorstep.
If a sample shipping label is absent or incorrect, packages may face several issues, including:
- Delays during transit
- Misdelivery to an incorrect location
- Complete loss of the parcel
These issues can result in poor customer experiences, which may lead to negative online reviews, social media complaints, and customers switching to a competitor.
Types of Shipping Labels
Shipping labels exist in various forms that allow you to choose the type that best matches your needs and goals for efficient shipping and brand identity.
Standard vs. Custom Labels
You have the option to choose between standard and custom-designed labels, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Standard Labels
Pros:
- Simplicity and Speed: Labels are ready to use and fulfill all basic requirements, making them ideal for quick, generic shipping tasks.
- Cost-Effective: Since mass-produced, standard labels are generally more affordable than custom options.
- Universal Compatibility: Standardized sizes and formats ensure they work seamlessly with most shipping systems.
Cons:
- Lack of Personalization: Standard labels don’t allow for any branding or customization, which means they are less impactful in terms of brand recognition.
- Generic Look: Without unique visual elements, standard labels may not stand out and might convey a less professional image.
Custom Labels
Pros:
- Brand Identity: Custom labels allow the integration of brand logos, colors, and fonts. If you’re looking to boost your online presence, consider e-commerce site development services.
- Personalization: They allow for the inclusion of special instructions or handling directions, tailored to specific needs.
- Creativity and Flexibility: Use platforms for creative freedom in label design, and are good for a unique and eye-catching label.
Cons:
- Higher Costs: Custom label creation can be more expensive due to design and printing costs.
- Longer Production Time: The production process of custom labels may take more time than using pre-made standard labels.
- Complexity: The design process may require more expertise and effort, especially if using advanced design tools and techniques.
Carrier-Specific Labels
Different shipping carriers have various labelrequirements that you need to adhere to. Whether you're using USPS, FedEx, or UPS, each has its specific format you need to follow.
- USPS: Known for its universal coverage, the USPS offers free label templates available online.
- FedEx: Specializes in express and global shipping, and offers downloadable label templates on their site.
- UPS: Facilitates both domestic and international shipping with specific label guidelines available online.
- DHL: A leader in international shipping, DHL provides customizable label templates tailored to global deliveries, including options for express services and freight.
- Canada Post: Focused on Canadian and international shipping, Canada Post offers online tools and templates for parcel labels, integrating tracking and delivery information.
Carrier-specific labels usually consist of pre-determined dimensions, barcode placements, and layout designs approved by that carrier. The usage of carrier-specific templates helps ensure that your package is processed smoothly through that company's network.
Top Free Shipping Label Templates and Tools
The right tool to create your shipping label can have a significant impact on your workflow. Here are some top free resources to get you started:
Shopify Shipping Label Generator
This tool is excellent for businesses using Shopify as their e-commerce platform. It integrates seamlessly with your store and generates labels that meet various carrier requirements. Simply select your order, review details, and print your label.
Sendcloud Free Shipping Label Template
Sendcloud offers a free online template to create shipping labels. It supports easy entry of origin and destination details, generating labels that can be printed on A6 sticker sheets. Perfect for streamlining shipping for small businesses.
Avery Shipping Label Template
Avery provides free templates designed for their printable label sheets. These templates work with popular word-processing software and allow users to create customized shipping labels with ease.
Tool Name | Ease of Use | Customization | Supported Carriers |
|---|---|---|---|
Shopify Shipping Generator | Very intuitive; simple input fields | Basic customization; fixed templates | Shopify-specific integrations |
Sendcloud Free Shipping Label Template | Easy to use; requires minimal input | Supports address formatting; A6 layout | 100+ carriers supported |
Avery Shipping Label Template | Moderate; works with external software | Highly customizable; supports logos and designs | None; relies on user setup |
Magento users facilitating returns via RMA can consider using Shipping Labels Add-On for Magento 2, which provides specialized solutions for returns management.
Common Shipping Label Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Shipping labels can often present challenges, but with some planning, you can avoid problems and ensure packages are delivered smoothly.
Overloading Labels with Information
Instead of cramming every detail about the product, focus on the most critical elements, such as the productname, brandlogo, and necessary safetywarnings. Use clear headings, bullet points, or icons to enhance readability and ensure that essential details stand out.
When thinking about how to label a package, remember that simplicity often leads to effectiveness. Always stay selective with the information displayed on your label.
Incorrect Label Sizes
Don’t use labels that are either too big or too small, since it can lead to inefficiencies and delays. Refer to industry guidelines or standards provided by shipping carriers. For example, if you are shipping internationally, consult the specific dimension requirements of carriers like DHL or FedEx.
Poor Label Placement
Knowing where to put the shipping label on the box ensures that it remains scannable and intact throughout transit. A label that is obscured by package seams or placed on a corner might result in scanning errors.
Placement is an important aspect of properly labeling a box for shipping. Conduct trials with sample packages, applying labels to test for optimal visibility and stability during transport.
How to Create a Shipping Label Template from Scratch
To create a shipping label from scratch, you’ll need maximum customization and control over the format. Here's a simple step-by-step guide using popular design software.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Shipping Label
- Choose Your Software: Common choices are Canva, AdobeIllustrator, or MicrosoftWord.
- Set Dimensions: First, set up a new document with the correct shipping label size. Most standard labels measure 4x6 inches.
- Design Elements: Include critical fields such as sender and recipientaddresses, barcodes, and any necessary logos or branding colors.
- Follow Carrier Specs: Ensure all design elements align with your carrier's label format. Pay attention to barcode placements and text clarity.
- Preview and Adjust: Before printing, preview your label to make sure all elements are correctly aligned and visible.
- Save for Printing: Export your design in a print-friendly format like PDF to maintain quality during printing.
Best Practices for Printing Shipping Labels
Once you've created the perfect shipping label example, you should print it correctly. Here are some best practices:
Readability
To prevent smudges, utilize high-quality printers and ink, and keep the printer clean for optimal output. Regular maintenance is also needed to produce labels that remain crisp and legible.
Don’t forget about the quality check: ensure barcodes are scannable and texts are readable from a distance. Incorporate visual inspections to catch fading or misprints before they become issues in shipments.
Printer Options
Thermal printers are generally preferred for label printing as they offer fast print speeds and high-quality outputs without needing ink or toner, making them cost-effective over time. Inkjet or laser printers are more suitable for smaller operations. However, they may require frequent ink replacement and could result in smudging if incorrect paper types are used.
Label Paper Types
Adhesive labels or stickers are quick to apply and less likely to fall off, so they’re extremely reliable for shipment identification. Ensure that the adhesive is appropriate for the surfaces it will adhere to, especially in various environmental conditions.
While plain paper is cheaper, it requires additional steps like taping it securely to packages, which can add to labor costs. Reinforce the labels with clear, waterproof tape to protect them from moisture and physical damage during transit.
Choosing the Right Shipping Label Template for Your Needs
Shipping labels are foundational to a successful shipping process. The right template and proper printing can enhance your company's efficiency, professionalism, and even brand identity.
For Magento users, utilizing Shipping Labels Add-On for Magento 2 can streamline returns management, providing an all-inclusive solution to your shipping needs. With the right tools and tips, creating and printing shipping labels can be a breeze.
