How to get a shipping label: A step-by-step guide with FAQs

How to get a shipping label?  Shipping labels are essential for ensuring your packages reach their destinations smoothly. Whether you're a business owner, e-commerce seller, or occasional shipper, this guide will walk you through the entire process of obtaining a shipping label, along with answers to common questions.

1. What Is a Shipping Label?

A shipping label is an adhesive label placed on a package that contains:

• Sender and recipient details (name, address, contact information)

• Shipping carrier & service type (e.g., USPS Priority Mail, FedEx Ground)

• Tracking number & barcode (for real-time package tracking)

• Package weight & dimensions

• Handling instructions (e.g., "Fragile," "This Side Up")

   

  

  Specifications:

  *Please note that the following parameters are for laboratory reference only. For more detailed data, please contact us!

  CODE	PRODUCT	ADHESIVE	LINER
  JCD2033	70g TOP Thermal Paper	Hot Melt Adhesive	40g White Glassine
  JCD2059	70g TOP Thermal Paper	Freezer-Grade Hot Melt Adhesive	40g White Glassine
  JCD2020	65g Economic TOP Thermal Paper	Hot Melt Adhesive	40g White Glassine
  JCD2060	70g Eco Thermal Paper	Hot Melt Adhesive	40g White Glassine
  JCD2061	70g Eco Thermal Paper	Hot Melt Adhesive	40g Blue Glassine
  JCD2062	65g Non Top Coated Thermal Paper	Hot Melt Adhesive	40g White Glassine

Without a proper shipping label, carriers cannot process, route, or deliver your package.

2. Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Shipping Label

Step 1: Choose a Shipping Carrier

Popular options include:

• USPS (affordable for small packages)

• FedEx (fast delivery, good for businesses)

• UPS (reliable for domestic & international shipments)

• DHL (best for global shipping)

Consider:
✔ Shipping cost
✔ Delivery speed
✔ Package size & weight restrictions
✔ Tracking & insurance options

Step 2: Gather Required Information

Before creating a label, have these details ready:

• Sender’s full name & address

• Recipient’s full name & address

• Package contents description (for customs, if international)

• Package weight & dimensions (use a scale & measuring tape)

• Shipping service (e.g., USPS Priority Mail, FedEx 2-Day)

Step 3: Create the Shipping Label

Option A: Carrier’s Official Website (Best for Single Labels)

1. Go to the carrier’s website .

2. Log in or create an account (some discounts apply for registered users).

3. Select "Create a Shipping Label" or similar option.

4. Enter sender & recipient details.

5. Choose shipping speed & additional services (insurance, signature confirmation).

6. Pay for postage & download the label.

Option B: E-Commerce Platforms (Best for Online Sellers)

If you sell on Amazon, eBay, Shopify, or Etsy, these platforms offer built-in shipping label tools:

1. Go to your Orders/Shipping dashboard.

2. Select the order needing shipment.

3. Choose "Buy Shipping Label."

4. Confirm details & pay.

5. Print the label directly from the platform.

Option C: Shipping Software (Best for Bulk Labels)

Tools like ShipStation, Shippo, or Pirate Ship let you:
✔ Compare rates across carriers
✔ Batch-print multiple labels
✔ Automate tracking updates

Option D: In-Person at a Post Office/Shipping Center

If you don’t have a printer, you can:

1. Take your package to USPS, UPS Store, or FedEx Office.

2. Provide shipping details to the clerk.

3. Pay for postage & receive a printed label.

Step 4: Print the Shipping Label

• Use a laser printer for best barcode scan quality.

• Label paper vs. regular paper:

  • Self-adhesive label sheets (professional, no tape needed)

  • Standard paper + clear packing tape (cover the entire label)

• Avoid wrinkles or smudges—carriers may reject unscannable labels.

Step 5: Attach the Label to Your Package

• Place it on the largest flat surface (not on seams or edges).

• Remove old labels to avoid confusion.

• Use a plastic shipping pouch (if rain or dirt is a concern).

Step 6: Ship Your Package

• Drop-off: Take it to a carrier location or authorized drop box.

• Pickup: Schedule a free USPS pickup or paid FedEx/UPS pickup.

• Self-service kiosks: Available at some post offices for quick drop-offs.

3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What’s the cheapest way to get a shipping label?

A:

• USPS Ground Advantage: Best for small, lightweight packages.

• Pirate Ship/Shippo: Discounted commercial rates.

• Flat-rate boxes: USPS offers fixed pricing regardless of weight.

Q2: Can I handwrite a shipping label?

A: Most carriers discourage it because:
❌ Barcodes can’t be handwritten (required for tracking).
❌ Harder to read, increasing delivery errors.
Exception: USPS allows handwritten labels for some services, but printed is preferred.

Q3: How long is a shipping label valid?

A:

• USPS: 15 days from purchase.

• FedEx/UPS: 7-10 days.
  After expiration, you must generate a new label.

Q4: What if I make a mistake on the label?

A:

• Before shipping: Void the label & create a new one.

• After shipping: Contact the carrier—some allow address corrections for a fee.

Q5: Do international shipments need special labels?

A: Yes! You’ll need:
✔ Customs form (CN22/CN23 for USPS, commercial invoice for FedEx/UPS).
✔ HS tariff codes for each item.
✔ Restrictions check (some countries ban certain goods).

Q6: Can I reuse a shipping label?

A: No! Each label has a unique tracking number. Reusing one will cause delivery failures.

Q7: How do I track my package?

A: Enter the tracking number on the carrier’s website or use apps like AfterShip.

4. Pro Tips for Better Shipping

✅ Use thermal label printers for faster, smudge-proof labels.
✅ Save labels digitally in case of lost packages.
✅ Compare carriers—sometimes UPS is cheaper than USPS for heavy boxes.
✅ Insure valuable items (carriers often limit liability for lost/damaged goods).

By following this guide, you’ll save time, avoid shipping mistakes, and get the best rates! 📦