How to Get a Shipping Label: Step-by-Step Guide (2025) + Free Options

In the e-commerce era, knowing how to properly obtain shipping labels is an essential skill for every online seller and individual shipper. This guide details 7 methods to get professional shipping labels while saving time and money.

Why You Need Shipping Labels

Shipping labels are critical documents attached to packages containing sender/recipient information, tracking numbers, and shipping service details. Professional labels ensure on-time delivery, prevent delays/losses, and often qualify you for discounted shipping rates.

7 Ways to Get Shipping Labels

1. Get Labels via USPS Website

Steps:

• Visit USPS.com
• Click "Print a Label" under "Quick Tools"
• Create account or log in
• Enter shipping information
• Select service type and package details
• Pay and print label

Pros: Official channel, transparent pricing
Cons: Requires account, interface may challenge beginners

2. Use UPS or FedEx Online Services

• Both carriers offer similar online label creation:
• Visit carrier website
• Select "Create Shipping Label"
• Enter required information
• Choose shipping options
• Pay and download PDF label

Pro Tip: Compare all three carriers for heavier packages

3. Generate Through E-commerce Platforms

Shopify, eBay and Etsy provide built-in label services:

• Log into seller account
• Navigate to order details
• Select "Purchase Shipping Label"
• Confirm details and pay
• Print or download label directly

Advantage: Automatically syncs with orders

4. Third-Party Shipping Platforms

ShipStation, Shippo and Pirate Ship offer multi-carrier comparisons:

• Create account
• Connect your store (optional)
• Enter package details
• Compare rates/services
• Purchase and print labels

Key Benefit: Pirate Ship offers USPS commercial pricing without monthly fees

5. Obtain at Post Office/Carrier Locations

Traditional method still works:

• Bring package to service location
• Staff will weigh and discuss options
• Receive printed label after payment
• Affix to package immediately

Note: Typically more expensive than online

6. Free Shipping Label Generators

For small packages consider:

• Search "free shipping label maker"
• Choose reputable site
• Enter required information
• Generate and print basic label

Limitations: Usually lack tracking/insurance

7. Create Handwritten Shipping Labels

Emergency solution:

• Clearly write addresses on paper
• Include ZIP codes and contact info
• Add "FROM"/"TO" markers
• Cover completely with clear tape

Recommended: Only for non-critical, short-distance shipments

Shipping Label Tools Comparison

Pro Tips: 5 Label Optimization Strategies

Right Size: Cover 30-50% of largest flat surface

Quality Print: Thermal printers ideal; use adhesive paper with regular printers

Smart Placement: Apply to flattest surface away from edges/seams

Backup Copy: Include duplicate inside package

Weatherproofing: Completely cover with clear tape

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I print shipping labels at home?

A: Yes, with any printer and internet connection. Most carriers provide PDF labels compatible with standard printers.

Q: Do I need a special printer?

A: 4x6 thermal printers work best but aren't mandatory. Regular printers with adhesive paper suffice.

Q: Is label cost included in shipping?

A: Typically yes - when purchasing shipping online, label cost is included in the total.

Q: Can I reuse shipping labels?

A: Never. Each label has unique tracking numbers - reuse causes major delivery issues.

Q: How long are labels valid?

A: Most remain valid 7-30 days depending on service. Priority mail labels often expire sooner than standard.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Now that you understand all shipping label options, choose what works best for your needs. Occasional shippers may prefer USPS or platform tools; frequent shippers should consider dedicated services like Pirate Ship.

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