Shipping supply decisions for cost, protection, and order workflow.Independent educational guides for package size, supply cost, and packing workflow.
Shipping guide

Shipping Labels Explained

Shipping labels need to be readable, compatible with the carrier workflow, and protected enough to survive handling.

Label readability is not optional

A shipping label must stay attached and scannable through handling, sorting, weather exposure, and doorstep delivery. A low-cost label that smears, peels, or gets covered by tape glare can create delay or loss risk.

Common label choices

  • Plain paper labels printed on a regular printer.
  • 4x6 thermal labels from a label printer.
  • Label pouches for documents or labels on some package types.
  • Return labels or packing-slip combinations.

Workflow fit

The label method should fit order volume. A new seller may start with ordinary printing, while higher volume may justify a thermal label workflow.