Blog - How to Print Shipping Labels for Online Business Success

If you have an e-commerce or online retailing business, mastering how to print shipping labels is a crucial step towards streamlining operations and boosting your brand's perception.

Good printed labels are also a reflection of your brand's commitment to professionalism, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Customer Trust: Accurate and legible labels ensure that packages reach their destinations reliably, which in turn builds customer trust. Consistently delivering on your shipping promises enhances your brand's reputation for reliability.

Operational Efficiency: High-quality labels improve the readability of barcodes and addresses, facilitating smoother operations within postal services and reducing the risk of shipping errors. This efficiency not only speeds up the delivery process but also decreases the likelihood of returns due to mislabelling.

Compliance: In many sectors, particularly those dealing with regulated goods, printed labels must meet specific standards and regulations like the Packaging (Essential Requirements) Regulations. Ensuring compliance through high-quality printed labels can prevent legal issues and fines.

Sustainability: Brands committed to sustainability can further this value through their choice of labels, opting for eco friendly materials and inks. This commitment can significantly resonate with like-minded consumers, further enhancing brand loyalty.

Enhanced Unboxing Experience: The quality of a shipping label contributes to the overall unboxing experience. A bespoke, high-quality label adds a personal touch that can delight customers, encouraging social sharing and repeat business.

1. Selecting the Right Shipping Software: Utilise reliable shipping software that integrates seamlessly with your e-commerce platform. Look for software that offers features like bulk label printing and discounted shipping rates. Royal Mail Click & Drop and Parcel2Go are popular choices among UK retailers for creating labels online.
   
   
2. Choosing the Correct Printer: For small volumes, a standard inkjet or laser printer suffices. However, for higher volumes, investing in a thermal label printer can be more cost-effective and efficient. Thermal printers, like those from Zebra or Dymo, offer durability and speed without the need for ink or toner.
   
   
3. Purchasing Quality Labels: Opt for high-quality label stock that matches your printer type. Thermal printers require specific thermal labels, while inkjet and laser printers work best with their respective label types. Ensure the labels are the correct size for your packages and compatible with postal service requirements.
   
   
4. Designing Your Label: Ensure your shipping label contains all the necessary information in a clear, readable format. This includes the sender's and recipient's addresses, package weight, and a postage barcode or QR code. Shipping software typically generates this information based on the data you input.
   
   
5. Printing the Label: Follow your printer's guidelines for loading labels and select "print" from your shipping software. For thermal printers, ensure the labels are correctly aligned to avoid printing issues. Always preview your label before printing to catch any errors.
   
   
6. Attaching the Label to Your Package: Once printed, securely attach the label to your package. The label should be placed on a flat surface without covering any seams or edges. If using a paper label, cover it with clear plastic shipping tape to protect it from damage during transit. For thermal labels, simply peel and stick.

• Automate the Process: Use shipping software that allows you to automate label creation based on customer orders, saving you time and reducing the risk of errors.
  
  
• Bulk Printing: Take advantage of features that allow you to print multiple labels at once, ideal for busy shipping days or large order volumes.
  
  
• Sustainability: Consider eco friendly label options, such as recycled paper labels or reusable packaging, to align with your brand's sustainability goals.

• Printer Alignment: Regularly test and adjust your printer's alignment settings to ensure labels print correctly.
  
  
• Software Compatibility: Ensure your shipping software is up-to-date and compatible with any hardware or e-commerce platforms you're using.
  
  
• Quality Assurance: Regularly check the quality of your printed labels, especially the readability of barcodes and QR codes, to avoid delays in shipping.

View our range of postal packaging and shipping labels to discover how we can help you enhance your brand's efficiency and sustainability in the shipping process. Our commitment to quality and innovation makes Tidmas Townsend your trusted partner in e-commerce shipping success.

Browse our full range of postal packaging or get in touch for more support.