Shipping Label
What a shipping label is, what information it includes, and how to create one.
What Is Shipping Label?
A shipping label is the core document that tells the carrier where a package is going, what service to use, and confirms that postage has been paid. Modern shipping labels include machine-readable barcodes that encode the tracking number and routing information, allowing automated sorting at carrier facilities. Labels can be created at carrier websites, at post office counters, or through shipping platforms that offer discounted rates. Most labels are printed on 4x6 inch thermal labels or standard letter-size paper. Buying labels online through shipping software typically saves 15-40% compared to purchasing at the counter, because you access commercial pricing rather than retail rates.
Why It Matters
How Each Carrier Handles Shipping Label
USPS
USPS labels can be created at usps.com, through Click-N-Ship, at the post office counter, or through third-party platforms. Online labels receive commercial pricing discounts of 15-30% off retail rates. Labels include a USPS tracking barcode, addresses, service type, and postage.
FedEx
FedEx labels are created through fedex.com, FedEx Ship Manager, or third-party platforms. Labels include a FedEx barcode, origin/destination addresses, service type, declared value, and account number. FedEx provides free label printing at FedEx Office locations.
UPS
UPS labels are created through ups.com, UPS WorldShip, or third-party platforms. Labels include a UPS 1Z tracking barcode, addresses, service type, and billing information. Labels can be printed at UPS Stores, through UPS Internet Shipping, or via shipping software.
Tips
Related Terms
Tracking Number • Return Label • Ground Advantage
Frequently Asked Questions
You can create a shipping label at your carrier's website (usps.com, fedex.com, ups.com), at a physical carrier location, or through a shipping platform like I'd Ship That. Enter the sender and recipient addresses, package dimensions and weight, select a service, and pay for the label.
Yes. Buying labels online is almost always cheaper than purchasing at the counter. Online labels access commercial pricing, saving 15-40% compared to retail rates. Shipping platforms often offer even deeper discounts due to their volume agreements with carriers.
You can use any printer. For best results, a 4x6 thermal label printer (like DYMO or ROLLO) is ideal -- no ink required and labels are water-resistant. A standard inkjet or laser printer also works; just print on regular paper and tape or affix it to the package with a clear pouch.
If the barcode is unreadable, the package may be delayed as it requires manual processing. If the entire label is damaged, the carrier may return the package to the sender if the return address is legible, or send it to the carrier's dead mail facility. Always use a clear label pouch or durable adhesive label to protect against weather and handling.
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