InPost lockers have become a popular and convenient way to send and receive parcels in the UK. They are easy to use, available 24 hours a day, and often located at supermarkets, petrol stations or outside local shops. As more people turn to parcel lockers for online returns or personal shipments, one common question arises: do InPost lockers print labels? This article explains how InPost lockers work, whether they offer label printing, and what your options are when preparing a parcel for drop-off.
How InPost Lockers Work
InPost is a self-service parcel locker network that allows users to collect deliveries or drop off returns without needing to queue or interact with a shop assistant. You simply select your service online, follow the instructions provided by the retailer or courier, and use a code or QR scan to open a locker and deposit your parcel.
The appeal of InPost lies in its simplicity. You do not need to wait for opening hours, and many of the lockers are placed in accessible and well-lit areas for added convenience. The process is fast, especially if you are returning online purchases or sending a prepaid parcel.
Do InPost Lockers Print Shipping Labels
No, InPost lockers in the UK do not currently print shipping labels. They are label-less by design, meaning you do not need to print anything at home or at the locker. Instead, the InPost system uses a QR code or return code which you scan at the locker when dropping off your parcel. This generates the necessary information electronically and links your parcel to the correct sender or recipient.
The label-less approach is part of what makes InPost so convenient. Many retailers now offer InPost as a return option and provide you with a QR code via email or app. When you arrive at the locker, you scan the code, select a locker size and place your parcel inside. The courier then collects it, scans the parcel at the depot, and attaches a label for delivery or return processing.
How to Prepare Your Parcel Without a Label
Even though you do not need a printed label, it is still important to pack your parcel securely. Use a plain cardboard box or padded envelope that is sealed properly and has no old labels or barcodes visible. The InPost system identifies your parcel through the QR code you scan and assigns the tracking details once it is collected from the locker.
Make sure you bring your QR code with you on a mobile device or printed on paper. Some InPost lockers also support entering a return code manually if you cannot scan the QR code. Once you scan the code or enter the return number, the locker will open and confirm that your parcel has been accepted.
What If You Prefer to Use a Label
While InPost does not print labels at the locker, some retailers still allow you to use your own printed label. If you are sending a parcel through a service that requires one, you can print the label at home and attach it to the parcel before visiting the locker. In most cases, however, the InPost label-free system is designed to eliminate the need for home printers altogether.
If your preferred courier or selling platform does not yet support label-free returns via InPost, you may need to explore other options such as visiting a Post Office or using a shop-based return service that does offer label printing facilities.
Can You Use InPost Without a Printer at All
Yes, you can use InPost entirely without a printer. The label-free model is designed to suit people who do not have access to a home printer or want a quicker way to drop off parcels. As long as you receive a QR code from your retailer or courier, you can complete the drop-off process without printing anything.
Some courier integrations also allow you to generate a QR code through the InPost website or mobile app when creating a shipment. This means you can send personal parcels without a printer, provided the service supports digital drop-off.
Retailers and Services That Offer Label-Free Returns
A growing number of retailers offer label-free returns through InPost. This includes major UK names in fashion, beauty and homeware. When you initiate a return on their website, you select InPost as your return method and receive a QR code by email or through your online account.
Because the system is widely adopted and the process is consistent, you can rely on it even if you have no printer or access to a traditional parcel drop-off point.
Final Thoughts
InPost lockers do not print shipping labels, but that is one of their main advantages. The entire system is built to be label-free, using QR codes and return numbers to simplify the drop-off process. You do not need a printer, you do not need sticky labels, and you can complete the task in just a few minutes. If you are looking for a quick and convenient way to return parcels or send packages without any paperwork, InPost is an efficient and accessible solution.