Whether you are a small business owner sending out online orders or an individual posting a parcel to a friend, knowing how to print a shipping label can save you time, money and hassle. Shipping labels provide essential delivery details including the recipient’s address, sender’s information, barcode tracking and service type. Printing your own labels ensures accuracy and lets you drop off or arrange collections without queueing at the counter.
This guide explains how to create and print shipping labels from home or work using standard printers or specialist label machines. It is ideal for ecommerce sellers, office managers or anyone looking to streamline the shipping process.
What Is a Shipping Label
A shipping label is a printed tag that carriers like Royal Mail, Evri, DPD or DHL use to route your parcel correctly. It typically includes the recipient’s name and address, return address, a tracking barcode and delivery instructions. Labels also identify the type of service used such as first class or next-day delivery.
Most carriers allow you to create shipping labels online and then print them at home using your own printer or a thermal label printer. You can then attach the label to your parcel and drop it off at a post office or parcel shop or book a collection.
How to Create a Shipping Label Online
Creating a shipping label starts with entering parcel details on the courier’s website. For example, on Royal Mail Click & Drop or Evri’s website, you will enter the destination address, parcel weight and dimensions. Once you choose your service level, the system will generate a digital shipping label.
If you sell through platforms like eBay, Etsy or Shopify, you can also generate labels directly through your seller dashboard. This saves time as the system often pulls the buyer’s details automatically.
You will usually pay for the postage online and download a PDF version of the shipping label ready to print. Some services also email you a copy for convenience.
Printing Your Shipping Label at Home
Once you have downloaded the label, open the PDF file and check that the layout is correct. Make sure your printer is loaded with plain A4 paper or adhesive label sheets if you have them. You can print using an inkjet or laser printer as long as the text and barcode are clearly visible.
Set your printer to standard or high quality and ensure it prints at 100 percent scale. Do not shrink the file or crop the edges as the barcode must remain readable. Cut out the label and attach it to the parcel using clear tape or glue if you printed on plain paper.
If you print frequently, you may want to invest in a thermal label printer. These printers do not use ink and are designed to print fast on adhesive label rolls which stick straight to your packaging.
Using Label Printers for Volume Shipping
For businesses sending out large numbers of parcels, thermal label printers like the Zebra GK420D or Dymo 4XL offer a more efficient solution. These machines print directly onto sticky labels and reduce the need for cutting and taping. They are compatible with most shipping platforms and often come with their own label software.
Most models connect via USB or Bluetooth and can print continuously with minimal input. While the upfront cost is higher than using a standard printer, the long-term savings and convenience can be substantial for high-volume senders.
Label Sizes and Formats
Shipping label sizes vary depending on the courier and printer used. A standard label size for thermal printers is 6×4 inches while A4 paper can fit two or four labels per sheet. Always use the label format provided by the courier to ensure it includes the correct layout and scannable elements.
You should also place the label on the largest flat side of the parcel, avoiding edges or seams. Make sure it is securely attached and not obstructed by tape, folds or straps.
What If You Cannot Print at Home
If you do not have a printer, many couriers offer Print In-Store or Print at ParcelShop options. Services like Royal Mail’s QR code feature allow you to show a code at the post office and have them print the label for you. Evri and Yodel also have machines at some locations where you can enter your tracking number and print on the spot.
This is a convenient solution if you only send parcels occasionally or do not want to invest in a printer.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to print shipping labels is essential for anyone who sends parcels regularly. Whether you are running an online shop or just sending gifts to family, being able to create and attach your own labels gives you flexibility and helps avoid delays. With a few simple tools and clear information, you can print professional labels from the comfort of your own home and keep your deliveries running smoothly.