How To Label A Box For Shipping

Virginia Miller

May 30, 2024

In this article

Did you know that you can save some money on shipping costs by adequately labeling your boxes? It's true! Using suitable labels ensures that your packages are shipped in the correct size and weight class, which can help reduce your shipping costs. This blog post will show you how to label your boxes for shipping. Keep reading to learn more!

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Choosing the Right Shipping Box and Labels for Your Products

Selecting the proper packaging is crucial when shipping products to customers. The right box and labels will keep your items safe in transit and ensure efficient delivery. This guide covers how to choose a shipping box, the different types of labels, attaching labels, and tips for safe shipping.

What Type of Box Do You Need?

The first step is selecting a sturdy box that will protect your product. Consider the size, weight, and fragility of the item. If unsure, consult with packaging experts at your local shipping store. Once you've chosen the box, it's time to label it.

Shipping Label Information

Your shipping label should include:

Sender and recipient names and addresses
Box contents description
Box weight
Shipping carrier (USPS, UPS, FedEx, etc.)

Types of Shipping Labels

Adhesive

Adhesive labels stick directly on boxes for fast processing. They work best for lightweight packages.

Non-Adhesive

For fragile items, non-adhesive labels avoid damage from sticking. These labels allow flexibility in placement.

Handwritten

International shipments may require handwritten labels. Carefully write out all label information.

Pre-Printed

Major carriers sell pre-printed labels with required data. Just attach the labels to ship.

Attaching Shipping Labels

Taping

Use clear tape to fully secure adhesive labels, especially for heavy packages.

Sticking

For non-adhesive labels, affix with shipping tape or glue for security.

Handwriting

Handwritten labels adhere best with quality tapes. Ensure legibility.

Tips for Safe Shipping

Choose the Right Carrier

Select a shipping method that fits your timeline and package needs.

Secure the Contents

Fill empty spaces with packing material and cushion products to prevent damage.

Label Clearly

Include complete origin/destination data so boxes route correctly.

Track Shipments

Monitoring shipment progress ensures on-time delivery.

Ship Early

Allow extra time to avoid postal or courier delays.

Conclusion

With the right packaging, labels, and shipping precautions, you can get products safely to customers. Follow this guide for hassle-free parcel shipping.

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FAQs

What should you include on a shipping label?

A shipping label should contain the sender address, recipient address, package contents description, package weight, and shipping carrier (USPS, UPS, FedEx, etc.).

When should you use a non-adhesive shipping label?

Use non-adhesive shipping labels for fragile items to prevent any damage from the label sticking directly to the package.

Why is it important to track your shipments?

Tracking shipments allows you to monitor the progress and confirm on-time delivery. It also provides visibility in case there are any delays or issues.

What's the benefit of shipping early?

Shipping products early gives extra time for potential postal or courier delays. It prevents customers from receiving orders late.

How can you secure items inside a shipping box?

Use packing materials like bubble wrap, air packets, foam peanuts, etc. to fill empty spaces and cushion products inside boxes to prevent damage.

Why should you tape down adhesive shipping labels?

Taping over adhesive labels helps properly secure them, especially for heavier packages. It prevents labels from falling off in transit.

When would you need to handwrite shipping labels?

Certain international shipments may require handwritten labels. It's also an option if you don't have access to printed labels.

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