Shipping packages involves many aspects. Many businesses underestimate the factors that influence the successful delivery of packages to consumers. What factors are we talking about? Think of elements such as picking, packing, storage, and shipping. However, one crucial aspect is often overlooked: shipping labels. Why? Without a shipping label, the courier has no idea where to deliver the package.
What is a Shipping Label?
A shipping label contains key information for the courier to transport the package from the warehouse to the final destination (the consumer). It is placed on the box containing the products. Important details include:
- Date
- Tracking number
- Package size & weight
- Shipping address
- Delivery address
- Optional: your logo
Shipping labels may also specify the contents, especially for international shipments. They include information on the shipping method (e.g., Express, Standard) to ensure the paid service is provided. Each label is unique and cannot be reused. A new label must be created for every shipment.
How to Create a Shipping Label?
Couriers have strict requirements for shipping labels. You cannot create your own template or fill out a label manually. We recommend automating label creation via a shipping platform. This system connects to your webshop and automatically generates shipping labels. You only need to print them! We recommend Sendcloud, a great solution.
If you want to use such a platform, consider which webshop platform you want to integrate (WooCommerce, Magento, Shopify, etc.), how many labels you need monthly, and your shipping destinations.
Hardware for Printing Shipping Labels
You’ll need the right hardware to print shipping labels. We recommend a thermal label printer. Unlike inkjet or laser printers, thermal printers don’t require ink or toner – only rolls of labels. They use heat to print, ensuring precise and durable labels. Although they require an initial investment, they are the best option for businesses printing high volumes of labels and help improve delivery success rates.
The Power of a WMS System
A shipping platform can automate label creation, but integrating it with a Warehouse Management System (WMS) makes things even easier. Why? During picking & packing, you can generate a shipping label with a single click. Imagine creating each label manually – it would be a huge waste of time!
Which WMS allows this? Webship Online! With Webship Online, you can instantly print shipping labels, view them in completed sales orders, and easily access the Track & Trace page.
Additionally, Webship Online helps analyze shipping costs. You can check not only the shipping label but also its cost, along with packaging material expenses. This helps identify expensive shipments and explore cheaper alternatives. A detailed cost report is also available.
Interested in Webship Online? Contact us at hallo@webship.online or request your free trial!
