It’s the last, but most important step in the shipping process and getting it right can help you nail the delivery experience for your customers. We unpack everything you need to know about shipping labels.
As many eCommerce businesses would know, shipping orders perfectly, every time is tricky. Customers want their delivery to be almost instant and to know where their order is every step of the way from the time they click 'confirm'. Although you can’t control everything that goes on in the whirlwind that is logistics, getting your shipping label right will get you one step closer to delivering that seamless experience.
What is a shipping label?
Although small, your shipping label is a crucial piece of the shipping puzzle. It gives the courier all the information they need to get your package from your living room, garage, warehouse or wherever you pack your orders, to your customers doorstep, seamlessly. Believe it or not, this includes much more than just the customer's name and address.
What should my shipping label look like?
Most shipping providers have similar requirements on what your shipping label should look like. However, it’s always best to check with them directly, so there are no issues with your deliveries. General speaking though, there are five things you should have on your shipping label.
If you’re shipping internationally, your shipping label may also include details on the contents of the packaging.
Do I need a printer?
The answer to this question lies in the number of parcels you're sending each day. If it's less than five, hand writing is absolutely an option. You can handwrite a lot of your shipping label i.e. delivery and return address, and the rest can be generated by your shipping provider. It may just mean an extra step in your shipping process of taking your package to the post office to generate the additional information.
The hiccup with handwriting though, can be readability. As your volumes increase you should consider printing your shipping labels to ensure the details are always accurate, clear, and legible, so your products don't get lost in the post. You don’t need to invest in a label printer to do this either. Laser Labels come sheets and are compatible with your standard office or home printer.
However, thermal label printing is a very affordable option and can actually provide a lower cost of ownership compared to a laser printer. So, if you're at the volume to start printing your labels, a thermal label printer would be a worthwhile investment. Signet’s Freight Labels are thermal direct and come in normal or reverse wound to suit whatever your label printer requirements. They're also 100x150mm which is compatible with most freight providers.
Other labels you may need in shipping
For most, the shipping label is the final step. However, in some instances the courier may need a little extra direction on how to handle your products. In that case, putting a handling label for fragile or heavy products will give you that extra layer of security and ensure your customers gets their ultimate unboxing experience.
Signet stock a range of handling and loading labels such as fragile, handle with care, heavy and this way up to help your products get to your customers in one piece. They are all printed on a fluoro label stock so loading instructions are easily identifiable and come in a handy dispenser box.
Although it's the last step in the shipping process, it's by far one of the most important and getting it right can help prevent any headaches down the road.
Ready to start shipping? Browse our range of Freight and Handling Labels here. If you're still unsure, reach out to our team by calling 13 7446, emailing sales@signet.net.au, Live Chatting with us at signet.net.au, or submitting an enquiry through the form below.
