{"id":8581,"date":"2024-12-06T10:26:09","date_gmt":"2024-12-06T18:26:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/?p=8581"},"modified":"2025-06-11T16:19:58","modified_gmt":"2025-06-11T23:19:58","slug":"common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/","title":{"rendered":"Common Shipping Issues: Label FAQs to Help You Solve Them"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-avoid-mistakes-so-your-packages-arrive-on-time\">Avoid mistakes so your packages arrive on time<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Some of the most common shipping issues are label &#8220;fails&#8221; that can easily cause your package to be delayed\u2014or worse, lost in transit. Not to mention that when your schedule is packed, a lost package can feel devastating. I&#8217;ve certainly been there myself. I work full time as a writer for Avery, ship items for my side-hustle business, and send packages to family in Colorado and Florida. As all of us juggle more in our daily lives, lost packages not only cost time and money, but they can affect both our business and personal relationships too. Fortunately, <a href=\"\/blog\/the-amazing-history-of-labels-when-were-stickers-invented\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Avery has been making labels since R. Stanton Avery invented stickers in 1935<\/a>, and today Avery Products applies nine decades of experience to solving label failures every day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you&#8217;re new to shipping and need to know how to write a shipping label, or you\u2019re exploring options for printing labels at home, this guide has the answers. I&#8217;ll help you spot common shipping label issues, avoid costly delays, and create professional-looking shipping labels with ease. Plus, I\u2019ll answer top questions about label usage, such as whether you can reuse boxes and if the post office will print labels for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-font-size is-style-outline has-small-font-size is-style-outline--1\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"\/ideas\/mailing-and-shipping\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Shop Avery shipping LAbels<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"How to Print USPS Shipping Labels with Avery Products\" width=\"1290\" height=\"726\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/iM2T5m8yvZ0?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Check out this easy tutorial that shows you how to print shipping labels at home.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-faqs-about-shipping-labels\">FAQs about shipping labels<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1733191114420\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How to write a shipping label<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Writing a shipping label involves including essential information like the recipient&#8217;s name, address, and your return address. Many carriers also require a barcode for tracking, which you&#8217;ll receive when purchasing postage. You can handwrite the label or use free templates to create a more polished version. If you handwrite, ensure legibility and avoid smudging to prevent common shipping issues.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1733191130761\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How much is a shipping label?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Labels can cost anywhere from a few dollars to over $20 for expedited or international shipments. However, cost of a shipping label depends on the carrier, package size, weight, destination, and shipping method. The good news is that most carriers provide online tools to help you estimate costs and avoid common shipping issues related to insufficient postage.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1733191156799\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I print shipping labels at home?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Absolutely! Printing shipping labels at home is convenient and often more affordable than doing it at a retail location. You can print them directly through carrier websites or platforms like PayPal<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> and Etsy<sup>\u00ae<\/sup>. Avery also offers <a href=\"\/blank\/usage\/shipping-labels\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">blank shipping labels by the sheet<\/a> and <a href=\"\/products\/labels\/usage\/shipping-labels\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">in convenient packs<\/a>, so you can easily customize and print at home to avoid common shipping label issues.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1733191234519\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How to ship a package without a label<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Shipping without a label typically requires visiting a carrier location to have them create one for you. You\u2019ll provide package details, and they\u2019ll print the label onsite. Alternatively, some carriers accept handwritten information but will still attach a barcode label for processing to prevent common shipping issues during transit.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1733191988474\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Does the post office print labels? Will they print a shipping label?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, the post office can print shipping labels if you visit in person. You\u2019ll need to provide package details and pay the postage fee, then they&#8217;ll print the label for you.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-avoiding-common-shipping-label-issues\">Avoiding common shipping label issues<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-skewed-or-cut-off-information\">Skewed or cut-off information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/img.avery.com\/f_auto,q_auto,c_scale,w_600\/web\/blog\/common-shipping-label-fails-and-how-to-solve-them-1\" alt=\"Printer and laptop displaying Avery Design &amp; Print Online with shipping labels in progress, illustrating a solution for common shipping issues such as misaligned labels and unclear recipient information.\"\/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>To avoid misalignments or printing issues, start with <strong>shipping labels optimized for home or office printers<\/strong>. For example, <a href=\"\/campaign\/surefeed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Avery products with Sure Feed<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> technology<\/a> feature a unique &#8220;grip strip&#8221; that helps sheets move through printers better.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Another important thing to do is to <strong>check your printer settings.<\/strong> Always choose the &#8220;Label&#8221; setting in your printer preferences. If unavailable, select &#8220;Heavyweight,&#8221; &#8220;Cardstock,&#8221; or &#8220;Photo.&#8221; Double-check that your label size matches your carrier&#8217;s requirements. For more detailed help, check out our&nbsp;<a href=\"\/help\/article\/recommended-printer-settings-specific-printer-settings\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">step-by-step instructions for choosing the best printer settings for labels<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There&#8217;s also a chance you&#8217;re using the wrong size label for the postage carrier or service you want to use. When I first started shipping for my business, I didn&#8217;t realize that <strong>sizes for shipping labels can vary between carriers and services<\/strong>. It&#8217;s best to always double check the dimensions on the specific carrier&#8217;s website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-labels-that-don-t-stay-on\">Labels that don&#8217;t stay on<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/img.avery.com\/f_auto,q_auto,c_scale,w_600\/web\/blog\/common-shipping-label-fails-and-how-to-solve-them-2\" alt=\"Two images side by side. The first image shows a package with an Avery shipping label that is not yet fully applied. You can see that the grey label backing is printed indicated the label has Ultra Hold adhesive. The second image is of two boxes on a doorstep labeled with Avery waterproof labels. It has clearly been raining given the fact that the boxes and the door are damp, but the labels are in perfect condition. \"\/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>First and foremost, <strong>use labels with a strong permanent adhesive<\/strong>, like Avery labels with Ultrahold<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> adhesive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-font-size is-style-outline has-small-font-size is-style-outline--2\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"\/products\/labels\/usage\/all-labels?filters=averyFeatures_Ultrahold\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Buy Ultrahold Labels<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>On the subject of adhesives, make sure that the labels you buy are not removable or repositionable. Ultrahold adhesive is a strong permanent adhesive, but Avery also makes labels with other types of adhesives. For instance, there are removable labels that are simply not meant to be permanent and will be able to stay on through transit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Then there are <a href=\"\/products\/labels\/58164\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">shipping labels that are repositionable like these ones<\/a>, meaning they are removable for a short period of time. <strong>Solution:<\/strong>&nbsp;Make sure you let repositionable labels sit until the adhesive becomes permanent before shipping your package.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Next, <strong>check that the surface is even<\/strong>. Strong adhesives don\u2019t matter if they can\u2019t make contact with the package surface.&nbsp;<strong>Solution:<\/strong>&nbsp;Place shipping labels on the most prominent flat portion of the package so that the label makes full contact. Avoid seams, box openings, and wrinkles or folds on soft packaging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<html lang=\"en\">\r\n<head>\r\n    \r\n    \r\n    <title>Paragraph with Border<\/title>\r\n    <style>\r\n        .bordered-paragraph {\r\n            border: 2px solid black; \/* Specifies the border width, style, and color *\/\r\n            padding: 10px; \/* Adds space inside the border *\/\r\n        }\r\n    <\/style>\r\n<\/head>\r\n<body>\r\n    <p class=\"bordered-paragraph\">\r\n        <strong> Myth: Clear tape keeps shipping labels stuck on and protects them.<\/strong>  While that sounds good in theory, it&#8217;s risky. First of all, the tape is only sticking to a very small surface area of the package compared to an adhesive label. Secondly, the glare from the tape can interfere with barcode scanning and delay your package. Not to mention, it looks messy and unprofessional. If you\u2019re worried about your package getting wet, it\u2019s better to just use a waterproof shipping label.\r\n<\/p>\r\n<\/body>\r\n<\/html>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-common-shipping-issues-due-to-smudging-and-barcode-errors\">Common shipping issues due to smudging and barcode errors<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-are-my-labels-smudging\">Why are my labels smudging?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One thing I learned early on is that my labels would always smudge if I used the wrong type of printer or incompatible labels.<strong> Most importantly, you should always match laser labels with laser printers and inkjet labels with inkjet printers<\/strong>. There are very good reasons for this, and you can read all about it in <a href=\"\/blog\/what-kind-of-printer-do-i-need-for-printing-labels\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">our deep dive about what kind of printers to use for labels<\/a>. For weather resistance, choose waterproof labels to prevent smudging during transit. I learned that the hard way, sending Christmas gifts to Colorado\u2014yikes!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-font-size is-style-outline has-small-font-size is-style-outline--3\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"\/products\/labels\/usage\/shipping-labels?filters=material_Waterproof+Film\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Buy waterproof Shipping labels<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I should mention here that Avery makes it pretty easy to get labels that will work with your printer. In fact, there&#8217;s a product filter that allows you to choose laser (for laser printers), inkjet (for inkjet printers), or specially engineered shipping labels, marked &#8220;Laser\/Inkjet.&#8221; Avery labels marked &#8220;Laser\/Inkjet&#8221; are designed to work with both laser and inkjet printers. Here are some shortcuts to take you directly to the labels that work for you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-font-size is-style-outline has-small-font-size is-style-outline--4\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"\/products\/labels\/usage\/shipping-labels?filters=printerType_Laser\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Laser Labels<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-font-size is-style-outline has-small-font-size is-style-outline--5\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"\/products\/labels\/usage\/shipping-labels?filters=printerType_Inkjet\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Inkjet Labels<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-font-size is-style-outline has-small-font-size is-style-outline--6\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"\/products\/labels\/usage\/shipping-labels?filters=printerType_Laser%2FInkjet\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Laser\/Inkjet Labels<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another reason your labels might be smudging is if you are <strong>trying to run professionally printed labels through your printer<\/strong>. This applies to any labels you have ordered to be custom printed for you. For one thing, you just can&#8217;t be sure if the material is compatible with your printer. In fact, using the wrong material in your printer causes all kinds of problems (including smeared ink). Moreover, custom-printed labels often have a special topcoat. Even if the material is compatible, the topcoat may prevent ink from fully transferring on a reprint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-avoid-barcode-scanning-errors\">How to avoid barcode scanning errors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/img.avery.com\/f_auto,q_auto,c_scale,w_600\/web\/blog\/common-shipping-label-fails-and-how-to-solve-them-3-2\" alt=\"Two images side by side demonstrating how to avoid common shipping issues due old labels and incorrect label placement. The first image shows someone applying a return label that has been printed on Avery labels with TrueBlock technology so that the original label doesn't bleed through. The second image shows address labels placed lengthwise on packaging tube so that the address is easily read.\"\/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>Covering old labels and placing labels so that they don&#8217;t bend, wrap, or fold are just two key ways to avoid barcode scanning errors.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>To understand the most common shipping issues caused by barcode errors, it may be helpful to understand how exactly barcode scanners work. Essentially, they \u201cread\u201d the barcode based on reflected light. The light and dark parts of the barcode reflect light differently. Basically, the way the contrasting sections reflect light is what makes barcodes \u201creadable\u201d by machines (the barcode scanner). Anything that disrupts the direction or quality of reflected light can cause errors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here is a list of best things you can do to avoid barcode scanning errors: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Make sure your shipping label is on a flat surface with no creases or folds.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use high-contrast ink on light-colored labels.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Always place barcodes lengthwise on tube packaging.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure any previous labels are covered entirely and there is no bleed-through. TrueBlock<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> labels are especially useful for this.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button has-custom-font-size is-style-outline has-small-font-size is-style-outline--7\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"\/products\/labels\/usage\/shipping-labels?filters=averyFeatures_True+Block\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Shop TrueBlock Labels<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-where-to-place-labels-to-avoid-common-shipping-issues\">Where to place labels to avoid common shipping issues<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/img.avery.com\/f_auto,q_auto,c_scale,w_600\/web\/blog\/common-shipping-label-fails-and-how-to-solve-them-4\" alt=\"An example of where to put the shipping label on the box. The left side shows a label wrapped around the edge of the box with a big red &quot;X&quot; to indicate that is what you should never do. The right side shows a shipping label on the flattest, most prominent surface, away from seams or box openings with a big green &quot;X&quot; to indicate that this is where you should put the shipping label on the box. \"\/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>Always apply shipping labels to a flat area on your package and never bend or fold the barcode.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1733254700061\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Where do you put a shipping label on a box?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Place shipping labels on the flattest and most prominent surface, away from seams or edges. Avoid bending or folding the label to ensure the barcode scans correctly.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1733254716844\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Where to put a return label on a package.<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Apply the return label to the same flat area as the original label but ensure all old information is removed or covered.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1733268036266\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I reuse an Amazon box to ship USPS?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, you can reuse Amazon boxes or other packaging for USPS shipping as long as all old barcodes and labels are completely removed or covered. <a href=\"\/products\/labels\/usage\/shipping-labels?filters=averyFeatures_True+Block\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Avery labels with TrueBlock<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> technology<\/a> are perfect for this, as they completely cover old labels to prevent barcode scanning errors, one of the most common shipping issues.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/img.avery.com\/f_auto,q_auto,c_scale,w_600\/web\/blog\/common-shipping-label-fails-and-how-to-solve-them-2024\" alt=\"An example showing where to put a shipping label on an envelope. In the photo there is a flat label on the table and on top of that is a manila shipping envelope with a USPS priority mail label placed on the flattest, most prominent part of envelope, which is the side without the flap. \"\/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>Avoid flaps or closures on shipping envelopes and bags.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1733268316970\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Where to put a shipping label on an envelope<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">For bubble mailers or uneven envelopes, apply the label to the flattest surface without flaps or closures to avoid wrinkles.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-start-with-your-labels-to-solve-common-shipping-issues\">Start with your labels to solve common shipping issues <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Shipping doesn&#8217;t have to be stressful\u2014especially when you know how to avoid common label &#8220;fails.&#8221; By choosing the right label for your package, ensuring proper placement, and avoiding issues like smudging or barcode errors, you can help your packages arrive safely and on time. As someone who ships for both business and personal reasons, I know firsthand how frustrating lost or delayed packages can be. But with the right tools and a few simple steps, I got the hang of it, and you can too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Still have questions? <\/strong>Explore our <a href=\"\/help\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">online Help Center<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/youtube.com\/playlist?list=PL7RFbzaYVugipOG5XmhpJeCgXqwPBtWb3&amp;si=q1bophgGKLlX3pFJ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">YouTube tutorials<\/a> or <a href=\"tel:8004628379\">contact our friendly Customer Care Team<\/a> for expert guidance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Avery has nearly 90 years of experience in label-making and proprietary innovations like TrueBlock<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> technology. And that makes it easy for us to provide expert solutions for printing at home or even help you cut down on waste with labels that make reusing old boxes more effective. From preventing label misalignments to ensuring strong adhesion and clear barcodes, what I&#8217;ve learned from working at Avery has definitely helped me ship much more efficiently. Now with these tips and products, you can also save time, avoid costly delays, and keep your shipping process smooth and stress-free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, the next time you\u2019re preparing a package, remember: a little preparation goes a long way. You\u2019ve got this! Now, go tackle those shipments with ease and get your packages where they need to be\u2014on time and in perfect condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can find more inspiration for your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/avery\/small-business\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">small business on our Pinterest page<\/a>. Plus, find tips and tricks to make any labeling process smoother by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@averyproducts\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">following us on TikTok<\/a> and <a href=\"http:\/\/instagram.com\/avery\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Instagram<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Avoid mistakes so your packages arrive on time Some of the most common shipping issues are label &#8220;fails&#8221; that can easily cause your package to be delayed\u2014or worse, lost in transit. Not to mention that when your schedule is packed, a lost package can feel devastating. I&#8217;ve certainly been there myself. I work full time [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":35,"featured_media":12145,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4078],"tags":[4225,2038,4477],"class_list":["post-8581","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-mailing-shipping","tag-label-tips","tag-shipping-labels","tag-small-business-starter-kit"],"blocksy_meta":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.3 (Yoast SEO v27.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Common Shipping Issues: Label FAQs to Help You Solve Them<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"This guide will help you spot common shipping label issues, avoid costly delays, and create professional-looking shipping labels.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Common Shipping Issues: Label FAQs to Help You Solve Them\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"This guide will help you spot common shipping label issues, avoid costly delays, and create professional-looking shipping labels.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Avery Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"http:\/\/facebook.com\/avery\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2024-12-06T18:26:09+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-06-11T23:19:58+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/res.cloudinary.com\/avery-products-corp\/images\/w_2560,h_968,c_scale\/f_auto,q_auto\/v1753474010\/619471-_2022-04-Editorial-Shipping-Label-Fails-REFRESH_Article-Collage-Banner_0001_3000x1134_20220324-1\/619471-_2022-04-Editorial-Shipping-Label-Fails-REFRESH_Article-Collage-Banner_0001_3000x1134_20220324-1.jpg?_i=AA\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2560\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"968\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"JoJo Mrgich\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"JoJo Mrgich\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"10 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.avery.com\\\/blog\\\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.avery.com\\\/blog\\\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"JoJo Mrgich\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.avery.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/60111d0a4334024b3d517c895365dec9\"},\"headline\":\"Common Shipping Issues: Label FAQs to Help You Solve Them\",\"datePublished\":\"2024-12-06T18:26:09+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-06-11T23:19:58+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.avery.com\\\/blog\\\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":1912,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.avery.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.avery.com\\\/blog\\\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/res.cloudinary.com\\\/avery-products-corp\\\/images\\\/w_2560,h_968,c_scale\\\/f_auto,q_auto\\\/v1753474010\\\/619471-_2022-04-Editorial-Shipping-Label-Fails-REFRESH_Article-Collage-Banner_0001_3000x1134_20220324-1\\\/619471-_2022-04-Editorial-Shipping-Label-Fails-REFRESH_Article-Collage-Banner_0001_3000x1134_20220324-1.jpg?_i=AA\",\"keywords\":[\"Label Tips\",\"Shipping Labels\",\"Small Business Starter Kit\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Mail &amp; 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The good news is that most carriers provide online tools to help you estimate costs and avoid common shipping issues related to insufficient postage.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.avery.com\\\/blog\\\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\\\/#faq-question-1733191156799\",\"position\":3,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.avery.com\\\/blog\\\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\\\/#faq-question-1733191156799\",\"name\":\"Can I print shipping labels at home?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Absolutely! Printing shipping labels at home is convenient and often more affordable than doing it at a retail location. You can print them directly through carrier websites or platforms like PayPal\u00ae and Etsy\u00ae. Avery also offers <a href=\\\"\\\/blank\\\/usage\\\/shipping-labels\\\" target=\\\"_blank\\\" rel=\\\"noreferrer noopener\\\">blank shipping labels by the sheet<\\\/a> and <a href=\\\"\\\/products\\\/labels\\\/usage\\\/shipping-labels\\\" target=\\\"_blank\\\" rel=\\\"noreferrer noopener\\\">in convenient packs<\\\/a>, so you can easily customize and print at home to avoid common shipping label issues.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.avery.com\\\/blog\\\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\\\/#faq-question-1733191234519\",\"position\":4,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.avery.com\\\/blog\\\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\\\/#faq-question-1733191234519\",\"name\":\"How to ship a package without a label\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Shipping without a label typically requires visiting a carrier location to have them create one for you. You\u2019ll provide package details, and they\u2019ll print the label onsite. Alternatively, some carriers accept handwritten information but will still attach a barcode label for processing to prevent common shipping issues during transit.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.avery.com\\\/blog\\\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\\\/#faq-question-1733191988474\",\"position\":5,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.avery.com\\\/blog\\\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\\\/#faq-question-1733191988474\",\"name\":\"Does the post office print labels? Will they print a shipping label?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes, the post office can print shipping labels if you visit in person. 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Products"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["http:\/\/facebook.com\/avery","https:\/\/x.com\/Averyproducts","http:\/\/instagram.com\/avery","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/avery-products-corporation\/","https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/avery","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCg3Y4MPb-uK94D0iEc2u1_A"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/60111d0a4334024b3d517c895365dec9","name":"JoJo Mrgich","description":"JoAnn \u201cJoJo\u201d Mrgich is a self-proclaimed label nerd with a passion for creativity, organization, and caring about the little things. As a writer for Avery, she shares practical advice for small business owners, crafters, and creatives. Her work focuses on smart organization, branded packaging, and marketing materials that make an impact. She believes that obsessing over the details isn\u2019t just about preference\u2014it\u2019s what makes a project feel personal and helps people connect. When she\u2019s not writing, she\u2019s running her small business making fantasy headpieces, reorganizing her workspace (again), or deep-diving into fandoms and fun facts. Connect with her on LinkedIn for tips on organizing, branding, and small biz marketing\u2014or to debate the true story behind those T-Rex arms. It\u2019s her Roman Empire.","sameAs":["https:\/\/avery.com\/blog\/","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/joann-mrgich-532546162\/"],"url":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/author\/jmrgich\/"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733191114420","position":1,"url":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733191114420","name":"How to write a shipping label","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Writing a shipping label involves including essential information like the recipient's name, address, and your return address. Many carriers also require a barcode for tracking, which you'll receive when purchasing postage. You can handwrite the label or use free templates to create a more polished version. If you handwrite, ensure legibility and avoid smudging to prevent common shipping issues.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733191130761","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733191130761","name":"How much is a shipping label?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Labels can cost anywhere from a few dollars to over $20 for expedited or international shipments. However, cost of a shipping label depends on the carrier, package size, weight, destination, and shipping method. The good news is that most carriers provide online tools to help you estimate costs and avoid common shipping issues related to insufficient postage.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733191156799","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733191156799","name":"Can I print shipping labels at home?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Absolutely! Printing shipping labels at home is convenient and often more affordable than doing it at a retail location. You can print them directly through carrier websites or platforms like PayPal\u00ae and Etsy\u00ae. Avery also offers <a href=\"\/blank\/usage\/shipping-labels\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">blank shipping labels by the sheet<\/a> and <a href=\"\/products\/labels\/usage\/shipping-labels\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">in convenient packs<\/a>, so you can easily customize and print at home to avoid common shipping label issues.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733191234519","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733191234519","name":"How to ship a package without a label","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Shipping without a label typically requires visiting a carrier location to have them create one for you. You\u2019ll provide package details, and they\u2019ll print the label onsite. Alternatively, some carriers accept handwritten information but will still attach a barcode label for processing to prevent common shipping issues during transit.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733191988474","position":5,"url":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733191988474","name":"Does the post office print labels? Will they print a shipping label?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, the post office can print shipping labels if you visit in person. You\u2019ll need to provide package details and pay the postage fee, then they'll print the label for you.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733254700061","position":6,"url":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733254700061","name":"Where do you put a shipping label on a box?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Place shipping labels on the flattest and most prominent surface, away from seams or edges. Avoid bending or folding the label to ensure the barcode scans correctly.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733254716844","position":7,"url":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733254716844","name":"Where to put a return label on a package.","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Apply the return label to the same flat area as the original label but ensure all old information is removed or covered.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733268036266","position":8,"url":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733268036266","name":"Can I reuse an Amazon box to ship USPS?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, you can reuse Amazon boxes or other packaging for USPS shipping as long as all old barcodes and labels are completely removed or covered. <a href=\"\/products\/labels\/usage\/shipping-labels?filters=averyFeatures_True+Block\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Avery labels with TrueBlock\u00ae technology<\/a> are perfect for this, as they completely cover old labels to prevent barcode scanning errors, one of the most common shipping issues.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733268316970","position":9,"url":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/common-shipping-issues-and-label-faqs\/#faq-question-1733268316970","name":"Where to put a shipping label on an envelope","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"For bubble mailers or uneven envelopes, apply the label to the flattest surface without flaps or closures to avoid wrinkles.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"}]},"og_video":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/iM2T5m8yvZ0","og_video_type":"text\/html","og_video_duration":"121","og_video_width":"480","og_video_height":"270","ya_ovs_adult":"false","ya_ovs_upload_date":"2024-12-06T18:26:09+00:00","ya_ovs_allow_embed":"true"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8581","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/35"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8581"}],"version-history":[{"count":57,"href":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8581\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":24429,"href":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8581\/revisions\/24429"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/12145"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8581"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8581"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.avery.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8581"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}