Why Shipping Labels are Important
Every package or shipment requires a shipping label but what exactly is a shipping label and how does it work? Shipping labels are important to inbound and outbound logistics as they are the identifiers of tracking information that ensures packages are shipped and delivered to the right customer and location. When they are incorrectly created or affixed to a package, it can cause multiple issues such as shipping delays and lost packages and all of this can lead to irate customers. Customers also must refer to shipping labels when tracking their orders or in some cases, when making returns.
In
brief, the shipping label is the most important part of the packaging process.
Without this, packages can go off the rails in more ways than one. Many
third-party logistics companies opt for pre-labeling for package pickup,
although UPS offers you the option to schedule a pickup without labels.
However, when working in a warehouse, the longer a package moves without an
identifying label, the more susceptible it is to getting lost in the crowd and
causing shipping problems. When asking what a shipping label is, it’s necessary
to break it down piece by piece to understand why each piece of information
printed on it is equally important to the shipping process. Companies typically
follow the same layout for all of their shipping labels for consistency.
However, there are slight changes depending on which shipping carrier is used
and what’s necessary to ensure on-time delivery.
A sender is always responsible for mentioning:
-
Company name & address
-
Recipient’s name & address
-
Level of service requested, such as same-day, overnight
or two-day shipping
From
there, the random combination of letters, numbers
and bar codes is automatically created
by the carrier, which provides trackable information through an online
information system. The tracking label includes a tracking number that allows
both carriers and customers to track their packages and deliver or receive
updates about delayed or faster-than-expected delivery dates to create a
hassle-free experience. Local vendors may choose to handwrite their labels for
a personal touch but as they expand, it makes sense to save time and manpower
and have their labels printed. Handwriting labels for even small shipping
orders can be time-consuming and can affect the quality over time. Automation
helps keep the process moving forward without delay and incorporates all the
elements required to prepare a package for delivery.
Additionally,
handwritten labels run the risk of being misidentified if they’re unreadable or
unclear in what’s necessary to sync it to the logistics company and make the
delivery. As companies evolve, it can be difficult to keep track of the
shipping address on every parcel. Using shipping software as part of the entire
delivery process can make for a smoother transition and deliveries.
Although
it’s recommended to print direct thermal
labels from an efficiency standpoint, there are still ways you can
customize your shipping labels. Use a branding stamp for each label or pick a
unique font size that is readable but still adds a unique design element for
the customer and package. This custom printing labeling can help set you apart
from your competitor in the long run. The same is true for any packing slip or
invoice. If you are looking for printing high-quality shipping labels for your
small to mid-scale business, Label Arts has a wide array of labeling options
for you. Their improvements in direct thermal and thermal
transfer labels have made them a better fit for any industry.
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