How to Print Shipping Labels Efficiently

Getting Started with Shipping Labels: A Real-World Scenario

As an online reseller shipping 50-100 packages a month, I was initially overwhelmed by the label printing process. I remember the day I had to ship out 20 packages and realized my inkjet printer was not only slow but also ran out of ink halfway through printing. It took me over three hours to print, cut, and affix all the labels. That's when I knew a more efficient solution was necessary.

Choosing Your Printer: Thermal vs. Inkjet

The first decision you'll need to make is whether to go with a thermal printer or stick with an inkjet. Each has its merits, but for high-volume shipping, a thermal printer is often the smarter choice. Here's why:

Thermal Printers

• Speed: Thermal printers can print a 4x6" label in about two seconds. Compare this to an inkjet printer, which can take up to 30 seconds per label.
• Cost: While the initial cost is higher (around $150-$200 for a reliable model like the Rollo or Dymo 4XL), you'll save money over time since thermal printers don't require ink.
• Durability: Thermal labels are more resistant to smudging and fading.

Inkjet Printers

• Initial Cost: If you're on a tight budget, inkjet printers are less expensive upfront, with models starting at $50.
• Flexibility: Inkjet printers can also print color labels, which is useful if your brand requires it.
• Ongoing Costs: You'll need to factor in the cost of ink, which averages around $50 per set, potentially every 1-2 months depending on your volume.

Time-Saving Hacks and Workflow Tips

Once you've chosen your printer, it's time to streamline the actual label printing process. Here are some tips:

Batch Printing

Most platforms allow you to batch print your labels in bulk. On eBay, for instance, you can select multiple orders and print all labels at once, saving valuable time.

Using Automation Tools

Integrate tools like ShipStation or Pirate Ship, which can connect all your selling platforms and streamline label creation. For example, ShipStation allows you to import orders from eBay, Etsy, and Poshmark and print all labels in one go.

Platform-Specific Tips

• eBay: Make sure your printer settings are configured to "Fit to Page" to avoid cutoff labels.
• Poshmark: Labels are auto-generated for you, usually in PDF format, ready for thermal printing.
• Mercari: Offers a "print size" option where you can choose "Thermal" to directly print 4x6 labels.

Cost Breakdown: Real Examples

When setting up your label printing, it's crucial to consider both the upfront and ongoing costs. Here's a breakdown:

Cost Type	Thermal Printer	Inkjet Printer
Initial Printer Cost	$150-$200	$50-$100
Label Cost (per 100)	$15	$12 (paper + ink)
Ongoing Ink Cost	$0	$50 every 1-2 months
Time Per Label	2 seconds	30 seconds

Using ListingGenie for Accurate Listings

Before you even get to the shipping process, having accurate listings is key. I use ListingGenie to streamline my product descriptions, making sure they're detailed and accurate across all platforms. This minimizes customer inquiries and returns, saving even more time in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use thermal labels with an inkjet printer?
  Not usually. Thermal labels are heat-sensitive and designed specifically for thermal printers.
• Is it worth the extra cost to switch to thermal printing?
  For those shipping over 50 packages a month, the time savings and lack of ink costs make it worthwhile.
• What if I need to print color labels?
  You'll need an inkjet printer for color printing, but consider using it only for those specific needs.
• How do platforms handle international labels?
  Most platforms allow you to print international labels, but ensure your printer settings match the label requirements, especially for customs forms.
• Can I reuse labels?
  No, once a label is printed and used, it's linked to that specific shipment and cannot be reused.