Shipping Label Placement: Where To Put It

Shipping a package seems straightforward, but proper label placement is crucial. Putting your shipping label in the right spot ensures your package arrives safely and on time. This guide covers everything you need to know about where to put a shipping label on a box.

Where to Place a Shipping Label: Best Practices

To ensure your package reaches its destination without issue, the shipping label should be placed in a highly visible and accessible spot. Here’s a breakdown:

The Flat, Largest Surface

The primary location for your shipping label is on the largest, flattest surface of the box. This provides the most visible area for carriers and automated sorting equipment. This also minimizes the chances of the label getting damaged or obstructed during transit. Ensure the surface is clean and free of any other labels or markings.

Away From Seams and Edges

Avoid placing the label directly on seams, edges, or corners. These areas are more susceptible to damage during handling. If the label gets torn or damaged, it can render the package undeliverable. This is especially important for international shipments where packages go through multiple handling processes.

Clear of Packaging Tape

Avoid covering any part of the shipping label with tape. Covering the barcode or any critical information on the label can make it unreadable by scanning equipment, leading to delays or lost packages. It is recommended to use clear packaging tape and to apply it around the edges of the label, not over it.

Position Correctly

Position the label so that the barcode and address information are facing up. This allows for easy scanning by both human handlers and automated systems. Make sure that the label is oriented correctly and not placed upside down or sideways.

Additional Considerations

• Avoid Overlapping Labels: Never overlap the shipping label with any other labels or stickers on the box. This can confuse the scanning equipment and cause delays. It’s always best to remove any old labels before applying the new one. This is especially true if you are reusing a box.
• Clearance: Leave at least a half-inch of space around all edges of the label, free of tape or any other obstructions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Placing a Shipping Label

Several common mistakes can lead to shipping delays or, worse, lost packages. Avoiding these errors can save time and frustration. — OKC Thunder Vs. Pelicans: Player Stats Breakdown & Game Analysis

Covering the Barcode

One of the most critical errors is covering the barcode with tape. This makes the label unreadable to the scanning machines used throughout the shipping process. Ensure that the tape is applied around the edges of the label and not directly over the barcode.

Placing the Label on a Curved Surface

Curved surfaces are difficult for scanning equipment to read. Place the label on a flat, even surface for optimal readability. This is particularly important for oddly shaped packages.

Not Removing Old Labels

Leaving old labels on a box can confuse the shipping carriers and cause the package to be misdirected. Always remove old labels before applying a new one. This ensures that the correct information is used for delivery.

Using the Wrong Type of Tape

Using the wrong type of tape can also lead to issues. Avoid using opaque tape that can obscure the label information. Always use clear packaging tape.

How to Handle Special Package Types

Different package types may require slightly different approaches to label placement.

Cylindrical Packages

For cylindrical packages, place the label on the flattest part of the surface. If there are no flat surfaces, consider placing the label in the center of the cylinder and securing it with tape to prevent rolling during transit.

Irregularly Shaped Packages

For irregularly shaped packages, choose the most stable and flattest surface available. If no flat surface exists, the label can be placed where it is most accessible and visible, but ensure it is well-secured with tape.

Packages with Multiple Pieces

If you are shipping multiple pieces, clearly label each piece with its corresponding part number or a similar identifier. This ensures all pieces arrive together at the destination.

What to Do If You Make a Mistake

Even with the best intentions, mistakes can happen. Here's what to do if you make an error:

• Contact the Shipping Carrier Immediately: If you realize you've made a mistake before the package has been picked up, contact your shipping carrier immediately. They may be able to intercept the package and correct the error.
• Reprint and Reapply the Label: If the mistake is caught early, reprint the label and reapply it to the box in the correct location.
• Provide Additional Information: If the package is already in transit, consider contacting the recipient and providing them with tracking information and any additional details that may help with delivery.

The Importance of Proper Labeling

Properly placing a shipping label is a simple step, but it is one of the most important factors in ensuring your packages arrive at their destination safely and on time. By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risk of shipping delays and lost packages. This is particularly important for businesses that rely on shipping. It is also important for individuals who are shipping gifts or other important items.

FAQ Section

1. Can I put the shipping label on the box's seam?

No, you should avoid placing the label on a seam. Seams are prone to damage and can result in the label being torn or becoming unreadable. — How Long Do NFL Games Last?

2. Can I use any type of tape to secure the label?

It is best to use clear packing tape to secure the label. Avoid using tape that is opaque or that will cover any part of the label, particularly the barcode.

3. What should I do if my label gets wet?

If your label gets wet, try to dry it off as quickly as possible. If the label is damaged, you may need to reprint it and reapply it to the box. — Rooms For Rent: Find Your Perfect Space

4. What if my package is irregularly shaped?

For irregularly shaped packages, choose the flattest and most accessible surface. Ensure the label is secure and visible.

5. What happens if the barcode is damaged or unreadable?

If the barcode is damaged or unreadable, the package may be delayed, returned to the sender, or lost. It is crucial to protect the barcode during transit.

6. Where do I put the return label?

The return label should be placed on the package in a visible location. It is often placed near the shipping label or on a separate side of the box.

7. What about fragile items?

For fragile items, clearly mark the package with “Fragile” and place the shipping label in a visible location away from the seams, and edges. Make sure the item is appropriately cushioned inside the box.

Conclusion

Proper shipping label placement is a small but critical detail that significantly impacts the success of your shipments. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your packages arrive at their destinations without delay. Always prioritize the visibility and protection of your shipping labels to provide a smooth shipping experience. Taking the time to properly place the shipping label is a small step that can make a big difference in the shipping process. Ensuring the label is correctly placed can also help to reduce costs associated with shipping.