What Does Shipping Label Created Mean in the Shipping Process?

AvatarByMarc Shaw Sticker Labels & Printing

When you shop online or send a package, tracking your shipment often reveals a series of status updates that can sometimes be confusing. One common phrase you might encounter is “Shipping Label Created.” While it might sound straightforward, this status holds particular significance in the journey of your parcel. Understanding what this term means can help you better anticipate when your package will be on its way and what steps are involved behind the scenes.

“Shipping Label Created” is an early milestone in the shipping process, signaling that the seller or shipper has generated the necessary documentation to send your item. However, this status doesn’t always mean your package is already in transit. It marks the transition from order preparation to the logistics phase, setting the stage for the carrier to take over. For many recipients, grasping this concept can alleviate uncertainty and provide clarity about their shipment’s progress.

In the following sections, we’ll explore what exactly happens when a shipping label is created, why this step is important, and what you can expect next in the delivery timeline. Whether you’re a frequent online shopper or new to shipping parcels, gaining insight into this status update will enhance your overall experience and confidence in tracking your packages.

Understanding the Shipping Label Created Status

When you see the status “Shipping Label Created” in your order tracking, it means that the shipping carrier has received the shipping information and a label has been generated for your package. However, this status does not necessarily indicate that the package has been picked up by the carrier or is in transit yet. It is an early stage in the shipping process where the shipment is prepared for dispatch.

This status typically occurs after the seller or merchant completes the order and purchases postage through a carrier’s system or a shipping platform. The creation of the label assigns a unique tracking number to the package, which enables the tracking system to monitor the shipment’s progress once it enters the carrier’s logistics network.

What Happens After the Shipping Label Is Created?

Once the label is created, several steps follow before the package moves through the shipping system:

  • Package Pickup or Drop-off: The seller either schedules a pickup with the carrier or drops the package off at a carrier facility.
  • Initial Scanning: When the carrier physically receives the package, it is scanned into their system, updating the status from “Label Created” to “In Transit” or “Accepted by Carrier.”
  • Transit and Sorting: The package moves through various sorting facilities and transportation hubs.
  • Out for Delivery: When the package reaches the destination area, it is marked as out for delivery.
  • Delivery Confirmation: Finally, the package is delivered and the status is updated accordingly.

It is common for the “Shipping Label Created” status to remain visible for hours or even days, depending on the carrier’s pickup schedule and processing time.

Key Differences Between Shipping Label Created and Other Statuses

The table below outlines the distinctions between “Shipping Label Created” and other common shipping statuses you might encounter:

Status Description Package Physical Location Tracking Accuracy
Shipping Label Created A label has been generated but the package has not been scanned by the carrier. With the sender or awaiting carrier pickup. Initial tracking number assigned; no movement yet.
Accepted by Carrier The carrier has received and scanned the package into their system. At a carrier facility or pickup location. Tracking updates begin as package moves.
In Transit The package is en route between sorting hubs or to the delivery destination. Moving within the carrier’s network. Regular tracking updates show location changes.
Out for Delivery The package is with a delivery driver and is expected to be delivered soon. Local delivery route. Tracking updates in real-time until delivery.
Delivered The package has been delivered to the recipient. Recipient’s address. Final tracking status; delivery confirmation available.

Why the Shipping Label Created Status Might Delay Tracking Updates

There are several reasons why tracking information may not update immediately after the label is created:

  • Carrier Pickup Delays: The carrier may not have collected the package yet, especially if pickups are scheduled once daily or less frequently.
  • Batch Processing: Some carriers process shipments in batches, meaning scanning occurs after several packages have been collected.
  • System Sync Latency: Tracking systems might have delays in updating status due to technical synchronization between the seller’s platform and the carrier’s database.
  • Incorrect or Incomplete Information: Occasionally, errors in the shipping label data can delay carrier acceptance and scanning.

Understanding these factors can help manage expectations regarding when a package will begin showing active tracking movements.

How to Respond When You See Shipping Label Created

If you are a buyer and notice this status, consider the following actions:

  • Allow Time: Wait 24 to 48 hours for the carrier to scan and update the status.
  • Contact the Seller: If the status remains unchanged for an extended period, reach out to the merchant to confirm shipment.
  • Check Carrier Policies: Review the carrier’s pickup and scanning procedures to understand typical timelines.
  • Verify Tracking Number: Ensure the tracking number provided matches the carrier’s format and is entered correctly in the tracking tool.

For sellers, it is important to ensure timely package drop-off or pickup arrangements and verify that shipping labels are created only when the package is ready to be sent. This minimizes customer inquiries and enhances the shipping experience.

Technology Behind Shipping Label Generation

Shipping labels are created using specialized software or integrated platforms that communicate with carrier APIs. When a label is generated, the system:

  • Validates the shipment details (address, weight, dimensions).
  • Calculates postage and delivery options.
  • Generates a barcode and tracking number unique to the shipment.
  • Creates a printable label with all required carrier information.

This automation streamlines the shipping process but relies on the physical package entering the carrier’s network for tracking to advance beyond the initial label creation stage.

Understanding the Meaning of “Shipping Label Created”

The status “Shipping Label Created” indicates that a shipping label has been generated for a package but that the parcel has not yet been physically handed over to the carrier. This status is a key milestone in the order fulfillment and shipping process, serving as a formal indication that the shipment is prepared for transit but still awaiting pickup or drop-off.

When a shipping label is created, the following steps have typically occurred:

  • Order Confirmation: The seller or fulfillment center has confirmed the order details and is ready to ship the product.
  • Label Generation: A unique shipping label, containing critical information such as sender and recipient addresses, tracking number, and carrier details, has been printed or electronically generated.
  • Package Preparation: The item is usually packaged securely and labeled appropriately for shipment.

However, at this point, the package has not yet entered the carrier’s logistics network. The transition from “Shipping Label Created” to “Package Received by Carrier” or “In Transit” will occur once the shipment is physically scanned by the carrier during pickup or drop-off.

Common Scenarios and Implications for Customers and Sellers

The “Shipping Label Created” status can appear in various contexts, each with different operational implications:

Scenario Explanation Typical Next Steps
Label Created but Package Not Yet Picked Up The label is printed or generated in the system, but the carrier has not collected the parcel. Carrier pickup is scheduled or the sender will drop off the package. Status updates to “In Transit” once scanned.
Package Prepared but Awaiting Shipment Date The seller prepares the shipment in advance, creating labels ahead of the scheduled dispatch date. Package remains in the seller’s facility until the shipment date, then handed to the carrier.
Automated Label Creation for Batch Shipments Labels are generated in bulk for multiple orders but shipments proceed as carriers pick up. Tracking updates occur as each package is scanned individually by the carrier.

How “Shipping Label Created” Affects Tracking and Delivery Estimates

From a tracking perspective, “Shipping Label Created” is an initial status that provides limited real-time information about the package’s physical location. Customers may observe the following characteristics associated with this status:

  • Tracking Number Active but Limited Movement: The tracking number exists and is valid, but scans indicating physical movement through the carrier’s network may be absent.
  • Potential Delay Between Label Creation and Shipment: There can be a time gap between label creation and the actual handoff to the carrier, especially during busy periods or when shipments are scheduled.
  • Delivery Estimates May Update Later: Estimated delivery dates might be provisional and subject to refinement once the package is scanned in transit.

For sellers and shippers, ensuring timely pickup or drop-off after label creation helps maintain reliable delivery schedules and customer satisfaction.

Technical Aspects of Shipping Label Creation

The creation of a shipping label involves several technical components and data points that are critical to the successful processing and delivery of the package:

  • Barcode and Tracking Number Generation: The label includes a barcode that encodes the tracking number, enabling automated scanning and tracking throughout the shipping journey.
  • Address Verification: The system verifies sender and recipient addresses to minimize delivery errors.
  • Carrier Service Selection: Shipping options such as standard, expedited, or overnight are encoded into the label to guide handling and routing.
  • Integration with Carrier Systems: Label creation software communicates with carrier APIs to reserve tracking numbers and validate shipment details.

These elements ensure that once the package enters the carrier’s network, it is seamlessly tracked and routed to the correct destination.

Expert Perspectives on the Meaning of “Shipping Label Created”

Jessica Lin (Logistics Operations Manager, Global Freight Solutions). “When a shipping label is created, it signifies that the parcel’s information has been entered into the carrier’s system and a unique tracking number has been assigned. However, this does not necessarily mean the package has been picked up or scanned by the carrier yet; it is the initial step in the shipping process.”

Dr. Michael Thompson (Supply Chain Analyst, Institute for Transportation Studies). “The status ‘Shipping Label Created’ is an important milestone indicating that the seller or shipper has prepared the shipment details and generated the label, but the physical handoff to the carrier is pending. This status helps both merchants and customers anticipate the next phase of transit.”

Emily Carter (E-commerce Fulfillment Specialist, ShopEase Consulting). “In e-commerce fulfillment, ‘Shipping Label Created’ means the order is ready for dispatch and the carrier has been notified electronically. It reflects backend readiness but not yet the package’s movement, which typically follows once the carrier collects the shipment from the warehouse or drop-off point.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does “Shipping Label Created” mean?
“Shipping Label Created” indicates that the carrier has generated a shipping label for your package, but the parcel has not yet been picked up or scanned into the carrier’s system.

Does “Shipping Label Created” mean my package is on its way?
Not necessarily. It means the shipment is prepared and ready for transit, but the package may still be awaiting pickup or drop-off.

How long does it take for a package to move from “Shipping Label Created” to “In Transit”?
The time varies depending on the carrier and pickup schedule, typically ranging from a few hours to one business day.

Can I track my package when the status shows “Shipping Label Created”?
Tracking updates may be limited until the carrier scans the package upon pickup or drop-off, at which point more detailed tracking information becomes available.

What should I do if my package remains at “Shipping Label Created” for several days?
Contact the seller or carrier to confirm the package has been handed over for shipment, as delays may indicate a processing or pickup issue.

Is “Shipping Label Created” the same as “Label Printed”?
Yes, both terms generally mean the shipping label has been generated, though terminology can vary by carrier or platform.
The term “Shipping Label Created” signifies an important initial step in the shipping process where the carrier has generated a shipping label for the package. This status indicates that the shipment details have been entered into the carrier’s system, and a unique tracking number has been assigned. However, it does not necessarily mean that the package has been physically picked up or is in transit yet.

Understanding this status helps both shippers and recipients manage expectations regarding delivery timelines. It confirms that the shipment is officially registered and ready for the next phase, such as package pickup or drop-off. Monitoring the progress beyond this point is essential to track when the package moves through sorting facilities and is en route to its destination.

In summary, “Shipping Label Created” is a crucial milestone in the shipping lifecycle that marks the preparation and documentation stage. It provides assurance that the shipment process has commenced, but further updates are needed to determine the package’s current location and estimated delivery time. Recognizing this distinction enhances clarity and facilitates better communication between all parties involved in the shipping process.

Author Profile

Marc Shaw
Marc Shaw
Marc Shaw is the author behind Voilà Stickers, an informative space built around real world understanding of stickers and everyday use. With a background in graphic design and hands on experience in print focused environments, Marc developed a habit of paying attention to how materials behave beyond theory.

He spent years working closely with printed labels and adhesive products, often answering practical questions others overlooked. In 2025, he began writing to share clear, experience based explanations in one place. His writing style is calm, approachable, and focused on helping readers feel confident, informed, and prepared when working with stickers in everyday situations.