How Do You Void a USPS Shipping Label?

AvatarByMarc Shaw Sticker Labels & Printing

When it comes to shipping packages with USPS, mistakes can happen—whether it’s an incorrect address, the wrong postage amount, or simply a change of plans. In these situations, knowing how to void a shipping label can save you time, money, and frustration. Understanding the process ensures that you don’t get charged for a label you won’t use and helps keep your shipping experience smooth and hassle-free.

Voiding a USPS shipping label might seem straightforward, but there are important details and timeframes to consider to ensure the void is processed correctly. Whether you purchased your label online through USPS Click-N-Ship, a third-party service, or at a retail location, the steps and policies can vary. This overview will guide you through the essentials of what it means to void a label and why it’s a useful option for both casual shippers and business owners alike.

By gaining a clear understanding of how to void a USPS shipping label, you’ll be better equipped to handle shipping errors efficiently and avoid unnecessary charges. This knowledge not only helps you manage your shipments more effectively but also empowers you to make informed decisions when using USPS services in the future.

Steps to Void a USPS Shipping Label Online

When you purchase a USPS shipping label through an online platform such as USPS Click-N-Ship, Stamps.com, or other authorized vendors, voiding the label is a straightforward process. This is particularly useful if you realize the label contains incorrect information or if the shipment will no longer be sent.

To void a USPS shipping label online, follow these steps:

  • Log in to the account where you purchased the label.
  • Navigate to the section for managing or viewing your shipments or labels.
  • Locate the specific label you wish to void. This may be under “Purchased Labels,” “Shipping History,” or a similar tab.
  • Select the label and look for an option such as “Void,” “Cancel Label,” or “Refund.”
  • Confirm the void action. The system will usually require you to verify the void to prevent accidental cancellation.
  • Once voided, the label becomes invalid for USPS use, and in many cases, you will be eligible for a refund or credit depending on the vendor’s policies.

It is important to note that USPS allows voiding labels within 24 hours of purchase. After this period, labels cannot typically be voided online, and alternative steps must be taken.

Voiding Physical USPS Shipping Labels

For physical shipping labels printed on paper or thermal label printers, voiding is slightly different since there is no online system recognition of the physical label itself. However, if you have not yet dropped off or scanned the package, you can take the following steps:

  • Mark the label clearly with “VOID” using a permanent marker or pen to prevent reuse.
  • Retain the label for your records or dispose of it securely to avoid unauthorized use.
  • If the label was purchased through a third-party vendor, log into your account and attempt to void the label online if within the allowed timeframe.
  • Contact the vendor or USPS customer service if you are outside the voiding window or if you need assistance with refunds.

Remember, once a physical label has been scanned by USPS, it cannot be voided or canceled.

Common Reasons to Void a USPS Shipping Label

Voiding a shipping label is often necessary due to errors or changes in shipment plans. Some typical reasons include:

  • Incorrect recipient address or ZIP code.
  • Wrong package weight or dimensions entered during label creation.
  • Change in shipping service or delivery speed.
  • Decision to cancel shipment altogether.
  • Duplicate label creation.

Being proactive in voiding incorrect labels helps avoid complications such as delayed deliveries, additional postage charges, or lost refunds.

Refund Policies and Timeframes for Voided USPS Labels

USPS and most online vendors have specific policies regarding refunds for voided labels. The timing of the void is critical in determining refund eligibility.

Label Status Timeframe for Voiding Refund Eligibility Notes
Unused Label Within 24 hours of purchase Full refund or credit Label must not be scanned or used
Unused Label After 24 hours but before first USPS scan Partial refund (varies by vendor) May require contacting customer support
Used Label After USPS scan No refund Label is considered active and non-refundable
Physical Label Before USPS scan Depends on purchase source Must void online or contact vendor promptly

Always check the specific terms and conditions of the platform where you purchased the label, as policies can differ. If you encounter difficulties voiding a label or obtaining a refund, USPS customer service or the vendor’s support team can provide guidance.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Voiding Labels

To minimize the need to void shipping labels, consider implementing the following best practices:

  • Double-check all shipment details before purchasing the label, including recipient address, weight, and dimensions.
  • Use address verification tools or USPS ZIP Code lookup to ensure accuracy.
  • Select the correct shipping service and delivery options aligned with your needs.
  • Review and confirm the label information during the purchase process.
  • Keep documentation of purchases and labels for quick reference.

By taking these precautions, you reduce the risk of errors and the administrative burden of voiding labels.

Steps to Void a USPS Shipping Label

When you need to void a USPS shipping label, the process varies depending on how and where the label was purchased. Voiding a label promptly ensures you are not charged for unused postage and allows you to generate a replacement if necessary.

Follow these steps to void a USPS shipping label effectively:

  • Access Your Shipping Account: Log in to the USPS online platform or third-party shipping service where the label was created.
  • Locate the Label: Navigate to your shipping history or label management section and find the specific label you want to void.
  • Check Void Eligibility: USPS allows voiding labels within 24 hours of purchase. Ensure your label is within this time frame to proceed.
  • Initiate the Void Process: Click on the “Void Label” or equivalent option next to the label. Confirm your choice when prompted.
  • Receive Confirmation: After voiding, you should receive confirmation on-screen or via email. This confirms that the label is no longer valid and postage fees are refunded.

For labels created at a USPS retail location or via a third-party vendor, the voiding process may require contacting customer support or visiting the retail location within the specified timeframe.

Considerations When Voiding USPS Shipping Labels

Understanding the constraints and policies surrounding voiding labels helps prevent issues such as lost refunds or invalid shipments.

Factor Details
Time Limit Labels can generally be voided within 24 hours of purchase. After this period, labels cannot be voided online.
Refund Policy Voiding a label triggers a full refund of the postage cost. Refunds typically appear in your payment method within 7–10 business days.
Partially Used Labels Labels that have been scanned by USPS or partially used cannot be voided. Contact USPS customer service for assistance.
Third-Party Platforms Services like Stamps.com or ShipStation have their own voiding procedures, usually accessible through their dashboards.

How to Void a USPS Label Using Online Tools

If you purchased your USPS label via the official USPS Click-N-Ship website or USPS Business Customer Gateway, follow these specific instructions:

  1. Log in to your USPS account at USPS Business Customer Gateway or Click-N-Ship.
  2. Go to the “Shipping History” or “Purchase History” section.
  3. Identify the label you want to void.
  4. Click on the label details and select the “Void Label” button.
  5. Confirm the void request. The system will process the void and refund the postage.
  6. Save or print the confirmation for your records.

If the “Void Label” option is not available, verify the label purchase time and ensure it has not been scanned or used.

Contacting USPS for Assistance with Label Voiding

If you encounter issues voiding a shipping label online or your label is outside the void window, USPS customer support can provide assistance.

Use the following resources to get help:

  • USPS Customer Service Phone: Call 1-800-275-8777 for general inquiries.
  • Business Customer Gateway Support: Use the support contact form or live chat available on the USPS website.
  • Visit a Local Post Office: Speak to a clerk in person to discuss voiding or refund options.

When contacting USPS, have the following information ready to expedite the process:

  • Tracking or label number
  • Date and time of label purchase
  • Payment method used
  • Reason for voiding the label

Expert Guidance on How To Void A Shipping Label USPS

Jessica Martinez (Logistics Manager, National Shipping Solutions). When voiding a USPS shipping label, timing is critical. USPS allows you to void a label within 24 hours of purchase if it hasn’t been scanned or used. The process is straightforward through the USPS Click-N-Ship portal or your postage provider’s platform—simply locate the label in your account and select the void option. This prevents any accidental charges and ensures your shipping records remain accurate.

David Chen (E-commerce Operations Consultant, ShipSmart Advisors). It’s important to note that once a USPS label is scanned by the postal service, it cannot be voided electronically. In such cases, you should contact USPS customer service directly to discuss options. For sellers, integrating label voiding protocols into your shipping workflow can minimize errors and financial losses, especially when handling large volumes of shipments.

Linda Foster (Postal Compliance Specialist, United Parcel Experts). From a compliance perspective, voiding a USPS shipping label must be documented properly to avoid discrepancies in your shipping audit trail. Always save confirmation of the voided label and update your inventory or order management system accordingly. This practice not only maintains transparency but also supports accurate financial reconciliation at month-end.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I void a USPS shipping label online?
To void a USPS shipping label online, log into your USPS account or the third-party platform where you purchased the label, locate the label under your shipment history, and select the option to void or cancel it before the shipping deadline.

What is the time limit for voiding a USPS shipping label?
USPS allows you to void a shipping label within 24 hours of purchase, provided the label has not been scanned by USPS or used for mailing.

Can I get a refund after voiding a USPS shipping label?
Yes, once a label is successfully voided within the allowed time frame, USPS or the service provider typically issues a refund for the label cost, minus any applicable fees.

What should I do if my USPS shipping label cannot be voided online?
If the label cannot be voided online, contact USPS customer service directly or visit your local post office for assistance with cancellation or refund options.

Does voiding a USPS shipping label cancel the scheduled pickup?
Voiding a shipping label does not automatically cancel a scheduled USPS pickup; you must contact USPS separately to cancel or reschedule the pickup service.

Are there any restrictions on voiding international USPS shipping labels?
International USPS shipping labels can be voided under the same 24-hour window; however, once the package is accepted or processed by customs, the label cannot be voided or refunded.
Voiding a USPS shipping label is a straightforward process that allows shippers to cancel a label before it is used for mailing. This can be done through the USPS website or the shipping platform where the label was purchased. Typically, a label can be voided within 24 hours of creation, after which it becomes non-refundable. The voiding process helps prevent unnecessary charges and ensures accurate shipping records.

It is important to act promptly when voiding a label to avoid complications or loss of funds. Users should log into their USPS account or the third-party shipping service, locate the specific label, and select the option to void or cancel it. Once voided, the shipping label is invalidated and cannot be reused, providing peace of mind and financial control.

Understanding the voiding policy and timeframe is crucial for efficient shipping management. By voiding unused or incorrect labels promptly, businesses and individuals can maintain accurate shipping documentation and optimize their shipping expenses. Always verify the voiding terms on the USPS platform or your shipping provider to ensure compliance with their guidelines.

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.