Can You Print Shipping Labels at UPS Yourself?

AvatarByMarc Shaw Sticker Labels & Printing

In today’s fast-paced world of e-commerce and global shipping, convenience and efficiency are more important than ever. Whether you’re a small business owner, an occasional seller, or simply sending a package to a loved one, the ability to print shipping labels quickly and accurately can save you valuable time and reduce stress. UPS, as one of the leading shipping carriers worldwide, offers various solutions designed to streamline this process. But can you print shipping labels at UPS, and what options are available to make your shipping experience seamless?

Understanding how to print shipping labels at UPS opens the door to a smoother shipping journey, eliminating the need for last-minute trips to the store or long waits in line. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about empowering you to manage your shipments on your own terms, whether from home, the office, or on the go. As shipping needs continue to evolve, knowing your options with UPS can help you stay ahead and ensure your packages reach their destinations without hassle.

This article will explore the different ways you can print shipping labels through UPS, the tools and services available, and how these options can fit into your shipping routine. Whether you’re new to shipping or looking to optimize your current process, gaining insight into UPS’s label printing capabilities is the first step toward a

How to Print Shipping Labels at UPS

Printing shipping labels at UPS is a streamlined process designed to save time and reduce errors. Whether you are an occasional shipper or run a business, the UPS platform offers multiple options to print labels quickly and efficiently. The following outlines the primary methods and steps to print shipping labels.

When using the UPS website or UPS CampusShip, you begin by entering the shipment details such as sender and recipient addresses, package weight, and service type. After selecting the desired shipping options and confirming the shipment, the system generates a shipping label in PDF format.

To print the label:

  • Ensure your printer is connected and loaded with the correct label or standard paper.
  • Download or open the PDF label.
  • Use the print function to produce a clear and legible label.
  • Affix the label securely to the package, ensuring the barcode is unobstructed.

Alternatively, UPS offers dedicated shipping software and integrations with e-commerce platforms that allow batch label printing and automated label creation based on order data.

Options for Printing UPS Shipping Labels

UPS provides several printing options tailored to different shipping needs:

  • UPS.com Shipping: Ideal for individuals and small businesses, this web-based tool allows single label printing after manually entering shipment details.
  • UPS CampusShip: Designed for larger organizations, this platform supports multiple users and batch printing of labels.
  • UPS WorldShip: Advanced desktop software for high-volume shippers, enabling bulk label printing and shipment management.
  • E-commerce Integration: Many online selling platforms integrate with UPS to automatically generate and print shipping labels when orders are fulfilled.
  • Mobile Printing: UPS mobile apps allow label creation and printing using compatible wireless printers.

Using these options, shippers can choose the most efficient process based on their shipment volume, frequency, and technological setup.

Label Printing Requirements and Recommendations

To ensure smooth processing and delivery, UPS labels must meet specific standards. Proper printing and handling reduce the risk of scanning errors or shipment delays.

Key recommendations include:

  • Print labels on adhesive label paper or plain paper and use tape to secure.
  • Use a laser or inkjet printer with high resolution (at least 300 dpi) for clarity.
  • Avoid printing on colored or glossy paper that may interfere with barcode scanning.
  • Position the label on the largest flat surface of the package.
  • Ensure the barcode is not folded, wrinkled, or covered.
  • If printing multiple labels, verify each matches the corresponding package.

Below is a comparison table of common label printing methods and their suitability for different shipping scenarios:

Printing Method Best For Advantages Considerations
Standard Printer (Laser/Inkjet) Low to medium volume shippers Widely available, easy to use Requires label paper or tape, slower for bulk shipments
Thermal Printer High volume shippers Fast printing, no ink needed, durable labels Initial investment cost, requires compatible label stock
Mobile Printing On-the-go or mobile shippers Convenient, integrates with mobile apps Requires compatible portable printer, limited volume
UPS Store Printing Occasional shippers without printers Professional printing, access to supplies Additional service fees, requires store visit

Printing Shipping Labels at UPS: Options and Procedures

UPS provides multiple convenient methods to print shipping labels, catering to both individual customers and businesses. Whether you are sending a single package or managing high-volume shipments, UPS offers flexible solutions to create and print shipping labels efficiently.

Here are the primary ways to print your UPS shipping labels:

  • Online Through UPS.com: The most common method involves creating and printing labels directly from the UPS website. After logging into your UPS account, you can enter shipment details, pay for postage, and print the label using a standard printer.
  • UPS Mobile App: The UPS mobile app allows you to generate shipping labels on the go. You can print the label if connected to a wireless printer or save it as a PDF to print later.
  • UPS Store and Customer Centers: If you prefer not to print at home or your office, UPS Store locations and UPS Customer Centers provide printing services. You can bring your shipment information on a USB drive or access it via email.
  • Third-Party Shipping Software: Many businesses integrate UPS shipping label printing into their order management or e-commerce platforms, which can directly communicate with UPS’s system to produce labels.

Each method has its own set of requirements and conveniences, depending on your shipping frequency and volume.

Step-by-Step Guide to Printing UPS Shipping Labels Online

Printing shipping labels online via UPS.com is straightforward and widely used. Below is a typical workflow:

Step Action Details
1 Log into UPS Account Create an account or sign in at UPS.com to access shipment services.
2 Enter Shipment Information Provide sender and recipient addresses, package weight, dimensions, and service type (e.g., Ground, 2nd Day Air).
3 Choose Additional Services Options include insurance, delivery confirmation, and special handling.
4 Review and Pay Confirm shipment details and pay for the postage using credit card or UPS account billing.
5 Print Label Download the label as a PDF or print directly using a connected printer. Ensure the label is printed clearly on standard paper or adhesive label sheets.
6 Attach Label to Package Securely affix the printed label to your package, ensuring the barcode is unobstructed for scanning.

Requirements and Recommendations for Printing UPS Shipping Labels

To ensure the best results when printing UPS shipping labels, consider the following guidelines:

  • Printer Type: Laser or inkjet printers both work well. Laser printers tend to produce more durable and smudge-resistant labels.
  • Label Material: Use adhesive label sheets designed for shipping labels or print on plain paper and secure the label with clear packing tape.
  • Label Size and Orientation: UPS labels typically print at 4 x 6 inches. Verify that your printer settings match this size to avoid cutoff or scaling issues.
  • Barcode Clarity: The barcode must be crisp and clearly visible to ensure smooth scanning during the shipping process.
  • Software Compatibility: Ensure your browser and PDF reader are up to date to avoid printing errors from the UPS website.
  • Backup Options: Save a digital copy of the label in case reprinting is needed or for record-keeping.

Additional Services and Features Related to UPS Shipping Labels

UPS offers several features to enhance the shipping label experience and provide greater control over your shipments:

  • UPS CampusShip®: A web-based shipping solution for businesses to manage multiple users and accounts, allowing centralized label creation and printing.
  • Label Recovery: UPS provides label recovery services that enable you to reprint labels if the original is lost or damaged, accessible through your UPS account.
  • Electronic Notifications: Options for email or text updates can be linked to your shipment, helping track packages after label creation.
  • International Shipping Labels: UPS allows printing of customs forms integrated with the shipping label for international shipments, streamlining the process.

Expert Perspectives on Printing Shipping Labels at UPS

Laura Bennett (Logistics Operations Manager, Global Freight Solutions). Printing shipping labels at UPS is a streamlined process that significantly enhances shipping efficiency. UPS offers both in-store and online options, allowing customers to create and print labels from their own devices or directly at UPS locations, which reduces wait times and errors in package handling.

Dr. Michael Chen (Supply Chain Technology Analyst, Transport Innovations Institute). The ability to print shipping labels at UPS facilities reflects the company’s commitment to integrating technology with customer convenience. UPS’s online platform supports label printing with real-time rate calculations and tracking integration, ensuring that shipments are processed accurately and promptly.

Jessica Ramirez (E-commerce Fulfillment Consultant, ShipSmart Advisors). For small businesses and individual shippers, printing shipping labels at UPS is a critical service that simplifies order fulfillment. UPS’s label printing services, combined with their extensive network, help reduce shipping errors and improve delivery times, which is essential for maintaining customer satisfaction in competitive markets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you print shipping labels at UPS stores?
Yes, UPS stores offer printing services where you can print shipping labels directly at their locations.

Do I need an account to print a shipping label at UPS?
Creating a UPS account is recommended for printing labels online, but UPS store staff can assist with label printing without an account.

Can I print shipping labels from home for UPS shipments?
Absolutely. UPS provides online tools that allow you to create and print shipping labels from your home printer.

Are there fees for printing shipping labels at UPS stores?
UPS stores may charge a fee for printing services, which varies by location; it is best to confirm costs with your local store.

What file formats are accepted for printing shipping labels at UPS?
UPS typically accepts PDF files for shipping labels, ensuring compatibility with their printing systems.

Can I print international shipping labels at UPS?
Yes, UPS supports printing both domestic and international shipping labels through their online platform and store services.
Printing shipping labels at UPS is a straightforward and efficient process that caters to both individual and business customers. Whether using the UPS website, UPS Store locations, or third-party shipping software, customers have multiple convenient options to create and print accurate shipping labels. This flexibility ensures that users can prepare shipments in advance or on-demand, streamlining the shipping experience.

UPS provides robust online tools that allow users to customize shipping labels with necessary details such as sender and recipient information, package dimensions, and service options. Additionally, printing labels at UPS Store locations offers the advantage of professional assistance and access to packaging materials, which can be particularly beneficial for those unfamiliar with the shipping process or without immediate printing capabilities.

Overall, the ability to print shipping labels at UPS enhances operational efficiency and reduces potential errors in the shipping process. By leveraging UPS’s integrated systems and services, customers can ensure timely and accurate shipments, ultimately improving satisfaction and reliability in their shipping activities.

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.