Does UPS Charge to Print Labels for Shipments?

AvatarByMarc Shaw Sticker Labels & Printing

When it comes to shipping packages, every detail matters — especially the cost. For many individuals and businesses, understanding the fees associated with shipping services can make a significant difference in budgeting and planning. One common question that often arises is: does UPS charge to print labels? This seemingly simple inquiry touches on the broader topic of shipping expenses and how UPS structures its services to accommodate various customer needs.

Shipping labels are an essential part of the process, serving as the key to ensuring packages reach their intended destinations accurately and efficiently. Whether you’re a small business owner managing daily shipments or someone sending a one-time package, knowing if there’s an extra cost involved in printing these labels can influence how you prepare your shipments. UPS offers multiple options for label creation, and the nuances of their pricing can sometimes be confusing.

In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of UPS label printing, shedding light on whether you can expect additional charges and what factors might affect those costs. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of how UPS handles label printing and how to navigate their services to optimize your shipping experience.

Understanding UPS Label Printing Costs

UPS does not charge a separate fee solely for printing shipping labels when you create them through their official platforms, such as the UPS website or the UPS mobile app. The label itself is essentially a digital file that you can print using your own printer at no additional cost. However, costs may arise depending on how and where you print the label.

When you print labels at home or in your office, the only expenses involved are related to your printer’s ink and paper. UPS provides the label data for free, but any physical printing materials are your responsibility. If you choose to print the labels at a UPS Store or other authorized shipping location, there may be nominal fees for printing services.

Fees Associated With Printing Labels at UPS Locations

Printing labels at UPS retail outlets or authorized shipping centers often involves service charges. These fees cover the use of their printing equipment, supplies, and staff assistance. The cost varies by location, but generally falls within a small range.

Common factors influencing printing fees at UPS locations include:

  • Number of labels printed: Some locations charge per label or per page.
  • Type of printing: Black-and-white is usually less expensive than color.
  • Assistance required: Additional help from staff may increase the cost.
  • Urgency or special requests: Expedited service may have surcharges.

Here is a general pricing overview for printing labels at UPS stores:

Printing Service Typical Cost Notes
Black-and-White Label Print $0.25 – $0.50 per page Standard UPS shipping label size
Color Label Print $1.00 – $2.00 per page Less common; used for special documents
Multiple Labels on One Page Varies May reduce overall cost per label
Staff Assistance Possible additional fee Depends on location and service complexity

Cost Implications for Business Accounts and Third-Party Services

Businesses with UPS accounts or those who use third-party shipping software integrated with UPS may experience different cost structures. While UPS itself does not charge for label generation, some third-party platforms may add fees for label creation or printing as part of their service.

Additionally, business accounts often benefit from:

  • Discounted shipping rates: Reducing overall shipment costs.
  • Bulk printing options: Minimizing printing expenses per label.
  • Account management tools: Streamlining label creation to reduce errors and waste.

It’s important to verify with your UPS account manager or software provider whether any hidden fees apply to label printing services.

Alternative Printing Options to Avoid Fees

To minimize or avoid fees related to label printing, consider these alternatives:

  • Print at home: Use your own printer and supplies.
  • Use compatible thermal printers: These eliminate the need for ink and produce high-quality barcodes.
  • Print at partner locations: Some office supply stores or business centers may offer lower-cost printing.
  • Batch printing: Print multiple labels on a single sheet to save paper and reduce costs.

By planning label printing carefully, shippers can manage expenses effectively while ensuring compliance with UPS shipping requirements.

UPS Label Printing Charges Explained

UPS offers several methods for printing shipping labels, and whether or not there is a charge depends on the specific service used and the context of the shipment. Understanding the circumstances under which UPS may charge for label printing helps businesses and individuals manage their shipping costs effectively.

In general, UPS does not charge a fee simply for printing shipping labels if you create them through their online platforms or authorized third-party software. However, there are exceptions and additional fees that can apply depending on how and where the labels are printed.

When UPS Does Not Charge for Label Printing

  • Online Shipment Creation: Labels created and printed via UPS.com or UPS WorldShip software are free of charge.
  • Third-party Shipping Software: Using approved software integrated with UPS for label generation typically incurs no printing fees.
  • Self-Printing: If customers print labels on their own printers, UPS does not charge for the label itself, only for the shipping service.

When Charges Might Apply for UPS Label Printing

UPS may apply fees in certain situations related to label printing, including physical printing services or additional handling:

  • UPS Store Printing Services: If you visit a UPS Store or authorized shipping center and request label printing services, they may charge a fee for printing, which varies by location.
  • Label Reprints or Corrections: If a label needs to be reprinted at a UPS facility or by UPS personnel, there could be a nominal fee or administrative charge.
  • Special Label Requests: Custom labels, international documents, or hazardous materials labels prepared by UPS staff might incur additional costs.

Cost Comparison of UPS Label Printing Options

Label Printing Method Charge for Label Printing Additional Notes
UPS Online Tools (UPS.com, WorldShip) No charge Free if printed on customer’s printer
Third-Party Shipping Software No charge Provided software is UPS integrated
UPS Store or Authorized Retailer Printing Varies by location, typically $0.50 – $2.00 per label Fee covers printing service and materials
Label Reprints at UPS Facilities Possible nominal fee Depends on reason for reprint and facility policies
Specialized Label Preparation Additional fees may apply For hazardous materials or customs documentation

Best Practices to Avoid Printing Fees

  • Print Labels at Home or Office: Use UPS online tools or authorized software to generate and print labels on your own printer.
  • Prepare Labels in Advance: Avoid last-minute trips to UPS Stores for printing, which may incur fees.
  • Use Thermal or Laser Printers: Ensure high-quality prints to reduce the need for reprints at UPS facilities.
  • Verify Shipment Details Before Printing: Double-check addresses and service options to minimize errors requiring label reprinting.

Expert Perspectives on UPS Label Printing Charges

Linda Martinez (Logistics Consultant, Global Shipping Advisors). UPS generally does not charge customers directly for printing shipping labels when using their online platform or at a UPS Store. However, if you require specialized label printing services or physical copies beyond standard procedures, additional fees may apply depending on the service location.

Dr. Kevin Huang (Supply Chain Analyst, FreightTech Insights). From a supply chain perspective, UPS includes the cost of label printing within their overall shipping fees rather than itemizing it separately. This approach simplifies billing for customers, ensuring that label printing is effectively embedded as a complimentary service when you create shipments through their official channels.

Sarah Patel (E-commerce Operations Manager, ShipSmart Solutions). For e-commerce businesses using UPS, printing labels through their online system is typically free of charge. However, if you opt to print labels at a UPS retail location or request physical label printing assistance, expect nominal fees that cover material and labor costs associated with the service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does UPS charge to print shipping labels?
UPS does not charge a fee specifically for printing shipping labels if you create them through their online platforms or at a UPS Store. However, the cost of postage and shipping services applies.

Can I print UPS labels for free at UPS locations?
Yes, UPS Stores and customer centers typically allow you to print shipping labels at no additional charge, provided you have purchased the shipping service.

Are there any fees for printing return labels with UPS?
UPS generally does not charge for printing return labels if you generate them online or at a UPS location, but the return shipping cost is billed according to the selected service.

Is it cheaper to print UPS labels at home or at a UPS store?
Printing UPS labels at home is often more cost-effective since you avoid any potential service fees and can print on your own printer. UPS Stores usually do not charge for label printing but may charge for additional services.

Do I need special equipment to print UPS labels?
No special equipment is required. UPS labels can be printed on standard printers using regular paper or adhesive label sheets, depending on your preference.

What happens if my UPS label is damaged or unreadable?
If a UPS label is damaged or unreadable, UPS may require you to reprint the label to ensure accurate scanning and delivery. It is important to use clear, high-quality prints.
UPS does not charge an additional fee specifically for printing shipping labels when using their online platforms or services. Customers can generate and print labels at no extra cost through the UPS website, UPS WorldShip, or third-party shipping software integrated with UPS. This service is designed to streamline the shipping process and provide convenience to both individual and business users.

However, it is important to note that while printing labels itself is free, the overall shipping cost will depend on factors such as package weight, dimensions, destination, and chosen service level. Additionally, if customers opt to print labels at a UPS Store or other retail locations, there may be a nominal fee for printing services, which is separate from UPS’s shipping charges.

In summary, UPS facilitates free label printing for online shipments, encouraging efficient and cost-effective shipping management. Users should be mindful of potential printing fees at physical locations but can generally expect no direct charges from UPS for label creation and printing when managing shipments digitally.

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.