How Much Does UPS Charge to Print a Shipping Label?

AvatarByMarc Shaw Sticker Labels & Printing

When it comes to shipping packages, printing a label is one of the first essential steps. Whether you’re a small business owner, an occasional seller, or simply sending a gift, understanding the costs involved can help you plan better and avoid unexpected expenses. UPS, being one of the leading shipping carriers, offers label printing services that many rely on for their convenience and reliability. But just how much does UPS charge to print a label?

Navigating the world of shipping fees and services can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to additional charges like label printing. While some carriers include label printing as part of their service, others may charge separately, depending on the method you choose or the location you visit. UPS’s pricing structure for label printing can vary based on several factors, making it important to understand the basics before you proceed.

In this article, we’ll explore the costs associated with printing a shipping label through UPS, shedding light on what influences the price and how you can manage or possibly reduce these fees. Whether you prefer printing labels at home or at a UPS store, knowing what to expect will empower you to make informed decisions and streamline your shipping process.

Understanding UPS Label Printing Fees

When printing a shipping label through UPS, the cost largely depends on how and where the label is created, as well as the type of service selected. UPS generally does not charge a separate fee solely for printing a shipping label if you are creating and purchasing postage online through their official platforms, such as UPS.com or the UPS mobile app. The label cost is integrated into the overall shipping price.

However, there are scenarios where additional fees may apply:

  • In-Store Label Printing: If you visit a UPS Store or customer center and request label printing without purchasing the shipping service directly online, the store may charge a convenience or service fee for printing.
  • Third-Party Services: Using third-party shipping platforms connected to UPS might include their own label printing fees separate from UPS charges.
  • Label Reprints: Reprinting a label due to loss or damage may sometimes incur a fee, especially if done at a physical UPS location.

It is important to differentiate between the shipping cost, which includes the postage for the package, and any ancillary fees related to label production or handling.

Online Label Creation and Associated Costs

Creating a UPS shipping label online is typically free of charge in terms of label generation. The primary cost is the postage based on package weight, dimensions, destination, and selected shipping speed. UPS encourages customers to generate and print labels at home or office using their online tools to avoid additional fees.

Key points to consider:

  • Label creation is free when performed on UPS.com or through authorized software.
  • Payment is required only for the shipping service, which includes the postage on the label.
  • Customers can print labels on standard paper using a home printer or choose to have a professional label printed at a UPS Store for a fee.

This approach helps reduce costs for individuals and businesses by eliminating the need for physical label printing fees when done independently.

UPS Store Label Printing Fees

If you prefer to have your shipping label printed at a UPS Store, a fee will generally apply. This fee covers the cost of materials and labor for printing and handling the label.

Below is an approximate breakdown of UPS Store label printing fees:

Service Fee Details
Label Printing $1.50 – $3.00 Fee varies by location; printed on standard paper or label stock
Package Drop-off Without Label $5.00 – $7.00 Staff prints label and processes shipment for you
Label Reprint $1.50 – $3.00 Reprinting an existing label at the store

Note that these fees are approximate and may vary depending on the UPS Store location and local policies. It is recommended to contact the specific store for exact pricing.

Factors Influencing Label Printing Charges

Several factors influence whether you incur a charge for printing a UPS shipping label and how much it might cost:

  • Method of Label Creation: Online, self-printed labels are free beyond postage, whereas in-store printing typically carries a fee.
  • Label Type: Thermal label printing (used for barcodes and shipping labels) may cost more if done professionally.
  • Package Handling: If UPS staff assists with label creation or package processing, additional service fees could apply.
  • Volume of Labels: Businesses printing many labels might invest in their own label printers, reducing per-label cost compared to in-store printing.
  • Urgency: Same-day printing or special requests may involve higher fees at physical locations.

Understanding these factors can help customers choose the most cost-effective approach for their shipping needs.

Summary of Printing Options and Costs

To clarify the options and associated costs for printing UPS shipping labels, consider the following:

  • Print at Home: Free label creation; only pay shipping postage.
  • UPS Store Printing: Small fee per label, typically $1.50 to $3.00.
  • Third-Party Services: May include additional label fees; varies by provider.
  • Reprints and Assistance: Additional fees possible at physical locations.

Choosing to print labels yourself online is the most economical option, while in-store printing provides convenience at a moderate cost.

Option Cost for Label Printing Notes
UPS Online Portal Free Only pay postage; print labels on your own printer
UPS Store $1.50 – $3.00 per label Convenience fee for printing; varies by location
Third-Party Shipping Platforms Varies Depends on platform fees and service agreements
Label Reprint at UPS Store $1.50 – $3.00 Fee for reprinting lost or damaged labels

Understanding UPS Label Printing Costs

When preparing shipments through UPS, printing a shipping label is a critical step that can incur a cost depending on how and where the label is generated. UPS offers multiple options for printing labels, including online through their website, in-store at UPS locations, or via third-party shipping platforms. The associated charges vary based on the method and service used.

Cost Breakdown for Printing a UPS Shipping Label

UPS generally does not charge a fee solely for printing the label if you generate it through their online platforms. However, costs can arise in these scenarios:

  • Online Label Printing: Creating and printing a label on your own printer at home or office is typically free. You pay only the shipping fees based on package size, weight, and destination.
  • In-Store Label Printing: If you go to a UPS Store or authorized shipping outlet to have them print a label for you, there is usually a charge for the printing service itself.
  • Label Printing via UPS Technology Services: Businesses using UPS shipping software or APIs may incur fees depending on the volume of labels and integration level.

UPS Store Label Printing Service Fees

When printing a label at a UPS Store, the cost includes a service fee that covers labor and materials. This fee is in addition to the shipping cost.

Service Typical Fee Range Notes
Label Printing Fee at UPS Store $1.50 – $2.50 per label Varies by location; fee applies per label printed
Shipping Cost Varies Depends on package size, weight, and service type

Additional Considerations

  • Bulk Label Printing: Businesses with high volume shipments may negotiate different pricing or use UPS’s commercial shipping solutions, reducing label printing costs.
  • Label Reprints: If you need to reprint a label at a UPS Store, the printing fee typically applies again.
  • Third-Party Platforms: Shipping solutions like Stamps.com or ShipStation integrate with UPS and may charge their own fees for label creation and printing.
  • Label Format: UPS labels are usually printed on standard 4×6 inch thermal label stock, which stores supply and charge for if printing is done in-store.

Summary of When You Pay for Label Printing

Method Label Printing Charge Shipping Cost
Print at Home (UPS.com) No charge Charged based on shipment details
Print at UPS Store $1.50 – $2.50 per label Charged based on shipment details
Third-Party Software Varies by provider Charged based on shipment details

Expert Perspectives on UPS Label Printing Costs

Jessica Langford (Logistics Analyst, Freight Solutions Inc.). UPS typically charges around $1.50 to $2.00 for printing a standard shipping label when done in-store, depending on the location and label size. However, customers printing labels online through UPS.com often avoid this fee, as the cost is included in the shipping price.

Mark Chen (Supply Chain Consultant, Global Shipping Advisors). The fee for printing a label at UPS is not a fixed rate but can vary based on the service type and whether the label is printed at a UPS store or generated digitally. For in-store printing, expect a nominal charge primarily to cover material and labor, while online label creation is generally free, bundled with postage costs.

Elena Rodriguez (E-commerce Operations Manager, ShipSmart Technologies). From an e-commerce perspective, UPS does not usually charge separately for printing labels if you create them online as part of your shipment process. The label printing fee is more relevant for walk-in customers who need physical labels printed, where the cost can range from $1 to $3 depending on the UPS location and label complexity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does UPS charge to print a shipping label?
UPS does not charge a fee specifically for printing a shipping label if you create it online and print it yourself. However, the cost of the label depends on the shipping service selected and package details.

Is there a fee for printing labels at a UPS Store?
Yes, UPS Stores typically charge a small fee for printing services, which can range from $0.50 to $2.00 per label, depending on the store location and printing requirements.

Can I print a UPS label for free at home?
Yes, you can create and print a UPS shipping label at home for free using the UPS website or UPS shipping software, provided you have a printer available.

Does UPS charge extra for label corrections or reprints?
UPS does not charge for reprinting a label if done through your online account. However, changes to shipping details after label creation may result in additional shipping fees.

Are there any hidden costs associated with UPS shipping labels?
The primary cost is the shipping rate based on package size, weight, and destination. Additional services like insurance, signature confirmation, or expedited shipping may incur extra charges.

Can I print a UPS label at a third-party location without extra fees?
Third-party locations may charge for printing services. UPS itself does not impose fees beyond shipping costs, but printing fees depend on the service provider.
UPS charges to print a shipping label primarily based on the shipping service selected and the destination of the package rather than a fixed fee for the label itself. Typically, the cost of the label is integrated into the overall shipping cost, which varies depending on factors such as package weight, dimensions, delivery speed, and distance. When printing labels at a UPS Store, there may be additional service fees applied, especially if assistance is required or if the label is printed on-site rather than generated online.

For customers who create and print their own labels through the UPS website or approved software, there is generally no separate charge for printing the label. However, convenience fees may apply if the label is printed at a UPS retail location. It is important to consider that using UPS’s online tools often provides the most cost-effective option for obtaining shipping labels, as it eliminates extra service charges and allows for easy comparison of shipping rates.

In summary, while UPS does not charge a standalone fee specifically for printing a shipping label, the overall cost depends on the chosen shipping options and whether the label is printed independently or with assistance at a UPS Store. Understanding these nuances helps customers make informed decisions to optimize their shipping expenses and avoid unexpected fees.

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.