How Can I Cancel a Shipping Label on USPS?

AvatarByMarc Shaw Sticker Labels & Printing

In today’s fast-paced world of online shopping and e-commerce, shipping labels have become an essential part of ensuring packages reach their destinations smoothly. However, situations often arise where you might need to cancel a USPS shipping label—whether due to a change in plans, an error in the label details, or simply a change of mind. Understanding how to navigate this process can save you time, money, and unnecessary hassle.

Canceling a USPS shipping label might seem straightforward, but it involves specific steps and considerations to ensure that you don’t lose funds or encounter delays. Whether you purchased your label online through USPS or a third-party vendor, knowing the right approach to canceling and possibly obtaining a refund is crucial. This knowledge empowers you to manage your shipments more effectively and avoid common pitfalls.

In the following sections, we’ll explore what you need to know about canceling USPS shipping labels, including the conditions under which cancellations are accepted and the best practices to follow. By gaining a clear understanding of this process, you’ll be better equipped to handle any shipping label issues that come your way with confidence and ease.

Steps to Cancel a USPS Shipping Label Online

When you create a shipping label through the USPS website or an authorized third-party vendor, you can cancel it online as long as the package has not been scanned or accepted by USPS. To cancel the label, log in to your USPS account and navigate to the “View History” or “Purchase History” section, where your recent labels are listed.

Locate the label you wish to cancel and select the option to refund or void the label. The system will verify that the label is eligible for cancellation. If the package has already been processed or scanned by USPS, cancellation is no longer possible online, and you will need to follow alternative procedures.

Keep in mind:

  • Labels must be canceled within 30 days of purchase.
  • A refund will be credited to your original payment method.
  • If the label is not eligible for cancellation, you may need to return the package or request assistance from USPS customer service.

Canceling USPS Shipping Labels Purchased Through Third-Party Platforms

Many sellers and shippers use third-party platforms such as PayPal, eBay, or shipping software like Stamps.com to purchase USPS labels. The cancellation process varies slightly depending on the platform, but generally involves the following steps:

  • Access your account on the third-party platform.
  • Find the shipment or order history section.
  • Select the shipping label you want to cancel.
  • Choose the “void” or “refund” option if available.
  • Confirm the cancellation and wait for the refund to process.

It is important to note that third-party platforms have their own policies regarding refunds and cancellations, which may affect the timeline and eligibility. Always review the platform’s specific instructions for USPS label cancellations.

Conditions and Limitations for Cancelling USPS Shipping Labels

USPS imposes certain conditions that must be met to successfully cancel a shipping label and receive a refund. Understanding these limitations helps avoid unnecessary delays or confusion.

Condition Details Impact on Cancellation
Label Not Scanned The package associated with the label has not been scanned by USPS. Eligible for cancellation and refund.
Label Scanned or Accepted The package has been scanned at a USPS facility or accepted by a carrier. Cancellation is not possible through online systems; contact USPS for alternatives.
Time Limit Cancellation requests must be made within 30 days of label purchase. Refunds not issued for labels older than 30 days.
Payment Method Refunds are processed to the original payment source. Ensure payment details are accurate to receive the refund.

Alternative Options if Label Cancellation Is Not Possible

If you cannot cancel a USPS shipping label because the package has already entered the USPS system, consider the following alternatives:

  • Package Intercept: USPS offers a Package Intercept service allowing you to redirect a package that is already in transit. This service incurs a fee and must be requested before final delivery.
  • Return to Sender: If you have physical access to the package, you can refuse delivery or mark the package for return to sender once it is delivered.
  • Contact USPS Customer Support: For complex situations, contacting USPS customer service can provide guidance on next steps or potential exceptions.

These options may help mitigate costs or recover shipments even when label cancellation is no longer feasible.

Best Practices to Avoid Needing Label Cancellation

To minimize the need to cancel shipping labels and streamline shipping workflows, consider adopting the following best practices:

  • Double-check all shipping details before purchasing labels, including addresses, package weight, and service type.
  • Use USPS’s address verification tools to reduce errors.
  • Schedule shipments carefully to avoid last-minute changes.
  • Keep track of label purchase dates and shipment statuses to act promptly if cancellation becomes necessary.
  • Utilize shipping software with integrated cancellation features for more efficient management.

Adhering to these practices reduces the likelihood of errors and the need for cancellations, saving time and resources.

Steps to Cancel a USPS Shipping Label

Canceling a USPS shipping label can be necessary if you created the label incorrectly or no longer need to ship the package. The process involves a few straightforward steps through the USPS website or the platform where the label was purchased.

  • Access Your USPS Account: Log in to your USPS.com account where the label was generated. If you used a third-party service (e.g., Stamps.com, Endicia), log into that platform instead.
  • Locate the Shipping Label: Navigate to the “Purchase History” or “Order History” section to find the specific label you want to cancel.
  • Select the Label: Click on the label or order to view its details, including tracking number, shipment date, and postage cost.
  • Initiate Cancellation: Look for an option such as “Void Label,” “Cancel Label,” or “Request Refund.” This option is typically available only if the label has not been scanned by USPS yet.
  • Confirm Cancellation: Follow any on-screen prompts to confirm the cancellation. This action will void the label and prevent it from being used for shipment.

Important Considerations When Canceling USPS Labels

Understanding the USPS policies and restrictions around label cancellations can prevent confusion and ensure you receive any eligible refunds.

Aspect Details
Timeframe for Cancellation Labels can only be canceled before USPS scans the package. Once scanned, the label is considered used and cannot be voided.
Refund Eligibility Refunds are generally available for canceled labels, minus any applicable fees. The refund process can take several business days.
Non-Refundable Labels Labels purchased at a retail location or printed at a kiosk may have different cancellation policies and may not be refundable.
Third-Party Vendors If purchased through a third party, cancellation and refund policies depend on the vendor’s terms, not USPS directly.

How to Request a Refund After Canceling a USPS Shipping Label

After successfully voiding the label, you may need to request a refund to recover the postage cost. The refund request process varies depending on how you purchased the label.

  • USPS.com Label Purchases: Refunds are typically processed automatically within 7-10 business days after cancellation. You can check the status in your account under purchase history.
  • USPS Click-N-Ship: Use the “Request a Refund” option available in the Click-N-Ship interface after voiding the label.
  • Third-Party Platforms: Contact the third-party vendor’s customer support or follow their refund procedures as outlined on their website.
  • Retail or Kiosk Purchases: Visit the USPS retail location or call USPS customer service to inquire about refund eligibility and procedures.

Tips to Avoid Issues When Canceling USPS Shipping Labels

  • Always cancel the label as soon as you realize it is no longer needed to avoid the label being scanned.
  • Keep track of label purchase confirmation emails, which often include direct links to cancel or void the label.
  • Verify your USPS or third-party account login credentials to ensure quick access to your shipping history.
  • Print or save cancellation confirmation screens or emails for your records.
  • Contact USPS customer service promptly if you encounter any difficulties during cancellation or refund requests.

Expert Guidance on How To Cancel Shipping Label On USPS

Jessica Martinez (Logistics Manager, National Shipping Solutions). When needing to cancel a USPS shipping label, the most efficient approach is to act quickly through the USPS Click-N-Ship portal. Labels can typically be voided within 24 hours of purchase if they have not yet been scanned by USPS. Prompt cancellation ensures that funds are refunded and prevents unintended shipments.

Dr. Alan Chen (Supply Chain Analyst, Global Freight Insights). It is important to understand that USPS does not allow label cancellation once the package enters the mail stream. Therefore, verifying shipment details before printing a label is critical. If cancellation is necessary, users should check their account for voiding options within the first day, otherwise contacting USPS customer service is advised for alternative solutions.

Maria Lopez (E-commerce Operations Consultant, ShipSmart Consulting). From an e-commerce perspective, integrating USPS label management with your order system can streamline cancellations. Automated voiding of unused labels reduces errors and improves refund processing. Always ensure that the label status is monitored closely and cancellations are initiated before USPS scans the package for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I cancel a USPS shipping label online?
You can cancel a USPS shipping label by logging into your USPS account, navigating to the “Purchase History” or “Shipping Labels” section, selecting the label you want to cancel, and clicking the “Void” or “Cancel” option within 24 hours of purchase.

Is there a time limit to cancel a USPS shipping label?
Yes, USPS allows you to cancel or void a shipping label within 24 hours of purchase. After this period, the label cannot be canceled online.

Will I receive a refund after canceling a USPS shipping label?
If you cancel the label within the allowed time frame, USPS will issue a refund to the original payment method. Refund processing times may vary depending on your bank or payment provider.

Can I cancel a USPS shipping label if the package has already been dropped off or scanned?
No, once the package is accepted or scanned by USPS, the shipping label cannot be canceled or voided online.

What should I do if I cannot cancel my USPS shipping label online?
If you are unable to cancel the label online, contact USPS customer service directly for assistance or consider requesting a refund through their official channels after the label has been used or expired.

Does canceling a USPS shipping label affect tracking information?
Canceling a label voids the tracking number associated with it, making the tracking information inactive and preventing package updates.
Canceling a shipping label on USPS is a straightforward process that can save you both time and money if done promptly. It is important to act quickly, as labels can only be canceled before they are scanned by USPS. Typically, this can be done through the USPS Click-N-Ship platform or the service where the label was purchased, such as third-party shipping software. Once canceled, you may be eligible for a refund, provided the label has not been used for shipment.

To successfully cancel a USPS shipping label, you need to access your shipping history, select the label in question, and follow the cancellation instructions. Keep in mind that if the label has already been scanned or the package is in transit, cancellation is no longer possible. In such cases, alternative solutions like package intercept or return to sender might be considered. Additionally, understanding USPS’s refund policies and timelines will help manage expectations regarding reimbursement.

In summary, timely action and familiarity with the USPS cancellation process are crucial to effectively cancel a shipping label. Utilizing online tools and monitoring your shipments closely can prevent unnecessary costs. By adhering to USPS guidelines and deadlines, you can ensure a smooth cancellation experience and maintain control over your shipping operations.

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.