What information must be on a shipping label?

Every shipping label is a crucial component connecting your warehouse to your customers' front door. It's not merely a piece of paper on a box, but a complex source of information that provides clear instructions to all individuals and machines along the supply chain. Incorrect or incomplete information can lead to a package being delayed, lost, or returned to the sender – resulting in dissatisfied customers and financial losses.

If you are a business owner looking for the best labels for shipping boxes, a basic understanding of a shipping label is the first step towards efficient logistics. In this guide, we will explain the individual components of a shipping label and show you the advantages of high-quality MUNBYN shipping labels for your fulfillment process.

Why a Shipping Label Is More Important Than You Think

Before delving into the details, it's important to understand the purpose. A shipping label acts as an instruction system for a global network of logistics service providers such as UPS, FedEx, USPS, and DHL.

1. Automation: Modern sorting facilities use high-speed scanners to read barcodes. If information is missing or print quality is insufficient, the package will be rejected by the system. This leads to manual reprocessing and delays.

2. Liability: The shipping label serves as a contract between the sender and the carrier. It defines the shipping method (e.g., express or standard) and includes the tracking number for tracking and insurance claims.

3. Customer Experience: For your customers, the label is often the first visible point of contact. A clear and professional appearance highlights the quality of your brand.

What Information Must Be Included on a Shipping Label

Regardless of the shipping service provider, every shipping label must contain certain basic information. Below are the most important mandatory details:

A. Recipient's Name and Complete Delivery Address

This is the most important information on the shipping label. It must be clearly and correctly formatted to avoid delivery issues ("undeliverable").

A standardized address field includes:

★ Full name of the recipient

★ Street and house number (incl. apartment, suite, or unit number)

★ City, state/region, and postal code

★ Country (for international shipments)

B. Return Address

In addition to the recipient's address, the return address is essential. If a shipment cannot be delivered, it will be returned to you using this address, rather than remaining at the depot or being disposed of. For international shipments, this information is also required for customs formalities.

C. Barcode and Tracking Number

Barcodes are the foundation of modern logistics processes. They enable shipping service providers to scan packages at every point in the supply chain and provide you with seamless tracking.

The barcode must:

• have high contrast

• be undamaged

• be printed in a sufficient size

If the barcode is unreadable, manual processing will be required, leading to delays and missing scans.

D. Shipping Class and Service Type

Shipping service providers offer various shipping options. The label must clearly indicate the chosen shipping method, for example: USPS Priority Mail, UPS Ground, FedEx Overnight, DHL Express Worldwide.

This is often additionally represented by a symbol or letter (e.g., "P" for Priority) to enable quick visual sorting.

E. Contact Information

Phone numbers (from both recipient and sender) and an email address can help the shipping service provider quickly make contact in case of delivery problems or to coordinate a delivery date. In many cases, at least one phone number is required.

F. Package Weight and Dimensions

Since shipping costs are based on weight and size, this information is used to verify correct postage. If the information does not match the actual weight, the shipping service provider may charge additional fees or return the package.

Special Additional Labels for Shipping Boxes

In some cases, standard information is not enough. For certain goods, additional instructions are required:

▶ "Fragile": Indicates sensitive contents

▶ "This Side Up": Important for liquids or electronics

▶ "Perishable/Keep Cold": For food or medical products

▶ Lithium Battery Warnings: Legally required for certain electronic devices

International Shipping: Additional Requirements

When shipping across national borders, the requirements increase significantly. In addition to the standard information, the following details must be included:

✔ HS Code (Harmonized System): A 6 to 10-digit code for classifying goods for customs

✔ Detailed Content Description: Instead of "gift," specify "100% cotton T-shirt," for example

✔ Commercial Invoice: Often attached to the outside of the package in a transparent document pouch

✔ Country of Origin: Indication of the country of manufacture

Printing and Format: Why 4×6 Inches Is the Standard

Thermal printers and most fulfillment processes use 4" × 6" shipping labels as the industry standard. This format provides ample space for: address information, barcode, shipping information, handling symbols.

At the same time, material is used efficiently.

While printing multiple labels per page with a conventional printer is possible, for regular shipping volumes, a thermal printer with 4×6 labels is recommended – for higher speed, reliability, and consistent print quality.

Tip: Use a direct thermal printer with 4×6 labels. These are fast, smudge-proof, cost-effective, and reliably produce scannable barcodes.

Why MUNBYN Labels Are the First Choice for Professionals

When selecting shipping labels, quality should be the top priority. MUNBYN has established itself as a leading provider by offering durable and cost-effective labels.

Why choose MUNBYN?

• Compatibility: The labels work seamlessly with MUNBYN thermal printers as well as other well-known brands like Rollo.
• Strong Adhesion: A powerful adhesive ensures that the labels stick securely to cardboard, poly mailers, and plastic surfaces without peeling off.
• Diverse Designs: In addition to classic white 4×6 labels, MUNBYN also offers colored variations (e.g., pink, blue, kraft paper brown) and round labels – ideal for combining functionality with brand aesthetics.
• BPA/BPS-Free: A safer choice for your employees and the environment.

Conclusion

Whether you ship ten packages a month or ten thousand – the details make all the difference. Ensure clear printing, reliable adhesion, and optimized processes to significantly improve your delivery rate.

A shipping label is your brand's last interaction with your customers before the product arrives. To ensure a smooth delivery experience and minimize financial risks, it is crucial not only to provide the correct information on the label but also to use high-quality shipping labels.

Don't let inferior labels compromise your supply chain. Invest in a durable thermal printer and high-quality consumables.

Would you like to optimize your shipping processes? Discover MUNBYN shipping labels now and choose the right solution for sustainable growth of your business. (Use the limited-time code "MYSEO" at checkout and get an additional 8% discount.)

Regardless of whether you ship ten or ten thousand packages per month – it's the small details that make the difference. Print clearly, stick reliably, and sustainably increase your delivery success rate.