Label Clarity
🧼 Label Clarity: How to Apply Shipping Labels Correctly
When it comes to shipping, label clarity is non-negotiable. Even a perfectly packaged box can get lost, delayed, or returned if the barcode can’t be read.
🧾 Why Label Clarity Matters
Shipping labels contain essential details:
Tracking barcodes
Delivery address
Return address
Carrier routing information
If any of this is smudged, covered, or hard to scan, the carrier’s systems may fail to process your package, leading to:
🚫 Failed pickups📦 Returned shipments⌛ Delayed deliveries💵 Extra surcharges
✅ Best Practices for Clear Label Application
Tip | Description |
Flat Surface Only | Place the label on a flat section of the package — never on an edge, corner, or fold. |
No Wrapping | The label must not curve around a box edge — barcodes must remain flat and unbroken. |
Avoid Tape Over Barcode | Some tape can reflect light or wrinkle, making barcodes unscannable. Only use clear matte tape if needed. |
Clean Surface | Ensure the area is dry and dust-free before applying the label. |
Print at High Quality | Set your printer to high-resolution or thermal mode to avoid fuzzy barcodes. |
Single Label Only | Remove or cover any old or duplicate labels on reused boxes. |
Orientation | Apply the label upright, not sideways or upside down. |
❌ Common Label Mistakes
Placing the label over a seam
Covering barcode with packing tape
Printing on low-ink or low-resolution settings
Labels peeling off due to bad adhesive or dusty packaging
Placing the label on the bottom of the box
🖨️ Printing Tips
Printer Type | Recommended? | Notes |
Thermal Printer | ✅ Best Choice | Clean, smudge-proof, permanent labels |
Inkjet/Laser Printer | ✅ Acceptable | Use standard 8.5x11 paper and tape securely |
Dot Matrix | ❌ Not recommended | Too low resolution for modern carrier scans |
📎 Summary
Do ✅ | Don’t ❌ |
Use a flat surface | Wrap label around edges |
Print clearly at 300dpi+ | Use blurry or low-resolution print |
Avoid shiny tape on barcodes | Cover barcodes or addresses |
Align label upright | Apply upside-down or sideways |
📨 Still Not Sure?
If you’re uncertain whether your label was applied correctly, feel free to email a photo to info@shipgeni.us — our team will be happy to help you check before drop-off.