In today’s fast-paced world of e-commerce, logistics, and retail, the smallest details can make or break the efficiency of your supply chain. One of those details is something that often gets overlooked — the shipping label. While it may look like a simple piece of paper, a shipping label holds critical information that ensures your package reaches the right customer, on time.
At SMB Infotech Dubai UAE, we know how important accurate shipping labels are for smooth operations. Unfortunately, many businesses make small but costly mistakes while printing, applying, or managing shipping labels. Let’s explore the 10 most common mistakes to avoid when using shipping labels and how you can prevent them.
The most common mistake is printing a shipping label with wrong customer details. Even a small error in the address, postal code, or phone number can result in delivery delays or lost packages. Always double-check recipient details before generating the label.
A shipping label must be easy to read, both by humans and barcode scanners. Using unclear fonts or printing in low resolution can cause scanning issues. Always ensure your label is printed in high-quality and scannable fonts to avoid delays.
Some businesses stick the label on seams, edges, or wrapped corners of packages. This can lead to tearing or unreadable barcodes. The correct way is to place the shipping label flat on the largest side of the package for better visibility.
A faded or smudged label is as bad as having no label at all. Using cheap paper or poor-quality ink can affect the readability of the barcode. For reliable results, always use high-quality label paper and durable ink suitable for shipping conditions.
A professional shipping label must include both sender and recipient details. Forgetting to add return information makes it impossible for undelivered parcels to be sent back. This not only increases costs but also damages your brand image.
Most courier companies and logistics partners depend heavily on barcodes for tracking shipments. A misaligned or incomplete barcode can cause major issues in scanning. Ensure barcodes are properly generated, clear, and placed on flat surfaces.
One of the biggest mistakes businesses make is reusing old cartons with old labels still attached. This confuses courier systems and may result in misrouted packages. Always remove outdated shipping labels before applying new ones.
Shipping involves exposure to rain, dust, and rough handling. A paper label without protection can get damaged easily. For added durability, consider using waterproof shipping labels or cover labels with a transparent protective tape.
Relying only on handwriting or manual entry increases the chances of errors. Businesses should switch to automated shipping label solutions that integrate directly with e-commerce platforms for error-free and faster labeling.
When shipping internationally, every package needs specific customs information. Forgetting to include customs declarations on shipping labels can cause delays at borders. Always verify compliance with international shipping label requirements.
Why Correct Shipping Labels Matter
In logistics, even a minor labeling error can result in:
1. Delayed deliveries
2. Increased costs
3. Customer dissatisfaction
4. Operational inefficiency
That’s why companies must treat shipping labels as a critical part of the supply chain, not just a formality.
Conclusion
Using shipping labels the right way can save time, money, and improve customer satisfaction. By avoiding these 10 common mistakes, your business can streamline deliveries and ensure smooth logistics. At SMB Infotech Dubai UAE, we specialize in providing reliable shipping label solutions that help businesses in e-commerce, retail, and logistics maintain accuracy and efficiency.
A well-printed shipping label is more than just a sticker — it’s the key to successful delivery.
