When printing carrier labels like UPS, FedEx, or USPS, formatting errors often result in barcodes that cannot be scanned or addresses being cut off. This can lead to lost packages or additional carrier surcharges. Use this guide to ensure your labels are configured correctly in your ShipHero settings.
Pro-tip: Always check your print preview before completing a large batch to ensure the address and barcode are not touching the edges of the label.
Label Printing Troubleshooting Checklist
- Set Scale to Actual Size (100%): Using the Fit to Page setting can shrink a standard 4x6 label, making the barcode too small for carrier scanners to read. Ensure your printer scale is manually set to 100%.
- Match Paper Size to Label Size: Most shipping labels are 4x6 inches. If your printer settings are set to a standard Letter sheet (8.5x11), the label may appear in a small corner or become stretched. Verify that the paper size matches your physical label media.
- Verify Orientation: If the label prints sideways across two different stickers, toggle the orientation between Portrait and Landscape in the print preview to match how labels feed into your printer.
- Check Darkness and Dithering Settings: If the barcode looks fuzzy or gray, scanners will struggle to read it. In your printer properties, increase the Darkness or Density. Set Dithering to None or Ordered to ensure crisp black lines.
- Clean the Print Head: For thermal printers, white streaks running through a barcode usually indicate dust on the heating element. Gently wipe the print head with an alcohol swab to clear any debris.
Quick Fix Table for Labels
| If the label is... | Do this: |
| Too small or tiny | Change Scale to Actual Size or 100%. |
| Cut off at the edges | Check that Paper Size is set to 4x6 in. |
| Faded or grey | Increase Print Density or Darkness in settings. |
| Stretched out | Uncheck Fit to Page or Fill Paper. |