Can I Print Shipping Labels on Regular Paper? eCommerce 101

Efficient shipping operations power the engine of successful eCommerce businesses. Frictionless delivery experiences fuel satisfied customers and repeat orders, while order issues and delays can lead to negative reviews.

In the search for cost-effective shipping strategies for scaling stores, one question can pop up: can I print shipping labels on regular paper?

Yes, technically you can. But before you reach for that A4 paper sheet, there are several factors to consider. While it might seem like a quick fix, regular paper introduces a hidden world of time-consuming tasks, potential damage, and unprofessional presentation.

This blog post delves beyond the "can I print shipping labels on regular paper" question and explores a powerful solution for streamlined shipping label printing and beyond. Consider the pros and cons of paper alternatives, unlock shipping automation with Easyship, and guide you towards successful growth.

Can I Print Shipping Labels on Regular Paper?  Pros and Cons

While printing shipping labels on regular paper might seem like a quick and easy option, it's important to weigh both the benefits and drawbacks before committing to this workflow. Here's a breakdown to help you make an informed decision:

Pros of Printing Shipping Labels on Regular Paper:

• Cost-effective: Regular paper is readily available and significantly cheaper than pre-cut label sheets. This makes it a budget-friendly option for businesses with low-label volume
• Flexibility: You can easily adjust the label size by formatting the document in your word processor. This can be helpful to print shipping labels for packages with unusual shapes or dimensions
• No need for special equipment: You can use any standard printer to print on regular paper, eliminating the need for dedicated label printers
• Environmentally friendly: Regular paper is generally more recyclable than pre-cut label sheets, which can be a consideration for eco-conscious businesses

Cons of Printing Shipping Labels on Regular Paper:

• Time-consuming: Attaching labels with tape or self-adhesive sheets adds an extra step to the packing process, compared to simply applying pre-cut labels
• Risk of damage: Regular paper is susceptible to tears, smudging, and water damage, which can compromise the readability of the label and delay delivery
• Unprofessional appearance: Hand-taped labels can look less professional than pre-cut labels with consistent sizing and branding
• Scanning issues: Inkjet ink can smudge or bleed, and wrinkled paper can cause scanning errors, potentially leading to delivery delays
• Security concerns: If you print shipping labels on regular paper it is easier to tamper with than pre-cut labels with tamper-proof features

In conclusion, printing shipping labels on regular paper can be a viable option for small businesses with minimal label volume and a tight budget. However, the downsides of time-consuming attachment, potential damage, and unprofessional appearance can become significant as your shipping needs grow.

For businesses with higher label volume, improved efficiency, and a professional image, investing in pre-cut shipping labels and a dedicated label printer is often a worthwhile investment.

Printing Shipping Labels: Inkjet or Laser Printers?

So, you've decided to try regular paper to print shipping labels. Now comes the next question: which should you use, inkjet or laser printer? Each has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.

Inkjet Printers

Pros:

• Affordable: Inkjet printers are generally cheaper than laser printers, making them a good option for budget-conscious businesses
• Widely available: Inkjet printers are readily available at most electronics stores and online retailers
• Good for photo printing: They often do a great job with photo printing, which can be useful for branding your labels
• Compact: They tend to be smaller and lighter than laser printers, making them a good choice for limited space

Cons:

• Slower printing speeds: Inkjet printers can be significantly slower than laser printers, especially when printing multiple labels at once
• Ink smudging: Ink can smudge on regular paper, especially if it gets wet. This can lead to illegible labels and delays in deliveries
• Higher ink costs: While the printer itself may be cheaper, ink or toner cartridges can be expensive, especially if you print a lot of labels
• Less water-resistant: If you print shipping labels with an Inkjet printer, it may not be as water-resistant as laser-printed labels, which can be a problem if your packages are likely to get wet

Laser Printers

Pros:

• Faster printing speeds: Laser printers are much faster than inkjet printers, making them a good choice for businesses that need to print large volumes of labels quickly
• Sharper print quality: Laser-printed labels have sharper, crisper text and graphics, which can look more professional
• Water-resistant: Laser toner fuses with the paper, making the labels more water-resistant than inkjet-printed labels
• Lower running costs: While the initial cost of a laser printer is higher, toner cartridges typically last longer and are cheaper than ink cartridges in the long run

Cons:

• More expensive: Laser printers are more expensive than inkjet printers to purchase
• Bulkier: They are also typically larger and heavier than inkjet printers
• Not as good for photo printing: While they can print photos, the quality is not as good as what you can get from a good inkjet printer
• Higher energy consumption: Laser printers use more energy than inkjet printers

Ultimately, the best printer for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you're printing a few labels and budget is a major concern, an inkjet printer may be a good option. However, if you need to print large volumes of labels quickly and want the best possible quality, a laser printer is the way to go.

No matter which type of printer you choose, Easyship can help you make the most of it. Our platform integrates with both inkjet and laser printers, and we offer a variety of pre-cut label sizes and formats to suit your needs.

We also offer a wide range of shipping services from top carriers, so you can always find the best rate for your shipment.

Want to Print Shipping Labels Quickly? Pros and Cons of Label Printers

So, you've decided to ditch the papercuts and embrace the efficiency of dedicated label printers. But with a variety of options on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming.

Let's dive into the pros and cons of starting to print shipping labels with a label printer, helping you make an informed decision for your business:

Pros:

• Speed and Efficiency: Label printers churn out labels in seconds, saving precious time compared to manually attaching labels to regular paper. This is a game-changer for businesses with high shipping volume
• Professionalism: Pre-cut shipping labels look sharp and polished, boosting your brand image and leaving a positive impression on customers
• Convenience: No more fiddling with tape or struggling with wrinkled paper. Simply print and apply the label directly to your package
• Durability: Label printer ink is generally water-resistant and resistant to smudging, ensuring labels withstand the rigors of shipping
• Organization: Many label printers come with software for managing label templates and printing in batches, keeping your shipping process organized and efficient

Cons:

• Initial Cost: Label printers can be more expensive than standard printers, especially for high-performance models
• Running Costs: Label rolls and ribbons can add up over time, so weigh your printing volume against the cost of consumables
• Limited Functionality: Some label printers are solely for shipping labels, while others offer wider functionality like barcode printing. Consider your future needs when choosing
• Technical Setup: Setting up and maintaining a label printer may require some technical know-how, which might not be ideal for everyone
• Space Considerations: Label printers take up additional space compared to standard printers, so ensure you have room for it in your workspace

Overall, label printers are a worthwhile investment for businesses with moderate to high shipping volumes who prioritize efficiency, professionalism, and convenience. However, consider the initial and ongoing costs, functionality needs, and technical requirements before making a purchase.

Pros and Cons of Thermal Label Printers: Printing Speed vs. Expense

If you're serious about high-volume shipping, thermal label printers might be calling your name. These machines use heat to imprint information directly onto labels, eliminating the need for ink or toner. But are they right for you? Let's weigh the pros and cons:

Pros:

• Lightning-fast printing: Forget the sluggish pace of inkjet or laser printers. Thermal printers churn out labels with blazing speed, ideal for businesses with heavy shipping demands
• No ink/toner hassles: Ditch the cartridges and refills! Thermal printers require no messy ink or toner, simplifying maintenance and eliminating ongoing consumable costs
• Water-resistant labels: Printed information is burned onto the label, making it impervious to water, smudges, and even extreme temperatures.
• Compact designs: Many thermal printers boast a small footprint, saving valuable desk space compared to bulkier laser or inkjet options

Cons:

• Higher initial cost: A thermal label printer can have a steeper price tag than traditional inkjet or laser options
• Limited color options: Most thermal printers are limited to black and white, which might not be ideal for branding or logos when you print shipping labels
• Potentially shorter lifespan: Thermal labels can fade over time, especially when exposed to sunlight or heat
• Paper compatibility: Thermal printers require specific thermal paper to print shipping labels, which can be slightly more expensive than regular printer paper

Thermal label printers are a powerful tool for high-volume shippers who prioritize speed and efficiency. However, their higher upfront cost and limitations in color and label lifespan might not justify the investment for smaller businesses with lower shipping needs.

Easyship works seamlessly with both regular and thermal printing setups. Our platform offers automated label generation, batch printing, and multi-carrier comparisons to help you optimize your shipping workflow regardless of your chosen printing method.

Ready to streamline your shipping and find the perfect solution for your needs? Sign up for a free Easyship trial today and discover the difference!

Benefits of Adhesive Shipping Labels

In the fast-paced world of eCommerce, every second counts. While regular paper might seem like a budget-friendly option for printing shipping labels, it often translates to a time-consuming, frustrating experience.

However, with adhesive shipping labels, these pre-cut wonders not only save you precious time, but also elevate your shipping game with a professional touch and enhanced reliability. Let's dive into the compelling reasons why adhesive labels are the secret weapon for effective shipping at scale:

1. Time-Savers: Forget the tedious process of cutting, trimming, and taping paper labels. Adhesive labels are pre-cut and ready to go, saving you precious time and effort when you print shipping labels. This translates to quicker order processing and happier customers who receive their packages sooner

2. Professional: Adhesive labels add a touch of professionalism to your shipping game. Their clean, consistent size and crisp printing create a polished look that reflects positively on your brand. No more wrinkled paper or messy tape jobs – just sharp, professional labels that make a great first impression

3. Durable labels: Regular paper can easily succumb to tears, smudges, and water damage. Adhesive labels, on the other hand, are made from durable materials that can withstand bumps, scratches, and even light rain. This ensures your addresses and barcodes stay clear and legible throughout the shipping journey, minimizing delays and ensuring smooth delivery

4. Security: Adhesive labels often come with tamper-proof features, making it difficult for anyone to tamper with the contents of your package. This adds an extra layer of security when you print shipping labels, especially for valuable items or shipments containing sensitive information

5. Batch-Printing: Printing labels in batches is easy with adhesive sheets. Simply feed the sheet into your printer, and you have a stack of ready-to-use labels for all your orders. This eliminates the need to print individual labels for each package, saving you even more time and effort when you print shipping labels

7. Seamless Integration: Many adhesive label brands offer integration with popular eCommerce platforms and shipping software. This means your order information automatically populates onto the labels, eliminating the need for manual data entry and reducing the risk of errors

Ultimately, adhesive shipping labels are a game-changer for businesses of all sizes. They offer a combination of convenience, professionalism, and durability making them a worthwhile investment for any growing eCommerce business that needs to create labels at scale.

Automate Shipping Label Printing with Easyship

Printing shipping labels one by one can be a tedious and time-consuming process, especially for growing businesses. Easyship is your one-stop solution for simplifying label printing and streamlining your entire shipping journey.

Forget manual data entry and repetitive tasks. With Easyship, you can automate shipping label creation and say goodbye to the manual headache:

• Connect your store: Integrate Easyship seamlessly with your favorite eCommerce platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento. Order information automatically syncs, eliminating the need for manual data entry
• Pre-configured shipping rules: Set up customized rules based on factors like order value, package weight, destination, and carrier preference. Once an order meets your criteria, the perfect shipping label is automatically generated, with no need for individual selection
• Batch printing magic: Generate and print labels for multiple orders in a single click. No more wasting time printing them one by one!
• Multi-carrier flexibility: Choose from a wide range of trusted carriers like USPS, FedEx, DHL, and more, based on your needs and budget. Easyship displays competitive rates and automatically selects the best option for each order, saving you money on shipping costs
• Print directly from Easyship: No need to switch between platforms. Easyship integrates seamlessly with most popular printers, allowing you to print a shipping label directly from the platform with just a click
• Pre-cut label convenience: Skip the hassle of cutting and attaching labels to packages. Easyship offers a variety of high-quality pre-cut label sizes and materials, compatible with inkjet, laser and thermal printers

Beyond label printing, Easyship is the top shipping and logistics company working with a network of over 250 couriers worldwide. This has put us in a position to negotiate some of the best shipping discounts with leading couriers, and we can help you reduce your shipping expenses by up to 91%.

Some of our major discounts include the following:

• Save up to 65% on USPS First Class Package
• Save up to 89% on USPS Priority Mail
• Save up to 50% on UPS® Ground
• Save up to 76% on UPS Worldwide Saver®
• Save up to 91% on DHL eCommerce

We also offer a range of easy-to-use shipping tools, to help streamline your shipping experience and delight your buyers. Popular features include:

• Comparison Tool: With our courier comparison tool, you can compare the different shipping services offered by each courier, allowing you to choose your cheapest way to ship based on other factors, not just the cost
• Insurance: To help keep your packages safe in transit, Easyship offers you insurance up to $10000
• Tracking: From custom-branded tracking emails to automatic message alerts, Easyship helps you maintain package visibility with your buyers throughout the delivery process
• Shipping Rate Calculator: You can use our shipping rate calculator to compare shipping rates from different carriers

Why waste time and energy on manual label printing when Easyship can do it for you automatically? Sign up for a free Easyship account today and experience the future of effortless shipping.

Focus on growing your business while Easyship takes care of the rest, from generating perfect labels to delivering your packages to happy customers. Easyship is your key to faster, cheaper, and more efficient shipping.