1. Best overall: Zebra GX430t
2. Best budget: Rollo Label Printer
3. Best for high-volume printing: DYMO LabelWriter 4XL
4. Best for printing barcodes: Brother QL-820NWB
5. Best for mobile printing: Zebra ZQ520
Hello there, and welcome to this article about the best label printers for shipping labels. If you’re a business owner, an online seller, or someone who frequently ships items, you probably know the importance of having clear and readable shipping labels. Not only do they ensure that your packages are delivered to the right address and recipient, but they also provide vital information for tracking and navigating the shipping process.
While you can always print shipping labels using your regular inkjet or laser printer, investing in a dedicated label printer can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run. With a label printer, you can easily customize and print labels of different sizes and formats, without worrying about running out of ink or toner. In this article, we’ll guide you through some of the best label printers for shipping labels, and help you choose the right one for your needs and budget.
Source allbestspec.com
Features to Look For in a Shipping Label Printer
Shipping label printers have become an essential tool for businesses of all sizes. The ability to print shipping labels quickly and accurately has made life easier for employees and decreased the likelihood of shipping errors. However, different businesses have different needs, and the features they require in a shipping label printer can vary.
Here are some key features to look for in a shipping label printer:
Connectivity Options
One of the essential features of a shipping label printer is connectivity options. You should choose a printer with a USB port or one that can connect to your network through Wi-Fi or Ethernet. A wireless printer is efficient and reduces clutter in your workspace. You should also look for a printer that has Bluetooth connectivity if you intend to use it with your smartphone or tablet.
Label Size
The label size you require will depend on the size of the packages you intend to ship. Most shipping labels are between 4×6 and 4×8 inches. However, it would help if you had a printer that can handle various sizes if your business requires it.
While considering label size, you also need to ensure that the printer can handle roll-fed label stock rather than sheet-fed. Roll-fed labels are easier and faster to reload, saving you significant time.
Label Quality
Shipping label quality is essential in ensuring that your packages arrive at their intended destinations. Faded or smeared labels can make it challenging for delivery personnel to scan them, leading to delayed delivery or lost packages.
You should consider a printer that uses thermal transfer or direct thermal printing technology to ensure label quality. Thermal transfer is a relatively more expensive option but produces high-quality and durable prints. Direct thermal printing, on the other hand, is relatively cheaper but not as durable.
Printing Speed
Printing speed is an important consideration for businesses that ship large volumes of packages daily. A printer with a fast print speed means faster label production and shorter waiting times for your staff. Usually, a printing speed above 4 inches per second is sufficient for most businesses.
User-Friendliness
The printer’s user interface should be user-friendly, allowing you to print with ease. It should also be easy to operate, even for employees with limited technical expertise, to reduce the number of training hours required.
You may also want to consider a printer that has compatibility with various shipping software and label design programs.
Cost-Effectiveness
The cost of the printer and its consumables should also be taken into account. You may be tempted to go for the cheapest option available, but that may not be the most cost-effective in the long term. A cheaper printer may have low-quality output, requiring frequent maintenance and replacement of consumables, such as ink and toner.
On the other hand, a more expensive printer may have additional features that you don’t necessarily require, increasing your cost without adding significant value to your business.
Warranty and Support
Finally, consider the warranty and support offered by the printer. Does the manufacturer offer a warranty, and what does it cover? How quickly can you get in touch with technical support if you encounter any issues? In case of a breakdown, how quickly can you get a replacement or repair? These are important questions to consider to ensure that you get the best value for your investment.
In conclusion, choosing the best shipping label printer requires you to consider multiple factors, including connectivity options, label size, label quality, printing speed, user-friendliness, cost-effectiveness, and warranty and support. Make sure you take the time to assess your business’s needs before making a purchase decision to ensure that you get the perfect label printer for your needs.
Top Picks for Best Label Printer for Shipping Labels
When it comes to running an e-commerce business, shipping labels play a significant role in making sure that products are delivered at the right place and on time. One way to ensure that the shipping labels are accurate and professional-looking is by investing in a high-quality label printer. Here are the top picks for the best label printer for shipping labels:
1. Zebra GX430t
Zebra GX430t is a reliable label printer that can handle high volumes of printing. It is designed to print shipping labels with crisp and clear text that is easy to read. The printer comes with thermal transfer technology that ensures that the labels are both smudge-proof and water-resistant. GX430t is also very easy to use, thanks to its intuitive menu and button controls.
One of the significant advantages of using Zebra GX430t for your shipping labels is that it offers a high level of versatility. You can use it to print labels of different sizes and materials. It also offers a range of connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and serial, making it easy to integrate with your existing systems.
2. Brother QL-700
The Brother QL-700 is another great option to consider when looking for a label printer for your shipping labels. It is a compact and easy-to-use printer that can help you save time and effort. The printer uses thermal printing technology, which means that it does not require any ink or toner cartridges to function.
One of the significant advantages of using Brother QL-700 is that it can print labels at a very high speed of up to 93 labels per minute. This makes it an excellent choice for businesses that need to print a large number of shipping labels in a short amount of time. The printer also comes with an automatic cutter that ensures that the labels are cut cleanly and accurately.
Brother QL-700 also comes with a range of software applications that allow you to customize your labels, including logos, barcodes, and other graphics. The printer is compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems, making it easy to integrate with your existing computer systems.
3. Rollo Label Printer
If you are looking for a high-quality label printer that can handle larger label rolls, the Rollo Label Printer is an excellent choice. This printer is designed to print shipping labels quickly and accurately, thanks to its thermal printing technology. It can print labels of various sizes, up to 4 inches wide.
Rollo Label Printer is also very easy to use. It does not require any additional software, ink, or toner cartridges. All you need to do is plug it into your computer and start printing. The printer also comes with a range of connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi, making it easy to integrate with your existing systems.
Another advantage of using Rollo Label Printer is that it is compatible with most e-commerce platforms, including Shopify, Amazon, and eBay. This means that you can print shipping labels directly from your online store, without having to manually enter the shipping information.
In conclusion, investing in a high-quality label printer for your shipping labels is an excellent way to ensure that your products are delivered accurately and on time. Each of the label printers mentioned above offers unique advantages, depending on your business needs. Whether you choose Zebra GX430t, Brother QL-700, or Rollo Label Printer, you can be confident that you are getting a reliable and efficient shipping label printer.
Comparing Thermal and Direct Thermal Transfer for Shipping Labels
Shipping labels are an essential part of any e-commerce business as they aid in the smooth and efficient transportation of goods. While previously printing shipping labels was a laborious task that involved multiple sheets of paper and manual labeling, nowadays, label printers have revolutionized how shipping labels are printed. The two most commonly used methods are thermal and direct thermal transfer printing. In this article, we will delve into the differences between both methods and determine which is the best label printer for shipping labels.
Thermal Label Printing; Thermal label printing, also known as thermal transfer printing, is the more traditional method of printing shipping labels. Thermal printers use a heat-sensitive paper and ribbon combination to print clear, high-quality shipping labels. The thermal transfer method is preferable over other label printing methods because of the high resolution and image quality produced by the labels. The thermal printer also gives businesses the flexibility of printing various label types. This includes paper labels, polyester labels, and synthetic labels, depending on the label’s context and requirements. Most thermal transfer printers can also print a range of label sizes and formats.
Direct Thermal Transfer Printing; This method of printing shipping labels is similar to thermal transfer printing in that it uses a thermal printer. However, direct thermal printing uses heat-sensitive paper, which makes it a more cost-effective option than thermal transfer printing, as it eliminates the need for a ribbon. Direct thermal printing is best suited for businesses that need to print a large number of shipping labels quickly and efficiently, as it involves a simple, one-step process. The print quality is lower than thermal transfer printing, but it is adequate for many shipping needs, making it ideal for businesses that do not require high quality or long-lasting labels. Direct thermal printing also comes in handy for nontraditional labeling applications, such as ticket stubs.
Differences between the Two; Thermal transfer printing is a more elaborate method than direct thermal printing, which involves separate paper and ribbon to produce high-quality, durable labels. On the other hand, direct thermal printing requires only a heat-sensitive paper, which produces lower quality but more affordable labels. Thermal transfer printing is ideal for businesses that need quality labels that will last long, while direct thermal printing is beneficial when businesses need a quick, low-cost option that offers reasonable quality for a wide range of applications.
Which One is Best for Shipping Labels?
The choice between thermal and direct thermal transfer printing for shipping labels depends on the business’s needs and requirements. For e-commerce businesses that need to produce high-quality, durable labels, thermal transfer printing is the way to go. Its high-resolution, durable prints ensure lasting visibility even when exposed to harsh environments. Furthermore, thermal transfer printing produces labels that adhere well to the package, reducing the risk of label detaching during transport or handling. For businesses that ship at a high volume or have a high through-put, direct thermal printing may be more efficient and cost-effective. Direct thermal printing is also suitable for businesses that require short-term label usage as it is a low-cost option suitable for quick printing tasks.
In conclusion, there is no right or wrong method for printing shipping labels. The choice between thermal and direct thermal transfer printing depends on the business’s specific needs and budget. Often, a combination of both methods will work best for producing quality, effective, and affordable shipping labels.
How to Properly Install and Set Up a Label Printer for Shipping Labels
Shipping labels are an important aspect of any business. They are the first things that customers see, and, if the labels aren’t done correctly, it can lead to problems with delivery. A label printer is a must-have for every company that deals with shipping. Now, installing and setting up a label printer might seem intimidating at first, but with the following steps, you can easily install and set up your printer:
Step 1 – Unpack and Inspect
The first thing you want to do when you receive your label printer is to unpack it and inspect it. Ensure that all the parts are there, and that there is no damage to the packaging or the printer. If there is damage, contact your supplier immediately to rectify the issue. Make sure you take all the parts out of the box, including the power cable, USB cable, and the label roll.
Step 2 – Plug In and Power On
Once you have confirmed that all the parts are there and unscathed, you can now proceed to plug in the printer. Connect the printer to a power source and press the power button to turn it on.
Step 3 – Connect to Your Computer
The next step is to connect the printer to your computer. Connect the USB cable to the printer and your computer. Wait a few seconds for your computer to recognize the printer. If your computer doesn’t recognize it, check the connections and try again.
Step 4 – Install the Drivers
Once the printer is connected to your computer, you will need to install the drivers. Every printer comes with a CD that contains the installation software. Insert the CD into your computer and follow the instructions on the screen to install the drivers. If your computer doesn’t have a CD drive, you can download the drivers from the manufacturer’s website.
Step 5 – Load the Labels
Now that the printer and drivers are installed, you can load the labels. The label roll comes with adhesive and perforated labels. Unroll the label and insert it into the printer. The printer will detect the label size automatically. Once the roll is loaded, close the label holder and adjust the guides.
Step 6 – Configure the Printer
Before you can start printing labels, you need to configure the printer settings. Open the label printing software and select the printer from the list of installed printers. Configure the printer settings to match your label size and type. Choose your label template and test print a label to ensure that it’s aligned.
Step 7 – Start Printing
Once you have completed all the above steps, you are now ready to print. To print a label, open the printing software and select the label template. Fill out the label fields with the necessary information and click on print. Your label will be printed and ready for use.
In conclusion, a label printer is an essential tool for any business that deals with shipping. Installing and setting up a label printer might seem daunting at first, but by following these simple steps, you can easily set up your printer and start printing professional-looking labels. With this guide, you can be confident that your shipping labels will be done correctly every time.
Tips for Maximizing Efficiency with Your Shipping Label Printer
When it comes to running an efficient ecommerce business, choosing the right label printer for your shipping needs is essential. But even the best label printer won’t maximize your productivity if you’re not using it correctly. Here are five tips for getting the most out of your shipping label printer:
1. Use the Right Label Material
Choosing the right label material is important for ensuring your shipping labels stay readable and attached during shipping. For example, if you’re shipping products in cold environments, using a label material that can withstand low temperatures is essential. If your products are exposed to direct sunlight, you may need a material that resists fading.
It’s also important to choose the right adhesive. A strong adhesive might be necessary for heavy or oddly shaped packages, but for smaller, lightweight products, a less aggressive adhesive might work better.
2. Invest in a Label Printer with Built-In Design Software
Printing shipping labels is a simple enough task, but designing them can be a time-consuming process. Investing in a label printer that has built-in design software can save you time and money. These printers usually come with pre-made templates that you can quickly customize to fit your branding needs.
Some printers even connect with your ecommerce store or shipping software, so you can quickly generate labels without having to worry about transferring shipping addresses or other order information manually.
3. Use a Continuous Feed Label Printer
Continuous feed label printers are ideal for high-volume shipping needs. These printers use a roll of labels that can be easily fed into the printer, allowing you to print multiple labels at once without the need for hand-feeding each label.
Continuous feed printers can also save money, as you can usually print more labels per roll than with sheeted labels, which also creates less waste because there are no individual sheets to throw away after printing.
4. Keep Your Printer Clean and Maintained
A dirty or poorly maintained printer can cause jams, misprints, and other issues that can slow down your shipping process. Regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent these problems from happening.
Cleaning your printer doesn’t have to be complicated. Simply use a lint-free cloth to wipe down the exterior and the rollers, and regularly replace the label roll and printer ribbon.
5. Take Advantage of Automation
Automating your label printing process can further maximize your efficiency. Instead of manually generating shipping labels, you can set up rules and triggers that generate labels automatically when certain events occur, such as when an order is placed or when a shipment is confirmed.
Most ecommerce platforms have some level of automation built-in, and you can also use third-party apps and software to automate shipping label generation. Make sure to test any automated setup thoroughly before full implementation to avoid any unexpected issues.
An efficient label printer can make all the difference in your shipping process, but it’s important to use it correctly. Follow these tips to maximize your productivity and streamline your shipping operations.
