Create A UPS Shipping Label: A Step-by-Step Guide

Nick Leason

-Oct 23, 2025

Create A UPS Shipping Label: A Step-by-Step Guide

Need to ship something via UPS? Creating a UPS shipping label is the essential first step. This guide explains how to generate a label, covering all the necessary details, from entering recipient information to selecting shipping options, so your package arrives safely and on time. We'll walk you through the process, whether you're shipping from home, the office, or at a UPS location, ensuring you understand each step.

Key Takeaways

Easy Online Process: Create labels directly on the UPS website or using their mobile app.
Multiple Shipping Options: Choose from various services (Ground, Express, etc.) to suit your needs.
Accurate Information is Crucial: Ensure all details (addresses, dimensions, weight) are correct to avoid delays.
Print at Home or UPS Location: Print your label instantly or have it printed at a UPS store.
Track Your Package: Get real-time updates from start to finish.

Introduction

Shipping with UPS is a widely used method for sending packages, both domestically and internationally. The process begins with creating a shipping label, which contains all the necessary information for UPS to handle your package correctly. This guide will provide a detailed overview of how to create a UPS shipping label, the options available, and tips for a smooth shipping experience.

What & Why

Creating a UPS shipping label is essential for several reasons. Firstly, the label serves as the package's identity, containing crucial information such as the sender's and recipient's addresses, the weight of the package, and the chosen shipping service. Without a label, UPS cannot process or deliver the package. Secondly, a properly created label ensures accuracy and efficiency in the shipping process, reducing the risk of delays or misdelivery. Lastly, creating a label through UPS's online tools allows you to calculate shipping costs, choose shipping options, and print the label from the convenience of your home or office.

Benefits of Using UPS

Reliability: UPS has a strong reputation for reliable delivery services.
Tracking: Comprehensive tracking provides real-time updates.
Variety of Services: Offers a range of shipping options to meet different needs and budgets.
Global Reach: UPS delivers to numerous countries worldwide.
Convenience: Online tools and apps make label creation easy.

Risks & Considerations

Cost: Shipping costs can vary widely depending on the weight, dimensions, and destination of the package.
Accuracy: Incorrect information on the label can lead to delays or non-delivery.
Label Printing: You'll need access to a printer to print your label.
Package Preparation: Proper packaging is crucial to protect the contents during transit.

How-To / Steps / Framework Application

Creating a UPS shipping label involves a few straightforward steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide: — Ponte Vedra Beach, FL: ZIP Code Guide

Go to the UPS Website: Visit the official UPS website or open the UPS mobile app. If you don't already have an account, you will need to create one, which is free. This account allows you to save addresses, track shipments, and manage your shipping preferences. — USPS Miami: Services, Locations & More
Select “Create a Shipment”: Navigate to the shipping section and choose the option to create a new shipment. This will start the label creation process.
Enter Sender Information: Provide your name, address, phone number, and email. This is essential for UPS to know who is sending the package and to contact you if necessary.
Enter Recipient Information: Input the recipient's name, address, phone number, and email. Be sure to double-check this information for accuracy to prevent delivery issues.
Specify Package Details: Provide the package type (e.g., package, envelope), weight, dimensions (length, width, height), and declared value. Accurate dimensions and weight are crucial for calculating shipping costs correctly.
Choose Shipping Options: Select your preferred shipping service (e.g., UPS Ground, UPS Next Day Air). Consider the delivery time, cost, and any special handling requirements. Additional options might include insurance, delivery confirmation, and signature confirmation.
Review and Pay: Review all the entered information for accuracy. Choose your payment method and pay for the shipping label. Common payment methods include credit cards, debit cards, and UPS billing accounts.
Print the Label: Once payment is confirmed, you can print the shipping label. Ensure the label is clear and fully attached to your package, covering any old labels. You can print the label at home using a standard printer, or if you don't have access to a printer, UPS provides the option to print at a UPS Store. Simply save the label and provide the reference number at your local store.
Attach the Label to Your Package: Affix the printed label securely to the largest surface of your package, ensuring it doesn't wrap around corners or edges.
Drop Off or Schedule Pickup: Once the label is attached, you can drop off your package at a UPS drop-off location, schedule a pickup, or hand it to a UPS driver. You can find a UPS drop-off location or schedule a pickup through the UPS website or app.
Track Your Shipment: Use the tracking number provided on the label to monitor your package's progress. You can track your shipment on the UPS website or through the mobile app. Tracking provides peace of mind and allows you to stay informed about your package's location and estimated delivery date.

Examples & Use Cases

Let’s explore some scenarios where creating a UPS shipping label comes into play:

Selling on E-commerce Platforms: If you sell products online via platforms like eBay, Etsy, or Shopify, you'll frequently use UPS to ship your orders. Creating a shipping label through UPS is an essential part of fulfilling these orders.
Returning Merchandise: Many retailers provide pre-paid UPS labels for returns. This makes it easy for customers to send items back without having to worry about creating their own labels.
Sending Gifts: Sending gifts to friends and family across the country or internationally is another common use case. Creating a UPS label allows you to ensure the gifts arrive safely and on time.
Shipping Documents: Important documents or contracts that need to be delivered quickly and securely can be shipped via UPS using a shipping label.
Business Shipments: Businesses of all sizes rely on UPS for their shipping needs, from sending samples and marketing materials to fulfilling orders and shipping products to customers.

Best Practices & Common Mistakes

To ensure a smooth shipping experience, consider these best practices and avoid common mistakes:

Best Practices

Double-Check Addresses: Verify that both the sender and recipient addresses are accurate and complete. Incorrect addresses are a leading cause of delivery problems.
Package Properly: Use sturdy packaging materials and padding to protect the contents of the package. This includes using boxes that are the right size for the contents and using cushioning material to prevent items from shifting during transit.
Measure and Weigh Accurately: Providing accurate dimensions and weight is essential for correct shipping cost calculation and to avoid additional fees.
Print Clearly: Ensure the shipping label prints clearly and is not smudged or blurry. A readable label is essential for accurate scanning by UPS systems.
Retain Tracking Information: Keep your tracking number handy to monitor the shipment's progress.
Choose the Right Service: Select the shipping service that aligns with your needs, considering the delivery time and cost. UPS offers a variety of services, so choose the one that best suits your requirements.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect Addresses: The most common mistake is providing an incorrect or incomplete address, which can lead to delays or non-delivery.
Inadequate Packaging: Using insufficient packaging or not protecting the contents properly can result in damage during transit.
Inaccurate Weight and Dimensions: Providing incorrect weight or dimensions can lead to shipping cost adjustments or delays.
Not Including a Return Address: Failing to include a return address can mean that a package is lost if it can't be delivered.
Ignoring Restricted Items: Shipping prohibited items (e.g., hazardous materials) can lead to penalties and delays.
Not Comparing Options: Failing to compare shipping costs and services can mean you pay more than necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I create a UPS shipping label without an account?

Yes, but it's recommended to create a free UPS account. Without an account, you can still create labels, but you may not have access to all the features, such as saved address books or detailed tracking history.

2. How do I find a UPS drop-off location?

You can find a UPS drop-off location on the UPS website or app by using the location finder tool. You can search by address, city, or zip code.

3. What if I don't have a printer to print the label?

If you don't have a printer, you can save the shipping label and take it to a UPS Store or other UPS access point, where they can print it for you.

4. Can I change the shipping information after the label has been created?

Once the label has been created, it is generally difficult to change the shipping information. It's crucial to double-check all information before generating the label. In case of errors, you may need to cancel the label and create a new one.

5. What should I do if my package is delayed or lost?

If your package is delayed or lost, contact UPS customer service immediately. Provide your tracking number and any relevant information. You can also file a claim through the UPS website.

6. What types of packages can I ship with UPS?

You can ship a wide variety of packages with UPS, including boxes, envelopes, and tubes. The size and weight limitations vary depending on the shipping service you choose. UPS also has specific guidelines for the types of items they will ship.

7. What is the difference between UPS Ground and UPS Express?

UPS Ground is a cost-effective option for less time-sensitive deliveries, typically taking 1-5 business days within the U.S. UPS Express options, like UPS Next Day Air, offer faster delivery times (e.g., overnight) but are more expensive. — Snow Valley, CA Weather: Current Conditions & Forecast

Conclusion

Creating a UPS shipping label is a straightforward process that allows you to send packages efficiently and reliably. By following the steps outlined in this guide and paying attention to best practices, you can ensure your packages arrive safely and on time. Whether you're a business owner, an online seller, or simply shipping a personal item, understanding how to create a UPS shipping label is an essential skill.

Ready to ship? Head over to the UPS Website to create your shipping label now!

Last updated: October 26, 2024, 00:00 UTC