How to Print Out a FedEx Shipping Label: A Comprehensive Guide

Printing a FedEx shipping label is generally a straightforward process, crucial for getting your package on its way. The precise steps, however, depend on how you created the label in the first place. Essentially, you’ll be navigating to the confirmation or completed shipment page on the FedEx website or within the FedEx mobile app, or accessing the email confirmation you received. From there, you’ll find a button or link to download the label as a PDF. Open this PDF and use your computer’s print function to print the label on standard paper (and affix it to your package) or, preferably, on self-adhesive label paper. Now, let’s delve into more detail and common scenarios.

Printing Your FedEx Label: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

The method you use to print your FedEx shipping label varies based on how you initially created it. Here’s a comprehensive guide to cover different situations:

Printing from the FedEx Website

This is arguably the most common method. After creating your shipment and paying for postage, you’ll be directed to a confirmation page. This page typically presents you with several options, including printing your FedEx shipping label.

1. Locate the Confirmation Page: After completing the shipment creation process on the FedEx website, you’ll be directed to a confirmation page. If you’ve closed this page, don’t worry! You can usually find your shipping history within your FedEx account. Look for the shipment you just created.

2. Find the “Print Label” or “Download Label” Button: On the confirmation page, or within the shipment details, you should see a clearly marked button that says something like “Print Label,” “Download Label,” or something similar.

3. Download the PDF: Clicking this button will usually prompt your browser to download a PDF file. Make sure you know where your downloads typically go (Downloads folder, Desktop, etc.).

4. Open the PDF: Locate the downloaded PDF file and open it using a PDF reader like Adobe Acrobat Reader (free to download) or your browser’s built-in PDF viewer.

5. Print the Label: Within the PDF viewer, click the “Print” icon or select “File” then “Print” from the menu. Ensure your printer is connected and turned on.

6. Printer Settings: In the print dialog box, make sure “Actual Size” or “100%” is selected under “Page Sizing & Handling.” This is crucial to ensure the barcode is printed correctly and scannable. Avoid options like “Fit to Page” as this may distort the label dimensions.

7. Paper Type: Print on standard 8.5″ x 11″ paper. If you have self-adhesive labels (4″ x 6″ is a common size), load them into your printer according to your printer’s manual.

8. Print and Attach: Print the label. Carefully cut it out if you printed on standard paper and securely attach it to your package using clear packing tape, ensuring the barcode and address are fully visible. If you used a self-adhesive label, simply peel and stick.

Printing from the FedEx Mobile App

The FedEx mobile app provides a convenient way to manage shipments on the go, including printing labels.

1. Access Your Shipment: Open the FedEx mobile app and log in to your account. Navigate to your shipping history or find the specific shipment you need to print the label for.

2. Locate the “Print Label” Option: Similar to the website, there will be an option to “Print Label,” “View Label,” or “Download Label” within the shipment details.

3. Download and Print: The app will likely allow you to download the label as a PDF or send it directly to a printer if your mobile device is connected to a printer via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. If you download the PDF, you can then email it to yourself and print it from a computer.

4. Follow Printing Instructions: Follow steps 5-8 from the “Printing from the FedEx Website” section above.

Printing from an Email Confirmation

After creating a shipment, FedEx will send you a confirmation email containing shipment details and a link to access your label.

1. Find the Confirmation Email: Search your email inbox for a FedEx confirmation email related to the shipment you need to print the label for.

2. Locate the Label Link: Within the email, look for a link that says something like “View Label,” “Download Label,” or “Print Label.”

3. Download and Print: Clicking the link will usually open the label in your browser as a PDF. Follow steps 4-8 from the “Printing from the FedEx Website” section above.

Using a FedEx Thermal Printer

If you frequently ship with FedEx, investing in a thermal label printer can save time and money. These printers are specifically designed to print labels quickly and efficiently.

1. Install Printer Drivers: Ensure you have installed the correct printer drivers for your thermal printer on your computer. These drivers usually come with the printer or can be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website.

2. Configure Printer Settings: Within your printer settings, select the appropriate label size for your thermal printer (usually 4″ x 6″).

3. Download and Print: Download the FedEx shipping label as a PDF, and then print it using your thermal printer. The label should print perfectly sized onto the label paper.

4. Apply the Label: Peel the label from the backing and apply it directly to your package.

FAQs About Printing FedEx Shipping Labels

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to further clarify the process:

1. What if I don’t have a printer? You have several options. You can visit a FedEx Office location, a participating retail location that offers printing services (like some Staples stores), or ask a friend or family member to print the label for you. You can also choose a label-less option for some shipments, allowing FedEx to print the label for you for a fee.

2. Can I reprint a FedEx shipping label? Yes, you can typically reprint a label as long as the shipment is still active (not yet shipped). Access your shipping history on the FedEx website or app and find the shipment. The “Print Label” option should still be available.

3. What if my printed label is blurry or distorted? This is usually due to incorrect printer settings. Ensure you’ve selected “Actual Size” or “100%” in the print dialog box. Also, check your printer’s ink levels or toner levels.

4. Can I use a black and white printer for a FedEx label? Yes, FedEx shipping labels can be printed in black and white. The barcode is the most important element, and it will scan correctly even if printed in black and white.

5. What size paper should I use for printing a FedEx label? Standard 8.5″ x 11″ paper is acceptable. However, 4″ x 6″ self-adhesive labels are the ideal size for thermal label printers.

6. How do I attach the shipping label to my package? Use clear packing tape to securely attach the label to your package. Ensure the entire label, including the barcode and addresses, is clearly visible and protected from damage.

7. What happens if my label gets damaged or lost? If the label is damaged before shipping, reprint it. If it’s lost after the package is picked up, contact FedEx customer support immediately. They may be able to track the package using other identifiers.

8. Can I edit a FedEx shipping label after creating it? In most cases, you cannot edit a label once it’s created. You would need to void the original shipment and create a new one with the correct information. Check FedEx’s policies on voiding shipments.

9. How long is a FedEx shipping label valid? FedEx shipping labels are generally valid for a specific period, usually around 7-10 days. Check the terms and conditions on the FedEx website for the exact validity period.

10. What if I don’t have a FedEx account? You can still create shipments as a guest on the FedEx website. However, having an account offers benefits like saved addresses and shipping history.

11. Can I scan a digital FedEx label at a FedEx location? No, FedEx generally requires a physical printed label to be attached to the package. While they are increasingly exploring digital solutions, this is not a standard practice yet.

12. What if my printer is not compatible with self-adhesive labels? If your printer struggles with self-adhesive labels, print the label on standard paper and securely attach it using clear packing tape.

By following these steps and addressing these common questions, you should be well-equipped to print your FedEx shipping labels with confidence and efficiency. Happy shipping!