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Will UPS Print My Label? Your Shipping Label Questions Answered!

The short answer is: Yes, UPS can print your shipping label for you in certain circumstances. However, it’s not the ideal or universally available option. Let’s dive into the specifics, exploring when this is possible and how to navigate the process for a smoother shipping experience.

Understanding UPS Label Printing Options

UPS, a titan in the package delivery arena, offers various ways to get your package properly labeled. Understanding these options can save you time, money, and unnecessary headaches. It’s crucial to be prepared before you arrive at a UPS location.

Option 1: UPS Store – Printing Services

The most straightforward scenario where UPS will print your label is at a UPS Store. These franchised locations offer a range of services, including printing. However, there are a few key factors to consider:

Cost: Printing services at the UPS Store are not free. You’ll typically pay a per-page fee for printing your label. This fee can vary by location, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead and inquire about their printing rates.
Label Format: Ensure that the label you’re providing is in a widely accepted format, like PDF. This format preserves the layout and ensures the barcode is printed correctly.
Availability: While UPS Stores generally offer printing services, it’s always wise to confirm with your specific location, especially if you’re on a tight schedule.

Option 2: UPS Customer Centers – Limited Printing

UPS Customer Centers are primarily designed for package drop-off and pick-up. While some may offer printing as a courtesy, it’s not a standard service. Don’t rely on this as your primary option. If printing is available, it may be restricted to specific situations.

Account Holders: Businesses with established UPS accounts and regular shipping volume might have more leverage to request printing assistance.
Emergency Situations: In some cases, a UPS Customer Center employee might make an exception if you’re facing a genuine emergency and unable to print the label yourself. However, this is at their discretion.
Limited Resources: Customer Centers are often busy, and staff may not have the time or resources to print labels for every customer who requests it.

Option 3: Mobile Device and UPS Access Point™ locations

UPS has launched a new option of generating a mobile shipping label on your phone. When you have a mobile shipping label, you will receive a QR code that UPS Access Point™ location can scan and print for you.

Generating a Mobile Shipping Label: You will need to log in to UPS.com to create a shipment. You will be able to choose a UPS Access Point™ location from the map. You will get an option to select “I will give the package to UPS”. Then, the option to get a mobile shipping label will appear.
Drop-off: Take your package with your QR code and drop it off at the UPS Access Point™ location. UPS will print the label and send it!

Option 4: The UPS Digital Access Program (DAP)

The UPS Digital Access Program (DAP) is a solution that provides UPS shipping capabilities directly within your website or platform. It offers various tools, including the ability to generate and print shipping labels seamlessly.

Integrations: UPS DAP can be integrated into e-commerce platforms, order management systems, and other applications. This allows you to automate the shipping label creation process.
Label Customization: UPS DAP gives you control over the label design, allowing you to add logos, promotional messages, and other branding elements.
Cost savings: If you are a business, DAP can help you save on the cost of shipping labels.

Alternative: Third-Party Shipping Centers

While technically not UPS, third-party shipping centers (like those offering multiple carrier options) often provide printing services. They’re essentially acting as a print shop in addition to their shipping services. These centers typically charge a fee for printing.

FAQs – Your Burning UPS Label Questions Answered

Let’s tackle some frequently asked questions to solidify your understanding of UPS label printing.

1. Can I email my shipping label to UPS and have them print it?

Generally, no. UPS Stores may allow you to email them the label directly, but it’s best practice to bring it on a USB drive or be prepared to access it through a cloud storage service like Google Drive or Dropbox. Confirm with the specific UPS Store before relying on email as the delivery method.

2. What if I don’t have access to a printer at all?

Consider using a UPS Access Point™ to generate a mobile shipping label on your phone. If you have a mobile shipping label, you will receive a QR code that UPS Access Point™ location can scan and print for you. Alternatively, explore public libraries, business centers, or print shops in your area.

3. Is it cheaper to print the label myself or have UPS do it?

It is almost always cheaper to print the label yourself. Printer paper and ink are generally less expensive than the per-page fee charged by UPS Stores or other printing services.

4. Can I use a handwritten label instead of a printed one?

Absolutely not. UPS requires machine-readable barcodes to ensure accurate and efficient package tracking and delivery. Handwritten labels are not accepted.

5. What if my printed label gets damaged?

If your label is damaged but still scannable, you might be okay. However, if the barcode is illegible, you’ll need to reprint the label. Contact UPS customer support or visit a UPS Store for assistance.

6. Can I print a UPS label in black and white or does it need to be in color?

UPS labels must be printed in black and white. Color printing can interfere with barcode scanning and potentially delay or misdirect your package.

7. What kind of paper should I use to print my UPS label?

Standard 8.5 x 11 inch paper is perfectly acceptable. Using thicker paper stock isn’t necessary. Make sure to securely affix the label to your package using clear packing tape, ensuring the entire label is covered and protected from the elements.

8. Do I need a special printer to print UPS labels?

No. A standard inkjet or laser printer will work just fine. The key is to ensure that the printed barcode is clear and scannable.

9. What if the UPS Store’s printer is down?

This is a possibility! Technology can be unpredictable. Have a backup plan, such as identifying another UPS Store location, a third-party shipping center, or a print shop nearby.

10. How can I avoid having to print a label altogether?

Look into UPS Returns® On-Call Pickup service. With this service, a UPS driver will bring a shipping label to your location when they pick up your package. You will need to enroll in the UPS Returns® On-Call Pickup.

11. Can I reprint a UPS label if I accidentally printed the wrong size?

Yes, you can reprint a UPS label if it’s the wrong size. The key is to ensure that the barcode is scannable. If the barcode is distorted or unreadable due to the wrong size, reprint it with the correct dimensions.

12. What if the label printed at the UPS Store is blurry or unreadable?

If the label printed at the UPS Store is blurry or unreadable, immediately bring it to the attention of the store staff. They should be able to reprint it for you at no additional charge. If they are unable to resolve the issue, contact UPS customer service for assistance.

The Takeaway: Preparation is Key

While UPS can print your label under certain circumstances, it’s always best to come prepared. Having your label readily available in the correct format saves you time, money, and potential frustration. By understanding the various options and potential limitations, you can ensure a smooth and efficient shipping experience with UPS.