How-to's · Shopify · 2 min read
Does Shopify Have Shipping Label Templates?
Short answer
Yes. In supported countries, Shopify Shipping generates carrier shipping labels in standard formats, typically 4 x 6 inch labels for thermal printers or letter or A4 sheets for desktop printers. The labels themselves follow carrier formats, but Shopify's packing slip template is editable under Settings > Shipping and delivery.
Shopify can create shipping labels directly from orders, which saves time compared with copying addresses into carrier websites. Here is how labels and templates work.
Shipping labels
With Shopify Shipping (in supported countries), you can buy and print labels from the order page:
- Open an unfulfilled order.
- Click Create shipping label.
- Confirm package dimensions and weight.
- Choose a carrier service.
- Buy and print.
Label formats
| Format | Printer |
|---|---|
| 4 x 6 inch | Thermal label printers |
| Letter (8.5 x 11) or A4 | Desktop inkjet/laser printers |
Set your preferred format in the shipping label settings.
Packing slips
Packing slips list the items in a package. Shopify includes a packing slip template you can edit under Settings > Shipping and delivery > Packing slip template. You can change layout, add your logo, add notes or a thank-you message using Liquid and HTML.
Branded labels and slips
Apps add branded packing slips, invoices, return labels and inserts. Some shipping apps support custom label branding where carriers allow.
Tips
- Save package presets for common box sizes.
- Weigh accurately to avoid carrier adjustments.
- Bulk print labels for multiple orders.
- Test print before busy periods.
Editing the packing slip template
The packing slip template uses HTML and Shopify's Liquid template language. Common edits that do not need a developer:
- Add your logo: replace the shop name block with an image tag pointing to your logo file in Shopify Files.
- Add a thank-you message: a short paragraph at the bottom, such as "Thanks for supporting a small business. Questions? Reply to your order email."
- Show order notes or gift messages: Liquid variables can print the note a customer left at checkout.
- Include return instructions: a link or short code for your returns portal.
Always use the preview in the template editor and print a test before saving changes. Keep a copy of the original template so you can restore it if something breaks.
Choosing a label printer
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| 4 x 6 thermal printer | Fast, no ink, durable labels | Upfront cost, needs label rolls |
| Desktop inkjet or laser | Uses a printer you already own | Ink or toner costs, cutting and taping |
| Shared or office printer | No setup | Slow for daily volume |
Most stores that ship more than a handful of orders a day move to a thermal printer quickly because it saves time on every parcel. Check Shopify's list of supported printers and the correct driver settings for label size.
Troubleshooting common label problems
- Label prints too small or cut off: the printer paper size does not match the label format in Shopify settings.
- Blurry barcodes: low print quality or a worn thermal print head; carriers may reject unreadable labels.
- Wrong rates: package weight or dimensions are missing or inaccurate.
- Option to buy labels missing: the store or shipping origin is outside Shopify Shipping's supported countries, or the order does not require shipping.
Outside Shopify Shipping
If Shopify Shipping is not available in your country or you need more carriers, apps like ShipStation and others integrate with Shopify. See Shopify shipping apps and what does a fulfillment center do.
Frequently asked questions
Can I customise Shopify shipping labels?
Carrier labels must follow carrier formats, so customisation is limited. You can edit the packing slip template and use apps for branded packing slips or labels.
What printer is best for Shopify labels?
A 4 x 6 thermal label printer is fast and avoids ink costs. Check Shopify's list of supported printers.
Is Shopify Shipping available everywhere?
No. Shopify Shipping label purchasing is available in a set of supported countries. Elsewhere, use carrier accounts or shipping apps.
Sources and further reading
Platform features, prices and policies change. Check the official help pages linked above before you act on a detail that matters to your store.