How to Create and Print Shipping Labels in PayPal: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 21/02/2025

Selling goods online requires efficient shipping, and a crucial part of that process is creating and printing accurate shipping labels. PayPal, beyond its established role in online payments, offers a convenient integrated solution for streamlining this aspect of e-commerce. This feature saves you the hassle of navigating separate shipping platforms and ensures your labels are correctly formatted for your chosen carrier, ultimately improving your shipping efficiency and customer experience. No more juggling multiple websites or dealing with complicated label generation software!

This comprehensive guide provides a clear and concise step-by-step process to effortlessly create and print professional shipping labels directly through your PayPal account. Let's dive into the simple steps that will transform your shipping workflow, saving you time and money while enhancing your business's overall professionalism. Follow along as we walk you through each stage, from selecting your shipment details to successfully printing your label ready for dispatch.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Safety Guidelines
  • Always double-check the recipient's address before printing the label. Incorrect addresses can lead to delays or lost packages.
  • Ensure your printer is properly set up and has enough ink or toner before printing. Faulty labels may not be scanned correctly by shipping carriers.
  • Keep a copy of your shipping label for your records. This is crucial for tracking purposes and resolving potential issues with your shipment.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Access PayPal Shipping

    • Open your web browser and go to www.paypal.com/shipnow
    • Log in to your PayPal account.
    Log in to your PayPal account.Log in to your PayPal account.
    Access PayPal Shipping

  2. Enter Recipient's Address

    • Enter the shipping address (recipient's address).
    • Click 'Ship to this address'.
    Click 'Ship to this address'.Click 'Ship to this address'.
    Enter Recipient's Address

  3. Verify Addresses

    • Verify your shipping and return addresses.
    Verify your shipping and return addresses.
    Verify Addresses

  4. Select Shipping Options

    • Select the carrier (e.g., USPS, UPS).
    • Choose the service type (e.g., Priority Mail).
    • Select the package size and accurately weigh your package.
    • tracking, signature confirmation, display postage cost on label, insurance.
    Choose options: tracking, signature confirmation, display postage cost on label, insurance.Choose options: tracking, signature confirmation, display postage cost on label, insurance.Choose options: tracking, signature confirmation, display postage cost on label, insurance.Choose options: tracking, signature confirmation, display postage cost on label, insurance.
    Select Shipping Options
    • Select the mailing date.
    Select the mailing date.
    Select Shipping Options

  5. Calculate and Pay for Shipping

    • Click 'Calculate Shipping Cost'.
    • Click 'Confirm and Pay Now'.
    Click 'Confirm and Pay Now'.Click 'Confirm and Pay Now'.
    Calculate and Pay for Shipping

  6. Print Shipping Label

    • Print the shipping label. Ensure the barcode is not covered.
    Print the shipping label. Ensure the barcode is not covered.
    Print Shipping Label

Read more: Creating FedEx Shipping Labels: A Step-by-Step Guide Using FedEx Ship Manager

Tips

  • Accurately weigh your package to avoid incorrect label purchases and returns.
  • Consider adding insurance for valuable items.
  • Use the 'Void' option to cancel a label if needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Address Information

Reason: Typos or inaccurate address details are the leading cause of shipping label failures and delivery delays. Even a small error can prevent the package from reaching its destination.
Solution: Double-check all address fields – including street number, apartment number, zip code, and recipient's name – carefully before printing the label.

2. Choosing the Wrong Shipping Service

Reason: Selecting an inappropriate shipping service for your package's size, weight, or delivery timeframe can result in extra costs or delayed delivery. Using the wrong service can even cause your label to be rejected.
Solution: Carefully review the package dimensions and weight, and compare them to the options provided by PayPal to choose the most suitable and cost-effective shipping service.

FAQs

What if I don't see the 'Print Shipping Label' option in my PayPal transaction details?
The 'Print Shipping Label' option is only available for eligible transactions where the buyer has paid through PayPal's Goods and Services payment option, and the seller has selected a supported shipping carrier during the checkout process. If it's not visible, check that these conditions are met. If the issue persists, contact PayPal support.