Shipping label size
Start with 4 x 6 when you want the format that causes the fewest surprises across carriers and thermal printers.
The standard parcel format across many thermal workflows.
Better for shelf or product labeling than full parcel labels.
A label can be the right size and still print wrong.
Quick check
Real-world starting point
4 x 6 is the safe default because carrier workflows, warehouse stations, and most thermal printers are built around it. Smaller labels can work, but they ask more from your printer setup and layout margins.
- If the carrier gives you a 4 x 6 PDF, use 4 x 6 stock instead of scaling it down unless you know the workflow well.
- Home-printer sheet labels save equipment cost, but margin drift is where most people lose the first test print.
- Keep the barcode on a flat area of the parcel and away from tape seams whenever possible.
Common shipping and mailing labels (in / mm)
| Size name | Common name | Item size | Shape | Best use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 x 6 | Thermal shipping label | 4 x 6 in (102 x 152 mm) | Rectangle label | parcel labels and carrier PDFs |
| 4 x 2 | Thermal product label | 4 x 2 in (102 x 51 mm) | Rectangle label | shelf labels, barcode strips, tote labels |
| 2.625 x 1 | Address label | 2.625 x 1 in (67 x 25 mm) | Rectangle label | return addresses and short mailing lines |
| 2.25 x 1.25 | Barcode / FNSKU label | 2.25 x 1.25 in (57 x 32 mm) | Rectangle label | product ID and compact barcode work |
Carrier PDFs, thermal roll width, and package surface all matter. The "right" label is the one that prints cleanly and scans cleanly on the real parcel.
Common questions
What is the standard shipping label size?
4 x 6 is the standard starting point for parcel labels. It is the format most carrier and thermal-printer workflows handle most smoothly.
Can I print a shipping label on Letter paper?
Yes, but that is where alignment trouble often starts. Print one test first and make sure the barcode stays sharp and inside the safe area.
Should I scale a carrier label to fit smaller stock?
Only if you know the carrier accepts it and the barcode still scans well. Scaling a label down is a common way to create a clean-looking but unreliable print.