Online shopping has become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to the convenience and ease it offers consumers. No longer do shoppers have to battle crowds at the mall or search for parking spots. Instead, all they need to do is to log on to their favourite e-commerce website from the comfort of their own homes and have the items shipped to where they are.
For businesses in Malaysia, selling overseas can be a lucrative venture. With potential customers around the globe, it is a great option for brands who want to expand their customer base and reach new markets. However, there are a few things export businesses should take note – one of them is ensuring that shipping labels are created properly.
What are shipping labels?
Shipping labels are an essential part of the shipping process. They provide important information about the shipment, such as the destination, sender, and its contents. A shipping label is vital to any cross-border e-commerce business – without it, packages can be delayed, misinterpreted in transit, or never arrive at all. This can result in financial loss and impact the reputation of the business.
Creating shipping labels can be somewhat daunting, but it does not have to be. With this guide, you can create professional labels in no time.
How to read a shipping label
Shipping labels are usually presented in a templated manner to be affixed on a parcel before it is mailed out. A shipping label typically contains the following information:
- The name and address of the sender
- The name and address of the recipient
- A list of the items being shipped
- The date that the shipment is being sent
- The method of shipment (e.g., ground, air, etc.)
- Any special instructions for the shipment
Once your shipping label has been created and the postage is paid for, you can then proceed to ship it out. Here is a shipping label template you can refer to:
[example of shipping label by DHL Express]
Ways to create a shipping label
Here are a few ways to create a shipping label for your shipment.
1. Print a shipping label using a generator software
There are many different shipping label generators available online, and they all work in basically the same way. Simply enter information about your package, such as the weight and dimensions, and then print out the label.
Some of the more popular shipping label generator software include Zoho and Sendcloud. All of these services will allow you to print out a professional-looking shipping label that you can affix to your package.
2. Download a blank or pre-filled shipping label
A blank shipping label printed on a thermal sticker may be an ideal option for businesses dealing with a high volume of shipments. With a blank template, you can easily create labels for all sorts of shipments, including packages, envelopes, and even pallets. Alternatively, you can also use a free online service to create your shipping label.
3. Let your carrier handle your shipping label
Most logistics service providers will also be able to generate a shipping label for you, making it incredibly convenient for you. All you need is a computer with an internet connection and a printer, and access to your shipping provider’s online portal.
From same-day delivery to Singapore or even express delivery of medical products to another country, there are many shipping options you can choose from, in addition to creating the shipping label. No matter what services you opt for, most logistics service providers can provide you with advice on the preparation and processing of export documents. This includes ensuring that all paperwork is correctly filled out, that products meet any relevant standards, and that the necessary export documents are in place to allow for the shipment of goods overseas.
Start shipping all around the world
Whether you are shipping to or from Malaysia, having a well-prepared shipping label is extremely important. Therefore, start your shipment process by filling up a blank mailing or postage label or engaging the help of a reliable logistics provider.
In today’s global marketplace, businesses need to be able to compete with brands from all over the world. By providing a seamless delivery experience for your customers, you will be able to value-add to the consumer journey and level out the playing field for your e-commerce business.
