Using the right labels in e-commerce helps streamline order preparation, product tracking, inventory management, and shipping operations. With shipping labels, barcode labels, and product labels, businesses can improve workflow efficiency and help ensure packages reach the correct customers.
Label Solutions for E-Commerce Companies: Shipping, Barcode and Product Labels
As order volumes increase in e-commerce, tracking products accurately from the warehouse to the customer becomes increasingly important. Label solutions play a major role in keeping operations organized during inventory management, order picking, packing, sorting, and shipping.
In particular, shipping labels, barcode labels, product labels, and thermal labels are among the most commonly used label types in daily e-commerce operations.
From small online stores to large fulfillment centers preparing thousands of orders, there are different label solutions for almost every business need.
Choosing the correct label material and size can help shorten order preparation time, make products easier to track, and improve the organization of shipping processes.
Why Do E-Commerce Companies Use Labels?
Before an e-commerce order reaches the customer, it passes through several stages.
The product is picked from the warehouse, the order is checked, packed, shipping details are generated, and the package is handed over to the carrier.
Labels are used at many points throughout this process.
E-commerce companies may use labels to:
- Identify products,
- Track inventory with barcodes,
- Separate orders,
- Apply shipping information to packages,
- Display product codes,
- Organize shelves and warehouse locations,
- Show prices and product information,
- Add promotional or branding messages,
- Simplify return processes.
For this reason, labels are not merely stickers applied to products; they are an important part of e-commerce operations.
What Is a Shipping Label?
A shipping label is a label attached to a package that helps identify and process the shipment throughout delivery.
Shipping labels may include:
- Recipient name,
- Delivery address,
- Sender information,
- Order or shipment number,
- Barcode,
- QR code,
- Carrier tracking information.
Clear and readable barcode printing is especially important for the automated sorting and tracking systems used by shipping companies.
For this reason, shipping label print quality should be sharp and easy to scan.
Using Thermal Shipping Labels in E-Commerce
One of the most common solutions for printing shipping labels in e-commerce is the thermal label.
Thermal printers are widely used by businesses with high order volumes because they can print quickly and may reduce the need for toner or ink cartridges.
Especially in warehouses processing hundreds or thousands of packages each day, thermal shipping labels can significantly simplify operations.
There are two main types of thermal labels:
Eco Thermal Labels
Eco thermal labels are printed directly onto heat-sensitive material using a direct thermal printer.
No ribbon is required.
They are commonly used for:
- Shipping,
- Logistics,
- Order preparation,
- Short-term product tracking.
Laminated Thermal Labels
Laminated thermal labels may offer improved resistance to environmental conditions compared with standard eco thermal labels due to their protective surface.
They may be preferred when the printed information needs to remain readable for a longer period.
Most Common Shipping Label Sizes in E-Commerce
Shipping label size may vary depending on the printer, shipping platform, and amount of information that needs to appear on the package.
One of the most widely used sizes in e-commerce is:
100 mm x 150 mm shipping label
100x150 mm thermal labels provide enough space for sender and recipient information, barcodes, and shipping data on a single label.
Other sizes may also be used, including:
- 100x100 mm,
- 80x50 mm,
- 80x80 mm,
- 60x40 mm,
- 50x30 mm.
The correct size should be selected according to the thermal printer's maximum print width and software settings.
What Is a Barcode Label?
A barcode label allows product or package information to be read quickly using barcode scanners.
Barcode systems can provide significant advantages in e-commerce warehouses containing large numbers of products.
When a barcode is scanned, the system may display information such as:
- Product code,
- Product name,
- Inventory quantity,
- Shelf location,
- Order information,
- Price,
- Variant details.
This reduces the need to identify and check products manually.
Where Are Barcode Labels Used in E-Commerce?
Barcode labels can be used at different stages of e-commerce operations.
Common applications include:
On Products
Assigning each product its own barcode or stock code can help keep warehouse operations more organized.
On Shelves and Warehouse Locations
Barcode labels can be applied to shelves and warehouse zones to help track product locations through warehouse management systems.
During Order Picking
Barcodes can be scanned to confirm that picked products belong to the correct customer order.
During Packing
Product and order barcodes can be matched to help reduce the risk of shipping the wrong product to the wrong customer.
During Returns
A barcode on a returned product can help identify it quickly and return it to inventory efficiently.
What Is a Product Label?
A product label displays information related to the product and brand.
In e-commerce, product labels may serve both operational and branding purposes.
They can include:
- Brand logo,
- Product name,
- Barcode,
- SKU code,
- Variant,
- Size,
- Color,
- Price,
- Product description,
- Usage information,
- QR code.
For this reason, product labels can both inform the customer and support inventory and warehouse management.
What Is an SKU Label?
SKU stands for Stock Keeping Unit, a unique code used by businesses to manage inventory.
Different versions of the same product, such as color, size, or model, may have different SKU numbers.
For example, a T-shirt may have separate SKU codes for:
- Black / M,
- Black / L,
- White / M,
- White / L.
Applying these codes as SKU labels to products or packaging can help warehouse teams locate and identify the correct item more quickly.
How Are QR Code Labels Used in E-Commerce?
QR codes are another increasingly popular labeling option for e-commerce businesses.
When a QR code label is scanned, users may be directed to:
- Product pages,
- User manuals,
- Warranty pages,
- Promotional pages,
- Social media accounts,
- Product authentication systems,
- Customer support pages.
This helps connect physical products with digital content.
Using Brand Labels on E-Commerce Packages
Labels used in e-commerce packaging do not have to serve logistics purposes only.
Custom printed labels with branding or special messages can make packages look more professional.
For example, labels may include:
- "Thank You"
- "Your Order Was Carefully Prepared"
- "Follow Us on Social Media"
- Brand logos
- Promotional messages
These custom printed labels can support brand communication at the moment the customer receives the package.
Box Sealing and Packaging Labels
Another useful option for e-commerce businesses is the box sealing label.
These labels can be placed across the opening of a shipping box or package.
Depending on the brand design, they may include:
- Logos,
- Security messages,
- Thank-you messages,
- Promotional information.
For boutique e-commerce brands in particular, custom packaging labels can become an important part of the overall customer experience.
Shipping Warning Labels for Fragile Products
Businesses shipping glassware, electronics, ceramics, or other delicate items may use various warning labels on packages.
Examples include:
- Fragile
- Caution: Glass
- This Side Up
- Keep Dry
- Handle with Care
These shipping warning labels help communicate important handling information about the contents of the package.
Using Coated Paper Labels in E-Commerce
Coated paper labels are an economical option for product information, barcode, price, branding, and packaging applications in e-commerce.
They may be suitable for products stored in dry and controlled environments.
Coated paper labels can be printed with:
- Barcodes,
- Product codes,
- Prices,
- Logos,
- Text,
- QR codes.
Variable information can also be printed using thermal transfer printers with suitable ribbon.
Where Are PP Labels Used in E-Commerce?
When products may be exposed to water or moisture, PP labels can be considered instead of paper-based labels.
PP labels are particularly suitable for:
- Cosmetics,
- Cleaning products,
- Bottles,
- Jars,
- Personal care products,
- Products used in humid or wet environments.
One of the main advantages of PP material is that it can provide better water and moisture resistance than paper labels.
How Are Transparent Labels Used for E-Commerce Products?
E-commerce businesses that do not want to cover their packaging design may use transparent labels.
Transparent labels can provide a modern appearance on:
- Cosmetic packaging,
- Glass jars,
- Bottles,
- Candles,
- Boutique food products,
- Premium packaging.
Because the background of the label is transparent, the original package design remains visible.
Shelf Labels in E-Commerce Warehouses
Warehouse organization is an important factor affecting order preparation speed.
In warehouses containing thousands of products, shelves should be clearly identified so that employees can locate the correct items efficiently.
Shelf labels may include:
- Shelf number,
- Section code,
- Barcode,
- QR code,
- Product group.
This helps create a more organized connection between the warehouse management system and the physical storage area.
Advantages of Using Labels in E-Commerce
Using the right labeling system can provide several operational benefits.
Makes Order Preparation Easier
Barcode-based product and shelf systems can help warehouse staff locate the correct products more quickly.
Helps Reduce Shipping Errors
Checking product and order barcodes can help reduce the risk of sending the wrong item to the wrong customer.
Simplifies Inventory Management
Barcode and SKU labels can make stock entries and exits easier to track systematically.
Organizes Shipping Operations
Shipping labels help identify packages correctly throughout carrier and delivery systems.
Improves Brand Visibility
Custom product and packaging labels help present the brand's logo and visual identity more consistently to customers.
What Should E-Commerce Companies Consider When Choosing Labels?
Label selection should not be based on price alone.
The application environment and technical requirements should also be considered.
Before ordering labels, businesses should determine:
- Printer model,
- Label dimensions,
- Label material,
- Roll or sheet format,
- Daily print volume,
- Application surface,
- Barcode size,
- Printing method,
- Adhesive requirements,
- Indoor or outdoor usage conditions.
These details make it easier to choose the correct label solution.
What Should You Consider When Printing Labels with a Thermal Printer?
E-commerce businesses should ensure that the thermal labels they purchase are compatible with their printer.
Important factors include:
- Maximum print width,
- Maximum roll diameter,
- Core diameter,
- Label sensing method,
- Printing technology.
If a direct thermal printer is used, suitable direct thermal labels should be selected.
Thermal transfer printers may require a ribbon that is compatible with the chosen label material.
Roll Labels or Sheet Labels?
For e-commerce businesses, the choice usually depends on print volume and the equipment being used.
Roll Labels
Roll labels are widely used with barcode and thermal printers.
They provide a fast and practical solution for high-volume printing.
Sheet Labels
Sheet labels may be suitable for businesses using laser or inkjet printers and printing smaller quantities.
They can be used for addresses, product information, and various office applications.
Which Labels Are Suitable for Small E-Commerce Businesses?
New or low-volume e-commerce businesses may have different needs compared with large fulfillment centers.
At the beginning, basic solutions such as:
- Shipping labels,
- Product barcode labels,
- SKU labels,
- Thank-you labels,
- Branded packaging labels
may be sufficient.
As order volume grows, businesses can consider automated labeling, larger label rolls, and more advanced warehouse barcode systems.
Label Use in High-Volume E-Commerce Operations
For businesses preparing hundreds or thousands of orders each day, labeling speed becomes extremely important.
These operations may benefit from:
- High-capacity thermal printers,
- Large label rolls,
- Barcode-based warehouse systems,
- Automatic labeling systems,
- Standardized label sizes.
In automated applications, details such as winding direction, core size, and spacing between labels can also be important.
Can Custom Labels Be Produced for E-Commerce Companies?
Yes. Custom labels can be produced according to both operational and branding requirements.
Custom printed labels may include:
- Company logo,
- Corporate colors,
- Barcodes,
- QR codes,
- Product information,
- Promotional messages,
- Social media information,
- Custom shapes and dimensions.
This allows businesses to create labeling solutions that support both operational efficiency and brand identity.
Why Is Print Quality Important for E-Commerce Labels?
Clear print quality is especially important for labels containing barcodes and QR codes.
Faded, incomplete, or low-contrast barcodes may be more difficult for scanners to read.
For this reason, barcode labels should have:
- Sharp printing,
- Appropriate barcode dimensions,
- Sufficient contrast,
- Suitable label material.
For product and branding labels, print quality also directly affects the professional appearance of the product.
E-Commerce Label Solutions with YAYEX Etiket
At YAYEX Etiket, we provide a variety of label printing solutions for e-commerce, warehousing, logistics, and retail operations.
Depending on your business requirements, available solutions may include:
- Shipping labels,
- Barcode labels,
- Eco thermal labels,
- Laminated thermal labels,
- Product labels,
- SKU labels,
- Shelf labels,
- Transparent labels,
- PP labels,
- Coated paper labels,
- Custom branded labels.
Label dimensions, roll quantities, materials, adhesives, and printing specifications can be selected according to the intended use.
Solutions can be developed for businesses ranging from small online stores to high-volume warehouse and fulfillment operations.
Conclusion
Label solutions for e-commerce companies are used throughout the entire process, from receiving products into the warehouse to delivering orders to customers.
Shipping labels help identify packages, barcode labels support product and inventory tracking, while product labels provide both customer information and branding opportunities.
By selecting labels according to order volume, printer type, product category, and warehouse setup, businesses can make their operations faster and more organized.
With the right shipping, barcode, and product label solutions, e-commerce businesses can improve operational efficiency while creating a more professional packaging experience.