Bulk Shipping Labels That Won’t Let You Down
For most home offices and small businesses, the Amazon Basics 2-Up Shipping Labels offer the best balance of affordability and reliable performance. They are compatible with both laser and inkjet printers, feature strong permanent adhesive, and come in a generous pack of 500 labels. The main limitation is that they are not waterproof, so they require a clear pouch for wet conditions.
Printing shipping labels in bulk saves time and money, but choosing the wrong labels can lead to smudges, peeling, and wasted shipments. We compared top-selling bulk packs to find the ones that deliver crisp prints and strong adhesion every time.
Whether you use a laser or inkjet printer, need waterproof labels, or require labels for thermal printers, this roundup covers the best options. We focused on real user feedback and product specifications to highlight strengths and weaknesses.
Before you buy
The best picks, ranked
Amazon Basics 2-Up Shipping Labels, 8.5 x 11 Inches, 500 Count
These labels are a staple for many small businesses. They are compatible with both laser and inkjet printers, produce sharp, smudge-free prints, and have a strong permanent adhesive that sticks well to cardboard. Users report that they peel off cleanly without tearing. The 500-count pack offers excellent value for high-volume shippers.
Pros
- Crisp print quality
- Strong adhesion
- Great value for the quantity
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Labels may curl if exposed to moisture
Avery UltraDuty Grip Shipping Labels, 8.5 x 11, 200 Count
Avery’s UltraDuty labels are designed for challenging conditions. They feature a heavy-duty adhesive that grips firmly onto rough cardboard, plastic, and even curved surfaces. The labels are water-resistant and tear-resistant, making them ideal for packages that may face rain or rough handling. They work with laser and inkjet printers, and the print stays sharp and clear.
Pros
- Extremely strong adhesive
- Water-resistant and tear-resistant
- Works on multiple surface types
Cons
- More expensive per label
- Only 200 labels per pack
Honey Can Do Shipping Labels for Laser and Inkjet Printers, 8.5 x 11, 300 Count
Honey Can Do offers a cost-effective solution without sacrificing quality. These labels are compatible with both laser and inkjet printers, and they produce decent print quality. The adhesive is strong enough for standard shipping boxes. Users note that the labels are slightly thinner than premium brands, but they work well for everyday use. The 300-count pack is a good middle ground.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Works with both printer types
- Sufficient for regular use
Cons
- Thinner material
- May jam in some printers if not stored properly
Rollo Direct Thermal Shipping Labels, 4 x 6, 500 Count
For those using a thermal label printer, Rollo’s direct thermal labels are a top pick. They are engineered to work seamlessly with Rollo printers and other 4×6 thermal printers. The labels are smudge-proof and water-resistant, ensuring that the barcode remains scannable throughout transit. The permanent adhesive holds securely, and the 500-count roll is a standard size.
Pros
- Smudge-proof and water-resistant
- Clear barcode printing
- Reliable for high-volume shipping
Cons
- Requires a thermal printer
- Not compatible with standard printers
Avery Easy Peel Address Labels, 1 x 2-5/8, 3000 Count
While not a traditional shipping label size, Avery’s Easy Peel address labels are perfect for return addresses and small parcel markings. They come in a massive pack of 3000 labels, making them ideal for businesses that send many packages. The Easy Peel design allows for quick removal, and the labels work with laser and inkjet printers. They are not meant for large barcodes, but they handle standard address information flawlessly.
Pros
- Huge quantity
- Easy peel and apply
- Versatile for various uses
Cons
- Too small for main shipping labels
- May not fit all printers without adjustment
A-SUB 4×6 Shipping Labels, Thermal Direct 250 Count
A-SUB offers an economical thermal label option that is compatible with most 4×6 thermal printers. Users report that the labels feed well and produce clear, dark prints. The adhesive is strong, and the labels are water-resistant. While they are not as thick as some premium brands, they perform adequately for standard shipping needs. The 250-count pack is a good starter size.
Pros
- Low cost per label
- Compatible with most thermal printers
- Clear print quality
Cons
- Thinner material
- Some users report occasional curling
X-Change Paper Multilayer Thermal Labels, 4 x 6, 480 Count
X-Change Paper offers a unique two-layer label system. The top layer is the shipping label, and the bottom layer is a return label. This is perfect for e-commerce sellers who want to include a hassle-free return process. The labels are thermal, smudge-proof, and water-resistant. They are slightly more expensive, but the convenience may be worth it for businesses with frequent returns.
Pros
- Includes return label layer
- Saves time on returns
- High quality thermal printing
Cons
- Higher cost
- Not all thermal printers support the thickness
Compared at a glance
| # | Model | Label Size | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Amazon Basics 2-Up Shipping Labels, 8.5 x 11 Inches, 500 Count | 8.5 x 11 inches | Best overall for general use | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Avery UltraDuty Grip Shipping Labels, 8.5 x 11, 200 Count | 8.5 x 11 inches | Best for rough and curved surfaces | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Honey Can Do Shipping Labels for Laser and Inkjet Printers, 8.5 x 11, 300 Count | 8.5 x 11 inches | Best budget-friendly option | 8.8 | Check price |
| 4 | Rollo Direct Thermal Shipping Labels, 4 x 6, 500 Count | 4 x 6 inches | Best for thermal printers | 9.0 | Check price |
| 5 | Avery Easy Peel Address Labels, 1 x 2-5/8, 3000 Count | 1 x 2-5/8 inches | Best for small address labels | 8.5 | Check price |
| 6 | A-SUB 4×6 Shipping Labels, Thermal Direct 250 Count | 4 x 6 inches | Best for budget thermal labels | 8.3 | Check price |
| 7 | X-Change Paper Multilayer Thermal Labels, 4 x 6, 480 Count | 4 x 6 inches | Best for layered labels (for returns) | 8.0 | Check price |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these labels in a regular printer?
Yes, many shipping labels are designed for laser or inkjet printers. Look for the printer compatibility specification. Thermal labels require a thermal printer, not a regular one.
What size shipping label do I need for USPS?
USPS accepts labels up to 4×6 inches for most services. The most common size is 4×6, but you can also use 8.5×11 sheets with two labels per page if you cut them or use the perforated design.
Are waterproof shipping labels necessary?
If you often ship in rainy conditions or use ice packs, waterproof labels are recommended. Standard paper labels can smudge or peel when wet. Polypropylene labels offer better water resistance.
How do I prevent labels from peeling off during transit?
Ensure the surface is clean and dry. Use labels with strong permanent adhesive. For rough or corrugated surfaces, choose labels with extra-strong adhesive, like Avery UltraDuty. Also, avoid placing labels over seams or edges.
Can I print on both sides of a shipping label?
No, shipping labels are single-sided. The back is coated with adhesive. Some innovative labels, like X-Change Paper, have a two-layer design for return labels, but you don’t print on the adhesive side.
What is the difference between direct thermal and thermal transfer labels?
Direct thermal labels are coated with a chemical that darkens when heated, so they don’t need ribbon. Thermal transfer labels require a ribbon and are more durable. Most shipping labels are direct thermal.
Are these labels compatible with all thermal printers?
Most 4×6 thermal labels are compatible with any thermal printer that uses roll labels. However, some printers have specific requirements for label thickness and core size. Check your printer’s specifications.
Can I use these labels for international shipping?
Yes, as long as the label size and print quality meet the carrier’s requirements. For international shipments, use water-resistant labels to protect against moisture during long transit.
How should I store bulk shipping labels?
Store labels in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Humidity can cause labels to curl or lose adhesion. Keep them in their original packaging until ready to use.
What if my printer jams when using labels?
Make sure the labels are loaded correctly and the printer’s paper type is set to ‘labels’ or ‘heavy weight’. If jams persist, check if the label sheets are curled. Flatten them before loading. Also, ensure the labels are not sticking to the sheet due to adhesive residue.
Our pick
For most users, the Amazon Basics 2-Up Shipping Labels provide the best combination of quality and value. However, if you ship packages that face harsh conditions, invest in Avery UltraDuty for superior durability. For thermal printer users, Rollo labels are the most reliable choice. Avoid the X-Change Paper unless you specifically need the two-layer return feature, as it is pricier and less universally compatible.
