How to Add Custom Notes to ShipStation Labels

Shipping is more than just moving a product from Point A to Point B—it’s about creating a seamless experience for customers, carriers, and your team. ShipStation’s Label Messages feature is a powerful tool to communicate essential details directly on your shipping labels. Whether you’re adding a personal touch or providing critical handling instructions, this feature can boost efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Let’s explore why custom label notes are valuable, how to use ShipStation’s feature, and real-world examples to inspire you.

Custom notes on shipping labels can make a significant difference in multiple areas:

1. Improve Customer Experience
   • Add a personal message like:
     • “Happy Holidays!”
     • “Thanks for supporting our small business!”
   • These small touches leave a lasting impression and can even encourage repeat purchases.

1. Enhance Carrier Communication
   • Include specific instructions such as:
     • “Fragile: Handle With Care”
     • “Perishable: Keep Refrigerated”
   • These messages ensure that packages are handled appropriately, reducing the risk of damage.

1. Streamline Internal Operations
   • Add internal codes or notes for better tracking:
     • “Warehouse Zone A” or “Order #98765”
   • These notes make it easier for your warehouse team to organize and fulfill orders efficiently.

ShipStation makes it easy to include custom notes directly on your shipping labels. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Log Into Your Account
   • Open ShipStation and click the gear icon in the top-right corner to access settings.

1. Navigate to Shipping Settings
   • Go to Shipping > Shipments > Shipment Defaults or choose a specific carrier profile if you want different messages for different carriers.

1. Locate the Label Messages Section
   • Scroll down to find the Label Messages section.

1. Add Your Custom Messages
   • You’ll see three fields: Message 1, Message 2, and Message 3. These correspond to specific areas on your shipping label, depending on the carrier.
   • Examples of messages:
     • Message 1: “Rush Delivery!”
     • Message 2: “Order #12345”
     • Message 3: “Thank you for your order!”

1. Save Settings
   • Once you’ve added your messages, click Save to apply them to future shipments.

Not sure what to include? Here are some practical scenarios:

• For Customer Delight:
  • “Handcrafted Just for You!”
  • “We Appreciate Your Business—Enjoy!”
• For Special Handling:
  • “Fragile—Glassware Inside.”
  • “Do Not Stack—Top Load Only.”
• For Internal Use:
  • “Fulfilled by John on 12/03/2024.”
  • “Priority Customer Order.”

• Test Placement: The location of your message on the label can vary by carrier. Test your notes with a few sample shipments to ensure they’re visible.
• Be Concise: Carriers may not see lengthy notes, so keep instructions clear and to the point.
• Brand Consistency: Use this opportunity to reinforce your brand with friendly or on-brand messaging.

With ShipStation’s Label Messages feature, you can optimize your shipping process, delight customers, and reduce errors—all with a few simple tweaks. Whether you’re adding a personal thank-you or ensuring careful handling, these small changes can lead to big results.

Ready to enhance your shipping efficiency? Log into your ShipStation account and start adding custom notes to your labels today!