Create shipment / Print and Packaging Formats
Guide Print Format
Each shipping carrier lets you choose the format in which your shipping label is generated. Setting this up correctly prevents problems when printing, such as labels that are cut off, misaligned, or have unreadable barcodes.
ℹ️ This section is only accessible to users with this role Admin or higher.
Change the print format
- In the left-hand side menu, go to Create shipment > Print options and Carriers
- Find the package whose format you want to change.
- Click the dropdown menu Print Type.
- Select the format that corresponds to your printer.
The change is saved automatically and applies to all your future shipments with that carrier.
ℹ️ Available formats vary by shipping carrier and country. The dropdown menu will only show options that are compatible with the carrier you're setting up.
Choose the format based on your printer
The names of the formats follow this structure: PAPER TYPE MEASUREMENT (for example: PDF STOCK_4X6). Understanding each part helps you make the right choice:
File type
| Type | Description | Use it when |
|---|---|---|
| Standard PDF document | It's the most widely compatible format. It works on any printer. | |
| PNG | Image in PNG format | When you need the guide as an image. Available in specific carriers and countries. |
| ZPL / ZPLII | Native language of Zebra printers | You have a Zebra thermal printer and want the highest print quality. |
Paper Type
| Term | It means |
|---|---|
| IN STOCK | Self-adhesive labels on a roll (thermal printers) |
| PAPER | Single sheet or half-letter size (conventional inkjet or laser printers) |
Measure
Specify the label size in inches (width × height). The most common sizes are 4×6, 4×8, and 7×4.75, although some carriers offer specific sizes such as 2.9×5, 3.9×7, or 8.5×11.
Recommendations
- If you have thermal printer (Zebra, Dymo, Bixolon, etc.), choose a format IN STOCK and ZPL/ZPLII.
- If you print on standard paper (injection or laser), choose a format PAPER.
- Set the format before generating your first guides so you don't have to reprint them.
- If the shipping label isn't readable by the shipping carrier's scanner, try another format available for that carrier.
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