Courier booking systems generate labels in specific sizes, and printing on the wrong size leads to cut-off barcodes and scanning errors. Choosing a standard label size and printer keeps dispatch smooth. This guide covers common shipping label sizes, with our free Label Size Calculator to check fits.
Common shipping label sizes
| Size | Millimetres | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 4 × 6 in | 101.6 × 152.4 mm | Global standard for courier labels |
| 100 × 150 mm | 100 × 150 mm | Metric equivalent of 4 × 6 |
| A6 | 105 × 148 mm | Common in Europe; similar to 4 × 6 |
| 4 × 4 in | 101.6 × 101.6 mm | Smaller parcels, some couriers |
| A4 with 2 labels | 2 × 210 × 148.5 mm | Inkjet or laser printers |
Thermal vs inkjet/laser
| Feature | Direct thermal | Inkjet/laser on sheets |
|---|---|---|
| Ink needed | No | Yes |
| Speed | Fast | Slower |
| Label durability | Fades with heat and sunlight over time | Longer-lasting |
| Best for | High-volume dispatch | Low volume |
Most e-commerce sellers switch to a 4 × 6 thermal printer as orders grow.
Choosing a size
- Check your courier’s label format first.
- Use 4 × 6 labels for most parcels.
- For small envelopes, a smaller label may fit better if the courier allows.
Placement
Place the label on the largest flat surface, away from seams and edges. Do not cover it with tape across the barcode, which can cause glare.
Barcode quality
Print at the correct scale (100%); scaling can make barcodes unreadable. Read barcode types.
Calculating labels per sheet
For sheet labels, divide the printable area by label size, allowing margins and gaps. The calculator does this automatically.
For product labels, read product label size for bottles and jars. For rolls, see the Label Roll Calculator.
Keep spare stock
Running out of labels stops dispatch completely. Keep at least one week of extra labels on hand.
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard shipping label size?
4 × 6 inches (about 100 × 150 mm).
Is A6 the same as 4 × 6?
Very close: A6 is 105 × 148 mm.
Do thermal labels fade?
Direct thermal labels can fade with heat and sunlight over time.