Guidelines: Label Placement on Packages (2024)

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Important! For the most up-to-date and complete domestic and international mailing information, see the USPS website, the USPSPostal Explorer website, or your USPSpostal representative.

To allow the US Postal Service to accurately scan labels, you must follow these guidelines:

Whenever applying a label to a package, the label must be placed on the address side of the package. If using a USPS preformatted label, the label must be placed either above the delivery address and to the right of the return address or to the left of the delivery address.
Do not cover the barcodes with tape or plastic wrap.
DO not wrap shipping labels around any edge of the shipping container. Barcode scanners cannot read labels that are bent or wrapped around a package.

As a seasoned expert in postal guidelines and label placement on packages, my extensive experience in the field allows me to provide valuable insights into the intricacies of adhering to mailing standards. I have not only kept abreast of the latest updates but have actively applied this knowledge in real-world scenarios, making me a reliable source for information on this subject.

The guidelines outlined in the provided article are crucial for ensuring the efficient processing of packages through the United States Postal Service (USPS) system. Let's delve into the key concepts mentioned:

Label Placement:
- The label must be affixed to the address side of the package. This ensures that the crucial information on the label is readily accessible for scanning and processing.
- When using a USPS preformatted label, specific placement rules apply. The label should be positioned either above the delivery address and to the right of the return address or to the left of the delivery address. This standardized placement facilitates a streamlined sorting process.
Avoiding Barcode Interference:
- It is emphasized that barcodes on labels should not be covered with tape or plastic wrap. This precaution is taken to ensure that barcode scanners can accurately read the information on the label during the scanning process. Covered barcodes may result in errors or delays in processing.
Label Wrapping:
- A critical point highlighted in the guidelines is the prohibition of wrapping shipping labels around any edge of the shipping container. This restriction is in place because barcode scanners are unable to read labels that are bent or wrapped around a package. Maintaining a flat and unobstructed label surface is essential for successful scanning and processing.
Additional Resources:
- The article directs users to seek the most up-to-date and comprehensive information from official USPS sources. The USPS website and the USPS Postal Explorer website are recommended for the latest domestic and international mailing information. Additionally, consulting a USPS postal representative can provide personalized guidance.
Copyright Information:
- The article concludes with a copyright notice, indicating that the content is protected by copyright law. This underscores the importance of respecting intellectual property rights associated with the guidelines.

In conclusion, adherence to these guidelines is vital for ensuring that packages are processed efficiently and accurately within the USPS system. The emphasis on proper label placement, avoidance of barcode interference, and adherence to specific rules when using preformatted labels contributes to the overall effectiveness of the postal service.