4x6 Shipping Labels for Direct and Thermal Transfer Printing
Choosing the right 4×6 shipping labels matters more than most businesses realize. These labels carry your tracking data, scan codes, and delivery instructions from the moment a package leaves your hands until it reaches your customer. This collection brings together our two most dependable options — Direct Thermal 4×6 labels and Thermal Transfer 4×6 labels, so you can quickly select the material that fits your workflow, equipment, and shipping volume.
Our 4×6 label stock is designed for consistent print quality, fast scanning, and trouble-free performance on all major thermal label printers. Whether you print a few labels a day or thousands per week, the right material makes shipping smoother, reduces mis-scans, and prevents peel-offs in transit.
Which 4×6 Label Should You Choose?
• Direct Thermal (No Ribbon Needed) – Ideal for fast, everyday shipping. These labels are perfect for UPS, USPS, FedEx, and e-commerce platforms because they print quickly, require minimal maintenance, and deliver sharp barcodes. Great for indoor use and same-day or short-term logistics.
• Thermal Transfer (Paper + Ribbon Required) – Best for long-lasting, durable prints. Choose these when you need labels that resist heat, abrasion, or longer storage times. They pair with wax or wax/resin ribbons for crisper, more resilient barcodes.
Print Compatibility
All labels in this collection work seamlessly with leading thermal printers. If you need a printer with reliable 4×6 performance, explore:
• GoDEX G500 and G530 for everyday shipping
• GoDEX RT730i+ (300 DPI) for crisp barcodes and small text
• GoDEX HD8 Series for wide-format industrial workflows
• GoDEX DT4x & DT2x for direct thermal shipping convenience
Why Our Labels Stand Out
• Smooth, bright surfaces for accurate scanning
• Strong adhesives that stay in place during shipping
• Clean perforations where needed for easy tear-off
• Consistent print contrast across long print runs
• Backed by expert support and guidance if you’re unsure what to choose
If you’re running a warehouse, fulfillment center, retail operation, or e-commerce business, these labels help you streamline shipping without printer jams, fading text, or smudged barcodes. Every roll is made for dependable throughput and clean print alignment so your team can ship faster with fewer interruptions.
Common Uses
• Standard 4×6 carrier labels (UPS, USPS, FedEx, DHL)
• E-commerce order fulfillment
• Inventory and storage labeling
• Pallet and carton labeling
• Returns processing and warehouse routing
Need help choosing between direct thermal and thermal transfer? Tell us how you ship and where your packages travel, and our team can match you with the best 4×6 label for your workflow. Contact McAuley Team
FAQ
Do all carriers use 4×6 shipping labels?
Most major carriers, including USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL, support 4×6 labels because they fit standard thermal printers and scan reliably. Some services may accept smaller formats, but 4×6 remains the universal standard for shipping packages.
Does my shipping label have to be 4×6?
No. Some carriers accept other sizes, but 4×6 is the most common and recommended format. It provides the best scan accuracy and works with all thermal shipping printers.
Can I print 4×6 shipping labels on a regular printer?
You can print them on a regular inkjet or laser printer using full-sheet paper, then cut and tape them to the box. For the cleanest results and fastest workflow, most businesses prefer a thermal printer that prints 4×6 labels directly.
Do I need a special printer to print 4×6 labels?
A dedicated thermal label printer gives the best results, especially for barcode clarity and carrier compliance. Models like GoDEX DT4xW, RT200, and G500 print 4×6 labels at high speed with crisp, accurate scanning.
Can USPS print a label for me?
Yes. USPS can print labels at the counter if you purchase postage in person. If you buy labels online, you’ll need to print them yourself or use a local shipping store.
Can I create my own shipping label at home?
Yes. You can generate labels through USPS, UPS, FedEx, Shopify, Etsy, Amazon, or other platforms. Then print them on 4×6 thermal labels or standard paper.
Can I use regular paper as a shipping label?
Yes, but it requires cutting, taping, and securing all edges so the barcode doesn’t wrinkle. Thermal labels are recommended for better durability and scanning.
Where can I get 4×6 shipping labels?
You can purchase 4×6 thermal labels directly from McAuley Labels. Choose between direct thermal (no ribbon needed) or thermal transfer (stronger, long-term durability).
Are shipping labels free at UPS or USPS?
Some carriers provide free supplies if you ship through them, but these are usually adhesive labels designed for their systems. If you print labels at home or in your business, you’ll need compatible thermal labels like the ones in this collection.
How do I print 4×6 labels without a thermal printer?
Print on standard 8.5×11 paper, select “4×6 format,” and cut the label to size. You can also use half-sheet shipping labels with an inkjet or laser printer.
How big are 4×6 labels?
Four inches wide by six inches tall. This size fits standard shipping label pockets and all thermal label printer mechanisms.
Will a carrier accept a handwritten shipping label?
Most carriers accept handwritten labels for basic USPS services, but barcoded labels are highly recommended for tracking, accuracy, and faster processing.
Can I use a normal printer for 4×6 labels?
Yes, if you use adhesive sheets compatible with inkjet/laser printers. For high-volume shipping, thermal printing is more efficient and more reliable.