How to Set Up a FedEx Ship Manager Thermal Printer on Chrome

If you’re tired of printing out shipping labels one by one, then investing in a thermal printer for your FedEx Ship Manager account is the way to go. Not only does it save you time, but it also reduces ink costs. In this article, we’ll show you how to set up your thermal printer on Chrome, including why you should use a thermal printer, the requirements you need to consider, and how to troubleshoot common issues that might arise.

Why Use a Thermal Printer for FedEx Ship Manager

Thermal printers use heat to print text and images on specially treated paper. The paper is chemically treated to turn black when exposed to heat, and the result is a crisp and clear image or text that is more permanent than traditional paper. Using a thermal printer for your FedEx Ship Manager account ensures that your labels and shipping documents remain legible during transit and even after delivery. Plus, thermal printers reduce your printing costs as they require no ink.

In addition, thermal printers are also faster than traditional printers, allowing you to print labels and shipping documents quickly and efficiently. This is especially important for businesses that need to process a large volume of shipments on a daily basis. Thermal printers also have a smaller footprint than traditional printers, making them ideal for businesses with limited space. Overall, using a thermal printer for your FedEx Ship Manager account can save you time, money, and space while ensuring that your shipping documents are of the highest quality.

Understanding the Requirements of Your Thermal Printer

Before shipping, ensure that your thermal printer meets FedEx’s specifications. Your printer must support either ZPL or PDF label formats, and it should have a resolution of at least 203 dots per inch (DPI). Plus, it should be able to print on label sizes recommended by FedEx that range from 4”x 6” to 4.25”x 7”.

It is also important to note that your thermal printer should have a reliable and consistent print quality. This means that the printer should be able to produce clear and legible labels without any smudging or fading. Additionally, it is recommended to use high-quality thermal paper that is compatible with your printer to ensure the best possible print results.

Installing the Printer Driver on Chrome

The first step to installing your thermal printer on Chrome is to find and download the proper printer driver. You can find the driver either on the printer manufacturer’s website or on the FedEx Ship Manager website. Follow the instructions to complete the download process.

Next, connect the thermal printer to your computer using a USB cable. Turn on your printer and navigate to your computer’s printer settings. Select “add a printer” and choose the port that you’ve connected your thermal printer to in the previous step. Follow the prompts and select the appropriate printer driver that you have downloaded.

It is important to note that some thermal printers may require additional configuration settings to be adjusted in order to function properly with Chrome. These settings can typically be found in the printer’s user manual or on the manufacturer’s website. Be sure to review these settings and make any necessary adjustments before attempting to print from Chrome.

Configuring the Printer Settings for FedEx Ship Manager

Once your printer is connected and the necessary drivers are installed, you need to configure the printer settings for your FedEx Ship Manager account. Access the FedEx Ship Manager website and log in to your account. From the top menu, select “Administration,” then “Device Link”. Select “Add a device,” and follow the prompts to complete the setup process. You’ll be prompted to provide your printer’s make and model and then calibrate the printer to ensure that it prints correctly.

It is important to note that different printers may require different settings to be configured in order to work properly with FedEx Ship Manager. For example, some printers may require specific paper sizes or print resolutions to be set in order to print labels correctly. It is recommended to consult your printer’s user manual or contact the manufacturer for guidance on the optimal settings for use with FedEx Ship Manager.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Thermal Printers

Unfortunately, thermal printers can face issues from time to time. One common problem is when the print quality is poor or there are missing elements on the label. In this case, you may need to clean your printer heads and adjust your print head pressure. Follow your printer’s manual on how to perform these tasks.

Another common issue with thermal printers is when the labels are not printing at all. This could be due to a variety of reasons such as a faulty power supply, a disconnected cable, or a damaged print head. Check all connections and cables to ensure they are properly connected and not damaged. If the issue persists, contact your printer manufacturer for further assistance.

It is also important to note that thermal printers require specific types of labels and ribbons. Using the wrong type of label or ribbon can cause issues with print quality and even damage the printer. Always make sure to use the recommended label and ribbon types for your specific printer model.

Using Labels and Shipping Documents with Your Thermal Printer

Now that your printer is set up, you can start printing shipping labels and documents using FedEx Ship Manager. Choose your shipment and click “Create a Shipment” to begin processing. Once you’ve verified or entered all the relevant shipment information, select your thermal printer from the list of available devices, and click “Print.” Ensure that the label or document is printed correctly, and attach it to your shipment.

It is important to note that when printing shipping labels and documents, you should always use high-quality label stock to ensure that the label is legible and will not smudge or fade during transit. Additionally, if you are shipping internationally, be sure to include all necessary customs documentation with your shipment. This may include a commercial invoice, certificate of origin, or other relevant documents. Failure to include the correct documentation can result in delays or even rejection of your shipment at customs.

Best Practices for Maintaining Your Thermal Printer

To ensure that your thermal printer remains in good working condition, you should consider regularly cleaning it, loading the proper labels, and keeping it in a dry and cool location. Plus, you should keep your printer up to date with firmware updates and driver updates by checking the manufacturer’s website periodically.

Another important factor to consider when maintaining your thermal printer is the type of paper you use. Using low-quality paper or paper that is not compatible with your printer can cause damage to the print head and lead to poor print quality. It is recommended to use high-quality, thermal paper that is specifically designed for your printer model.

In addition, it is important to handle the printer with care and avoid any physical damage. Dropping the printer or exposing it to extreme temperatures can cause internal damage and affect its performance. It is also recommended to use a protective cover or case when transporting the printer to prevent any damage during transit.

Integrating FedEx Ship Manager with Other Shipping Software

FedEx Ship Manager is only one of many shipping software options available. If you’re using another shipping software, you should consult your program’s documentation to find out if it supports thermal printers and how to set it up.

It is important to note that integrating FedEx Ship Manager with other shipping software may require additional configuration and setup. You may need to work with your IT department or software vendor to ensure that the two systems can communicate with each other seamlessly.

Additionally, some shipping software may have different features and capabilities than FedEx Ship Manager. It is important to evaluate your business needs and compare different shipping software options to determine which one is the best fit for your organization.

Tips for Streamlining Your Shipping Process with a Thermal Printer

By investing in a thermal printer, you’ve already taken steps to streamline your shipping process. However, there are other ways to further improve it. You can try to pre-populate your shipment data or automate the shipping process entirely by using FedEx’s APIs. Consider integrating your e-commerce platform with FedEx Ship Manager to automate order fulfillment.

Now that you know how to set up a thermal printer on Chrome for your FedEx Ship Manager, shipping your products or documents has just gotten easier. Ensure that your printer meets the FedEx specifications, follow the installation and setup instructions carefully, and keep your printer well-maintained for prolonged use.

Another way to streamline your shipping process is to use a shipping software that integrates with your thermal printer. This software can help you manage your orders, print shipping labels, and track your shipments all in one place. Some popular shipping software options include ShipStation, Shippo, and Easyship.

It’s also important to consider the packaging materials you use for your shipments. Using the right packaging can help protect your products during transit and reduce the risk of damage or returns. Consider investing in high-quality boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape to ensure your shipments arrive safely.