Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Label Printer in UPS WorldShip 2018

As an eCommerce business owner or a seller on popular marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, or Etsy, you know how crucial it is to have a reliable and efficient shipping process. One aspect that can make a huge difference is having a dedicated label printer for printing shipping labels. In this guide, we’ll take you through the process of setting up a label printer in UPS WorldShip 2018, step by step, and show you how it can streamline your shipping process.

Understanding the Benefits of Using a Label Printer for Shipping

If you’re still printing shipping labels on regular paper and manually cutting them to size, it’s time to switch to a label printer. Here are some benefits of using a label printer for your shipping needs:

• Time-saving: A label printer can print hundreds of shipping labels within minutes, whereas manually cutting labels can take hours.
• Cost-effective: Printing labels on regular paper and then taping them on your packages is not only unprofessional but can also increase your expenses. A label printer can eliminate the need for tape, ink, and paper, thus reducing your costs.
• Avoid mistakes: A label printer ensures that every label is printed with precision and accuracy to avoid costly errors like, incorrect addresses, wrong courier services or delivery date, etc.
• Customizable: With a label printer, you can choose from a variety of sizes and materials, and customize labels with your logo, brand name, return policies, and other relevant information.

Preparing Your Workspace for Setting Up the Label Printer

Before you start setting up your label printer, make sure that your workspace is clean and well-organized. Here are some tips:

• Clean the area where the printer will be placed. Make sure that there is no dust or debris.
• Ensure that the printer is placed near an electrical outlet and there is enough space for the cords.
• Have all the required tools and materials nearby, like the printer itself, labels, power cords, USB cable, and any necessary software.
• Make sure that your computer is connected to the internet.

Additionally, it is important to ensure that the label printer is placed on a stable surface to prevent any accidental falls or damage. If necessary, use a stand or shelf to elevate the printer to a comfortable height.

Furthermore, it is recommended to have a backup power source, such as a surge protector or uninterruptible power supply (UPS), in case of power outages or fluctuations that could damage the printer or cause data loss.

Assembling the Label Printer: A Quick Tutorial

The assembly process may vary depending on the type of label printer that you have. However, these are common steps that you need to follow:

• Remove the printer from its packaging and place it on your workspace.
• Plug in the power cord and connect it to a power outlet.
• Connect the USB cable to both the printer and your computer.
• Insert the label roll into the printer according to the instructions given by the manufacturer.
• Turn on the printer and wait for it to initialize.

Once the printer has initialized, you may need to install the necessary software on your computer to start using it. Check the manufacturer’s website for the appropriate software and follow the installation instructions.

It’s important to regularly clean your label printer to ensure that it continues to function properly. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the exterior of the printer and remove any dust or debris. You can also use a cleaning card or cleaning pen to clean the printer’s internal components.

Configuring the Printer Settings to Match Your Business Needs

Once you have assembled your label printer, there are some settings that you need to configure to match your business needs. Follow these steps:

• Open the “Start” menu on your computer, search for “Devices and Printers” and click on it.
• Find the label printer you just installed and right-click on it. Select the “Printing Preferences” option.
• Choose the size and orientation of your shipping label according to your preference.
• Setup other printer preferences that match your business needs, like the label type, printing speed, and density.
• Save the settings by selecting the “Apply” button.

It is important to note that different label printers may have different settings and options available. Therefore, it is recommended to consult the user manual or manufacturer’s website for specific instructions on how to configure your label printer.

In addition to configuring the printer settings, it is also important to regularly maintain and clean your label printer to ensure optimal performance and longevity. This includes cleaning the print head, replacing worn-out parts, and keeping the printer free of dust and debris.

Installing and Configuring UPS WorldShip 2018 on Your Computer

The next step is to install and configure the UPS WorldShip 2018 software on your computer.

• Go to the UPS WorldShip website and download the latest version of the software.
• Follow the installation instructions carefully and ensure that the software is correctly installed.
• Once the installation is complete, start the software and log in to your UPS account.
• Choose the shipping preferences that match your business needs, like the courier services and delivery options.
• Enter your company’s details and save the preferences.

It is important to note that UPS WorldShip 2018 requires a high-speed internet connection to function properly. If your internet connection is slow or unreliable, it may cause delays or errors in the shipping process. Additionally, make sure that your computer meets the minimum system requirements for the software to avoid any compatibility issues.

Connecting the Label Printer to Your Computer and Testing the Connection

The next step is to connect your label printer to your computer and test the connection.

• Connect the printer to your computer via USB cable.
• Go to the “Devices and Printers” option from the Start menu and right-click on the label printer. Select the “Set As Default Printer” option.
• Open UPS WorldShip and click on the “Shipping” tab. Select “Print Labels” from the “Print Options” drop-down menu.
• Select the shipping options, select the package type and size, and enter the shipment details.
• Click on “Print” and choose the label printer from the drop-down menu.
• Print a test label to ensure that the printer is working correctly.

It is important to note that if you encounter any issues during the connection process, you should consult the user manual or contact the manufacturer for assistance. Additionally, it is recommended to regularly clean the label printer to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Once you have successfully connected and tested the label printer, you can begin using it for all your shipping needs. This will save you time and effort, as well as provide a more professional and efficient shipping process for your business.

Creating Custom Labels and Saving Them in UPS WorldShip 2018

Custom labels can enhance your branding and improve the overall customer experience. Here’s how you can create custom labels:

• Go to the “Labels” tab on UPS WorldShip and select “Custom Labels” from the drop-down menu.
• Choose the label size and format, brand colors, and upload your logo or any other relevant images.
• Add relevant information like return policies, contact information, etc.
• Save the customized label and use it for future shipments.

Custom labels can also help you stand out from your competitors and increase brand recognition. By using your brand colors and logo, you can create a consistent look across all your shipments, which can help customers remember your brand and return for future purchases.

Another benefit of creating custom labels is that you can include important information that may not be included on a standard shipping label. For example, you can add handling instructions, special delivery instructions, or even a personalized message to your customers.

Printing Shipping Labels Directly from UPS WorldShip 2018

Now that you have set up your label printer and UPS WorldShip, you can start printing shipping labels directly from the software. Follow these steps:

• Go to the “Shipping” tab on UPS WorldShip, select the shipment details, package dimensions, and weight.
• Choose the courier service and delivery options and confirm the shipment.
• Click on “Print Labels” and select the label printer from the drop-down menu.
• Print the shipping labels and attach them to your packages.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Label Printers in UPS WorldShip 2018

While setting up, you may encounter some issues with your label printer. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Check the connectivity of the printer with the computer, turn it off and on again, and make sure that the USB cable is properly connected.
• Ch-check that the printer settings are correctly configured in your computer’s device settings.
• Make sure that the label size and orientation are correctly set in the printer preferences and UPS WorldShip.
• If you’re still having issues, contact technical support for further assistance.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully set up your label printer in UPS WorldShip 2018. With this guide, printing shipping labels will be a breeze, and you can focus on growing your business rather than worrying about shipping logistics.

However, it’s important to note that label printers can encounter issues beyond just connectivity and settings. One common issue is the printer running out of ink or toner, which can result in faded or illegible labels. Make sure to regularly check the ink or toner levels and replace them as needed.

Another issue that may arise is the printer jamming or misaligning labels. This can be caused by using the wrong type of label or not properly loading the labels into the printer. Make sure to use the correct label type and follow the printer’s instructions for loading labels.