Why Cardboard Boxes Lose Labels

When a customer receives an item that has been damaged because it had an incorrect shipping label, it may be difficult to determine what happened during transit, such as whether the original label was lost. To avoid this problem and the resulting cost and inconvenience, each box should be prepared properly so that every order can be identified and shipped correctly.

To prepare a box for labeling, remove any dust that may have accumulated while the box was in inventory. Remove any debris, such as paper, that may have resulted from folding. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe the surface where you intend to attach the label. Avoid spraying liquids directly onto the box, as they may damage the material or interfere with the adhesive backing. If using refrigerated boxes, allow them to reach room temperature before applying labels when recommended by the manufacturer.

Attach the label to the center of a smooth, flat panel that does not contain seams or folds. Placing a label over a seam can cause it to tear when the box is moved. Raised areas created by stickers or dents in the box can also trap air between the label backing and the surface, preventing the adhesive from bonding properly.

Before reusing a box, remove any remaining residue from previous addresses, shipping labels, or barcodes. If a mark is difficult to remove, cover it completely with a new label that will not peel. Multiple addresses or barcodes on the same box can create confusion for scanners and warehouse workers.

Make sure the printed information is dark, crisp, and easy to read. Dull or smudged printing may require manual reading by warehouse or carrier personnel. Never fold any part of a barcode. Although tape may help protect a printed paper label, it can reduce visibility and make it more difficult for scanners to locate the barcode. Always follow the carrier's and printer's guidelines when applying tape or other materials to shipping labels.

Apply the label starting at the center of the box and work outward. Pressing down firmly as you apply the label helps remove air bubbles and allows the entire label to lie flat against the surface. Take an extra minute to press down each corner, particularly when labeling a box with a rough surface. Avoid touching the adhesive backing with dirty or greasy fingers because oils can reduce its ability to bond securely.

You can perform a quick adhesion test before placing a shipment into transit. Attach one label and allow it to sit for the period recommended by the manufacturer. Carefully lift one corner of the label and then expose the box to conditions similar to those it may encounter during shipping. If the lifted corner begins to rise, the label adhesive may not have bonded properly with the box surface.

Well-labeled cardboard boxes help minimize mistakes throughout the shipping and warehouse process. Workers can quickly identify packages, scanners can locate shipments more easily, and customers are more likely to receive their intended purchases without unnecessary delays. The solution is not simply using more tape or applying a larger sticker in haste. Proper labeling starts with a clean surface, a smooth and suitable location, clear printing, and firm application before the package leaves the warehouse.