For Etsy sellers, time is money—and efficiency is essential. Managing orders, communicating with customers, crafting products, and shipping them can quickly become overwhelming. One of the simplest ways to streamline your business operations is by using a reliable shipping label generator. These tools not only help save time but also reduce the risk of errors and offer affordable shipping options. In this article, we’ll explore the best shipping label generators tailored for Etsy sellers, focusing on features, integrations, and ease of use.
1. Etsy Shipping Labels (Built-in Solution)
Best For: Beginners and sellers looking for convenience.
Overview:
Etsy offers its own built-in shipping label generator. Sellers can purchase and print shipping labels directly from the platform without using any external software.
Key Features:
- Print labels for USPS, FedEx, and Canada Post (region-specific)
- Automatically updates tracking information
- Discounted shipping rates
- Easy to use within Etsy’s dashboard
Pros:
- Fully integrated with your Etsy shop
- No need for third-party tools
- Affordable and reliable
Cons:
- Limited to specific carriers
- Basic customization options
2. Pirate Ship
Best For: Sellers looking for free and deeply discounted USPS and UPS rates.
Overview:
Pirate Ship is a popular choice among small business owners and Etsy sellers for its straightforward interface and zero subscription costs.
Key Features:
- Free to use
- Offers commercial USPS and UPS rates
- Bulk label printing
- Import Etsy orders automatically
- Real-time tracking updates
Pros:
- No monthly fees
- Simple user interface
- Excellent customer support
Cons:
- Limited carrier options (mainly USPS and UPS)
- Basic automation tools
3. ShipStation
Best For: High-volume Etsy sellers or multichannel sellers.
Overview:
ShipStation is a professional-grade shipping software that integrates with multiple marketplaces including Etsy, Amazon, and Shopify.
Key Features:
- Multi-carrier support: USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL, and more
- Advanced automation for order routing and label printing
- Customizable branding on labels and packing slips
- Supports batch processing
Pros:
- Great for scaling your business
- Detailed analytics and reporting
- Integrates with many platforms
Cons:
- Monthly subscription required
- Can be overwhelming for new sellers
4. ShippingEasy
Best For: Sellers wanting robust automation with marketing features.
Overview:
ShippingEasy goes beyond just label generation by offering email marketing tools and customer management features, making it a full-service platform.
Key Features:
- Connects with Etsy and other eCommerce platforms
- Offers USPS and UPS discounts
- Advanced shipping rules and automation
- Built-in email marketing for customer retention
Pros:
- Great for building customer relationships
- Excellent support
- Flexible plans
Cons:
- Monthly cost after the free trial
- May have more features than some sellers need
5. Easyship
Best For: International sellers needing global shipping solutions.
Overview:
Easyship provides access to over 250 courier services worldwide, making it ideal for Etsy sellers with international customers.
Key Features:
- Transparent shipping costs with taxes and duties included
- Smart shipping rules
- Label generation for global couriers
- Automated customs documentation
Pros:
- Great for international shipping
- Advanced tools for calculating total landed cost
- Modern and intuitive dashboard
Cons:
- Some features require paid plans
- Slight learning curve
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right shipping label generator depends on your specific needs as an Etsy seller. If you’re just starting, Etsy’s built-in tool or Pirate Ship is perfect for simple and cost-effective shipping. For growing businesses or those expanding internationally, platforms like ShipStation, ShippingEasy, or Easyship offer more advanced features to match your scale.
Key Tip: Always consider the volume of orders, preferred carriers, budget, and any additional features (like automation or marketing) when selecting your tool.
With the right shipping label generator, you can reduce shipping errors, save on postage, and spend more time focusing on your creative business.