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Shipping Label Placement Chart

Where to put shipping and logistics labels on cartons and pallets so barcodes can be scanned, following common ANSI MH10.8.1 and GS1 logistics label practice.

Ref PK-0214ANSI MH10.8.1GS1 General Specifications

Draft, open for review. Check every value against the governing standard and the manufacturer’s data before use.

What it is

Shipping labels carry addresses, carrier tracking barcodes and, for many retail customers, a GS1 logistics label with a Serial Shipping Container Code (SSCC). ANSI MH10.8.1 covers shipping labels with linear and two-dimensional barcodes. The GS1 General Specifications set where the logistics label goes so that fixed and hand scanners can read it. Customer routing guides often add their own rules on top.

How to use it

Check the customer's routing guide first. It overrides general practice.
Place the label on a flat, clean face away from seams and tape.
Keep barcodes clear of box edges and corners.
Place pallet labels on the sides that face the dock and the forklift.
Do not cover labels with stretch wrap that blurs the barcode unless the wrap is clear and tight.

Placement guide

Unit	Label location	Notes
Parcel carton	Largest flat face, usually the top	Carrier label flat; no wrap over edges
Logistics carton (GS1)	A side face	Bottom of the barcode about 32 mm (1.25 in) above the base; at least 19 mm (0.75 in) from a vertical edge
Small carton	A side face, as above where it fits	If the face is too small, follow the GS1 rules for small units
Pallet (GS1)	At least two adjacent sides	Barcodes between about 400 mm and 800 mm (16–32 in) above the floor; at least 50 mm (2 in) from a vertical edge
Pallet (carrier BOL label)	Per carrier or customer	Often on the same face as the GS1 label
Hazmat marks and labels	Per 49 CFR	Do not cover them with shipping labels

Measurements reflect common GS1 logistics label guidance. Confirm against the current GS1 General Specifications and the customer's routing guide.

Key points

Common label sizes are 4 x 6 in for parcel and logistics labels. Some customers specify A6 or other sizes.
Print quality matters. Faded or smeared barcodes cause chargebacks.
One SSCC per shipping unit. Do not reuse an SSCC on another pallet.
Remove or cover old labels and barcodes on reused boxes.
Label after wrapping, or use a pouch or clear wrap so the barcode stays readable.

Common mistakes

Putting the label over a box seam or across an edge.
Labeling only one side of a pallet.
Leaving old barcodes on a reused carton.
Wrapping opaque or cloudy film over the pallet label.
Ignoring the retailer's routing guide and paying chargebacks.

Governing standards: ANSI MH10.8.1 (transport labels); GS1 General Specifications (logistics label and SSCC); customer routing guides; 49 CFR Part 172 for hazmat marking.

Reference only. Verify against the current governing code or standard, the manufacturer's data and the project documents before use. Apps for Distributors disclaims liability arising from reliance on this reference.

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