Printing shipping labels should never have to be a hassle.
Yet many times it is.
A great example of this is printing shipping labels from eBay. Traditionally, one would purchase a shipping label from eBay with their PayPal account, then print the label from their PC using a standard ink/laser printer.
This process is costly and time consuming; labels printed on paper will require cutting, as well as packing tape. Printing, cutting, and taping a label printed on a ink/laser printer can take several minutes.
If you take into consideration the cost of paper, printer ink, AND packing tape, then you’ll realize just how expensive printing labels can be.
The solution for this is to print using a Zebra Direct Thermal Label Printer, like the LP 2844. The LP 2844 printer was specially designed with shipping label applications in mind. The printer offers a maximum print width of 4 inches, as well as various interface options. The media specifications are as follows:
- 1 inch inner core, with a 5 inch outer diamter
- Gap sensing
There are various incarnations of the LP 2844. For example, there are models with accessories like a cutter or peeler, and there are models that feature Eltron Programming Language.
Please note that models with Eltron Programming Language do NOT feature a “Z” in the title.
We are currently using a Zebra R2844-Z. This means that the printer offers RFID printing capabilities, and that the printer operates using Zebra Programming Language.
Zebra Programming Language is the most recent printer control language released by Zebra.
How to Print eBay Shipping Labels with a Zebra Printer
Step 1. Make sure that your eBay and PayPal accounts have all the correct information.
Your eBay account must be linked to your PayPal account in order to purchase shipping labels. Make sure that your PayPal account is verified; this means that you’ve linked a debit/credit card to your account.
Step 2. Update the Printer Preferences in PayPal.
Make sure that you have the correct printer preferences in your PayPal account.
This can be done by looking under your PayPal Profile and Settings. Find the Section that says “My Selling Tools” and open it. This will open a menu with various payment and shipping options. Look for the “Shipping My Items” section; it will be near the bottom. Click “Shipping Preferences”, and look for the section that says “US Postal Service Preference”. This will show a few different models of printers that are compatible with PayPal’s label printing software.
Please note that you CAN use a Zebra R2844-Z to print labels from eBay, but you will have to click “LP2844-Z” under the US Postal Service Preference.
The R2844-Z and the LP2844-Z both use the same printer command language; they are essentially the same printer, except for the RFID printing capabilities that the R2844-Z offers.
3. Make sure you have the correct version of Java on your PC.
The PayPal software for printing labels is based on Java 32 Bit. There will be accurate information under the “US Postal Service Preference” section regarding the version of Java that you will need.
4. Download and run Zebra Setup Utilities
Zebra Setup Utilities is available for free from Zebra.
Here is a link where you can download it.
Zebra Setup Utilities allows you to communicate with your printer, as well as run configuration/calibration tests. You can also manage your printer from the “Devices and Printers” section on Windows, but it’s easier with Zebra Setup Utilities.
While in Zebra Setup Utilities, make sure you update the size of your label to 4″ by 6″. Also, make sure to darken the printer settings, and to slow it down.
A slowly printed label will have a clearer barcode than a label that is printed too fast. .
5. Make sure that your eBay Printer Preferences are correct.
This is an overlooked tip, but it’s extremely important.
When you’re in eBay, there will be a section that is for adding the weight and address of an item. Look in the upper right hand corner of this section; there will be a small area that says “Printer and Label Receipt Preferences”. Make sure you click this, and set your printer as an LP 2844. This will allow the printer to scale the label to the correct size of 4 inches x 6 inches.
If you overlook this step, then your printer will size the labels incorrectly. You label will not be as clear as it could be; instead being grainy and difficult to read. Also, your label will be smaller than 4″ x 6″.
6. Use the correct labels. Price does make a difference.
Be wary of using labels that are cheaply made.
Zebra printers work best with Zebra media.
Cheaper labels will wear down your printhead over time.
Printheads do NOT last forever.
Replacement printheads for Zebra desktop printers can cost anywhere between $100-$200.
And that’s how to print eBay Shipping labels with a Zebra Printer. You’ll save money, supplies, and most importantly of all: time.
Feel free to contact PLS anytime at 1-844-458-1078, or email us at info@professionallabelsolutions.com. Our reps are happy to help!
